The centre organises a number of activities, including orienteering, kayaking and open water swimming, as well as regular exhibitions.

The site that is now the visitor centre was bought in 1896 by William Gaddum, a silk merchant from Manchester, to build a summer house.

Mawson, who is known for his work in the design of gardens during the Arts and Crafts movement, had previously collaborated with Gibson at Graythwaite Hall.

Stagecoach bus routes 555 (Lancaster to Keswick) and 599 (Bowness-on-Windermere to Grasmere) stop outside the centre.

[3] In the grounds of the centre is a jetty served by a number of boat services provided by Windermere Lake Cruises between March and October.