About Ambleside and The Lake District
Ambleside, in the heart of the English Lake District, is situated just half a mile from the northern end of beautiful Lake Windermere, Ambleside's distinctive green slate buildings merge harmoniously with the green of fields and fells all around. To the north is the spectacular Fairfield Horseshoe which rises to nearly 3000 feet to dominate the skyline; by complete contrast to the west is gentle Loughrigg Fell, beneath which the River Rothay meanders from Grasmere to Ambleside and into Lake Windermere. To the east is steep and stately Wansfell Pike, where on a clear day you can see across the fell tops to the sea or across to the Pennines.
Victorian prosperity brought a remarkable boom to Ambleside, as wealthy industrialists built large country houses in the area, especially following the arrival of the railway to Windermere in 1847. Since then, tourists have found Ambleside to be a favourite destination, enjoying the warmth and friendliness of the local people, where individuality has created many unique and fascinating features to interest all tastes.
Things to see & do in Ambleside and The Lake District
There's always plenty to see and do in Ambleside and its surrounding area. Please click on the links below to view up-to-date information about the Lake District supplied by the Cumbria Tourist Board (opens in a new browser window).
Historic houses, museums & exhibitions and more: Attractions in Ambleside and the South Lakes.
The most interesting villages and towns in the area: Places of interest near Ambleside.
Golf, Hiking & Biking, Fishing, Riding and more: Outdoor and Leisure activities in Ambleside and the South Lakes.
Art Galleries, Craft and Gift shops: Shopping in Ambleside and the South Lakes.
The best restaurants, cafés and pubs: Eating out in Ambleside and the South Lakes.
Museums, heritage sites and art galleries: Culture in The Lake District
Country fairs, special exhibitions, music, food and drink festivals: Events in Ambleside and the South Lakes.