Ambleside Uncovered
Ambleside is a small lake District town set in the old county of Westmorland.
Visiting Ambleside is a must for most tourists arriving in the Lake District. It is one of the most picturesque and popular holiday villages in the area, attracting visitors from all around due to its proximity to Windermere and easy access to the breathtaking Lakeland mountains.
Ambleside is surrounded by majestic mountains like Loughrigg, Wansfell, and the Langdales, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
During the summer, the town centre bustles with walkers and climbers who use it as a base for some of the region’s most challenging treks, including the tricky Fairfield Horseshoe.
Before the great tourism boom, Ambleside thrived as a place of becks and mills, with many of them powered by water wheels.
Its earlier prosperity as a market town was rooted in sheep farming and the woollen industry, which relied on a network of horse tracks.
In the 16th century, Ambleside was the centre of the woollen industry and was granted a Market Charter as a town in 1650.
One of the must-visit attractions in Ambleside is Stock Ghyll Force, the captivating waterfall located near the Market Cross, close to the old Salutation Hotel.
The walk starts just past the hotel on Stockghyll Lane, where a sign leads you up the lane to the woods.
It is a short but rewarding waterfall walk that’s ideal for a post-lunch stroll that takes about an hour.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see it, especially after heavy rain, when it displays its full magnificence.
For centuries, the market cross offered uninterrupted views across fields and meadows to Loughrigg, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history. In 1650, Ambleside was granted a market charter, further solidifying its importance as a trading hub.
The lakeside connection between Ambleside and Lake Windermere can be experienced at Waterhead, where you can board steamers, hire a boat, or take a leisurely stroll in Borrans Park.
Waterhead was also home to a 2nd-century Roman fort named ‘Galava’, which served as a guardian of the Roman road stretching from Brougham (near Penrith) to Ravenglass. The fort, now part of the National Trust, has been excavated, exposing its foundations and offering an exciting glimpse into the area’s ancient past.
Built under Hadrian’s rule, its purpose was to guard the Roman road from Brougham (near Penrith) to Ravensglass.
The fort is part of fortifications linked to Hadrian’s Wall at Bowness-on-Solway.
The parish church of St Mary stands out above the rooftops. The spire rises to 180 feet.
Ambleside boasts some impressive architectural landmarks, such as the parish church of St. Mary, known for its towering spire that rises up to 180 feet. Designed and built by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1854, the church is a stunning example of local stone craftsmanship, and it houses windows dedicated to the Wordsworth family and a chapel established in 1952 in their honour.
A stained-glass window also commemorates the memory of Alfred Wainwright, a prominent figure in the Lake District’s history.
For those visiting in July, the annual Rush-bearing Ceremony takes place towards the end of the month, adding a touch of tradition and festivity to the experience.
Rush-bearing is a custom going back generations when churches were not floored with timber, but compressed earth from generations of use.
Worship, especially in winter, was uncomfortable. Rushes were therefore strewn on the floor to make attending church more comfortable.
The graveyard of St. Mary’s holds the remains of the famous educationalist Charlotte Mason, who left a lasting impact on the village by establishing a training college in its centre.
Another intriguing landmark at the opposite end of the village is Bridge House, a peculiar yet charming building that spans Stock Beck. Believed to date back to the 17th century.
Bridge House is now under the care of the National Trust and serves as a symbol of Ambleside’s architectural heritage.
Nature lovers will find Rothay Park to be a delightful retreat.
As one of the Lake District’s most beautiful areas, the park offers an open space surrounded by stunning scenery, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
Families with children will appreciate the playground area within the park.
When it’s time to dine out, Zeffirelli’s Vegetarian restaurant is a great choice.
It is undoubtedly one of the busiest restaurants in Ambleside.
Known for its value and meal deals, it’s a perfect place to refuel after a day of exploration and adventure.
Zeffirelli’s, or Zeffs as most people call it, began when Derek Hook moved from his small vegetarian restaurant in his home town of Blackpool to the Lakes in the 1980s.
The Armitt Library & Museum Centre is a unique combination of museum, gallery, and library situated on Rydal Road in the town.
It has an extensive and rich collection of books, artworks, and objects that make up the essence of Lakeland life, history and culture.
In conclusion, Ambleside is a destination that caters to every type of traveller, offering an array of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities.
Accessible by car from Lothlorien Holiday Cottage in Kents Bank, Grange-over-Sands, Ambleside beckons visitors with its charm and allure. Don’t miss the chance to experience this gem in the heart of the Lake District.
How to Book
To make an enquiry about staying at Lothlorien Holiday Cottage, in Grange-over-Sands, ring 07785944194 or click here.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What makes Ambleside a popular destination in the Lake District?
Ambleside is loved for its stunning surroundings — mountains like Loughrigg, Wansfell, and the Langdales are right on its doorstep. It’s also close to Windermere, with lots of hiking, scenery, and easy access to nature.
2. What is the history of Ambleside as a market town?
Ambleside’s roots go back to the woollen industry. It prospered through sheep farming and wool processing, having many mills powered by water. The town was officially given a Market Charter in 1650.
3. Which landmarks should I not miss when I visit Ambleside?
Some standouts are:
Stock Ghyll Force waterfall (a lovely walk near the Market Cross)
The high-spire St Mary’s Church, built in 1854 by Sir George Gilbert Scott, with memorial windows for the Wordsworth family and a chapel for Alfred Wainwright.
Bridge House, a charming 17th-century building crossing Stock Beck and maintained by the National Trust
The Armitt Library & Museum Centre for local art, history & culture
4. Can I enjoy lakeside activities from Ambleside?
Yes. From Ambleside, you can reach Waterhead on Windermere for lake steamers, boat hires, or peaceful walks at Borrans Park. It’s a great way to combine mountain views with the lake
5. What traditional or cultural events happen in Ambleside?
One notable event is the Rush-bearing Ceremony in July, a tradition rooted in old church practices. Also, Ambleside’s history is reflected in its architecture, church festivals, and market traditions.
6. Is Ambleside good for families and easy walks?
Absolutely. Ambleside has suitable walks like the Stock Ghyll Force trail (about an hour’s operation post lunch), pleasant parks like Rothay Park with open spaces, and playgrounds. It’s ideal for mixed-ability visitors.
7. What dining options are recommended in Ambleside, especially for vegetarians?
A highly recommended place is Zeffirelli’s (Zeffs), a popular vegetarian restaurant known for meal deals. It’s great after a day of walking or exploring.
8. Are there historic sites in Ambleside related to Roman Britain?
Yes, the Roman fort Galava near Waterhead is an ancient site guarding the Roman road from Brougham to Ravenglass. Its foundations have been excavated and are part of the National Trust.
9. How far is Ambleside from Lothlorien Holiday Cottage, Grange-over-Sands, and is it a viable day trip?
Ambleside is accessible by car from Lothlorien Cottage in Kents Bank, Grange-over-Sands. It makes a perfect day trip: you enjoy lakes, walking, historic sites, dining and return in the evening.
10. What are some good places to relax in Ambleside when I want a quieter moment?
Places like Rothay Park are ideal for unwinding, as are walks by Stock Beck, quiet spots near the Market Cross, or sitting by Waterhead with lake views. Also, exploring the churchyard of St Mary’s gives both perspective and peace.
Conclusion
To make an enquiry about staying at Lothlorien Holiday Cottage, in Grange-over-Sands, ring 07785944194 or click here.