There are several walks from Ambleside for you to enjoy. We have put together a few of our favourite hikes in and around Ambleside so that you can fully immerse yourself in the spectacular Cumbria countryside and explore the central fells of the Lake District.
Due to its position in the Lake District National Park, Ambleside is famous for walking; it is located in the southern Lakelands at the northern end of Lake Windermere and is close to Grasmere. Don’t worry if you’re just getting started with walking and hiking. We have chosen a selection of Ambleside walks from easy to difficult, so there will be something here for you.
1. Ambleside Champion Tree Trail
Easy | Takes 45 mins | 0.8 miles (1.2 km) | Dog friendly
The Champion Tree Trail walk from Ambleside is a 45-minute circular route through the ancient Skelghyll Woods.
You can easily follow the symbolic meanings of the tree symbols along the way to discover some of the tallest trees in England. This trail links with the Explore from Waterhead downloadable trail, which takes you to Stagshaw Gardens. This way, you can wander around a summer garden, take in the stunning views from Jenkins Crag, or even paddle board in Lake Windermere.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
YHA Ambleside is a great and affordable option if you want to stay in the area and take advantage of nearby walking routes. It offers a range of accommodation, including shared and private rooms and a café serving local food. We love unwinding on the decked terrace with lake views. Ambleside Fish & Chips near the YHA is a casual eatery for traditional eat-in, takeaway fish and chips, and waterfront views.
2. Ambleside Common Wood Walk
Easy | Takes 1 hour | 1.4 miles (2.2 km) | Dog friendly
This walk is an excellent choice for those wanting to explore Common Wood. Common Wood is unique because it’s peaceful and tranquil yet looks over the busy Windermere. Here, you can spot a wide variety of wildlife or just wander through and explore the woodland. After your walk, a view over the lake is your reward as you head down to the town for a well-earned tea and cake.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
The Waterhead Inn in Ambleside boasts a trendy onsite restaurant and bar. Its cosy rooms are perfect for a comfortable stay, with many providing scenic lake views. This inn is nestled among the Lake District’s well-known hiking and biking paths. It also offers convenient onsite parking and is only a 10-minute drive from Wray Castle and Windermere.
Head over to the Copper Pot cafe. This cosy hub in Ambleside is brimming with mouth-watering homemade dishes, delectable cakes, superbly roasted coffee, and delightful music!
3. Tarn Hows
Easy | Takes 1 hour | 2 miles (3.2 km) | Dog friendly
This is a perfect walk to take memorable views of the Lakeland fells. It is an easy circular walk perfect for all the family, and you can even take your dog to run off some energy. This is a 2-mile short loop route, and it offers great opportunities for photos.
If you fancy venturing a little further, why not extend this walk? If you head to the far end of the tarn, then move away from the tarn along the track signposted for ‘Arnside’. You can follow this path until you reach the road; here, you must cross over and take the footpath parallel to the road. You’ll travel back over on your return, and once back over, follow the path signposted ‘Tarn Hows’ until you arrive back at the tarn.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
Looking for a place to stay? High Grassings Country House is a great option! Nearby attractions include Wray Castle, just a 10-minute drive away, and Tarn Hows, an 8-minute drive away. The main house features a spacious terrace with comfortable seating where you can sit back and enjoy the stunning views of Esthwaite Water. Additionally, if you’re a fan of fishing, you’ll be pleased to know that Esthwaite Water is a popular fishing spot.
Steam Bistro is a cafe bistro situated in the village of Coniston. They offer breakfast, brunch, and relaxed all-day lunches, with their full menu available throughout the day. You might even catch one of their pop-up supper club evenings.
