Where To Eat In Ambleside: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025
If you're planning a trip to the area in 2025, take advantage of our insider knowledge and check out our top picks for the best places to eat and drink in Ambleside.
Ambleside boasts a diverse range that caters to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for locally-sourced Cumbrian produce or international cuisine, this town has plenty to offer.
We've got more guides for you to explore, including our doggy guide to Ambleside and our recommendations for what to do when it's rainy or cold in the Lake District.
Copper Pot
Copper Pot, Church Street
Start your day in the heart of Ambleside at Cooper Pot for delicious home-cooked food, cakes, and Mr Duffin's coffee. Try this cosy cafe's breakfast dishes or pop in at lunch for their popular Copper Pot Burgers.
And, don't miss their range of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Chesters By The River
Chesters By The River, Skelwith Bridge
On your way to Langdale or Coniston, make sure to stop by Chesters By The River. A local favourite situated a little up the River Brathay.
Indulge in their home-baked cakes, breads, and pastries, which are available for takeaway or dine-in. And try out on their small but delicious lunch menu of hot-cooked food, including their amazing wood-fired pizzas - all of which are vegan, but you wouldn't even know it!
No car? No problem. Catch the bus outside Brathay Hall to Old Dungeon Ghyll with a stop at Skewith Bridge. Alternatively, walk or cycle via the quieter back-road that brings you out at Chesters By The River.
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Walnut Chip Bar
Walnut Chip Bar, Millians Park
Head to Walnut's Chip Bar for tasty fish and chips on the go. Whether you're refuelling after a long hike or avoiding Cumbrian rain showers, this spot has got you covered. Open everyday from 12pm to 8pm.
Zeffirellis & Fellinis
Zeffirellis, Compston Road
Fellinis, Church Street
Looking for a place that has it all? Then check out Zeffirellis and Fellinis, the family-run restaurants at the heart of Ambleside's cultural and social scene.
Indulge in classic Italian and Mediterranean vegetarian cuisine while enjoying excellent ambience and quality service that will keep you coming back.
But that's not all - these institutions also offer multiple cinema screens showcasing the latest films and art-house features, as well as a popular Jazz Bar for evening entertainment. Be sure to take advantage of their unbeatable movie deal: a two-course meal and film ticket for under £35!
Booking is essential, especially in peak season.
Doi Intanon
Doi Intanon, Market Place
If you're wanting something a little different Doi Intanon is the place for you. Doi Intanon brings the flavours and culture of Thai food to the Lake District. They have been serving their delicious food for over 20 years in Ambleside becoming a staple in the local scene.
The Temperance Inn
Temperance Inn, Lake Road
The Temperance Inn is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day out on the hills. This ambient pub offers an excellent selection of local ales, wines, and spirits, perfect for settling in with friends and family. And if you're feeling peckish, their brilliant menu of pub grub is sure to satisfy. Be sure to try their delicious pizzas and don't forget to share a bowl of chips!
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The Golden Rule
The Golden Rule, Smithy Brow
Tucked away in the back-streets of Ambleside, The Golden Rule is a traditional pub that you can visit all year round. Enjoy a Cumbrian pint, draught larger, fine wine, refreshing gin or non-acholic beverage inside next to a cosy fire, or outside in their suntrap beer garden.
Tucked away in the back-lanes of Ambleside, The Golden Rule is a traditional pub that welcomes visitors throughout the year. Whether you prefer a Cumbrian pint, draught lager, fine wine, refreshing gin, or a non-alcoholic drink, you can enjoy it in the warmth of the cosy fire indoors or outside in the sun-trap beer garden.