Things to do in Ambleside

A hub for outdoor adventurers looking to explore the Lake District, there’s a whole host of things to do in Ambleside.

Nestled at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, Ambleside isn’t just a town—it’s the beating heart of the Lake District. Whether you’re here to bag Wainwrights, browse artisan boutiques, or hide from the Cumbrian rain with a local ale, Ambleside delivers.

From hidden waterfalls to Roman ruins, here is how to spend your time in the Lakes’ most vibrant hub.

Read on to discover more on the exciting things to do in Ambleside…

Things to do in Ambleside

Don’t let a bit of liquid sunshine (rain) stop the fun. Ambleside is the adventure capital for a reason.

• Ambleside Adventure: Home to a premier indoor climbing wall and bouldering room. Perfect for beginners or pros looking to pump some plastic before hitting the real crags.

• White Platts Recreation Ground: For something a bit more relaxed but highly competitive, head here for mini-golf, tennis, and bowls. It boasts arguably the most scenic putting green in England.

• The “Secret” Waterfall: Just a short, steep walk from the town centre lies Stock Ghyll Force. This 70ft tumbling waterfall is spectacular after a heavy rainfall—and it’s free!

The Culture & Cuisines Corner

Ambleside has a “Vegeterranean” soul and a thriving jazz scene that you won’t find anywhere else in the UK.

• Zeffirellis & Fellinis: A true Ambleside institution. Zeffirellis offers an independent cinema experience paired with an award-winning pizzeria and live jazz. For a more sophisticated evening, Fellinis serves high-end vegetarian dining that impresses even the most dedicated carnivores.

  Top Tip: Look for their “Movie & Meal” deals for the best value night out in town.

• The Rock Shop: A literal “gem” of a find. Perfect for kids (and geology nerds), you can dig for fossils or experience the life-size gem pit.

• The Armitt Museum: Dive into the life of Beatrix Potter—not as a storyteller, but as a scientist and mycologist. The Armitt is a treasure trove of local history.

Hayes Garden Centre

Hayes Garden World is a magnificent gardeners mecca with a huge range of plants and shrubs. Not your typical garden centre, there is a lot to see and do at this Ambleside attraction.

From April to September, adventurers can follow a trail through the enchanted forest in search of elusive creatures. Foodies may prefer to visit on August 13th or 14th, where the Taste of America will be hosting a barbeque masterclass.

The Bridge House

The Bridge House is an iconic landmark in Ambleside. Boasting a history dating back to the 17th century, this pint-sized stone house was built over Stock Beck to avoid paying land tax.

Formerly an apple store, The Bridge House now serves as a source of creative energy for artists and photographers. Be sure to pack your camera and take a few snaps for yourself!

Art Galleries

The Lake District has long been associated with poetic and artistic inspiration. Ambleside has several galleries dedicated to local work, each well worth a visit.

The Cookhouse Gallery is an independent family-run art gallery showcasing contemporary, British crafts. The Peter Hill Gallery features artwork that has been inspired by the Lake District’s stunning scenery.

Further afield, The Heaton Cooper Gallery in Grasmere is worth the trip to see artwork created by three generations of the same family.

Galava Roman Fort

Galava Roman Fort sits between Ambleside and Waterhead, on the shores of Lake Windermere. Originally built in the 1st century AD, Galava Roman Fort sits under the care of the National Trust.

We suggest combining a visit here with a scenic stroll along the lakeside. Why not pack a picnic and dine with a view from Borrans Park nearby?

Live Music

There’s many places to experience the delights of live music in Ambleside! Local favourites include Zeffirellis jazz bar, The Unicorn Inn and The Royal Oak.

There’s even regular karaoke nights held at The Ambleside Tavern for those wishing to showcase their inner Beyoncé!

Sports Pubs

There’s no need to miss your favourite live sporting match during your visit to Ambleside.

The Sportsman’s Inn and The Vault are great places for viewing sporting events throughout the year.

Beer Gardens

Make the most of the warmer weather on a sunny day and unwind with a cooling drink in a beer garden.

In the centre of Ambleside, you can find the Salutation Hotel and The White Lion Hotel, both of which have outdoor seating.

For a change of scenery, the beer garden at The Wateredge Inn and the YHA at Waterhead offer unrivalled views across Lake Windermere.

Things to do near Ambleside

If you can tear yourself away from Ambleside, there’s plenty of things to see and do nearby. Centrally located, Ambleside is perfectly positioned for exploring the Lake District, whether by car, bus, bike, or on foot.

Traveling north, the A591 takes you to Wordsworth’s chosen home of Grasmere. Here you can visit the poets grave at St. Oswald’s church, climb Grey Crag, or sample traditional Grasmere Gingerbread.

Keswick and the North Lakes rest further afield, along with Bowness and Windermere in the south. Here you can marvel at the natural beauty of Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater, or walk in the footsteps of Beatrix Potter.

The large market town of Kendal is a must, with its excellent facilities and attractions. Uncover local history at Kendal Museum, window shop along the high street, or visit Kendal Golf Club.

West, and the A593 sets you on route to Hawkshead, and the lake and hills of Coniston. While to the east the scenic and spectacular Kirkstone Pass conveys you to Patterdale and the beauty of Ullswater.

The popular town of Ambleside is brimming with exciting things to see and do! And with these wonderful Ambleside restaurants, you wont be short on places to enjoy a bite to eat. Our hand-picked collection of Ambleside cottages put these delights within easy reach!

If you’re interested to know more about how you can spend your time, browse through our guide on what’s on in the Lake District and organise your trip ahead of time!

Images courtesy of: Lythlady – (CC BY-SA 4.0); Andreas Loegler – (CC BY-SA 3.0)