Ambleside

Ambleside, Cumbria

Ambleside, at the head of Windermere and the foot of the Kirkstone Pass, lies in the very heart of the Lake District, with easy access to Grasmere, Keswick, Windermere and the Langdales. A vibrant, busy town, surrounded by magnificent Lakeland fells, it is the ideal location for a rural break. Although Ambleside has its roots in the medieval woollen trade, it is predominantly a Victorian town, built of dark grey slate.

Ambleside’s history reaches back at least as far as Roman times. At nearby Waterhead the Romans built a stone fort on a trade route through South Lakeland (now in Borrans Field). Medieval Ambleside had a thriving woollen industry centred on the fast flowing Stock Ghyll which powered the fulling mills that pounded the newly woven cloth. When the town was granted a market charter in 1650, the Market Place became the commercial centre for agriculture and the wool trade. The 17th and 18th centuries were a major period of rebuilding, initiated by yeoman farmers and landowners made wealthy by the profits of the woollen trade. Many houses date from this period, notably at the pretty village of Troutbeck nearby. One particularly fine example, Townend, is owned by the National Trust (open March–October).

The iconic Bridge House is a tiny house over Stock Beck in the centre of the town and one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District. Originally built as an apple store by the Braithwaites of Ambleside Hall in 1723, the building is now owned by the National Trust and is open daily from Easter to October.

As a gateway to the spectacular Langdale Valley, Ambleside is deservedly popular, both with leisure visitors wanting a relaxing break and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenge. The town offers easy access to a range of water sports, walks, climbs and cycle routes, and has plenty of great pubs and cafés. It also has a wonderful literary and artistic heritage, which can be explored in the town’s galleries and museum.

Ambleside’s specialist retailers offer everything from outdoor clothing to interior design. Other shops specialise in unique pieces inspired by the landscape, including slate ornaments, watercolour paintings and pottery – look out for the Made in Cumbria logo, which shows you are supporting local craftspeople.

Visit website: www.golakes.co.uk

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