The quaint village of Ambleside rests along the banks of Windermere Lake in the heart of England’s Lake District National Park. The sprawling mountain setting, fine foods and elegant wines of the region have captivated generations of explorers, from the Romans to Charles Dickens.
Things to do in Ambleside
Discover Ambleside’s rolling landscape and tranquil lakes with a traditional hill walk, originally a pastime for local shepherds. Follow the popular Fairfield Horseshoe trail, which takes you high above the village to the tops of Fairfield and Hart Crag. From there, detour to Scafell Pike and observe the Lake District’s famous rock climbing crags.
A short walk outside of the village lies Stock Ghyll Force, a 21-metre-tall waterfall with an iconic 17th-century bridge house spanning Stock Gyhll. One of the most photographed monuments in Lakeland, the bridge house’s sparsely decorated interior hosts regular guided tours, while the waterfall features a scenic path and railed viewpoint.
Interested in ancient history? Visit the Roman Fort of Galava, which is right outside the village in Borrans Park. This fort was likely built in the 2nd century AD, during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. Learn about the Roman soldiers who utilised the Roman Fort of Galava to consolidate their control, before discovering the towering remains of Ravenglass Bath House and the dramatic ruins at Hardknott Roman Fort.
Take a lake cruise to Wray Castle, an intricate Gothic revival castle on the shores of Lake Windermere. Join a guided tour and walk the castle grounds or explore the informal interior, which now features child-friendly activities, such as the Peter Rabbit Adventure and castle building workshops.
Getting around Ambleside
Enter the Lake District by car or bus on the A591 or take a train that stops at Windermere railway station. From there, buses and ferries provide access to Ambleside. Within Ambleside, there are minibus tours, heritage railways, lake steamers and coaches.