Unforgettable Road Trip Through Ambleside by Campervan
Read Time: About 15 minutes
Ambleside. Cathredfern
Ambleside is a pretty town and one of the most popular settlements in the Lake District, and a campervan road trip to the Lakes would not be complete without a stop here. With plenty of options for walking, outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, Ambleside is a great location to base yourself on a trip to the Lake District.
During the course of our campervan road trip through the Lakes, our eight guides explore the beauty and points of interest throughout the Lake District. There are many things to do in Ambleside, from taking boat trips on Windermere to exploring old Roman ruins or lacing up your walking boots for a hike up the fells. This blog will include information on things to do, the best walks in the area, and our top selection of campervan hire locations, plus cumbria campsites. Here is a selection of our favourite things to do in Ambleside.
- Is Ambleside Worth Visiting?
- Camping in and around Ambleside
- Best Ambleside Campsites
- Motorhome Campsites Ambleside
- Ambleside Campsites Open All Year
- Is Ambleside Good For Walking?
- Ambleside Road Trip Itinerary
- Ambleside Campervans Prices
- Campervan Hire Towns in Ambleside
- We End Our Campervan Trip of Ambleside
Is Ambleside Worth Visiting?
Nestled on the northern tip of Lake Windermere, England's largest natural lake, Ambleside is a central hub for travellers. It serves as a beautiful gateway to the Lake District National Park. The town is tucked amid lush hills, fertile valleys and glimmering lakes, offering access to some of the country's prettiest hikes and outdoor activities. Trails lead hikers to the soaring summits of Loughrigg Fell, Helm Crag, and the Fairfield Horseshoe, while the glittering bodies of water encourage kayaking, boating, and fishing.
Even the most anti-outdoors person will feel incredibly sad to bid adieu to a sumptuous stay at Neaum Crag, a lovely site with alpine-style lodges.
There's plenty for history buffs, too, and the town oozes historical charm, with many stunning ruins, including the Roman fort, Galava, just outside the town. The inspiring scenery made Ambleside a favourite of poet William Wordsworth, whose works were inspired by the area's natural beauty. The town is welcoming and well-equipped, with cosy pubs, lovely cafes with fab views, and independent shops.
Camping in and around Ambleside
Blea Tarn. Denley Photography
Ambleside has many great camping locations, and we recommend finding a campsite in Patterdale, Great Langdale, or Borrowdale. Our campsites in Patterdale, are ideal for accessing Helvellyn and the surrounding area, while Great Langdale campsites are perfect for all kinds of adventures and hikes to major peaks. We also suggest looking at campsites in Borrowdale for scenic walks and access to ancient woodlands. See below for more information.
Pretty Patterdale is a small village on the shores of Ullswater, providing campers with effortless access to an array of land and water-based adventures. Located at the foot of Helvellyn, this quaint settlement is peaceful and picturesque, home to the vibrant daffodils featured in the classic poem “Daffodils” by celebrated poet William Wordsworth. Book a campsite in Cumbria and explore scenic drives from Cumbria and set up camp in a peaceful site with fantastic views and excellent amenities. Explore walks, hikes, and watersports, all a short drive or walk from your chosen campsite, and restful evenings under starry skies with the calls of nocturnal Cumbrian wildlife as your soundtrack.Our campsite locations include campsites in Ambleside, campsites in Bampton, campsites in Keswick, campsites in Windermere, campsites in Penrith and campsites in Hawkshead.
Set amid renowned scenery, Borrowdale is one of the most picturesque locations in the Lake District, famed for the grandeur of the mighty fells around and the iconic Langdale Pikes. Walking and climbing are the chief attractions in the area, and the verdant valleys provide a feel of being away from it all when, in reality, the campsites in Great Langdale are central to the Lake District and only 6 miles (9.6 km) from Ambleside. Whizz over to Ambleside, soaking in the vistas of Lake District's rolling hills, and don your walking boots for hikes through the Langdale Pikes and Bowfell. With 294 campsites within 30 miles of Great Langdale, you have plenty of options to rest your head for the night.
Baysbrown Farm is a lovely campsite tucked away in the small and lush village of Chapel Stile, affording enchanting views of the Great Langdale Valley in the renowned Lake District.
