🏞️ Best Walks Near Ambleside

Explore the Heart of the Lake District on Foot

Nestled between Windermere and the central fells, Ambleside is one of the Lake District’s best bases for walkers. Whether you want to climb a fell, wander along a riverside, or stroll to a viewpoint with minimal effort, there’s a route here for every level. This guide rounds up some of the best walks near Ambleside — all within a short distance of the town, and each offering its own take on the area’s iconic landscape.

🥾 1. 

Loughrigg Fell

• Distance: ~6.5 km circular
  
  
• Time: 2.5–3 hours
  
  
• Start Point: Rothay Park or Pelter Bridge
  
  
• Why it’s great: Loughrigg offers a steep-but-manageable climb with big views over Grasmere, Rydal Water, and Windermere. Wild terrain up top, with the reward of a proper summit feel — and all within walking distance of Ambleside.
  
  

🌊 2. 

Rydal Water & Rydal Caves

• Distance: ~5.5 km loop
  
  
• Time: 1.5–2 hours
  
  
• Start Point: White Moss car park or Rydal village
  
  
• Why it’s great: A low-level route with big visual rewards. Pass Rydal Mount (Wordsworth’s home), visit the atmospheric Rydal Cave, and loop back via Loughrigg Terrace for some of the most scenic walking in the central Lakes.
  
  

🏔️ 3. 

Fairfield Horseshoe (for the ambitious)

• Distance: ~16 km circular
  
  
• Time: 6–8 hours
  
  
• Start Point: Ambleside (via Rydal)
  
  
• Why it’s great: This is one of Lakeland’s great ridge routes. The full circuit bags eight Wainwrights and offers endless ridge-line views. For a shorter challenge, tackle it clockwise and turn back at Fairfield summit.
  
  

🌳 4. 

Stock Ghyll Force & Waterfall Woods

• Distance: ~2 km loop
  
  
• Time: 30–45 minutes
  
  
• Start Point: From Ambleside town centre
  
  
• Why it’s great: A short stroll from the Market Cross takes you to a dramatic 20-metre waterfall, surrounded by mossy woodland. Ideal for families, rainy days, or stretching your legs after lunch.
  
  

🚣‍♂️ 5. 

Ambleside to Wray Castle (via Windermere west shore)

• Distance: ~11 km one way (ferry return option)
  
  
• Time: 3–4 hours
  
  
• Start Point: Waterhead Pier
  
  
• Why it’s great: A gentle but rewarding walk along the quieter western shore of Windermere. Historic woodland, lake views, and the striking silhouette of Wray Castle make it a varied and relaxing route — especially if you take the boat back.
  
  

👣 Honourable Mentions

• Todd Crag: A quick burst uphill from Rothay Park with postcard views over Ambleside and Windermere.
  
  
• Jenkins Crag: A 30-minute walk from town via Skelghyll Wood — perfect for golden hour or a peaceful morning.
  
  
• Wansfell Pike: A steep climb rewarded with sweeping views and an optional loop to Troutbeck.
  
  

🚗 Getting There & Tips

• Parking: Central Ambleside can get busy — use Miller Bridge or Low Fold car parks early.
  
  
• Public Transport: Regular buses link Ambleside with Grasmere, Windermere, and Coniston.
  
  
• Facilities: Cafés, pubs, outdoor shops, and gear rental are all available in town.
  
  
• Weather Warning: Weather can change fast — pack a waterproof and check the forecast before heading into higher fells.
  
  

Ambleside isn’t just a starting point — it’s a walking destination in its own right. Whether you’re ticking off Wainwrights or just soaking up the views over a coffee, this little town offers access to some of the most rewarding walking in the Lakes.

Photo credit: Jonny Gios