Ambleside Outdoor Shops – get the kit that’ll keep you exploring
Ambleside is a shopping paradise for climbers, walkers, and intrepid adventurers of all ages and abilities – so whatever brand you’re looking for, whatever piece of clothing or equipment you need, you can get yourself kitted out for everything the great outdoors can throw at you in one of the numerous outdoor shops dotted throughout the town.
Let the adventures begin.
Ambleside’s Independent Outdoor Shops
National outdoor shops in Ambleside
Ambleside’s Independent Outdoor Shops
Gaynor Sports
Family-run Gaynor Sports is a three-floor emporium of the outdoors, with a huge range of gear and equipment to choose from – everything from walking shoes and boots (with over 2000 pairs on display) to fleeces, waterproof jackets, base layers, trousers, stuff for snowsports, camping equipment and all the accessories you could possibly need or didn’t know you needed.
All the top brands are represented, and the staff really know their stuff.
The Epicentre
Over four floors, The Epicentre is the place to go for all manner of outdoorsy gear from brands like Arc’teryx (the whole second floor is dedicated to them), Patagonia, and Mountain Equipment.
You can book one-to-one footwear fitting appointments, discuss your needs with the knowledgeable team, and even kit your dog out for adventure with harnesses, coats, collars and leashes from the Ruffwear range.
The Mountain Factor
Proud owners of the Fjallraven shop next door, The Mountain Factor is an independent outdoor shop stocking the best gear for great days out – we’re talking brands like Fjallraven (the largest range available in the UK), Patagonia, Paramo, Icebreaker, Yeti and Smartwool, among others.
The staff are on hand to share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors, and there is a large clearance area upstairs where you might find a bargain or two.
Little Walkers
Specialising in outdoor kit for your little adventurers, Little Walkers is a family-run shop that stocks high-quality gear for your toddlers and your teenagers (up to around age 14).
You can expect to se brands like Didriksons, Skogstad, Meindl, Columbia and Salomon, and the friendly staff have been up a few mountains and on many a hike themselves, so they can help you out with any questions you might have about the kit before you take the plunge.
The Climbers Shop
The place to go if you want to get high is The Climbers Shop. Crampons, walking spikes, ice axes, specialist mountain boots, ropes, sleeping bags and tents – whatever you need to get to the summit, you can find it here.
Climbers, mountaineers, hillwalkers and even trail runners have been pitching up at their door in Ambleside for decades to get their kit – and as they’re the oldest independently owned outdoor shop in the Lake District, we think it’s safe to say they know what they’re talking about.
Cunningham’s
Set up by local lad and fell fancier, Stewart Cunningham, in 1971, Cunningham’s now has four stores across the UK, but the flagship store still sits proudly in Ambleside, welcoming walkers to the Lakes.
The reins have now been taken by Stewart’s children, but the same wide range of clothing and equipment to suit all needs and budgets can be found, along with a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you choose the right gear for your peak experiences.
All the best brands are represented – Rab, Montane, Scarpa, etc., but they also stock the high-quality German brand, Jack Wolfskin, with a dedicated store just up the road.
National ourdoor shops in Ambleside
Alpkit
Go nice places, do good things is Alpkit’s motto. Selling long-lasting, repairable, recyclable performance clothing, as well as camping equipment, bikes and other stuff to fuel your adventures.
Alpkit’s Ambleside store also has a tent display room where you can practise putting them up and packing them away again.
Rohan
Making technical outdoor clothing since 1972, Rohan’s clothes adhere to five principles – they are protective, lightweight, packable, versatile and easy to care for.
From boots to backpacks, base layers to books and maps, you can find everything you need to tackle your outdoor adventures at their Ambleside store.
Fjallraven
Inspiring the world to walk with nature is Fjallraven’s mission. Hailing from Sweden, their store in Ambleside is one of only two in the UK. You’ll have no doubt seen loads of people sporting their trendy backpacks, but their outdoor range encompasses so much more – everything from hats, gloves and accessories to jackets, trousers, fleeces and hoodies.
And it’s all designed to be functional, durable and timeless, and made with respect to the environment.
Blacks
What can you expect from Blacks in Ambleside? Brands such as Rab, The North Face, Berghaus, Montane, Merrell, and more. Everything from waterproof jackets to fleeces, head torches, tents and sleeping bags. And services like rucksack fitting and specialist boot fitting.
In short, everything you could possibly need to climb mountains, camp wildly, and hike adventurously.
Cotswold Outdoor
A little bit of exploring is needed to find the Cotswold Outdoor shop in Ambleside. It’s not on the high street but inside the plant house at the rear of Hayes Garden World.
When you get there, you’ll find quality outdoor clothing from all the leading brands like The North Face, Berghaus and Rab, and all the other gear you might need for a Lake District adventure.
Their in-store experts also offer boot and rucksack fitting and advice too, so you can get the most out of your outdoor exploits.
Cotswold Outdoor website >
Hayes Garden World
Lake Rd
Ambleside
LA22 0DW
Map >
Cottages in Ambleside
Experience the beauty of Ambleside and the Lake District with our selection of self-catering accommodation. Your perfect retreat awaits.
Find out more Things to do in Ambleside >
Book today
The Lakeland Retreats guide to Ambleside
6 Walks from Ambleside town centre
If you’re staying in Ambleside, you don’t have to get in the car to start enjoying the jaw-droppingly beautiful Lake District scenery.
Ambleside boat trips and water sports
You can’t visit the Lakes without taking to the water at some point. And, one of the best ways to see the spectacular scenery is from a boat!
Events in Ambleside
There’s always lots going on in bustling Ambleside – it is one of the most visited places in the Lake District, after all!
Where can I park in Ambleside?
It’s an age-old problem in the Lake District. Where can I park? It’s a beautiful place so everybody wants to come. And most people drive..
Ambleside Restaurants, Cafes, and takeaways
We’ve rounded up our favourite eateries for you to try on your next visit to this hot spot of culinary delights!
Things to do in Ambleside with kids
An ideal village for children, with activities, a large variety of food options, and a brilliant playground, they’ll have a great day out!
What is Ambleside famous for?
Ambleside is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Lake District. But what makes this charming place famous?
Our pick of the pubs in Ambleside
Here’s our pick of the best pubs in Ambleside to relax, unwind, eat and have a drink before you head back to your holiday cottage.
Dog-Friendly Pubs in The Lake District
It’s not just two-legged hikers that need refreshment after a day tramping the fells, here’s the best Dog-friendly Pubs In The Lake District
Unusual things to do in Ambleside
Let’s explore Ambleside’s lesser-known attractions to give you a few ideas and inspiration for your next stay
32 Reasons Ambleside is the Best Place to Visit With Your Family
A scenic and beautiful town in Cumbria, England, Ambleside is a very popular tourist destination among families.
