Ambleside
A stone town at the north end of Windermere, lined with outdoor gear shops and cafés. It is the hub for walking and transport in the Lake District.
Ambleside sits at the northern end of Windermere. Its houses and streets are built from local grey-green slate, which gives it a distinctly Lake District character. It is the most convenient base in the middle of the lake district. To the south is the Waterhead boat landing. To the north, a few minutes' drive takes you to Grasmere and Rydal Water, and the 555 bus also passes through. The town's most famous landmark is the Bridge House, a 17th-century miniature stone house built over a stream. Legend says it was built on the bridge to avoid tax. It is now owned by the National Trust. The town center has many outdoor brand shops, good for restocking walking gear. Nearby are several easy trails. The roughly 1-hour loop to Stock Ghyll Force is perfect for a half-day stroll, and fit hikers can take the full-day Fairfield Horseshoe ridge route.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Rydal Mount
- Wray Castle
- Grasmere & Dove Cottage
- Hawkshead
- Windermere
- The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
- Hill Top
- Tarn Hows