The World of Beatrix Potter is in the Old Laundry building near the centre of Bowness and is unapologetically a children's attraction. The interior recreates scenes from the picture books using life-size figures — Peter Rabbit in Mr McGregor's garden, Jemima Puddle-Duck in her woodland clearing — accompanied by narration and projected effects. It takes about 45 minutes to go round and holds the attention of children aged roughly two to eight very well.
Adults who have come specifically to understand Beatrix Potter's actual life and work will find Hill Top more satisfying. The farmhouse at Near Sawrey, which she bought with the earnings from Peter Rabbit in 1905 and used as a writing retreat, is a National Trust property a short ferry ride and walk from Bowness, and it gives a clearer sense of who she was beyond the books. The two attractions complement each other if you have children in tow — the Bowness attraction first to orient the younger ones, then Hill Top for the adults.