Bracken Howe, Ambleside
Local food scene
All of these recommendations are within a 5 minute walk from Bracken Howe with the exception of those in Waterhead which are just under 1 mile away.
Rooms at the Apple Pie
Rydal RoadGreat breakfasts!
Michelin 2 star restaurant a few minutes walk from the house. Once the workplace of Wordsworth and his father. Need to book some time in advance.
23 locals recommend
The Priest Hole Restaurant
Church StreetMichelin 2 star restaurant a few minutes walk from the house. Once the workplace of Wordsworth and his father. Need to book some time in advance.
Thai food in an exotic Thai style venue. Open later than most other restaurants and serves consistently great food. Less than a five minute walk from Bracken Howe.
Jintana Thai Restaurant Ambleside
Compston RoadThai food in an exotic Thai style venue. Open later than most other restaurants and serves consistently great food. Less than a five minute walk from Bracken Howe.
Imaginative menus that change regularly and fantastic service. Serves Northern European food and local produce.
A very special place.
10 locals recommend
Lake Road Kitchen
Lake RoadImaginative menus that change regularly and fantastic service. Serves Northern European food and local produce.
A very special place.
A great little place serving food from early evening. They do not accept bookings but serve consistently great food and drink. Live music at weekends.
13 locals recommend
The Lily Bar
12-14 Lake RdA great little place serving food from early evening. They do not accept bookings but serve consistently great food and drink. Live music at weekends.
Dodds Restaurant
Rydal RoadItalian open kitchen cooking in a cheery and modern setting.
British cuisine with some outdoor seating. Serves traditional Sunday lunch.
23 locals recommend
The Priest Hole Restaurant
Church StreetBritish cuisine with some outdoor seating. Serves traditional Sunday lunch.
Waterhead Hotel
Lake RoadAlmost a mile from the house in Waterhead on the northern shore of Windermere.
Based in Wilmslow, this much-garlanded pie maker has opened an Ambleside outlet, and it's rightly become a town favourite. Go for a classic such as Swaledale beef mince or Lancashire cheese and onion, or opt for something on the seasonal pie menu: they're all delicious, and served with lashings of mash and gravy (veggie, should you wish).
Great North Pie Company
Rothay RoadBased in Wilmslow, this much-garlanded pie maker has opened an Ambleside outlet, and it's rightly become a town favourite. Go for a classic such as Swaledale beef mince or Lancashire cheese and onion, or opt for something on the seasonal pie menu: they're all delicious, and served with lashings of mash and gravy (veggie, should you wish).
Fear not, veggies: even in the land of the Cumberland sausage and the tattie hotpot (lamb, vegetable and potato stew), you won't go hungry thanks to Fellini's sophisticated 'vegeterranean' food. The dishes are creative and beautifully presented – think delicate Moroccan filo parcels, stuffed portobello mushrooms and radicchio provolone ravioli.
It's run by the owners of Zeffirelli's, and a small upstairs cinema shows art-house and opera performances.
14 locals recommend
Fellinis Restaurant
Church StreetFear not, veggies: even in the land of the Cumberland sausage and the tattie hotpot (lamb, vegetable and potato stew), you won't go hungry thanks to Fellini's sophisticated 'vegeterranean' food. The dishes are creative and beautifully presented – think delicate Moroccan filo parcels, stuffed portobello mushrooms and radicchio provolone ravioli.
It's run by the owners of Zeffirelli's, and a small upstairs cinema shows art-house and opera performances.
Great atmosphere in this friendly tapas restaurant and bar. One of our favourite places in Ambleside.
Bar eS Ambleside
2 Saint Mary's LaneGreat atmosphere in this friendly tapas restaurant and bar. One of our favourite places in Ambleside.
Best sandwiches in town and quick friendly service. Takeaway only
The Picnic Box, Ambleside Hot and Cold Food
1 Lake RdBest sandwiches in town and quick friendly service. Takeaway only
Daisy's Cafe
Rydal RoadMr H Tearoom
4 Lake RdTraditional popular tea rooms
Sister restaurant of the The Old Stamp House. Exceptional food and service. Booking essential.
6 locals recommend
Kysty
3/4 CheapsideSister restaurant of the The Old Stamp House. Exceptional food and service. Booking essential.
Stiles Coffee Bar
Compston RoadBright and spacious cafe serving tasty traditional breakfasts.
Matthew's Bistro
Compston RoadGreat steaks and friendly staff.
The Samling provides fine dining against an expansive lake view – one of the most memorable dining experiences to be had in the Lake District.
A Michelin recommended restaurant 1.8 miles from the house, about a 35 minute walk or short taxi ride.
The Samling Hotel
Ambleside RoadThe Samling provides fine dining against an expansive lake view – one of the most memorable dining experiences to be had in the Lake District.
A Michelin recommended restaurant 1.8 miles from the house, about a 35 minute walk or short taxi ride.
Walks from the front door
Don’t worry if you haven’t brought the ideal equipment with you. Ambleside is full of excellent climbing and walking stores. We recommend a visit to one of the excellent independent bookstores in town to buy a walking guide. There are many to suit your requirements, including guides for climbers. Plus ones for committed and less committed ramblers and those with limited mobility. And even for those who only wish to undertake a walk if it has a welcoming country pub en-route! An Ordinance Survey map is a wise supplement to the guide, especially for longer routes.
