Explore the Parks in Ambleside

Bring a picnic to Rothay Park in the centre of Ambleside and let the kids run wild on the superb jungle-themed children’s play area, which has swings and roundabouts, slides, things to climb up, things to balance on and more.

There are also natural rocky outcrops they’ll enjoy clambering over, plenty of open space to run around in, ground-level trampolines to bounce up and down on, and a full-size football pitch – plus it all blends beautifully into the stunning and dramatic landscape that surrounds it. There are picnic benches for the parents to park themselves and, handily, there are public toilets by the entrance too.

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1 Vicarage Rd
Ambleside
LA22 9DH

With great views of the lake and surrounding fells, a large, open green space for kids (and pooches) to bomb around in, picnic tables and benches to sit and enjoy your lunch – or you could choose to roll out your rug by the lakeshore (paddling optional), Borrans Park is a tranquil spot to while away some time away from the busyness of the town centre.

And, it has the added bonus of a piece of history right next door to it. Follow the remains of the Roman road down to see the ruins of Galava, a 1st-century Roman fort.

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1 MacIver Ln
Ambleside
LA22 0HJ

There’s no shortage of sporty things for the whole family to get stuck into at White Platts Recreation Ground.

Keen golfers can get swinging on the 9-hole mini golf course, perfect their putts on the putting green, or simply have fun with a round or two of crazy golf.

Three full size tennis courts should satisfy any budding Jack Drapers or Katie Boulters and, if you fancy something gentler paced, then the bowling green may be just the ticket. There’s also an infant play area, and plenty of picnic benches if you just want to spectate or enjoy an ice cream or coffee from the ticket office – where you can also hire any equipment you might need.

Just double check the opening hours and times before you get mini or crazy golf in your head as Winter hours do differ.

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Compston Rd
Ambleside
LA22 9DJ

While it’s not technically a park, we couldn’t not include the short woodland walk up to Stock Ghyll Force – after all, not many towns can boast a waterfall you can stroll to.

You can be up and down Stock Ghyll Force from the centre of Ambleside with photo stops included in around 40 minutes. After a short and clearly signposted amble from the centre you’ll be marvelling at the thrilling sight of the cascading water. There’s a railed viewpoint at the top, where you can take in the 70-foot torrent, before heading back the way you came into town.

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6 Stockghyll Ln
Ambleside
LA22 0QT

Just a shortish walk (around 15-20 minutes) from the centre of Ambleside, you can find Stagshaw Gardens. This beautiful and tranquil woodland garden covers around eight acres, so there’s plenty of space to feel like there’s no one else around.

Looked after by the National Trust, it’s an enchanting haven that’s planted with impressive nose and eye-pleasing collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, camellias and other acid-loving trees and shrubs – visit in spring when they’re flowering to see them at their majestic best.

Dotted with benches to relax and enjoy the views while you munch on your sarnies, you can also wend your way along the footpaths that guide you around the woods and over charming wooden bridges that cross the beck running down the steep hillside.

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Ambleside
LA22 0HE