Welcome to Ambleside
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Ambleside is a town full of charm, history, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re here for hiking, shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the beauty of the fells, Ambleside has something for everyone.
At F.W. Tyson, we’ve been part of this thriving community since 1941, serving locals and visitors alike with high-quality footwear from our shop in Market Place. Positioned right in the centre of town, we love seeing Ambleside bustling with people exploring everything it has to offer—from scenic walks to independent shops, historic landmarks, and annual traditions like Rushbearing and the Christmas Lights Switch-On.
If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about what makes Ambleside so special.
Getting Here
Ambleside is easily accessible and well-connected, whether you’re travelling by road, bus, or even boat.
- By Road – The town sits along the A591, a road frequently voted one of the most scenic routes in the UK, offering stunning lake and fell views as you drive into Ambleside.
- By Bus – The 555 bus route, known as "The Lakes Connection", links Ambleside with Kendal, Windermere, Grasmere, and Keswick, providing a convenient and picturesque journey through the Lakes.
- By Boat – Windermere Lake Cruises connect Ambleside with Bowness-on-Windermere and Lakeside, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of Lake Windermere before stepping ashore in Ambleside.
Shops & Restaurants
Ambleside is home to a fantastic selection of independent shops, outdoor retailers, and local businesses, making it a great place to browse and discover unique finds.
Our own shop, F.W. Tyson, has been here for over 80 years, providing expertly fitted walking boots and footwear from leading brands like Mephisto, Lowa, Meindl, and Birkenstock. Whether you’re gearing up for a day in the fells or just looking for comfortable, quality footwear, we’d love to welcome you.
When it comes to food and drink, Ambleside is packed with cosy cafés, traditional pubs, and fantastic restaurants, offering everything from homemade cakes and fresh local produce to fine dining experiences.
Historic Landmarks
Ambleside’s rich history is reflected in its many landmarks and attractions, perfect for those who love exploring the town’s heritage.
- Bridge House – One of Ambleside’s most famous landmarks, this 17th-century stone house built over Stock Ghyll is one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District.
- The Armitt Museum – A fascinating museum and library, showcasing local history, archaeology, and art, including the work of Beatrix Potter and other notable figures.
Outdoor Adventures
Ambleside is a dream location for anyone who loves walking, hiking, and exploring the great outdoors.
- The Fairfield Horseshoe – One of the Lake District’s most iconic ridge walks, offering incredible panoramic views.
- Stock Ghyll Force – A stunning 70-foot waterfall just a short walk from the town centre.
- Lake Windermere – The perfect place for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, or simply relaxing by the water.
Annual Traditions in Ambleside
Throughout the year, Ambleside comes alive with fantastic events and traditions, bringing together locals and visitors to celebrate the town’s heritage and community spirit.
- Ambleside Rushbearing Festival – A unique tradition dating back centuries, where locals carry beautifully decorated rushes through the town in a grand procession, stopping in Market Place before heading to St. Mary’s Church for a service. This festival has long been a highlight of Ambleside’s cultural calendar, with historic photos showing the procession passing F.W. Tyson’s Shoe Shop as far back as the 1950s.
- Ambleside Christmas Lights Switch-On – A magical festive event held every November, featuring a lantern parade, live music, and the grand arrival of Santa Claus before the town is lit up for the Christmas season. The procession stops right outside our shop, making Market Place one of the best spots to take in the festivities.
Plan Your Visit to Ambleside
Whether you’re coming for a day trip, a weekend escape, or a longer holiday, Ambleside offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, shopping, dining, and history.
At F.W. Tyson, we’re proud to have been part of this town’s story for over 80 years, and we love welcoming both locals and visitors to experience everything Ambleside has to offer.
We hope to see you soon!
Historic images from the 1950s show the Rushbearing parade passing through Market Place, with F.W. Tyson’s Shoe Shop in the background (image above)—a tradition that continues today, as seen in July 2018 (image below).