Ambleside is ideally situated at the north end of Lake Windermere and close to Rydal Water and Grasmere. It is also a good gateway to the Langdale and Coniston Fells and therefore suitable for walkers to base themselves if they want the option for walks in different parts of the Lake District. From the head of Langdale even the Scafells can be reached by way of Bowfell or the passes close to the mountain. In the immediate vicinity of Ambleside there are lots of superb easy walks so the town can be reasonably represented as a good location for all types of walkers.
The following are among our recommendations, and feature in many of the local guidebooks:
Lily Tarn
Stunning little tarn less than a 40 minute walk from the house.
This short walk will take you to a picturesque old packhorse bridge just outside of Ambleside. The walk involves a gentle ascent and will take around 40 minutes from Bracken Howe. Starting from the Tourist information centre, head up North Road, passing the Unicorn Inn on your left. At the butchers, take a slight right so you are going up the steep road. Turn left onto Sweden bridge lane and continue walking up this road, past several houses, for around 10 minutes. At the top you will find a gate, go through and you are onto a more rocky bridleway. Continue upwards, taking in the spectacular views of Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes. Continue on this route until you eventually reach the cute little bridge over the rive, known as Sweden bridge. An excellent place to stop for a picnic and paddle. Now, you can head back down the way you came, or alternatively, cross the bridge and follow the path over the crest of the hill. Keeping on the track you will eventually end up on Nook Lane, near the University library.
16 locals recommend
Stock Ghyll Force
6 Stockghyll LnThis short walk will take you to a picturesque old packhorse bridge just outside of Ambleside. The walk involves a gentle ascent and will take around 40 minutes from Bracken Howe. Starting from the Tourist information centre, head up North Road, passing the Unicorn Inn on your left. At the butchers, take a slight right so you are going up the steep road. Turn left onto Sweden bridge lane and continue walking up this road, past several houses, for around 10 minutes. At the top you will find a gate, go through and you are onto a more rocky bridleway. Continue upwards, taking in the spectacular views of Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes. Continue on this route until you eventually reach the cute little bridge over the rive, known as Sweden bridge. An excellent place to stop for a picnic and paddle. Now, you can head back down the way you came, or alternatively, cross the bridge and follow the path over the crest of the hill. Keeping on the track you will eventually end up on Nook Lane, near the University library.
A long and challenging walk but you will rewarded with great views.
Walking boots and a map a must.
6 locals recommend
Fairfield Horseshoe
A long and challenging walk but you will rewarded with great views.
Walking boots and a map a must.
This is one of the most strenuous walks on the list and one of the longest (3hrs). It deserves a place however, as the views from the top are spectacular! On a clear day you can see all the way down Windermere to the coast! The walk starts from Ambleside town centre. Check out this more detailed post on the walk up Wansfell Pike. The walk itself is quite steep and can take the best part of an hour to reach the summit. I don’t recommend this for the less mobile. If you have weak knees, definitely get yourself some walking poles to reduce the impact, particularly on your descent. You can actually turn this into a full day out by heading to the summit of Wansfell Pike then continuing over the mountain to Troutbeck. To reach the start of the walk, you need to head out of town towards Stock Ghyll waterfalls. It is great to combine these two walks.
12 locals recommend
Wansfell Pike
This is one of the most strenuous walks on the list and one of the longest (3hrs). It deserves a place however, as the views from the top are spectacular! On a clear day you can see all the way down Windermere to the coast! The walk starts from Ambleside town centre. Check out this more detailed post on the walk up Wansfell Pike. The walk itself is quite steep and can take the best part of an hour to reach the summit. I don’t recommend this for the less mobile. If you have weak knees, definitely get yourself some walking poles to reduce the impact, particularly on your descent. You can actually turn this into a full day out by heading to the summit of Wansfell Pike then continuing over the mountain to Troutbeck. To reach the start of the walk, you need to head out of town towards Stock Ghyll waterfalls. It is great to combine these two walks.
Walking up Loughrigg from Ambleside is not only easy, it also rewards you with an unmissable view from the top. Whilst technically a fell, don’t be put off – it is really just a very big hill. Whilst the true summit takes a bit of a hike, I usually venture up from Ambleside to the South facing side of the fell for the best views down Lake Windermere. It should take around 1.5 hours from Bracken Howe to this point and back again. Whilst there is no need for full hiking apparel, it can be muddy and slippy in places so make sure you have got some decent footwear on. When starting the walk up Loughrigg from Ambleside, you need to make your way to Rothay Park. Easy to find, look for the church spire, or failing that ask any local to point you to the park. Once there, you need to go across the 2 adjacent bridges at the opposite side. Now, turn right and there is a cattlegrid in front of you. Hop over, and in around 30 metres, take a left over the next cattle grid. Here, you are faced with a steep tarmac road framed by some trees. You are at the base of Loughrigg. Walk up for around 10 minutes, and admire the view on your right of Fairfield horse shoe. A couple of sharp bends and there is a small gap in the wall on your left. Take this, and cross a tiny stream. Now it is a steep ascent, sticking to the right hand trail. Keep going up for around 15 minutes, through a wooden gate. You should eventually see a small tarn ahead. Now, turn left and you should be walking south, towards Windermere. A few ups and downs, and you should find your self on the south ridge, looking straight down the lake. A great spot for photographs, it made it onto my top UK instagram spots, and if you are lucky you might get a low jet pass over head.