Set amid renowned scenery, Borrowdale is one of the most picturesque locations comprising a valley and a sleepy civil parish, where campers can admire the reflection of the towering peaks in the calm waters of Derwentwater. The valley is a delight for walkers, with low and high routes to suit all abilities and plenty of excellent places for rock climbing. Enjoy relaxing walks to the accessible Shepherd's Crag, an excellent spot for a picnic, and take strolls through the wooded valley near Grange. Book a Borrowdale campsite and find a quiet place to stretch out and admire the sunset skies. Our Borrowdale campsite locations include campsites in Buttermere, campsites in Boot, campsites in Beckfoot and campsites in Nether Wasdale.
Best Ambleside Campsites
Ambleside is a lively market town and a top-notch base for a camping escape. With majestic fells, sparkling bodies of water, imposing mountains, and lush greenery at every turn, it ‘s no surprise holiday makers flock to this verdant corner of England. We list over 306 campsites within 30 miles of the market town so it might be a little daunting to find the perfect campervan for your Ambleside road trip. No fear. We recommend staying at Low Wray Campsite, Skelwith Fold Caravan Park, and Bowness On Windermere Campsite. Not only are these fantastic bases for open-air adventures, they are well-equipped, scenic, and peaceful. Take a read below for more details and visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.
Low Wray Campsite in Ambleside
Low Wray Campsite, Ambleside
Low Wray Campsite is a picturesque camping space on the shores of Lake Windermere, with a range of pitches offering stunning views over the surrounding landscape. Find the perfect pitch and enjoy a view of the waterfront, lake view, woodland or meadow. The site provides all hardstanding bases, 17 electric connections and access to essential facilities, including showers and toilets, a washing-up area, laundry and drying rooms, chemical disposal, and a kid’s play area. With lake access and cycle rides directly from the site, Low Wray is a stunning centre point for all open-air frolics. Barbecues and campfires are encouraged, and pets are welcome.
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park in Ambleside
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park, Ambleside
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park is a stunning site in the heart of the Lake District, with a 130-acre camping area tucked in ancient woodland. Wake up to birdsong and spend a lazy morning in the speckled shade of a tree, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere and excellent amenities. The secluded and tranquil atmosphere is perfect for escaping the complexities of the modern world, and spacious plots ensure all guests have ample room to stretch out, set up awnings, and observe wildlife like red squirrels, deer, and woodpeckers who call these ancient woodlands home. Five-star facilities include a well-stocked shop, modern toilets and showers, and a roomy recreation field. Head out on woodland walks, explore the 4-acre recreational area, and watch wildlife from designated nature hides.
Bowness On Windermere Campsite in Bowness On Windermere
Bowness On Windermere Campsite, Bowness On Windermere
Bowness On Windermere is a Camping and Caravanning Club Site recently renovated to provide guests with a superior holiday experience. Pitches on grass and gravel are spacious and well-spaced, with several fully serviced options. Sit back and enjoy a holiday free of schedules and meetings, and admire the scenery from your beautiful location on the shores of Lake Windermere. Explore the southern lakes, or rumble out to get better acquainted with the heart of the Lakes, with Windermere town located a trifling 10-minute stroll away. There are two shops for supplies within walking distance and plenty of activities in the immediate area.
Motorhome Campsites Ambleside
Troutbeck Head Caravan Club Site is a wonderful site for a Lake District motorhome escape. The campervan and motorhome-friendly site welcomes both caravans and motorhomes and is open to members and non-members. Wake up to gorgeous countryside vistas backed by rolling hills, with ample fresh air and birdsong to remind you that the cities are many miles away. Located 10 miles from Keswick, the site is close to some of the prettiest walking routes in the country and has a fabulous base for exploring Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere. Standard facilities are available, and guests can enjoy barbecues and campfires on their pitches.
Troutbeck Head Caravan Club Site is a classically beautiful site located amid the stunning natural beauty of the North Lakeland countryside.
Skybeck Farm is another excellent site for campervan escapes, perfect for accessing the Helvellyn range with a path leading from the campsite, so there’s no need to worry about parking elsewhere. A bus stop at the end of the drive runs every 30 minutes and provides a convenient means of getting around, especially if you want to leave your motorhome behind. Plenty of generous pitches with electric metres are enjoying fantastic vistas. The campsite rests on a working farm, so expect to make friends with livestock like sheep, chickens, donkeys and dogs. Facilities include toilets, showers, chemical and waste disposal, and drinking water taps. Camping at a motorhome friendly campsite in Ambleside is ideal for enjoying magnificent coastal views and unwinding.
