Ambleside

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Peaceful lake scene in Ambleside, England with swans and snowy mountains.
Davidson Videography, Pexels

Ambleside, nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and historical charm. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the majestic Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells, providing abundant opportunities for both tranquil relaxation and active adventures.

The town centre of Ambleside is easily walkable and vibrant, featuring a good selection of pubs, restaurants, and cafes perfect for dining and socialising. You will also find independent shops and a local cinema. For those staying at the Ambleside Youth Hostel, a relaxed bar with lake views provides an additional social setting.

Top 7 Things to do in Ambleside

Ambleside provides a diverse range of experiences, from invigorating fell walks and tranquil lake cruises to exploring historic landmarks and enjoying various water-based pursuits on England's largest lake.

1. Walk to Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall

Embark on a short, rewarding circular walk directly from the town centre to Stock Ghyll Force, a magnificent 70-foot waterfall. The path winds through lush woodlands, offering picturesque views of the cascading water from various viewpoints. It is an accessible natural spectacle, perfect for a refreshing outing without committing to a full day's hike. Be aware that the trail can be uneven and muddy in places, especially after rain, so suitable footwear is recommended.

Cost: Free

Transport: Within walking distance of Ambleside town centre.

2. Visit Bridge House

Discover the iconic Bridge House, a tiny 17th-century building uniquely perched over Stock Beck. Originally an apple store and once home to a family of eight, it is now a National Trust property and one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District. Although small, it offers a fascinating glimpse into local history and architectural ingenuity. Opening times can vary depending on volunteer availability, so check locally.

Cost: Free entry (when open).

Transport: Within walking distance of Ambleside town centre, located near the main visitor car park on Rydal Road.

3. Take a Lake Windermere Cruise from Waterhead Pier

Experience the majestic beauty of Lake Windermere with a scenic boat cruise departing from Ambleside's Waterhead Pier. You can choose from various routes, including shorter hops to nearby Bowness or Brockhole, or a longer full-lake cruise down to Lakeside. These cruises offer a relaxing way to take in the stunning Lakeland fells and learn about the area's history through on-board commentary. Many services allow for hop-on, hop-off exploration at different stops.

Cost: Return fares vary by cruise: approximately £13.00-£17.50 for adults, £6.50-£10.50 for children (e.g., Red Cruise Ambleside to Bowness return: Adult £17.50, Child £10.50).

Transport: Waterhead Pier is less than a mile from Ambleside town centre, accessible via a pleasant stroll or a short electric shuttle bus ride.

4. Hire a Boat on Lake Windermere

For a more personal exploration of Lake Windermere, consider hiring a self-drive electric motor boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. This allows you the freedom to navigate the calm waters at your own pace, discover secluded spots, and fully immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Several watersports centres near Ambleside offer equipment hire, including buoyancy aids.

Cost: Hourly rates: Sit-on-top kayaks & paddleboards from £22.50-£25.00, rowing boats & open canoes from £26.50-£30.00, electric motor boats from £40.00-£50.00. Wetsuit hire may be an additional £4.00.

Transport: Hire points are available at Waterhead Pier (Ambleside) or nearby watersports centres, often a short drive (5 minutes) from Ambleside town centre. Some centres offer free parking for customers.

5. Hike Loughrigg Fell or Todd Crag

Embark on a walk up Loughrigg Fell or the shorter route to Todd Crag, both easily accessible from Ambleside. These trails provide stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere, Ambleside, and the surrounding fells, including the Langdale Valley and Grasmere. The paths can be steep in parts but are well-traversed, offering a rewarding experience for those seeking an active outdoor adventure with incredible scenery.

Cost: Free

Transport: Walking routes begin directly from Ambleside town centre.

6. Visit Rydal Mount and Gardens

Explore Rydal Mount, the cherished family home of William Wordsworth for nearly 40 years. Wander through the house, which retains a lived-in feel, and immerse yourself in the beautifully landscaped gardens he designed himself. These gardens, spread over four acres, feature fell-side terraces, herbaceous borders, and a rock pool, offering inspiring views that influenced many of his poems.

Cost: Admission fees apply. (Specific 2025 prices not found, but typically around £5-£10 for adults).

Transport: Rydal Mount is approximately 2 miles from Ambleside. Take the Stagecoach bus 555 or 599 (single fare around £3.00) from Ambleside; the bus stop is a 5-minute stroll from the house. A taxi costs approximately £6-£8 and takes about 3 minutes.

7. Explore Wray Castle

Discover Wray Castle, a quirky Gothic Revival castle on the western shore of Lake Windermere. Unlike traditional historic houses, this National Trust property comes without original contents, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate its architectural features and various exhibitions, including one on Rupert Potter (Beatrix Potter's father, who stayed here). The surrounding parkland features miles of lakeshore paths and woodlands, perfect for walks and picnics with panoramic views.

Cost: Entry to the castle is free for everyone. Parking charges apply for non-National Trust members (e.g., £6.50 for 2 hours, £9.50 all day).

Transport: During summer (April-October), a direct cruise operates from Ambleside to Wray Castle's jetty (15 minutes). Year-round, regular Stagecoach bus 505 services run from Ambleside, stopping nearby (10 minutes, approx. £3.00 single fare), followed by a 20-minute stroll to the castle. A taxi from Ambleside costs approximately £11-£14 and takes about 8 minutes.

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