32 locals recommend
Loughrigg Fell
Walking up Loughrigg from Ambleside is not only easy, it also rewards you with an unmissable view from the top. Whilst technically a fell, don’t be put off – it is really just a very big hill. Whilst the true summit takes a bit of a hike, I usually venture up from Ambleside to the South facing side of the fell for the best views down Lake Windermere. It should take around 1.5 hours from Bracken Howe to this point and back again. Whilst there is no need for full hiking apparel, it can be muddy and slippy in places so make sure you have got some decent footwear on. When starting the walk up Loughrigg from Ambleside, you need to make your way to Rothay Park. Easy to find, look for the church spire, or failing that ask any local to point you to the park. Once there, you need to go across the 2 adjacent bridges at the opposite side. Now, turn right and there is a cattlegrid in front of you. Hop over, and in around 30 metres, take a left over the next cattle grid. Here, you are faced with a steep tarmac road framed by some trees. You are at the base of Loughrigg. Walk up for around 10 minutes, and admire the view on your right of Fairfield horse shoe. A couple of sharp bends and there is a small gap in the wall on your left. Take this, and cross a tiny stream. Now it is a steep ascent, sticking to the right hand trail. Keep going up for around 15 minutes, through a wooden gate. You should eventually see a small tarn ahead. Now, turn left and you should be walking south, towards Windermere. A few ups and downs, and you should find your self on the south ridge, looking straight down the lake. A great spot for photographs, it made it onto my top UK instagram spots, and if you are lucky you might get a low jet pass over head.
This short walk will take you to a picturesque old packhorse bridge just outside of Ambleside. The walk involves a gentle ascent and will take around 40 minutes from the house. Starting from the Tourist information centre, head up North Road, passing the Unicorn Inn on your left. At the butchers, take a slight right so you are going up the steep road. Turn left onto Sweden bridge lane and continue walking up this road, past several houses, for around 10 minutes. At the top you will find a gate, go through and you are onto a more rocky bridleway. Continue upwards, taking in the spectacular views of Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes. Continue on this route until you eventually reach the cute little bridge over the rive, known as Sweden bridge. An excellent place to stop for a picnic and paddle. Now, you can head back down the way you came, or alternatively, cross the bridge and follow the path over the crest of the hill. Keeping on the track you will eventually end up on Nook Lane, near the University library.
High Sweden Bridge
This short walk will take you to a picturesque old packhorse bridge just outside of Ambleside. The walk involves a gentle ascent and will take around 40 minutes from the house. Starting from the Tourist information centre, head up North Road, passing the Unicorn Inn on your left. At the butchers, take a slight right so you are going up the steep road. Turn left onto Sweden bridge lane and continue walking up this road, past several houses, for around 10 minutes. At the top you will find a gate, go through and you are onto a more rocky bridleway. Continue upwards, taking in the spectacular views of Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes. Continue on this route until you eventually reach the cute little bridge over the rive, known as Sweden bridge. An excellent place to stop for a picnic and paddle. Now, you can head back down the way you came, or alternatively, cross the bridge and follow the path over the crest of the hill. Keeping on the track you will eventually end up on Nook Lane, near the University library.
Only recently replaces after being washed downstream a few years ago in Storm Desmond, the stepping stones are a quaint sight, and everyone will enjoy hopping over to the other side of the river. From Rothay Park, head through away from Ambleside to crosss over the two adjacent bridges, and then turn right over the cattlegrid. On your left you will see the steep hill starting its way up Loughrigg, but you should pass this and remain on the road. Continue for around a mile until you find the stepping stones on your right. The road itself is popular with walkers, however be aware it can be used by cars so keep your eyes and ears open! At the stepping stones you can either return back to Ambleside, or continue on the road, which will bring you out near Rydal Hall. you could even combine it with the next walk to make an easy loop.
Under Loughrigg
Under LoughriggOnly recently replaces after being washed downstream a few years ago in Storm Desmond, the stepping stones are a quaint sight, and everyone will enjoy hopping over to the other side of the river. From Rothay Park, head through away from Ambleside to crosss over the two adjacent bridges, and then turn right over the cattlegrid. On your left you will see the steep hill starting its way up Loughrigg, but you should pass this and remain on the road. Continue for around a mile until you find the stepping stones on your right. The road itself is popular with walkers, however be aware it can be used by cars so keep your eyes and ears open! At the stepping stones you can either return back to Ambleside, or continue on the road, which will bring you out near Rydal Hall. you could even combine it with the next walk to make an easy loop.
This historic house is now mostly used for projects and meetings, however a stroll around the gardens makes for a pleasant walk. To reach the hall, you can use the above walk to the stepping stones and continue on. Another route would be head north out of Ambleside centre. Walk past the Health centre along Rydal road, continuing until you see a bus stop. On the opposite side you should see another, next to some big iron gates leading to a riverside track. Cross over and follow this track, giving some nice views of the fells. At the end you will pass through a gate and you are now on the Rydal estate. There is a small campsite and some interesting camping pods. You can walk up to the Hall and take in the gardens and water fountain. Down on the river is a viewing hut, and in summer if you are brave, a swimming hole! Round the back of the hall is a small café and toilets.
Rydal Hall Ltd
This historic house is now mostly used for projects and meetings, however a stroll around the gardens makes for a pleasant walk. To reach the hall, you can use the above walk to the stepping stones and continue on. Another route would be head north out of Ambleside centre. Walk past the Health centre along Rydal road, continuing until you see a bus stop. On the opposite side you should see another, next to some big iron gates leading to a riverside track. Cross over and follow this track, giving some nice views of the fells. At the end you will pass through a gate and you are now on the Rydal estate. There is a small campsite and some interesting camping pods. You can walk up to the Hall and take in the gardens and water fountain. Down on the river is a viewing hut, and in summer if you are brave, a swimming hole! Round the back of the hall is a small café and toilets.