Ambleside Campsites Open All Year
Rydal Water, Ambleside. Cattan2011
If you’re searching for a campsite that welcomes guests throughout the year, check out Sykeside Camping Park, a lovely site in a remote location with quick access to the Lake District and a 30-minute drive from Ambleside. The site is a veritable haven for walkers resting in the Dovedale Valley, ensuring sublime scenery, a laid-back atmosphere, and modern facilities, including a well-stocked shop. Caravan Club members can pitch on five hardstanding bases, all with electric metres, and enjoy a Lake District holiday from the comfort of their vehicles. A separate camping area for touring vehicles holds 25 hardstanding plots for motorhomes, caravans, and campervans. The Brotherswater Inn is on the premises, and guests are welcome to fish in Brotherswater, which is a short walk away. There are several glamping options available as well.
Moss Side Farm Campsite is a small, quiet campsite in Broughton-in-Furness, tucked in a wooded valley with a range of footpaths leading directly from the farm. The thrills of the Lakes beckon, an easy 10-minute drive away, and Windermere's boat trips are just 40 minutes away. This small and friendly family-run site rests on a working hill farm with friendly canine workers, sheep, goats, ducks and hens. The site offers non-electric grass pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes, and a lovely rail camping pod. The pitches and the pods sleep four persons, and the site has three ladies' and gents' washrooms, a freezer, and a washing-up area, among other amenities.
Is Ambleside Good For Walking?
Ambleside is a prime destination for walking with a variety of routes ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hikes. Here are some of the best walks in and around Ambleside.
Walking country is at your disposal at Tarn Foot Farm Campsite. This hidden basic campsite accepts tents only and sits near Loughrigg Tarn, under Loughrigg Fell.
Loughrigg Fell Walk
Duration: 3–4 hours.
This is a moderate hike with captivating panoramic views of the Lakes, including Grasmere, Rydal Water, and Windermere. At 335m high, Loughrigg is one of the smaller peaks in the area, yet boasts beautiful scenery at every stage and an easy terrain ideal for families or our readers after a less taxing hill walk. The views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking, making it a top spot for photographers and nature lovers. Parking is available at White Moss Car Park, a convenient starting point between Grasmere and Rydal Water.
Fairfield Horseshoe
Duration: 5–7 hours.
Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the Lake District’s classic walks that reward hikers with jaw-dropping views along a challenging yet rewarding circular hike. Challenge yourself (but don’t over-exert) to tackle this hike if you genuinely want to explore the fells. The route will take hikers over eight Wainwright peaks, including Low Pike, High Pike, and Fairfield. The views over Central Lakes and beyond are second to none, and it is best attempted by experienced walkers or somewhat fit individuals due to its length and steep ascents. Leave your campervan behind at Rydal Road Car Park in Ambleside or Pelter Bridge Car Park in Rydal.
Wansfell Pike
Duration: 2–3 hours.
Wansfell Pike is a relatively short walk on a 487m high hill that looms over Ambleside, with fantastic views of Lake Windermere and the enclosing fells; the walk is linear and a popular route for walkers wanting to explore a manageable climb with great payoff. Tackle the walk, or, if you’re feeling spicy, combine it with a longer, circular route descending to Troutbeck and returning through Skelghyll Woods.
Nestled in the Rydal Hall Estate grounds, this beautiful campsite is surrounded by Nabscar and Fairfield Horseshoe, offering breathtaking views of Rothay Valley.
Rydal Water and Grasmere Circular
Duration: 3–4 hours.
The Rydal Water and Grasmere Circular is 6 miles circular tour of Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water, offering gorgeous vistas, access to serene lakeside paths, woodland trails and the chance to visit Rydal Mount (Wordsworth's home) and Dove Cottage in Grasmere. The picturesque low-level walk is perfect for families or walkers who enjoy a gentler pace. Leave your car at White Moss Car Park, a handy location between the two lakes.
We also recommend the Coffin Route (Rydal to Grasmere) and the Tarn Hows Circular for families, which are scenic with gentle inclines and two hours at most. Lingmoor Fell via Elterwater is ideal for moderate hiking through varied terrain, taking 3-4 hours to complete.
Ambleside Road Trip Itinerary
Ambleside. Dean Sas
Ambleside is our eighth guide on our campervan tour of the Lake District. Once you arrive at the town, there are many pleasant locations to stroll around, a popular walk includes the Stock Ghyll Force waterfall. After a short woodland incline, you can reach a stunning 70 ft waterfall, a short stroll from the Ambleside town centre. It takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete the loop walk from town. The first part of the walk cuts through peaceful woodland that leads up to the waterfall, offering multiple viewpoints to enjoy the cascading waters. The path is often rough and muddy, so we recommend wearing appropriate footwear and caution if it rained the night before. People of all ages, including older people with walking sticks, have successfully managed the climb; however, our readers can decide if they want to tackle the route. Once you reach the top, the waterfall is not immediately visible due to the rich foliage, so cross the bridge and hop on the small unofficial trail that winds down next to the waterfall by some rocks. Loop back over and come back down the other side of the bridge, or opt to rejoin the road. Leave your campervan at the Rothay Road Car Park in Ambleside, a short stroll from the trail's starting point.
