Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
little steep, but once at the top you'll find cascading waterfalls that powered local
mills from the 14th century onward. The mills have long since gone, leaving visitors
to enjoy the natural force of the water. Like many picturesque places in these parts,
spring sees daffodils carpeting the route.
Stock Ghyll Lane.
Where to Eat
In addition to the restaurants reviewed here, see “Where to Stay,” below, for other
dining options.
Glass House Restaurant MODERN BRITISH/MEDITERRANEAN A for-
mer saw mill dating back to the 15th century, this restaurant retained the working
weir and some of the mill machinery when it was converted in the 1990s. Today, you'll
find a split-level combination of medieval and contemporary architecture, with oak
interior trim and large windows. The main courses include confit duck leg with Cum-
berland stuffing, and pan-fried sea bass with vegetable noodles.
Rydal Rd., Ambleside. &   01539/432137. www.theglasshouserestaurant.co.uk. Reservations recom-
mended. Main courses £13-£19. MC, V. Wed-Mon noon-2:30pm and 6:30-10pm.
Lucy's on a Plate MODERN BRITISH A bustling cafe by day, this eatery
becomes one of the best restaurants after dark, when the lights are dimmed for din-
ner. Local farm produce is used whenever possible to create well-crafted dishes like
chargrilled rib-eye with matchstick potatoes and onion marmalade, or fresh mussels
cooked in a coconut-milk sauce. The restaurant is famous for its hot puddings, espe-
cially its sublime sticky-toffee pudding or its “wicked” hot-chocolate sponge. During
the day, drop by the adjoining delicatessen for enough delights to fill a picnic basket
to enjoy in some lakeside setting.
Church St., Ambleside. &   01539/432288. www.lucysofambleside.co.uk. Reservations not needed.
Main courses £14-£22. AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 10am-9pm.
Sheila's Cottage ENGLISH/INTERNATIONAL Tucked down a quiet side
street off the Lake Road, this pretty stone-fronted restaurant provides a homey retreat
from the bustling town center. An open fire, beamed ceiling, and pine tables provide
a rustic feel while the mixed menu can include Cumberland and Hawkshead Ale
sausages, and creamy risotto with butternut squash and rosemary. You can also pop
in for tea and cake. Homeyness at its best.
The Slack, Ambleside. &   01539/433079. Reservations not needed. Main courses £9.50-£20. MC, V.
Daily 11am-9pm (last orders); can close earlier in winter; lunch noon-4:30pm; dinner from 5pm.
Shopping
You can often pick up a bargain on last season's breathable jackets or gortex boots in
one of Ambleside's outdoor clothing and equipment shops. You'll also find maps,
guidebooks, walking poles, camping equipment, and climbing gear. Try Gaynor
Sports, Market Cross ( &   01524/734938; www.gaynors.co.uk), for discount wear;
Edge of the World, Rydal Road ( &   01539/433033; www.edgeoftheworld.co.uk),
for more fashion-conscious sweat tops and T-shirts, boots, and beanies; or The
Climbers Shop, Compston Road ( &   01539/432297; www.climbers-shop.com),
for crampons and other technical equipment.
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