As you can see, Rydal is full of short walks! To get to the caves, first take the route from Rothay Park to the stepping stones, and continue on this road until you reach the cattlegrid at the end. Ahead is a small humpback bridge and the main road, do not cross this. Instead, turn left. You may find an ice cream truck her if you are lucky! Continue up the path past the car park on the left, and some cottages. Finally you will come out above Rydal water and be rewarded a great view. Stay on this top path, keeping Real water on your left and you will find yourself going up. Around 15 minutes walking will bring you to the cave entrance. Occasionally cut off to visitors, the caves should only be entered if there is no fence or warning saying other wise. You can venture all the way to the back, it is wide open and you definitely cannot get lost!
25 locals recommend
Rydal Cave
As you can see, Rydal is full of short walks! To get to the caves, first take the route from Rothay Park to the stepping stones, and continue on this road until you reach the cattlegrid at the end. Ahead is a small humpback bridge and the main road, do not cross this. Instead, turn left. You may find an ice cream truck her if you are lucky! Continue up the path past the car park on the left, and some cottages. Finally you will come out above Rydal water and be rewarded a great view. Stay on this top path, keeping Real water on your left and you will find yourself going up. Around 15 minutes walking will bring you to the cave entrance. Occasionally cut off to visitors, the caves should only be entered if there is no fence or warning saying other wise. You can venture all the way to the back, it is wide open and you definitely cannot get lost!
Great walk over towards Loughrigg finishing at the pub before catching the bus home.
21 locals recommend
Elterwater
Great walk over towards Loughrigg finishing at the pub before catching the bus home.
Nestling at the foot of some spectacular fells and with its own lake, this village has many shops, pubs and cafes. You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread.
Popular walks include following Red Bank Road and then the footpath along the west shore of the lake towards Rydal Water.
With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming, kayaking and rowing. In the summer you can hire rowing boats on the lake.
97 locals recommend
Grasmere
Nestling at the foot of some spectacular fells and with its own lake, this village has many shops, pubs and cafes. You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread.
Popular walks include following Red Bank Road and then the footpath along the west shore of the lake towards Rydal Water.
With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming, kayaking and rowing. In the summer you can hire rowing boats on the lake.
Peaceful location on the banks of Windermere. Catch a ferry, visit a cafe, bar or restaurant or hire kayaks and go otter spotting!
Windermere Lake ends a mile short of Ambleside at Waterhead, and can come as a shock to boat passengers expecting to be in the town. Crowded around the bay are boats, hotels, cafes, tourist shops, and places selling food for the ducks and swans.
Steamers and launches sail daily throughout the year between here and Bowness, about halfway down the 12 mile length of the lake, and Lakeside at the far end. From here you can take a ride on the three and a half mile Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway. There is a horse-drawn carriage or electric bus taking passengers the 0.9 mile between Waterhead Pier and the centre of Ambleside.
8 locals recommend
Waterhead
Peaceful location on the banks of Windermere. Catch a ferry, visit a cafe, bar or restaurant or hire kayaks and go otter spotting!
Windermere Lake ends a mile short of Ambleside at Waterhead, and can come as a shock to boat passengers expecting to be in the town. Crowded around the bay are boats, hotels, cafes, tourist shops, and places selling food for the ducks and swans.
Steamers and launches sail daily throughout the year between here and Bowness, about halfway down the 12 mile length of the lake, and Lakeside at the far end. From here you can take a ride on the three and a half mile Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway. There is a horse-drawn carriage or electric bus taking passengers the 0.9 mile between Waterhead Pier and the centre of Ambleside.
Borrans Park has magnificent views of Windermere.
There are the remains of a Roman road leading to the ruin of a Roman fort with historical interpretation information in the adjacent field.
The large grassed recreation area has picnic tables and ample seating.
Borrans Park
1 MacIver LnBorrans Park has magnificent views of Windermere.
There are the remains of a Roman road leading to the ruin of a Roman fort with historical interpretation information in the adjacent field.
The large grassed recreation area has picnic tables and ample seating.
Rothay Park is a popular park situated a few minutes walk from Bracken Howe. It is surrounded by a dramatic landscape and offers a gateway to some of the most beautiful fells in the Lake District.
The park provides lots of opportunities for play and relaxation for both residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, from a full size football pitch and children's play area to picnic benches, large grassed areas and natural rock outcrops.
Rothay Park
1 Vicarage RdRothay Park is a popular park situated a few minutes walk from Bracken Howe. It is surrounded by a dramatic landscape and offers a gateway to some of the most beautiful fells in the Lake District.
The park provides lots of opportunities for play and relaxation for both residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, from a full size football pitch and children's play area to picnic benches, large grassed areas and natural rock outcrops.
Loughrigg Tarn is a small, natural lake just a 45 minute walk from Bracken Howe. The perfect place for a picnic or swim!
9 locals recommend
Loughrigg Tarn
Loughrigg Tarn is a small, natural lake just a 45 minute walk from Bracken Howe. The perfect place for a picnic or swim!
Todd Crag is a hill and a satellite peak of Loughrigg Fell at 224 m it is not classed as a fell but is a vantage point near Ambleside.
Todd Crag
Todd Crag is a hill and a satellite peak of Loughrigg Fell at 224 m it is not classed as a fell but is a vantage point near Ambleside.