4. Post Knott, Windermere Views Walk
Moderate | Takes 1 hour | 1.5 miles (2.4 km) | Dog friendly
This work is shorter and only takes an hour; however, we have listed it as moderate as it includes a steep climb. This does reward you with the most beautiful views of Windermere, though! As well as views of the central fells of the Lake District. There are plenty of places to stop, rest and picnic on this route, so you can take your time and enjoy the beautiful views.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
We love this luxurious self-catering property in the Lake District if you fancy staying nearby. Birkdale House is only a five-minute walk away from Bowness. Sleeping up to ten people, Birkdale House is an ideal place to explore the Lake District or to relax and spend quality time with your loved ones.
For food, try the Urban Food House. We were impressed with their simple but delicious menu. They use locally sourced produce to offer high-quality food with classic main dishes, pizzas, and lighter options. If you’re in the area, it’s worth checking out.
5. Ambleside to Troutbeck and back via Wansfell
Moderate | Takes 4 hours – 5 hours | 5.8 miles (9.3 km)
If you’re after a more moderate walk, Ambleside to Troutbeck is an excellent choice. Troutbeck is a quaint, unique village brimming with vernacular architecture in an unspoilt valley setting. Although close to Windermere and Ambleside, you feel a million miles away from it all. You can visit the atmospheric Townend farmhouse and return to Ambleside via a more challenging route over Wansfell. From Wansfell, you will get great views over the surrounding fells.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
YHA Windermere is a hostel and ideal base for hikers, those seeking activity breaks and family holidays, while children will love the extensive wooded grounds. They also have superb tipi, camping and cabin options too.
You can enjoy delicious British and continental cuisine at the Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa at the Windermere Restaurant, now known as The W. The talented team of chefs have created a menu of both classic and modern dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients and a lot of care.
6. Grasmere to Ambleside
Moderate | Takes 2 hours | 6 miles (10km) | Dog friendly
Perfect for all the family, you can make a day out of this walk. It is a linear walk that can be accessed by bus from Ambleside. Famous for William Wordsworth, who lives at several houses in the Lake District. His most famous home was Dove Cottage in Grasmere; he produced his best work here.
This walk leaves the village of Grasmere along the road leading to Red Bank. This path leads down to the lake shore. This beautiful walk has plenty of spots to enjoy a break or a picnic. The track then takes you to the stretch of water called Loughrigg Tarn. In the summer, you can witness a carpet of water lilies here. The views across the Tarn are of the Langdale Pikes, considered one of the best views of the mountains. From the Tarn, the track heads to Ambleside.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
The Inn at Grasmere has been accommodating travellers for centuries. It is an integral part of the historic village and offers visitors stunning views and a convenient location, making it the perfect base for exploring the Lakes District in style.
You’ll discover Goody Blake’s behind the shops and Post Office on the main street leading into Grasmere. This eclectic eatery is named after a character in a famous Wordsworth poem, and its unique ambience and delicious food make it a must-visit spot.
7. The Old Man of Coniston
Moderate/difficult | Takes 4 hours | 6.5 miles (10.5 km) | Height: 803 m; 2634 ft
The Old Man of Coniston is a well known Lake District walk. It’s popular among walkers and visitors. This interesting area has been mined for over 800 years, and the remnants of its mining history are scattered throughout the walk. Many routes take you up and down the Old Man of Coniston, for you to choose from, but this is a great one. The climb is moderate/difficult but achievable and very rewarding. It shows off with panoramic views of the area and a gradual decline back to the car park. The route starts in Walna car park and first visits the Old Man of Coniston. The route down includes visiting Dow Crag, Buck Pike and Brown Pike.
You can find the complete route map here.
Where to stay, eat and drink nearby
YHA Holly How provides dormitory-style lodging in Coniston, just a 10-minute car journey away from Hawkshead and Ambleside. You can enjoy amenities such as a games room and an on-site restaurant that serves delicious evening meals. Additionally, YHA Holly How offers free parking for your convenience.
Looking for a place to recharge before or after your walk in Coniston? The Ship is a great option. This traditional family-friendly pub offers a warm welcome, delicious home-cooked food, and a refreshing pint.
We hope this article has given you some walking inspiration! Let us know if you have tried any of these Ambleside walks in the comments.
