Ambleside and beyond...

Yes, absolutely, especially if you are staying somewhere like Ambleside, where there is so much to see and do.

While Rothay Garth offers ample free parking, and we recommend bringing a car if you plan to explore more of the Lake District, there are also plenty of attractions, shops, restaurants, and walking routes within easy walking distance or just a short bus ride away.

Rain doesn’t have to spoil your family holiday. There are plenty of indoor attractions in and around Ambleside to keep children entertained while staying warm and dry.

Some of our favourite rainy-day activities include:

• Zeffirellis Cinema & Restaurant – Catch the latest family film, enjoy a meal, or relax with a hot chocolate at this much-loved independent cinema and restaurant. Zeffirellis
• The Armitt Museum & Library – Discover fascinating local history, interactive exhibitions, and family-friendly displays celebrating the Lake District. The Armitt Museum & Library
• Ambleside Climbing Wall – Perfect for energetic children and beginners alike, with indoor climbing sessions suitable for a range of ages and abilities. Ambleside Climbing Wall
• The Chocolate Factory – A great stop for chocolate lovers, where you can enjoy delicious handmade treats and shelter from the rain.
• Tabitha Twitchit’s Bookshop – Browse one of the Lake District’s most charming independent bookshops in nearby Hawkshead, inspired by Beatrix Potter and ideal for young readers. Tabitha Twitchit’s Bookshop

Staying at Rothay Garth also means you’re just a short walk from many of Ambleside’s cafés, independent shops, and family-friendly attractions, making it easy to enjoy your visit whatever the weather.

The Lake District is one of the UK’s top food destinations, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants and cosy country pubs to independent breweries and artisan cafés. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great meal after a day on the fells, you’ll find plenty of fantastic options close to Rothay Garth.

Some of our favourite food and drink experiences include:

• Michelin-starred dining – Ambleside is home to two exceptional Michelin-starred restaurants, The Old Stamp House and Lake Road Kitchen, both renowned for showcasing the very best of Cumbrian ingredients. If you’re exploring further afield, L’Enclume in Cartmel is one of the UK’s most celebrated restaurants with three Michelin Stars.
• Great-value dining – For outstanding food at a more relaxed price point, The Schelly in Ambleside has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its excellent regional cuisine.
• Traditional pubs and gastropubs – Enjoy local ales and hearty homemade food at favourites such as The Golden Rule, The Royal Oak, or venture just outside Ambleside to the Michelin-recommended Drunken Duck Inn for an exceptional gastropub experience.
• Craft beer and local breweries – If you’re a fan of independent beer, visit Lakes Brew Co Tap to sample locally brewed craft beers, or browse an excellent selection of bottles and cans at Beer Ambleside.
• Distilleries and local spirits – The Lakes Distillery, around a 30-minute drive away, offers guided tours, whisky tastings, and handcrafted gin in a beautiful setting, making it a great day out for food and drink lovers.
• Vegetarian dining – For delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, Fellinis Restaurant has long been a favourite with both locals and visitors.

If you’re travelling with children, The Yan at Broadrayne in nearby Grasmere is another excellent choice, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring locally sourced Cumbrian produce.

Our team at Rothay Garth is always happy to recommend local restaurants and pubs or help you choose the perfect place for a special meal during your stay.

Yes! While we may be a little biased, we genuinely believe that Ambleside is one of the best places to stay in the Lake District.

Perfectly situated in the heart of the National Park, Ambleside provides easy access to many of the Lake District’s most popular attractions, including Lake Windermere, Grasmere, Rydal Water, and some of the region’s most scenic walking routes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a family holiday, Ambleside is an excellent base for exploring everything the Lakes has to offer.

The town itself has a fantastic selection of independent shops, cafés, traditional pubs, award-winning restaurants, and year-round attractions, all within easy walking distance. Excellent public transport links also make it easy to explore nearby towns and villages without needing to drive.

At Rothay Garth, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful location just a short stroll from Ambleside’s vibrant town centre, with comfortable accommodation, free parking, and easy access to the surrounding fells, lakes, and attractions.