Hidden gems to find in Ambleside 

Ambleside is one of the most popular towns in the Lake District, so why not spend a day hunting out some of these hidden gems to escape the crowds…  

• Stagshaw Gardens

Just south of Waterhead, tucked away at the bottom of Skelghyll Woods hides the tranquil Stagshaw Gardens. For a peaceful escape from the crowds, wander through the gardens magical forest paths weaving through a combination of flowers, trees and shrubs, with surprises around every corner.

• Stockghyll Force 

Hidden in woodland above Ambleside village, Stockghyll Force falls 70 feet amongst the trees. The waterfall is a tributary of the River Rothay and tumbles down through a series of waterfalls passing through the centre of Ambleside, under the Bridge House. There were once 12 watermills driven by the power of Stock Ghyll Force and other local becks producing local fabrics, paper and corn. 

• The Grot at Rydal Hall 

Hidden away deep within the grounds of Rydal Hall, The Grot was a beloved place of William Wordsworth and was designed in 1668 as a viewing station to frame the stunning Rydal Falls. The Grot is a Grade II listed building and is still used as a viewing platform today; it is a simple stone building with a door, a large window framing the falls and plunge pool with a stone bridge above it. The Grot is thought to be one of Britain’s earliest known viewing stations and became a popular attraction in the late 18th century. 

• Rydal Cave 

A short distance away from Ambleside, Rydal Cave is a disused quarry carved within the slopes of Loughrigg Fell above Rydal Water. The cave is free to explore and accessible via a short, steep walk from White Moss car park. There are a number of handy stepping-stones leading into the caves to avoid getting your feet wet! If you wish to extend your exploration after visiting the cave, continue on to the summit of Loughrigg Fell above the quarry.