This can be a steep walk in places but it is not a difficult walk. You are rewarded with beautiful views of Windermere. One of our favourite early evening walks from Bracken Howe.
Jenkin Crag
This can be a steep walk in places but it is not a difficult walk. You are rewarded with beautiful views of Windermere. One of our favourite early evening walks from Bracken Howe.
Chesters by the River is a gorgeous vegetarian café and shop by the beautiful River Brathay, on the way to Coniston & Langdale. Its a bright, modern cafe with a delicious all home-made menu and there’s a takeaway menu, or an outside area where you can sit by the wood-burner.
A great place to stop and rest after a wander in the Langdales, Coniston or up to Elterwater.
Enjoy a walk through the woods out toward Elterwater and along the river, then return back for more food and drink!
66 locals recommend
Chesters By The River
Chesters by the River is a gorgeous vegetarian café and shop by the beautiful River Brathay, on the way to Coniston & Langdale. Its a bright, modern cafe with a delicious all home-made menu and there’s a takeaway menu, or an outside area where you can sit by the wood-burner.
A great place to stop and rest after a wander in the Langdales, Coniston or up to Elterwater.
Enjoy a walk through the woods out toward Elterwater and along the river, then return back for more food and drink!
The Britannia Inn is nestled in the breathtaking Langdale Valley at the heart of the English Lake District. It offers scenic views and delicious food.
It is about an 90 minute scenic walk from the house across moorland and fell and you have the option to catch a local bus or taxi back.
17 locals recommend
Britannia Inn
Main StreetThe Britannia Inn is nestled in the breathtaking Langdale Valley at the heart of the English Lake District. It offers scenic views and delicious food.
It is about an 90 minute scenic walk from the house across moorland and fell and you have the option to catch a local bus or taxi back.
Kirkstone Pass with an altitude of 1,489 feet is the Lake District’s highest pass that is open to motor traffic. It connects Ambleside in the Rothay Valley to Patterdale in the Ullswater valley – the A592 road. There is another route from Troutbeck, which joins the Ambleside road at the Kirkstone Pass Inn.
The Kirkstone Pass Inn stands close to the summit of the pass. Formerly an important coaching inn, it now caters primarily for tourists. It is the third highest public house in England.
The inn is a 3 mile steep walk from Bracken Howe and should take about 90 minutes.
6 locals recommend
Kirkstone Pass
Kirkstone Pass with an altitude of 1,489 feet is the Lake District’s highest pass that is open to motor traffic. It connects Ambleside in the Rothay Valley to Patterdale in the Ullswater valley – the A592 road. There is another route from Troutbeck, which joins the Ambleside road at the Kirkstone Pass Inn.
The Kirkstone Pass Inn stands close to the summit of the pass. Formerly an important coaching inn, it now caters primarily for tourists. It is the third highest public house in England.
The inn is a 3 mile steep walk from Bracken Howe and should take about 90 minutes.
A popular Wainwright walk that takes you to 2,080 feet passing High Sweden Bridge and Scandale Beck and giving breathtaking views of Ambleside and Windermere. High Pike is about 3.5 miles from the house and should take approximately 90 minutes.
High Pike
A popular Wainwright walk that takes you to 2,080 feet passing High Sweden Bridge and Scandale Beck and giving breathtaking views of Ambleside and Windermere. High Pike is about 3.5 miles from the house and should take approximately 90 minutes.
Entertainment
The Lily Bar
12-14 Lake RdGreat food and weekend live music.
When staying at the house with friends we always try to book a session with Michael followed by a pub lunch. No experience necessary and certainly an experience to remember.
Michael Coates Clay Pigeon Shooting
32 Serpentine RoadWhen staying at the house with friends we always try to book a session with Michael followed by a pub lunch. No experience necessary and certainly an experience to remember.
Sit and have a coffee at Cafe Altitude whilst the children climb. Only a few minutes walk from the house and good for a rainy day.
8 locals recommend
Ambleside Climbing Wall
101 Lake RdSit and have a coffee at Cafe Altitude whilst the children climb. Only a few minutes walk from the house and good for a rainy day.
One of our favourite family destinations and only a five minute walk from the house.
We enjoy playing crazy golf, pitch and putt and tennis.
White Platts Recreation Ground
Compston RoadOne of our favourite family destinations and only a five minute walk from the house.
We enjoy playing crazy golf, pitch and putt and tennis.
The Armitt is a unique combination of museum, library and gallery devoted to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of the Lake District.
Mary Louisa Armitt founded the Library to foster an exchange of ideas in the local community. The Library opened in 1912.
Beatrix Potter was one of the Armitt’s early supporters, and the museum holds a number of her family’s books as well as her personal first editions of the ‘little’ books. Her major gift however came in the form of a large number of exquisite botanical watercolours. At the centre of our exhibition ‘Beatrix Potter, Image and Reality’, these works reveal fascinating and lesser-known aspects of her life story.
7 locals recommend
Armitt Library
Rydal RoadThe Armitt is a unique combination of museum, library and gallery devoted to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of the Lake District.
Mary Louisa Armitt founded the Library to foster an exchange of ideas in the local community. The Library opened in 1912.
Beatrix Potter was one of the Armitt’s early supporters, and the museum holds a number of her family’s books as well as her personal first editions of the ‘little’ books. Her major gift however came in the form of a large number of exquisite botanical watercolours. At the centre of our exhibition ‘Beatrix Potter, Image and Reality’, these works reveal fascinating and lesser-known aspects of her life story.
You need about an hour to explore this place. It offers three different children's experiences including a Dinosaur Den!
