For many years Ambleside was the only place that catered for vegans in the Lake District. Keswick has had an explosion of new options recently (2024), but Ambleside still has some great options.

Highlights are the Apple Pie Cafe for vegan lunches, Fellinis and Zeffirellis for evening meals, The Copper Pot or Stiles if you just want a hot drink and cake. The nearby Chesters By The River is an essential visit too.

Ambleside is situated at the heart of the Lake District, at the top of Lake Windermere. It’s an ideal base for a holiday as you’re right in the middle of the mountainous region of the area with easy driving access to many other main areas – Windermere and Bowness, Langdale, Rydal and Grasmere, a good road up to Keswick, the Kirkstone Pass through to Ullswater and if you’re feeling brave the Wrynose and Hardknot passes over to Wastwater.

There are innumerable good walks (or runs) starting from Ambleside. Loughrigg is a very manageable fell for beginners or those wanting an easier outing. The walk to Troutbeck is also picturesque without too much elevation. A trip to the local Tourist Information office will provide many more ideas for those wanting greater challenges.