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Ancient Ambleside and Waterhead Self-Guided Lake District Tour

4.36 reviews

  • 1.3–1.5 hours
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • Guided in English
  • Instant confirmation

Highlights

Experience Ambleside and Waterhead, two areas of the charming Lake District, at your own pace with Martin, an experienced guide eager to share the area's unique history and character. Step into history as you explore the two picturesque Lake District towns with a story spanning 2000 years. Wander through the old town, once bustling with the wool trade. Hear tales of William Wordsworth and admire charming Victorian buildings, including St Mary’s Parish Church. Discover the Ambleside Roman Fort and stroll along the tranquil Borrans Park shoreline. Please note that attraction entry fees aren’t included in the price of this tour. Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too. Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.

Inclusions

What's included

  • Lifetime access to this tour in English
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • App for Android and iOS

What's not

  • Smartphone and headphones
  • Transportation
  • Food and drink

Itinerary

  1. Marvel at Bridge House, a quirky 17th-century structure perched over the rushing waters of Stock Ghyll. Learn about its fascinating history and the various uses it has served over the centuries, from a residence to a counting house and even a tea room.

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  2. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Ambleside at the optional stop at Armitt Library & Museum. Explore optional stops like permanent exhibitions dedicated to local legends like Beatrix Potter and uncover the town's storied past through artifacts and interactive displays.

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  3. Step back in time as you wander through Ambleside's charming old town, where echoes of the wool trade still linger in its cobblestone streets. Admire the quaint Victorian architecture and learn about the town's medieval origins as a bustling market hub.

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  4. Discover the remnants of medieval Ambleside at St Anne's Chapel, a historic landmark steeped in centuries of religious tradition. Trace the footsteps of those who walked along the medieval village's 'corpse road' to nearby Grasmere.

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  5. Uncover the fascinating history of the Old Stamp House, where famed poet William Wordsworth once sold stamps. Hear tales of literary greatness and discover the hidden stories behind this unassuming historic building.

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  6. Take a moment to relax and unwind at White Platts Recreation Ground, a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Ambleside. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you recharge amidst nature's beauty.

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  7. Marvel at the timeless beauty of St Mary's Church, a majestic landmark crowned by its iconic spire. Explore the church's rich architectural details and learn about its significance as a spiritual sanctuary amidst the Lake District's rugged terrain.

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  8. Step back in time to the days of Roman occupation at Ambleside Roman Fort, a testament to the legacy of ancient civilization. Explore the ruins of the fort and learn about its strategic importance in guarding the northern frontier of the empire.

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  9. Discover the natural beauty of Borrans Park, a picturesque oasis nestled along the tranquil shores of Windermere Lake. Take a leisurely stroll amidst lush greenery and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

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  10. End your journey at Ambleside (Waterhead) Pier, where you can soak in the serene beauty of Windermere Lake. Relax on the waterfront promenade or indulge in a delicious ice cream while watching the boats come and go.

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Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

4.3

  • 54
  • 41
  • 30
  • 21
  • 10

Ratings come from 6 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Meeting point
The old Market Cross, Rydal Road, Ambleside, LA22 9BS. In the centre of Ambleside town, outside The Crux of Ambleside which is a tourist information, gift shop and post office.
Pickup
Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
Ticket type
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operated by
VoiceMap Audio Tours
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

How it compares in Windermere

  • Its from-price is 96% below the median of the 58 experiences we list in Windermere.
  • It is shorter than most of them.
  • By number of reviews it ranks 34 of 58.
  • The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Windermere

Windermere is England's largest natural lake and the Lake District town beside it, with lake steamers, high fells and literary homes close by.

Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, about seventeen kilometres long, its shores wooded and dotted with islands. The town of Windermere stands a little inland, and Bowness-on-Windermere on the water is the hub of boat life, with steamers and launches sailing to Ambleside at the head of the lake. A museum on the shore shows the lake's historic steam launches.

See all 58 experiences in Windermere

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