RockShop
North RoadYou need about an hour to explore this place. It offers three different children's experiences including a Dinosaur Den!
Be wild and try something new, soar through the sky on a treetop adventure, or splash out on the water. Try archery, laser clay shooting, mini golf and our famous woodland playground. Take in the beauty of the awesome mountain views, historic gardens, adult art classes, and taste the best of local food and ale in the lake view cafe or The Gaddum restaurant. Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre on the shores of Windermere is the ultimate start to your Lake District visit.
67 locals recommend
Brockhole on Windermere
Be wild and try something new, soar through the sky on a treetop adventure, or splash out on the water. Try archery, laser clay shooting, mini golf and our famous woodland playground. Take in the beauty of the awesome mountain views, historic gardens, adult art classes, and taste the best of local food and ale in the lake view cafe or The Gaddum restaurant. Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre on the shores of Windermere is the ultimate start to your Lake District visit.
At Lakeside, on the southern end of Englands largest lake, Windermere, you can discover in over 30 displays the fascinating and often secret world of wildlife and freshwater creatures dwelling in and alongside these magnificent waters.
A dramatic mountain-top waterfall marks the start of the journey, leading down a moorland stream complete with salmon. Next you will see the otters before moving on to see nocturnal life on the riverbank. You will see several varieties of trout, the pike, and Windermere’s elusive char. Finally you will see the freshwater fish of the estuary, and the seawater inhabitants of the bay, including rays and sharks from around our coast.
The aquarium is at the Lakeside Pier, where you can arrive by boat from Waterhead (Waterhead Pier is only a 15 minute walk from Bracken Howe).
69 locals recommend
Lakes Aquarium
At Lakeside, on the southern end of Englands largest lake, Windermere, you can discover in over 30 displays the fascinating and often secret world of wildlife and freshwater creatures dwelling in and alongside these magnificent waters.
A dramatic mountain-top waterfall marks the start of the journey, leading down a moorland stream complete with salmon. Next you will see the otters before moving on to see nocturnal life on the riverbank. You will see several varieties of trout, the pike, and Windermere’s elusive char. Finally you will see the freshwater fish of the estuary, and the seawater inhabitants of the bay, including rays and sharks from around our coast.
The aquarium is at the Lakeside Pier, where you can arrive by boat from Waterhead (Waterhead Pier is only a 15 minute walk from Bracken Howe).
Sightseeing
Bowness-on-Windermere
Great for shopping and ferry hopping!
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Castle LaneUnique place and stunning scenery.
This pretty village's cobbled lanes are best explored by foot. There are many pubs, shops and cafes. You can see Wordsworth's schoolboy signature carved in a desk at Hawkshead Grammar School. The Beatrix Potter Gallery occupies rooms once used by the solicitor William Heelis, Potter's husband.
59 locals recommend
Hawkshead
This pretty village's cobbled lanes are best explored by foot. There are many pubs, shops and cafes. You can see Wordsworth's schoolboy signature carved in a desk at Hawkshead Grammar School. The Beatrix Potter Gallery occupies rooms once used by the solicitor William Heelis, Potter's husband.
Huge variety of trips available and only a 15 minute walk from the house.
7 locals recommend
Ambleside (Waterhead Pier) - Windermere Lake Cruises Ltd
Huge variety of trips available and only a 15 minute walk from the house.
Nestling at the foot of some spectacular fells and with its own lake, this village has many shops, pubs and cafes. You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread.
Popular walks include following Red Bank Road and then the footpath along the west shore of the lake towards Rydal Water.
With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming, kayaking and rowing. In the summer you can hire rowing boats on the lake.
97 locals recommend
Grasmere
Nestling at the foot of some spectacular fells and with its own lake, this village has many shops, pubs and cafes. You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread.
Popular walks include following Red Bank Road and then the footpath along the west shore of the lake towards Rydal Water.
With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming, kayaking and rowing. In the summer you can hire rowing boats on the lake.
Stock Ghyll features a famous waterfall once written about by the poet John Keats.
The ghyll once powered the bobbin mills for the Lancashire cotton trade.
There is a circular walk beginning at the southern entrance which takes you via a signposted path up to the viewing platforms and over the top of the falls, before descending again.
There is a disabled access point to the top viewing platform. Stock Ghyll is also a gateway to Wansfell Pike and Troutbeck.
16 locals recommend
Stock Ghyll Force
6 Stockghyll LnStock Ghyll features a famous waterfall once written about by the poet John Keats.
The ghyll once powered the bobbin mills for the Lancashire cotton trade.
There is a circular walk beginning at the southern entrance which takes you via a signposted path up to the viewing platforms and over the top of the falls, before descending again.
There is a disabled access point to the top viewing platform. Stock Ghyll is also a gateway to Wansfell Pike and Troutbeck.
On the shores of Lake Windermere, the well-marked remains of Ambleside Roman Fort date from the 2nd century. It was probably built under Hadrian's rule to guard the Roman road from Brougham to Ravenglass and to act as a supply base.
Managed by the National Trust and a 40 minute leisurely walk from the house.
Ambleside Roman Fort
On the shores of Lake Windermere, the well-marked remains of Ambleside Roman Fort date from the 2nd century. It was probably built under Hadrian's rule to guard the Roman road from Brougham to Ravenglass and to act as a supply base.
Managed by the National Trust and a 40 minute leisurely walk from the house.
Rydal Water
Bustling town in the northern Lake District. Go shopping, walk by the river, take a hike up Catbells or visit Castlerigg Stone Circle.
