Central & Southern Lakeland
Rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, bustling towns and quiet viallages typify the Central and Southern Lakes. The area has some of the prettiest and most unspoilt valleys and fells. Peace and quiet abounds, yet it's only a short drive from Windermere, where you will find lots of shopping pleasure. Get around the Central and Southern Lakes using one of the best integrated transport  systems in the country. You can get around the area easily with Windermere cruises, Coniston launches , the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, Stagecoach buses, the Coniston Rambler, Lakes Link and Mountain Goat. All you have to do is enyoy the experience with freedom from driving.

The Howgill Fells are possibly the quietest in the country and you can nearby villages that have played a part in the lives of famous residents such as Ruskin, Coleridge and Wordsworth.

The village of Ambleside is surrounded by easy but very beautiful walks. Park at the Log house near The Promenade and wander into town. Visit the Armitt Museum a combination of museum, library and gallery. The library has over 10,000 books relating to life and times in the Lake District. It also houses Neolithic and Bronze Age material and a collection of Roman artefacts collected in and around the town. There's even a lock of John Ruskin's hair.

stockgyll forceresized Stockghyll Force is one of Ambleside's attractions situated a short walk from the town. The Beck starts its life on the fellside above Kirkstone and dashes down the fellside through the centre of Ambleside. Take the lovely short walk up to the falls into the wood and across the bridge. It's only a about a mile round trip. Take a picnic with you and enjoy a well earned break using the seats and picnic tables set up on the way.