In the early days of Windermere School, originally known as St Anne’s, the school was located in a seafront house in St Anne’s-on-Sea, opening its doors with just six pupils. For decades, the school thrived in this coastal town, steadily growing in size and reputation. However, by the early 1920s, the rise in demand for hotels and guesthouses along the seafront began to place pressure on the school’s location. The school’s leaders saw this as a pivotal moment to seek a new home, one that could accommodate the school’s growing needs and provide an environment better suited for learning and adventure.

In April 1924, exactly 100 years ago this year, the school made a monumental decision that would shape its future for generations to come: the purchase of Browhead Campus, a stunning estate situated in Windermere, complete with 60 acres of land. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the school, one that would lay the foundation for the place we know and love today.

That spring, during half-term, an extraordinary event unfolded as pupils, staff and all the belongings of the school were packed onto a special train at St Anne’s, embarking on a journey to their new home in Windermere. The relocation meant not just a change in location, but a bold step into the future, a commitment to offering pupils a life of adventure, nature and new opportunities.

Alongside Browhead, the school also began renting Elleray, a charming estate that would later become the dedicated junior school campus. In 1944, the school purchased Elleray outright, securing a place for its younger pupils to experience the nurturing education that Windermere is known for.

2024 marks the centenary of this historic move—a moment when Windermere School, set against the breath-taking backdrop of the Lake District, truly came into its own. Browhead, with its sweeping views of the lake and surrounding fells, has been home to generations of pupils who have thrived in its inspiring environment. The decision to relocate to Windermere all those years ago allowed the school to create an educational experience deeply rooted in nature, community and a sense of adventure.

Now, as we reflect on 100 years at Browhead, we celebrate not only the physical move but the enduring spirit of the school that continues to flourish. Windermere School remains a beacon of warmth, adventure, and growth. Our Stannites, past and present, are living testaments to the unique experiences and values that have been nurtured here for the last century.

As we move forward into the future, we carry with us the legacy of that bold move in 1924 and look forward to the next 100 years of excellence, community and exploration at Browhead.

Windermere School is an Independent Boarding and Day School for ages 3-18, across Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The school offers holiday courses and a summer school programme, as well as short term immersion courses for international pupils, as well as an award winning IB programme. Join the adventure today >