Nestled at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is one of the Lake District's most popular and vibrant towns. With its traditional slate buildings, fantastic array of independent shops and eateries, and a backdrop of the majestic Langdale Pikes, it's a perfect base for walkers and sightseers alike.
Things to Do & Getting There
Key Attractions
Bridge House: Visit one of the most famous and photographed buildings in the Lake District. This tiny 17th-century house built on a bridge over Stock Ghyll is an unmissable sight.
Stock Ghyll Force: A spectacular 70-foot waterfall just a short, pleasant walk from the town centre. It's especially impressive after rainfall.
Lake Windermere: Stroll down to Waterhead Pier, just a mile from the town centre, and catch a steamer to explore England's largest lake, or hire a boat for your own adventure.
Armitt Museum & Library: Discover the cultural heritage of the area with fascinating exhibits on local figures like Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin.
Getting There
By Car: From the M6, exit at junction 36 and follow the A591 directly to Ambleside. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak seasons, and parking is limited.
By Public Transport: The nearest train station is Windermere (4 miles away). Regular bus services, including scenic open-top routes in summer, connect Windermere station to Ambleside.
Where to Eat
The Drunken Duck Inn: A famous pub known for its outstanding food and its own microbrewery.
The Jumble Room: A quirky and colourful restaurant with an eclectic, globally-inspired menu.
The Apple Pie Cafe: An Ambleside institution, famous for its incredible selection of pies, cakes, and baked goods.
Where to Stay
Holiday Cottages: From cosy cottages for two to large houses for families, self-catering is a popular choice for any Ambleside adventure. You'll find a wide array of cottages to book.
Hotels: Ambleside has some of the finest hotels in the Lake District, from luxurious spa retreats to boutique town-centre options with stunning fell views.
Guesthouses: For a personal touch, the town is packed with welcoming guesthouses and B&Bs that offer a friendly and authentic Lakeland experience.
Walks from Ambleside
Loughrigg Fell
A must-do walk from Ambleside, Loughrigg is a relatively small fell that punches well above its weight, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the entire Lake District for a modest amount of effort.
Explore LoughriggRydal Water & Grasmere
Enjoy a beautiful, low-level walk from Ambleside that takes in the tranquil Rydal Water, explores the fascinating Rydal Caves, and finishes in the charming village of Grasmere. You can even catch a bus back.
Discover the WalkElterwater & Skelwith Bridge
Just a short bus ride or drive from Ambleside, this popular and accessible walk follows the beautiful River Brathay through woodland, passing the impressive Skelwith Force waterfall to the picturesque village of Elterwater.
Visit ElterwaterTours from Ambleside
Ambleside is a perfect starting point for many guided tours. Let an expert show you the best of the Lake District, from the high passes to the hidden valleys, all from the comfort of a minibus.