205 locals recommend
Keswick
Bustling town in the northern Lake District. Go shopping, walk by the river, take a hike up Catbells or visit Castlerigg Stone Circle.
The ancient village of Cartmel is famous for the 12th Century Cartmel Priory, with its beautiful stained glass windows, modern sculptures, and ancient choir stalls.
Leading off the village square, with its market cross, water pump, and fish slabs, is the Cartmel Priory Gatehouse, now a Heritage Centre which depicts the history of the monastery, and the village.
The village also houses a variety of interesting shops and traditional pubs around its main square. Around the square, and in the narrow winding streets leading from it, are a variety of ancient and interesting buildings.
On the market square is Cartmel Village Shop, famous for its Sticky Toffee Pudding.
Cartmel hosts its highly popular steeple chase meetings at the spring and summer bank holidays, attracting visitors from across the country. The course is one of the smallest and most picturesque in the country. Also at the Spring Bank Holiday is the Holker Garden Festival at nearby Holker Hall.
61 locals recommend
Cartmel
The ancient village of Cartmel is famous for the 12th Century Cartmel Priory, with its beautiful stained glass windows, modern sculptures, and ancient choir stalls.
Leading off the village square, with its market cross, water pump, and fish slabs, is the Cartmel Priory Gatehouse, now a Heritage Centre which depicts the history of the monastery, and the village.
The village also houses a variety of interesting shops and traditional pubs around its main square. Around the square, and in the narrow winding streets leading from it, are a variety of ancient and interesting buildings.
On the market square is Cartmel Village Shop, famous for its Sticky Toffee Pudding.
Cartmel hosts its highly popular steeple chase meetings at the spring and summer bank holidays, attracting visitors from across the country. The course is one of the smallest and most picturesque in the country. Also at the Spring Bank Holiday is the Holker Garden Festival at nearby Holker Hall.
Set deep in the heart of the Grizedale Forest, between the lakes of Coniston Water and Windermere, is the Grizedale Visitor Centre.
The Visitor Centre facilities include a new exhibition space with a full program throughout the year, gift shop, tearoom, adventure playground and picnic tables and is a good starting point for superb forest walks.
7 cross country and downhill mountain bike trails are free to use either with your own bike or hired bikes. There is mountain bike hire at the start of the trails. There are also Segway treks, Tree Top Junior, Ziptrekking and Tree Top Adventure.
There are a number of interesting sculptures throughout the forest. Here is the largest site-related ‘Sculpture in the Forest’ exhibition in the country, which in 1986 was awarded for ‘the most outstanding contribution to art in a working environment’.
85 locals recommend
Grizedale Forest
Set deep in the heart of the Grizedale Forest, between the lakes of Coniston Water and Windermere, is the Grizedale Visitor Centre.
The Visitor Centre facilities include a new exhibition space with a full program throughout the year, gift shop, tearoom, adventure playground and picnic tables and is a good starting point for superb forest walks.
7 cross country and downhill mountain bike trails are free to use either with your own bike or hired bikes. There is mountain bike hire at the start of the trails. There are also Segway treks, Tree Top Junior, Ziptrekking and Tree Top Adventure.
There are a number of interesting sculptures throughout the forest. Here is the largest site-related ‘Sculpture in the Forest’ exhibition in the country, which in 1986 was awarded for ‘the most outstanding contribution to art in a working environment’.
Quieter than Windermere and more tranquil, Coniston Water is about five miles long and half a mile wide. Above its western shore, the mountain of the Old Man of Coniston towers above the lake and the village.
Hire motor boats, rowing boats, paddleboards and more at Coniston Boating Centre, or take a cruise on the steam gondola or Coniston launch.
Many local companies run activities like raft building or offer sailing lessons.
70 locals recommend
Coniston Water
Quieter than Windermere and more tranquil, Coniston Water is about five miles long and half a mile wide. Above its western shore, the mountain of the Old Man of Coniston towers above the lake and the village.
Hire motor boats, rowing boats, paddleboards and more at Coniston Boating Centre, or take a cruise on the steam gondola or Coniston launch.
Many local companies run activities like raft building or offer sailing lessons.
The breathtakingly beautiful area of Langdale runs west of Ambleside up to the Langdale Pikes. Pike is a local term for peak. It splits into two valleys, Great Langdale and LIttle Langdale. It includes the lovely village of Elterwater with its pub and a scattering of craft shops, Chapel Stile and the various pubs along the B5343. There are countless walking routes, both low and high level.
18 locals recommend
Langdale Pikes
The breathtakingly beautiful area of Langdale runs west of Ambleside up to the Langdale Pikes. Pike is a local term for peak. It splits into two valleys, Great Langdale and LIttle Langdale. It includes the lovely village of Elterwater with its pub and a scattering of craft shops, Chapel Stile and the various pubs along the B5343. There are countless walking routes, both low and high level.
Buttermere lies at the foot of some spectacular fells, including Wainwright's favourite Haystacks. It's also one of the few lakes you can walk all the way round, taking four miles.
13 locals recommend
Buttermere
Buttermere lies at the foot of some spectacular fells, including Wainwright's favourite Haystacks. It's also one of the few lakes you can walk all the way round, taking four miles.
Loweswater is situated in a wooded valley in the Vale of Lorton. It is approximately one mile long, half a mile wide and 60 feet deep. A walk around the lake is around four miles, most of it on footpaths. It passes through Holme Wood, a fine mixed woodland.
