A break in the Lake District at the Waterwheel Guesthouse B&B offers many opportunities for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits. Ambleside is a fell walkers dream and if you are completing the 214 Wainwright peaks you can climb 20 from our front doorstep. For those who prefer more adventurous walking opportunities, Scafell Pike and Striding Edge on Helvellyn offer a challenge to even the most hardened of walkers. Lake Windermere is just 5 minutes away and has opportunities for boat trips, sailing and windsurfing and of course some wonderful walks along the shores of Englands largest lake.
If you feel like venturing a little farther afield, the nearby Kirkstone Pass offers a spectacular drive over the highest mountain pass in Lakeland, where the views over Windermere and the Lakes are truly stunning. Ambleside is within half an hours drive to the historic market towns of Kendal or Keswick. The route along the A591 to Keswick is often voted one of Englands most scenic drives, passing Rydal Water, Grasmere and Thirlmere along the way, all in the shadow of mighty Helvellyn.
Somewhere to eat
There are many places to eat, in Ambleside, ranging from fine dining to fast food. Here are some of the places that our guests recommend: –
Matthews Bistro – A cosy and warm bistro serving French, Mediterranean and British classics. Always good service, expertly cooked by Matthew and his wife Dominika.
The Priest Hole – Restaurant and tea rooms that are part of the Kelsick Old Hall, one of the oldest buildings in Ambleside.
Zeffirelli – vegetarian restaurant with a jazz bar and cinema attached. Buy a combo ticket for a movie and a meal at a great price, and you can even take your drink into the cinema with you!
Dodds – coffee shop during the day, full menu restaurant in the evening. You can’t book a table, but leave your number on the day and they will call when a table is free. It’s well worth the wait!
Misto – Highly recommended by us and guests who have eaten there. Italian/Mediterranean dishes with excellent ratings on TripAdvisor. Misto no longer take bookings for tables.
Old Stamp House – foodie heaven, at a Michelin starred restaurant based in a workplace of William Wordsworth, who was the Distributor of Stamps for Westmorland, as well as a poet.
Bumbles Rest Cafe – In search of a lunchtime treat? Luckily the best cafe in Ambleside is right next door to us serving delicious vegetarian lunches and yummy homemade cakes from Bethan and Luke. We often sit at the riverside tables waiting for guests to arrive.
