The Travel Guide
The Book of Travel guides were published almost yearly and generally followed a pattern of containing a paragraph or two on most locations in the UK, Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, Africa and Russia, along with travel tips, maps, illustrations, helpful contacts and advertisements.
For information about the book “The Queen” Newspaper Book of Travel: 1907 see the separate article below
Ambleside: 1907 entry
Ambleside (pop. 2500), in Westmorland, a favourite centre in the Lake District about a mile from the head of Windermere. Altitude 230 feet. Rainfall 80 inches.
EXCURSIONS: Stockgyll force, Rydal, Kirkstone Pass, Loughrigg Fell, Grasmere, Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston, Keswick (the last five by coach).
HOTELS: Waterhead, Salutation, Queen’s
BOARDING HOUSE: Wateredge
HOUSE AGENT: W.L. Mason
NEWSPAPER: Herald
Ambleside: 21st Century edition
Ambleside, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, continues to captivate visitors with its timeless charm and stunning natural beauty. With a population that remains small and welcoming, Ambleside offers a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure, making it an ideal base for exploring the majestic landscapes that have inspired poets and artists for centuries.
Situated just a mile from the head of Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, Ambleside sits at an altitude of 230 feet, offering breathtaking views and a gateway to the fells. Despite the modern world’s changes, the town’s annual rainfall, averaging around 80 inches, ensures the region’s lush greenery and vibrant ecosystems thrive, creating a haven for walkers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts.
Excursions: The timeless beauty of the Lake District is yours to explore from Ambleside, with Stockgyll Force’s cascading waters and the serene beauty of Rydal Water just a short distance away. The challenging Kirkstone Pass, Loughrigg Fell‘s panoramic views, and the poetic tranquillity of Grasmere are all within easy reach. For those willing to venture further, the lakes of Windermere, Ullswater, and Coniston, along with the market town of Keswick, offer exquisite landscapes and cultural experiences. These destinations, once favoured by coaches, are now accessible by a mix of public transport and well-marked trails, inviting modern explorers to trace the footsteps of those who marvelled at these sights over a century ago.
Hotels: Ambleside’s accommodations have gracefully evolved, combining modern amenities with the charm and elegance of the past. The Waterhead, Salutation, and Queen’s hotels continue to welcome guests with warmth and hospitality, offering comfortable lodgings and stunning views of the surrounding fells and waters. These establishments, steeped in history, provide the perfect setting for a restorative retreat in the Lake District.
Boarding House: The Wateredge, maintaining its traditional appeal, offers a more intimate lodging experience, perfect for those seeking a homely atmosphere amidst the natural beauty of Ambleside.
House Agent: For those enchanted enough by Ambleside to consider a longer stay, local estate agents, inheriting the legacy of W.L. Mason, stand ready to assist in finding the perfect residence, whether for a holiday retreat or a new home amidst the beauty of the Lakes.
Newspaper: The Herald continues to be a source of local news, keeping the community and visitors alike informed about events, stories, and updates that shape the life of Ambleside and the wider Lake District.
In revisiting Ambleside through the lens of a 1907 travel guide, we find a town that has preserved its essence while welcoming the future, offering a blend of natural splendour, historical depth, and modern convenience. Ambleside invites today’s travellers to immerse themselves in the peace and beauty of the Lake District, creating their own timeless memories.
For more information about Ambleside, visit the official Visit Lake District website.