Loweswater is the only lake that drains towards the centre of Lakeland to Crummock Water, which it was once joined to. Red squirrels enjoy the coniferous habitat and can be found in the area.
If you're looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat and a drink, the Kirkstile Inn is a popular spot for walkers.
22 locals recommend
Loweswater
Loweswater is situated in a wooded valley in the Vale of Lorton. It is approximately one mile long, half a mile wide and 60 feet deep. A walk around the lake is around four miles, most of it on footpaths. It passes through Holme Wood, a fine mixed woodland.
Loweswater is the only lake that drains towards the centre of Lakeland to Crummock Water, which it was once joined to. Red squirrels enjoy the coniferous habitat and can be found in the area.
If you're looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat and a drink, the Kirkstile Inn is a popular spot for walkers.
Northwest of Keswick, Bassenthwaite Lake is the only official Lake in the Lake District - the others are all called meres, waters or tarns. The area is designated as a National Nature Reserve, and is a great place for birdwatching. From April to October there are viewing points at Dodd Wood to watch Ospreys which fish in Bassenthwaite Lake.
12 locals recommend
Bassenthwaite Lake
Northwest of Keswick, Bassenthwaite Lake is the only official Lake in the Lake District - the others are all called meres, waters or tarns. The area is designated as a National Nature Reserve, and is a great place for birdwatching. From April to October there are viewing points at Dodd Wood to watch Ospreys which fish in Bassenthwaite Lake.
This lovely lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery to its south, softening to the gentle hills of the north. The lake is the second largest in England at seven and a half miles long, but is less than a mile across. It is also the third deepest English lake at 250 feet deep.
There are dramatic views from both sides of the lake, by foot or by vehicle.
75 locals recommend
Ullswater
This lovely lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery to its south, softening to the gentle hills of the north. The lake is the second largest in England at seven and a half miles long, but is less than a mile across. It is also the third deepest English lake at 250 feet deep.
There are dramatic views from both sides of the lake, by foot or by vehicle.
This small village at the foot of Ullswater is a popular starting point for walkers and climbers going up Helvellyn. England's third highest mountain includes Striding and Swirral Edges.
16 locals recommend
Glenridding
This small village at the foot of Ullswater is a popular starting point for walkers and climbers going up Helvellyn. England's third highest mountain includes Striding and Swirral Edges.
Shopping
Some of our favourite shops!
Ambleside Cowhides & Sheepskins
4 Millans ParkLove this shop!
Detail Retail
Market PlaceUnusual gifts
Tesco Express
Market PlaceOpen quite late and there's a cash machine outside.
Co-op Food
Compston RoadRecently refurbished and less than a 5 minute walk from the house.
Rohan Ambleside - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
Really helpful staff and excellent outdoor wear.
Cunningham Stewart R
1-3 Rydal RdA quirky and well stocked outdoor store.
Boots
10 Crescent RdQuite a large store just a few minutes walk from the house.
Kindred Spirits
Compston RoadA spirit lovers heaven! Taste before you buy.
Huge centre with outdoor arena for plants plus furniture, pets and terrace cafe with mountain views.
From November it has a huge Christmas section!!
6 locals recommend
Hayes Garden World
Lake RoadHuge centre with outdoor arena for plants plus furniture, pets and terrace cafe with mountain views.
From November it has a huge Christmas section!!
Fred's Ambleside Bookshop
Lovely little bookshop selling many interesting books and maps.
Waterhead Shell Shop
Loved by young and old!
Old Bank House Chocolate
Lake RoadThis has to be our favourite chocolate shop ever!
LilyLou's of Ambleside
The SlackWe have never been inside but the arrangements in the window look fabulous.
Just love this place! it sells almost anything you could want for a DIY project and the staff are very helpful.
J.F. Martin & Co.
Compston RoadJust love this place! it sells almost anything you could want for a DIY project and the staff are very helpful.
Ambleside Cowhides & Sheepskins
4 Millans ParkLoads of lovely things to buy - great for unusual gifts.
Lakeland
Thwaites LaneA cooks paradise! This is an amazing building and has a cafe too.
Ghyllside Cycles
The SlackHelpful staff
An interesting shop with a wide range of items - beautiful smells hit you when you walk in.
Bath House
Market PlaceAn interesting shop with a wide range of items - beautiful smells hit you when you walk in.
Silver Moon
North RoadAn Aladdin's cave with a glittering display of silver and crystal jewellery.
This has become one of the leading independent contemporary art galleries in the North of England. Occupies three floors within an historic building.
Old Courthouse Gallery
Market PlaceThis has become one of the leading independent contemporary art galleries in the North of England. Occupies three floors within an historic building.
Joules
Colourful shop and friendly staff.
Relaxation
Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa
Lake RoadWho doesn't like some pampering?
Stagshaw Garden is a woodland garden situated in Ambleside, Cumbria, England, and in the ownership of the National Trust. The garden is noted for its shrubs, including rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias
Stagshaw Garden
Stagshaw Garden is a woodland garden situated in Ambleside, Cumbria, England, and in the ownership of the National Trust. The garden is noted for its shrubs, including rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias
Neighbourhoods
The beautiful Eskdale valley includes villages like Santon Bridge and Boot. There's also the Ravenglass and Eskdale steam railway. There are several pubs and a few local shops.
24 locals recommend
Eskdale
The beautiful Eskdale valley includes villages like Santon Bridge and Boot. There's also the Ravenglass and Eskdale steam railway. There are several pubs and a few local shops.