Ambleside Campervans Prices
Ambleside Campervans are a great way to get about. Not only do you have the freedom to set up camp amid stunning sceneries, but you’re also free to take your home wherever you decide to wander, ensuring the utmost comfort and the ease of parking at a campsite when you’re tired. Look at 49 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Ambleside and find the perfect home on wheels for your budget and needs. The price of your campervan rental may vary depending on the duration of your reservation, the camper mode, and the hire season. Longer bookings are often provided with a discounted rate, and the more decked-out campers, while enticing, can have higher rental charges. Summer vacations, and bank holidays, and weekends may also influence the pricing as the demand for touring vehicles is often higher during holidays. Our Ambleside campervans start at £60 a night.
Campervan Hire Towns in Ambleside
Within Ambleside, we recommend finding campervans for Lily Tarn, Stavely and Kendal. Drop a message with your dates and questions to our private owners, and remember that when you hire a campervan in Lily Tarn, you’re in a spectacular location for hiking and walks. Our Stavely campervans are ideal for exploring the beautiful rolling countryside, while a campervan hire in Kendal is perfect for uncovering hidden gems. Read on to see what attractions you can explore with an Ambleside campervan hire.
Age: 23-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Automatic
Yellow is a VW T6 Campervan, which seat and sleep up to four people. She is packed with all the modern comforts you would expect to find in a luxury vehicle.
Lily Tarn, a small, picturesque tarn on Loughrigg Fell, is approximately a 30 - 40 minute stroll from the Ambleside town centre. Hire a campervan in Lily Tarn and explore excellent walks barely 3km from the bustling town centre of Ambleside. This lovely upland area is ideal for readers who enjoy short walks, stunning picnics overlooking the town and unrivalled natural beauty. Explore this fantastic viewpoint over the northern end of Windemere and fall in love with the natural beauty of the Lakes. Browse through our selection of 22 campervans and motorhomes within 60 miles of Lily Tarn. We also have more campervans for hire in Hawkshead, campervans for hire in Great Langdale, campervans for hire in Windermere, campervans for hire in Bowness On Windermere and campervans for hire in Patterdale.
The beautiful Lake District village of Stavely rests amid undulating countryside peppered with lush valleys, woods and dry stone walls. When you hire a campervan in Staveley, you kick start your campervan hire in a stunning location at the foot of the secluded Kentmere Valley, a hotspot for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The town has plenty of attractions to explore and access to beautiful open green spaces ideal for walking, admiring the views and hiking. Our Stavely campervan hire locations include campervans for hire in Gatebeck and campervans for hire in Coniston. With over 52 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Staveley, you’ll find the most competitive prices around.
Kendall is a key destination in the Lake District and one of the most beautiful destinations packed with a fantastic array of attractions and activities for the whole family. The town is just 13 miles or 30 minutes from Ambleside; the town boasts a beautiful castle that looms over the area and a range of excellent local amenities, including bars, restaurants, cafes, and museums. Hire a campervan in Kendal, and use it as your base for exploring the Lakes and Ambleside and escaping the everyday. Find the perfect campervan from over 56 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Kendal. For more options, check out our campervans in Milnthorpe, campervans in Sedbergh, campervans in Hale and campervans in Newby Bridge.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Welcome to our Luxurious Campervan, Reiver, equipped with all you need to have a fantastic trip. We hope that you will have a relaxing and memorable holiday in our much-loved second home.
We End Our Campervan Trip of Ambleside
All the best things must end, including this Ambleside campervan road trip itinerary. If you're heading in from Grasmere via the A591, the drive will take no more than 15 minutes. When it comes to a town as beautiful as Ambleside and the Lakes, even a full week won't allow you to explore the entirety of its attractions and sceneries. This Ambleside itinerary should help our readers map out a bucket list of iconic landmarks, charming villages, beautiful walks, and watersport activities. We hope you enjoyed exploring Ambleside with us. Watch out for our Bowness-on-Windermere on A Campervan Road Trip Itinerary for the Lake District, coming soon.
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