Local authority Inside information on Ambleside, Cumbria
Planning to visit somewhere new? Let the locals give you the lowdown! This month, the heart of the Lakes
Who are you?
Susan Taylor, wanderer for many years! Husband Ro and I enjoy touring and exploring throughout the UK and, when the regulations permit, further afield. There are so many beautiful regions just waiting to be discovered.
Where are you a local authority on? Ambleside, in the Lake District National Park.
Why are you a local authority on this place? Being from England’s north-west, I spent many happy weekends camping here until I moved south a few years ago. I still return as often as I can.
What do you love about it?
Everything! The Lake District really is perfect walking country, from gentle lakeside strolls to more strenuous climbs. There are pretty villages dotted throughout the area, as well as fascinating castles and museums to explore, and scenic lake cruises for lazy days.
This region was home to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth, among other famous writers and artists, and their former residences can be visited, to gain an intriguing glimpse into their lives.
Ambleside perfectly positions us to enjoy day trips all over Cumbria. And when we don’t feel like driving, there’s a wealth of walks from our doorstep, not to mention shops, pubs, restaurants – and waterfalls.
What’s your favourite place to visit?
Tough question! One of my favourites is the stroll from Ambleside to Rydal Water. Some days, we continue on to Grasmere, while on others, we settle down for a pint in the Badger Bar before returning.
On more energetic days, another great route is the walk over Jenkin’s Crag (via the beer garden at The Mortal Man!) and back through Troutbeck – the views, as everywhere in the Lake District, are fantastic.
What local campsite would you recommend? Skelwith Fold is less than 10 minutes from Ambleside by car, 40 minutes on foot, or there is a bus. Set in glorious woods, it offers plenty of access to roam and magnificent views over the Langdale Pikes and the fells. If you like town amenities on your doorstep, Hawkshead Hall is a 10-minute drive from Ambleside, and a five-minute walk from Hawkshead village.
What food and drink is the area known for? Lamb, fresh from the fells, is a speciality. Real ales also feature highly; with microbreweries dotted all over the Lake District, and larger firms such as Jennings, you’re spoilt for choice. Wainwright is one of my favourites; a lovely refreshing ale.
Tell us somewhere great to eat!
The Priest Hole, in the town centre, serves a great local menu, while over the road, the Old Stamp House is a Michelin-starred restaurant. Doi Intanon is a fantastic Thai restaurant in the old Market Hall building.
Where can you get spare kit?
Accessory and outdoor gear shops are plentiful across Ambleside. Caravan Supplies in Penrith is probably the closest specialist retailer.
Where can you find cheap petrol/diesel? The BP petrol station on Lake Road (A591), the main road into Ambleside, is usually a good bet.
Where should you avoid in the area? Ambleside sits at the foot of the Kirkstone Pass, which rises to 454m above sea level. The one in four gradient makes it very tricky for caravans; I would also avoid both Wrynose and Hardknott Pass. A one in three gradient, with hairpins and narrow stretches, makes these routes very unsuitable for towing.
Share a highlight only a local would know Bridge House, spanning Stock Beck in the town centre, is one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District. Built as an apple store, it became one of the smallest homes in the world – for a family of eight!
If you are (un)lucky enough, you might find yourself almost eyeballing the pilot of a fighter jet. They train in Cumbria, flying low through the mountains and hills, especially on clear days. You will hear them before you see them, and you have to be very quick to see them, because they are gone again before you can blink.