things to do in ambleside

Things to do in Ambleside

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Use our guide to discover the best things to do in Ambleside

From the collection of historical landmarks to the spectacular 70ft waterfall, there are many great things to do in Ambleside. 

Attractions in Ambleside

One of the most interesting Ambleside attractions is Wray Castle, a beautiful example of Victorian neo-Gothic architecture, perfect for those interested in heritage. Ambleside Pier is a stunning sight in itself, surrounded by stunning fells bordering Windermere. Discover the Bridge House, a stone building dating back to the 17th century before visiting the Stock Ghyll Force or National Trust-owned Stagshaw Gardens.

Activities in Ambleside

Venture out on many Ambleside walks and delight in breath-taking rural scenery. Take to the majestic Grizedale Forest or to the summit of Loughrigg Fell for an unbeatable panoramic viewpoint. The many Ambleside parks offer plenty of opportunity for those fond of the great outdoors. Recharge your batteries at the end of an eventful day in one of the many wonderful Ambleside pubs. Restore your energy with a hearty meal at the plethora of places to eat in Ambleside.

Things to do near Ambleside

If you’re looking for things to do near Ambleside, travel to the charming market town of Ulverston, home to the iconic Laurel and Hardy Museum. Immerse yourself in history at historic attractions throughout Kendal, hike up tall peaks in Keswick, or enjoy a boat cruise at Bowness-on-Windermere.

Keep reading to find a plethora of things to do in Ambleside on your visit to the Lake District…

Wray Castle image by: James@hopgrove

 

  • Ambleside Sports

    Rydal Park
    Rydal Road
    Ambleside
    LA22 9PN

    015394 33058

    Ambleside Sports is a traditional Lakeland sporting event that can be traced back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The first officially organised Sports in Ambleside event took place in the year of Queen Victoria’s golden jubilee and eventually became a regular event, with children’s events introduced in the 2000s.

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  • woman scaling indoor climbing wall

    Ambleside Wall

    101 Lake Rd
    Ambleside
    Lake District
    LA22 0DB

    01539433794

    Reach new heights at Ambleside Climbing Wall. From beginners to experts, from indoor to outdoor climbing in the stunning Lakeland mountains, you’ll receive all the training and encouragement you need to reach your climbing goals.

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  • Eyam Museum

    Beatrix Potter Gallery

    Main St
    Hawkshead
    Cumbria LA22 0NS

    Explore the fascinating life of Beatrix Potter, discover some of her original writings and illustrations and unearth the inspirations behind her influential stories.

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  • flat park with trees

    Borrans Park

    1 MacIver Ln
    Ambleside
    Cumbria
    England
    LA22 0HJ

    01539733333

    Borrans Park offers excellent views of Lake Windermere as well as a large, green open space with picnic tables and parking nearby. You can also find the remains of a Roman road leading to the ruin of a Roman ruin.

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  • bridge house, ambleside
    Image Credits: Nilfanion - CC BY-SA 4.0

    Bridge House

    Rydal Rd
    Ambleside
    LA22 9AN

    01539432617

    This 17th-century building in Ambleside is one of the most photographed in the Lake District. Sitting over Stock Beck, the building has inspired many artists including Turner. During spring, summer and autumn, you can visit the house and discover the tiny rooms inside.

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  • esthwaite water
    Image Credits: Ian Dick - CC BY 2.0

    Esthwaite Water

    Ambleside
    Lake District National Park
    Cumbria
    LA22 0NT

    015394 36541

    Esthwaite Water is a beautiful 280-acre private water situated in the heart of the Lake District. Here you can go on a self-drive or guided osprey safari during April or September, go boat or bank fishing or learn how to fish with an expert.

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  • Grizedale Forest

    Grizedale Forest

    Blind Lane Car Park
    Ulverston
    Cumbria
    LA12 8LQ

    One of the top things to do in the Lake District is the majestic setting of Grizedale Forest. Discover this unique and intriguing area of woodland, with exciting sculptures and plenty of walking and cycling trails, it is the ideal day out to appreciate a more tranquil environment.  

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  • hikers in a circle wearing hiking boots

    Helm Crag

    Ambleside
    Lake District
    Cumbria
    England
    LA22 9RS

    Short and steep, this exhilarating walk is suitable for almost all ages and guarantees stunning views at the summit. Situated in the central fells to the north of Grasmere, this is a distinctive and popular fell that can be seen from the village.

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  • Hill Top Farm
    Image Credits: Tomoaki INABA - CC BY-SA 2.0

    Hill Top Farm

    Near Sawrey
    Ambleside
    LA22 0LF

    The National Trust’s Hill Top was once Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse. The renowned author bought Hill Top Farm with money made from her books. Nowadays, visitors can come and see the maintained gardens and historic interiors firsthand.

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  • Loughrigg Fell

    Rydal Water Car Park
    Ambleside
    Cumbria
    LA22 9SE

    Loughrigg Fell is a beautiful hill, sitting in the heart of the Lake District National Park. With stunning views across the Northern countryside, Loughrigg Fell is an exceptional walking destination at any time of the year.

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