Last update:
21 October 2004

Ambleside is a picturesque town at the centre of the Lake District and always crowded with walkers. This area contains almost every feature of mountain scenery and is why to so many visitors it is the most satisfying and loveliest part of the Lake District. The town is set at the top of Lake Windermere, which is more than 10 miles long. The whole area is covered in countless paths ideal for walking and exploring.

The landscape is virtually unchanged from the days when William Wordsworth explored the hills and dales from his homes at Grasmere and Rydal Mount. Fellow writers attracted by the beauty of the hills visited him at his home. They included Sir Walter Scott, Charles Lamb and Samuel Taylor Coleridge.

Ambleside is home to Stockghyll Force, a beautiful waterfall set among woods, it is a lovely short walk and the sight at the end is rewording. You can also take boat trips along the lake which stop at various destinations if you wish to explore and take the rest of the journey by foot, or you can take the whole round journey on the boat for a relaxing trip.

Weather you come to Ambelside to relax or do some intensive walking or cycling you will not be disappointed, the area is rich in peace and tranquility and has an amassing landscape, scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.