One of the most popular tourist towns in The Lake District, Ambleside is known for the myriad of hiking opportunities.

You can reach some famous hikes such as Scafell and Helvelynn with a short drive. However, there are plenty of walks from Ambleside itself that require no transport!

One great hike with magnificent views is Wansfell Pike. Easily reached from the centre of Ambleside, Wansfell Peak is a popular walking route.

The easiest place to start and get your bearings is Ambleside market cross. This is central, and where the tourist information centre is situated. The first part of the walk takes you between two buildings. From the tourist information centre, look towards the Salutation hotel. There is a gap between an old bank (now unmarked) and the Doi Inthanon Thai Restaurant.

You need to head down this side street. Ahead, you will then see signs for Stock Ghyll waterfall, another great walk from Ambleside. You follow this road all the way up, as if you were in fact going to the waterfall.

After about 10 minutes on the road, a sign will point off to the left for the waterfall. If you fancy the detour you can check it out, otherwise continue up the road.

After around 15- 20 minutes of leaving Ambleside town centre, you will cross a cattle grid. Just a little further on your right, a style takes you over the wall.

You should now be able to see a steep ascent towards the summit of Wansfell Pike. This is where the path gets more rugged and the walking a little harder.

Take a moment to enjoy the views, but know that when you reach the top, they are more spectacular!

Windermere Visitor Guide

Windermere and Lake District visitor guide including Bowness, Ambleside and Grasmere

Wansfell Pike

Wansfell Pike

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