Wander through the Lake District
Ambleside
The picturesque small town of Ambleside is situated at the northern tip of Lake Windermere. Popular with visitors, the town is full of independent shops selling everything from walking and mountaineering equipment to arts and crafts and local food and drink produce.
While in Ambleside you should visit the iconic Bridge House, which dates back to the 17th century. The tiny house sits over Stock Beck and is located on Rydal Road. Just across the road you’ll also find the Armitt Museum. Here you can learn about the town’s history and local characters such as Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin.
Stock Ghyll Force & Force Cafe
Ambleside is also a haven for walkers. Just a short walk from Ambleside town centre lies Stock Ghyll Force, a breathtaking 70-foot waterfall and one of the area’s best-loved attractions. The woodland walk leading to the falls is a beautiful 1.25-mile circular route, offering a peaceful escape into nature with plenty of places to pause and admire the cascading waters.
Located just a stone’s throw from the start of the woodland trail, our sister company, Force Cafe, is the perfect place to relax after your walk. Renowned locally for its great food, warm hospitality and famous terrace with panoramic views, it’s an ideal spot to refuel, unwind and soak up the surrounding scenery — four-legged adventurers are also welcome. As a guest of Lake District Country Hotels, you can also enjoy an exclusive discount at Force Cafe & Terrace, so be sure to pick up a discount card from reception before you head out.
Wansfell Pike
If you want to wander for longer, then you can continue your walk onto Wansfell Pike and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Coniston Fells, Fairfield Horseshoe and Red Screes.
Rydal Water
The tranquil water of Rydal is enclosed between the slopes of Loughrigg Fell and Fairfield Horseshoe. A walk suitable for all, as most of the route is on well-maintained paths. The distance is approximately 3.5 miles, however there are longer and shorter routes available. The route includes a few climbs and descents, but nothing too strenuous. This area inspired much of the poetry written by William Wordsworth. Hopefully you will be inspired too.
Tarn Hows
This walk is a Lake District classic and is much loved by visitors and locals alike. Situated between Coniston and Hawkshead, the attraction of Tarns Hows is its sheer beauty and ease of access.
Tarns Hows is a man-made; it began as three tarns – Low Tarn, Middle Tarn and High Tarn before being joined together in the 19th century. It was very much appreciated by Beatrix Potter, who purchased the land and then in time passed it onto the National Trust, for safe keeping.
The walk is just under 2 miles and is on well-maintained paths, so is ideal for families, wheelchair users and anyone seeking gentle exercise with the promise of spectacular views.
Bowness on Windermere
The town of Bowness on Windermere is the Lake District’s most popular tourist destination. Situated halfway along the 10.5 mile length of Lake Windermere, the town is busy all year round.
Originally a fishing village, Bowness dates back to the 15th century, where the parish church St Martins was built. The arrival of the railway station in the neighbouring village of Windermere in 1847, brought many Victorian visitors and the expansion of Windermere and Bowness began. Right next to Windermere Station, you will now find the flagship kitchenware store, Lakeland, so for all foodies and cooking enthusiasts, a trip to the store is a must.
Bowness was also the centre of the boat building industry and provided the steam launches, rowing boats and yachts used on the lake today. Boating is still one of the main draws to the area and from the shores of Bowness bay you can take a cruise, hire a boat or catch the ferry over to Far Sawrey, where you can head over to the charming village of Hawkshead, stopping off at Hill Top, Beatrix Potters’ former home.
If you are looking for a spot of retail therapy, here you will find high street names, intermingled with independent gift shops, boutiques, art galleries and local artisan food producers.
