There was a time when Ambleside could draw its breath after the summer, snuggle up for winter and then gently prepare for the new season. Not any more. This is a 365 day-a-year tourist destination, the abundance of hotels, guest houses, cafés and restaurants ready proof of its popularity.
The great plus is Ambleside’s pivotal location at the northern end of the lake. Rydal and Grasmere are within 15 minutes to the north along the A591 and Windermere town is southwards down the same road.
20 minutes to the west is the main gateway to the Langdale valleys, one of the biggest walking and climbing areas in the Lake District. Closer to home are Jenkin Crag, Loughrigg Fell and Wansfell Pike, all offering excellent views of the lake below.
On the other side of Wansfell Pike, to the east of Ambleside, is the pretty village of Troutbeck. A narrow road winds through the long village, passing houses and farms, many of which date back to the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries.
