Where is Ambleside?
Ambleside lies at the northern end of Windermere, England’s longest natural lake. In this area, the scenery transitions from gently rolling, wooded terrain characteristic of Lakeland’s far south. The landscape becomes more rugged, characterized by high, craggy fells and glittering, secretive tarns nestled in the folds of the hills. Welcome to the mountains!
Walkers Paradise
This small town is a walkers’ paradise. Once you’ve stocked up on gear from any one of its many outdoor equipment shops, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you’re reasonably fit and know how to use a map and compass, the Fairfield Horseshoe is the ‘must-do’ hike. This 10.5-mile route encompasses long ridges on either side of the valley of Rydal Beck. It includes a total ascent of almost 3,500 feet. It makes for a great day out, but it’s extremely popular so don’t expect to have the fells to yourself.
Other, less challenging walks are available, such as the steep but relatively short climb to the top of Wansfell Pike. This offers superb views of Windermere and the surrounding fells. Easier still, the summit of little Loughrigg Fell is an excellent goal for families, providing a sense of achievement for young hill-walkers. Alternatively, if the cloud cover is low, you can opt for low-level paths and complete a delightful circuit around the base of the fell.
Stock Ghyll Waterfalls
The waterfalls of Stock Ghyll have been attracting visitors since Victorian times. In the nineteenth century, tourists had to pass through a turnstile near the top of Stockghyll Force, paying a penny for the privilege. Today, you can see them without any cost. Just a 15-minute walk from the town center, the two main ribbons of the falls plunge between the moss-covered sides of a rocky, tree-lined gorge, making them especially worth a visit after heavy rain. In springtime, a carpet of daffodils provides an added bonus.
What to do in Ambleside
Among the many attractions within Ambleside itself is the tiny and intriguing Bridge House, which is managed by the National Trust. Additionally, The Armitt museum, gallery, and library offer unique experiences for visitors.. The southern part of the town, known as Waterhead, is home to the remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, probably Galava. There is also a Windermere Lake Cruises pier at Waterhead, and from here it’s a half-hour boat journey down to Bowness.
There’s no chance of going hungry in Ambleside; there are cafés and restaurants galore. And, when it rains or you want a rest from sightseeing, there are a total of five cinema screens – at Zeffirelli’s on Compston Road and Fellini’s on Church Street.
Ambleside makes a great base from which to explore the National Park thanks to its road connections with the rest of the Lake District. The A591, served by the 555 bus among others, provides an easy link with Windermere to the south, and Grasmere and Keswick to the north. If you want to head across the Kirkstone Pass to Ullswater, you’ll need to negotiate the steep, winding road known ominously as The Struggle. To the west, roads with regular buses serve Great Langdale and Coniston. Continuing beyond Little Langdale, experienced drivers can even reach the Western Lakes by braving the Wrynose and Hardknott passes, although these are unsuitable for caravans or wide vehicles and there are no buses across the passes.
Ambleside Hotels
Salutation Hotel Ambleside
Address: Lake Road, Ambleside, LA22 9BX
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Waterhead Hotel Ambleside
Address: Lake Road, Ambleside, LA22 0ER
White Lion Hotel Ambleside
Market Place, Ambleside, LA22 9DB
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Fisherbeck Hotel Ambleside
Address: Old Lake Road, Ambleside, LA22 0DH
