Things to do in Ambleside on a rainy day…
The Lake District is renowned for its wet weather, with rainy days often being the norm! Although we encourage you not to let the rain put you off, here are some ideas for things to do when heavy rain is really spoiling your outdoor plans…
Spa Day
When skies are looking threatening, swap the hiking boots for soft sandals and hide away for the day in the Salutation Spa in Ambleside town centre. Enjoy a day of luxury complete with a massage, beauty treatment, sauna and swim in the high quality facilities at the spa. Put your feet up and forget about the rain!
Waterfall Walks
If the weather isn’t too dangerous, head up to Stock Ghyll Force and see the falls at their most impressive following rainfall; showcasing a full, roaring series of water crashing into the rock pool below.
Rydal Mount
When the weather is too bleak to be outside, watch the rain fall upon the 16th century windows of Rydal Mount house; one of four Grasmere homes lived in by the famous poet William Wordsworth. This home was one of the poets most loved, so much so he lived here from 1813 until his death in 1850 at the age of 80. The traditional, character filled house sits in the nearby Rydal Village, overlooking Rydal Water and providing views of both Grasmere and Windermere. The building itself dates back to 1574 with some parts of the house, such as the dining room, surviving from when it was originally an old Tudor cottage. The poet lived here from 1813 to 1850 and the house it still owned by the Wordsworth family now. Despite being still owned by the poet’s descendants, the house is open for the public to explore and contains a selection of the family’s prized possessions and portraits.
Brockhole House
A rainy day exploring the inside of Brockhole House is an ideal family day out. The 19th century house sits within stunning woodland nearby Windermere lake. The home once belonged to a wealthy silk merchant called William Gaddum and his wife Edith Potter, who was a cousin of famous author and artist Beatrix Potter. The house is now a beautiful arts and crafts villa; explore the stunning Gaddum Gallery and enjoy some tasty food at The Gaddum Resturant overlooking the rainy shores of Windermere. The house also has a gift shop selling local food and drink, gifts, maps and guide books.
Take a boat trip
Take a trip over Windermere Lake on one of the Windermere’s Lake Cruises from Waterhead. Most of the cruises and steamers have covered decks; the larger cruises offer a ‘sail and dine’ experience where you can enjoy the views of Windermere with a drink in hand! Listening to the rain hit the deck and lake from a cosy seat with a drink can be a strangely relaxing experience!