Ambleside is a pretty town on the northern-most point of Lake Windermere. It’s built of the grey stone that becomes familiar to anyone exploring the Lake District, and spectacularly surrounded by fells and mountains. It’s difficult to know if it’s better to opt for one of the best places to stay in Ambleside or else opt for accommodation with a view of Ambleside! We have recommended both — one converted manor house just ten minutes walk from town, and two stunning country house hotels which are close to Ambleside, but far enough away to include it in their magical Lake District views.

The best places to stay in Ambleside are perfect for anyone wanting to explore the Lake District in general, and Lake Windermere especially. There’s lots to do and see on, and around the lake. From here it’s a beautiful ferry journey to Bowness-on-Windermere and Lakeside — which is at the far south of the lake, or across to Wray Castle. Far Sawrey, which is where Beatrix Potter’s farm, Hill Top can be found, is just across the bridge from Windermere, and Scafell Pike will often be seen in the background, along with Troutbeck and Kirkstone Pass — all names walkers will recognise.

Cyclists might be tempted by Grizedale Forest which also has an outdoor activity centre with everything from ziplines to segways — definitely crowd pleasers for families. Just outside of town is Stock Ghyll Force, a spectacular 70 foot waterfall, and there are also opportunities to climb and abseil in the surrounding fells. If you’re looking for something more restful there are several National Trust properties and gardens, including Stagshaw Gardens, which is known for its rhododendrons and azaleas.

Don't forget that this little town will be heaving during the peak summer months. If you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Ambleside in July or August, you'll need to do your research and book well ahead!

The Best Places to Stay in Ambleside

For a luxury Lake District Experience

• The Samling Hotel offers the whole luxury Lake District package, including views of headliner Lake Windermere, acres of gardens and fancy afternoon teas. There are just 11 light, airy rooms and suites in this converted Georgian Gothic Revival manor house; they’re decorated with variations on the theme of contemporary luxury in pastels, the largest are in private cottages. The restaurant is memorable for all the right reasons — including the view — and the activities and facilities on site are excellent.

For the Views

• Holbeck Ghyll is one of the Lake District’s original country house hotels, a beautifully converted Arts and Crafts hunting lodge with stunning views over Lake Windermere. In addition to the essentials, Holbeck Ghyll has croquet lawns, tennis courts, proper afternoon teas and multi-course evening meals. The decor complements the original William Morris details, except in the converted cottages and more recently built lodges, where you can expect something more contemporary — and private hot tubs.

For a Countryside Escape

• Rothay Manor is an elegant country house hotel, surrounded by mature gardens on the outskirts of Ambleside. With 19 rooms and suites, this is a good-sized hotel for peace and rural tranquility, in a fantastic spot for walkers. Spacious, well-lit rooms are decorated with riffs on the country house luxury theme; think neutral and pastel colours, velvet throws and a pleasing amount of silver and gold. We recommend you opt for a balcony room. The restaurant serving modern British cuisine is well regarded, and the breakfast is far from ordinary.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Manchester Airport is the most convenient airport for most of the Lake District, about an hour and a half away by car or taxi, or about three hours away from Ambleside by train. Liverpool Airport may also be worth considering, it’s about about an hour and forty minutes by road, or about four hours by public transport. Ambleside is about six hours away from London by train, and about three hours by rail from Edinburgh.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Ambleside is warmest and driest in the spring and summer, from about March through until September, but it’s very easy to argue that it's beautiful in all seasons, and Wordsworth definitely did... There’s enough indoor activity to hold off boredom on wetter days — take a cruise on the lake, visit the local National Trust properties, or one of the lake’s museums, have afternoon tea overlooking the lake, or just walk in the rain.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to our Gurus’ recommendations for the best hotels in the Lake District
• Refine by the kind of hotels you’re looking for and consider just the best country house hotels in the Lake District, the best spa hotels or the best family hotels in the Lake District
• Or you could consider some of Windermere’s neighbouring towns: the best places to stay in Grasmere or Windermere
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.