Places to stay in Ambleside

Ambleside is a walker’s paradise surrounded by towering hills on three sides and the glittering beauty of Lake Windermere on the other. Set off on foot and you can stroll directly to Stock Ghyll Waterfall, strike out to Waterhead Pier on the shores of the lake, or tackle the steep ascent up Wansfell Pike for spectacular views.

Explore the bustling streets of the town and you’ll discover ancient alleyways and the famous 17th-century Bridge House nestled among the market stalls, cafés and outdoor shops. Our handpicked collection of special places in Ambleside are enveloped in glorious countryside with all the home comforts and luxuries required to completely unwind after bracing hikes in the fells.

Featured places to stay in Ambleside

The Hayloft - Gallery

The Hayloft

Ambleside, Cumbria

 

Why visit the Lake District?

Get lost in the Lake District National Park and you won’t want to be found. The dramatic landscape of rugged mountains and tranquil lakes stretches for hundreds of miles, punctuated only by chocolate-box market towns and dry stone walls. Tick off a few of Wainwright’s fells, visit stately houses or go for a cruise on an Ullswater Steamer before heading to the welcoming glow of a cosy pub for a hearty meal.

As well as calling to outdoor lovers, the Lake District bursts with heritage and culture, from Wordsworth’s cottage in Grasmere, to steam railways, ancient churches, agricultural shows, literary and music festivals. Not forgetting the numerous breweries and distilleries where you can sample local ales and spirits. 

 

About our special places to stay in the Lake District

 

Is Ambleside worth a visit?

Ambleside combines traditional market town charm with fantastic restaurants, an abundance of shops and an enviable location in the heart of the southern lakes.  Famous independent cinema, Zeffirellis, shows art-house films alongside the latest releases while The Tap Yard serves brewery-fresh local craft beers directly from large copper tanks above the bar. 

Why should you book with Sawday’s?

Handpicked means something at Sawday’s. We’ve spent 30 years refining our idea of what makes a great stay and we’ve decided it’s that magic combination of soul, originality and comfort. Our team of inspectors personally visit each one of our properties to talk to the owners, have a glass of wine in the garden, stroll to the nearest village and uncover those unique details that make a place really special.  

What is the closest lake to Ambleside?

Ambleside is a twenty-minute walk from the northern tip of Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. The majestic peaks of Wansfell Pike and Loughrigg Fell frame the vast expanse of water dotted with sailboats, cruisers and kayaks. To admire the spectacle from dry land, scenic walking trails hug the shoreline on all sides. 

What day is market day in Ambleside?

Come rain or shine, makers and artisans set up stalls every Wednesday morning in Ambleside so visitors can sample local jams and chutneys, buy freshly-baked cakes and browse handmade jewellery and homewares. You’re never more than a few minutes from a café where coffees and pastries will fuel another lap around the market.