Sitting at the head of Lake Windermere (England's largest natural lake), Ambleside is a popular base for exploring the Lake District National Park. Here's our guide on where to stay and how to get around.
- The best walks in the Lake District National Park
- Cottages in the Lake District: the best places to stay while on holiday
What can you do in Ambleside?
As a popular market town in the Lake District, Ambleside makes a good base for exploring the National Park with plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy. Plenty of walking routes begin nearby the Waterhead Pier. You can also visit Skelghyll woods (home to some of the tallest trees in England), Bridge House, Ambleside Roman Fort and nearby Rydal Mount (once home to William Wordsworth).
How to get around Ambleside on public transport
The nearest train station to Ambleside is Windermere, which has regular services from Oxenholme.
Stagecoach buses serve this part of the Lake District and are a good way of getting about. Bus 555 is a regular service to popular areas and links Ambleside with Grasmere.
The Visit Lake District website has useful info to help you plan a car-free trip.
Places to stay in Ambleside
Elder Grove
This B&B has 10 comfy rooms, many with views over the fells and the town. You’ll get a warm welcome from the owners and the cooked breakfasts are some of the best. It’s well placed for exploring Ambleside and the surrounding hikes. The honesty bar is a nice touch for those wanting to relax with a drink at the end of the day.
Rydal Hall, Rydal
In a good location between Ambleside and Grasmere, this grand, sprawling estate offers a range of accommodation options for all types of visitors, from hotel rooms in the main house and two self-catering cottages through to a bunk house that sleeps 28, three eco pods and a campsite for those bringing their own tent. The bus stops nearby, too.
Ambleside Manor
A characterful Victorian-era guesthouse set in two acres of private grounds, this is an ideal spot for those wanting a quiet retreat. It’s in easy reach of Ambleside, with the waters of Windermere just a short walk away.
Places to eat and drink in Ambleside
Zeffirellis
A must-go restaurant in Ambleside town centre serving vegetarian, Italian-inspired food, from pizzas to a rich lentil bolognaise, with hearty servings and flavours. Stop by on Friday and Saturday evenings for live music upstairs in the jazz bar.
Faeryland
Just minutes’ walk from Grasmere village centre, there are few places as tranquil as Faeryland to stop for a drink in this busy part of the Lakes. With around 50 loose-leaf teas, coffee, cakes, ice cream and soft drinks. You can hire a rowing boat from here to glide across Grasmere, too.
The Golden Rule
There is a lot to be said for a refreshing drink after a long walk, and The Golden Rule hits the spot. This pub is a popular choice with walkers, and both locals and visitors to Ambleside. It’s a good place for unwinding after a day rambling in the fells.
Rattle Ghyll Fine Food & Deli
From chutneys and jams to locally baked bread, this Ambleside shop has lots of delicious food, with a focus on sustainability. You can also get meals to takeaway – grab a sandwich and some homemade cake for a relaxing picnic.
Green's Cafe and Bistro
Green's is an ideal breakfast or lunch spot in Grasmere. There are comforting classics from soup to toasties, and if the weather is on your side, sit outdoors and watch the world go by – maybe while nibbling on a freshly baked scone.
Discover more Lake District inspiration
- Here's how to explore the Lake District in just seven days
- Scafell Pike walk, Lake District: how to scale England's highest mountain
- Cat Bells: a walker's guide to the most beautiful mini mountain in the Lake District
- Best walks in Cumbria: One of Britain's most beautiful counties is a glorious rugged landscape of hills, mountains, lakes and coastline
