Ambleside & the Lake District

Ambleside, a place of adventure and culture

In the heart of the Lake District, Ambleside is a hub for public transport and offers something for everyone, from walkers to jazz fans. Located in the very centre of the Lake District National Park, Ambleside is a perfect destination for a relaxing short break.

The town has a cinema showing arthouse films and the latest releases. You can visit the Armitt Museum, a ruined Roman fort and even a jazz bar.

Walking & Cycling

There are so many walks & cycle routes for all abilities straight from our door, whatever your ability. Take a look at the maps and leaflets in the lounge or just ask us for ideas. For walks further afield, check out the bus timetables.

Ambleside’s bike hire shops have everything you need to get you out and about. You can hire electric bikes from Country Lanes next to Windermere railway station.

Arranging a walking or cycling holiday? We can accommodate up to 14 people in their own individual beds.

Group bookings

Take a boat ride on Windermere

It’s an easy 15 minute walk from Elder Grove B&B to Waterhead on Lake Windermere. Here you can choose from rowing boats, launches or steamers. There are short cruises to the Brockhole Visitor Centre and Wray Castle . Or head to Bowness and its many shops and restaurants plus attractions like The World of Beatrix Potter.

The longer sail to Lakeside takes you to The Lakes Aquarium. From there you can travel onwards by steam train to Haverthwaite and then it’s just a short bus link to the Lakeland Car Museum.

Leave the car behind – go by bus

Why not let someone else drive while you take in the magnificent views of the Lake District? Ambleside’s main Kelsick Road bus stop is just a two-minute walk around the corner. Find out more at GoLakes or we have bus timetables available.

From Easter to October the 599 service runs every 20 minutes to and from Grasmere and Bowness. It’s hourly during the winter months.

The main service buses of 555 or 556 run from Keswick to Kendal and Lancaster every hour Monday to Saturday. The 559 is open-top.

The service to Langdale and Hawkshead and Coniston runs every two hours. There’s also a bus service to Newby Bridge and down to Barrow.

For the ultimate sightseeing tour, the minibuses of Mountain Goat venture up our twisting mountain passes on half and full day guided tours.

Tempted to stay a little longer?

With so much to do, why not extend your short break by a night or two to really get to know this beautiful corner of Britain. Check out delicious places to eat in Ambleside or talk to us about creating a bespoke itinerary to suit your hobbies and interests.

You can also find some more ideas of things to do in our 3 day and 4 day itineries.

Wallet-friendly savings

Whether you’re heading to a lake cruise or eating out locally, do let us know. We often have a range of discount vouchers for local attractions and eateries.