The perfect escape for a weekend in the countryside.
Just north of Ambleside is Helvellyn, one of the more easily accessible peaks in the Lake District. At 950m above sea level, the summit provides stunning views of the National Park below. On a clear day, it is said you can see as far as the hills of South West Scotland. For Novice hikers, the best route up the mountain is the 11.5km hike along the old pony track from Patterdale.
Just a short drive from Ambleside is Grasmere, a village famous for its gingerbread. Head to the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop and browse the chocolates, toffees and fudge, all with a unique ginger theme. Take a walk along Red Bank Road to Rydal Water, one of the quieter lakes in the region where you can try wild swimming or hire a rowing boat or kayak to properly explore. One of the best walks from this tiny village is through the bluebell filled woodlands up to Loughrigg terrace. Take a picnic and admire the view across the flower filled fields or head to Rydal Cave and cross the steppingstones of this old slate quarry.
If you’re looking for a weekend of water sports, you’ll be spoiled for choice at England’s largest natural lake. Why not try paddle-boarding, raft-building, or water-skiing at one of the many lakeside activity bases? For something a little less lively and a lot more sophisticated, you can hop on board a Sail ‘n’ Dine cruise for a lunch time or evening dining experience. To the north of the lake is the charming town of Ambleside, a favourite for tourists visiting the area. Just outside of the village centre is Stock Ghyll Force, a 70ft high waterfall which can be viewed from the designated viewpoint. You can also stroll around Stagshaw gardens, owned by the National Trust, which make a great place for a picnic. From Ambleside it’s also just a short drive to Grizedale Forest where you can spend an afternoon walking or cycling along the forest sculpture trails.
Take a short drive North to Ullswater, one of the most beautiful lakes in the region and home to Aira Force, one of the most famous waterfalls in the Lake District. Surrounded by stunning walking routes through Ullswater Valley, you can follow the trails to Gowbarrow Summit for incredible views of the valley and lake below. You can take a cruise on the famous Ullswater Steamer, an award-winning way to access some of the Lake District’s best walking routes.
From Ullswater, it’s just a short drive to the Honister Pass, home to the original Via Ferrata in the UK. Follow the footsteps of the Green Slate miners scaling Fleetwith Pike for breath taking views of the Lake District. Perhaps surprisingly, this exhilarating climb is suitable for all abilities thanks to the cable and ladder networks. For the more daring, take on the infinity bridge and walk across the gorge from 2000m above the valley.
