About Ambleside

Ambleside is a town in the heart of the Lake District, within the county of Cumbria in north-west England. It lies at the southern end of Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, and is easily accessible from the A591 road. The town centre features a mix of traditional stone buildings and modern shops, with a market square that hosts regular events throughout the year. Ambleside is a popular base for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to nearby fells such as Grasmere and Rydal Water. The town has a range of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the surrounding countryside. Its location provides a good balance between natural beauty and practical amenities. The postcode area for Ambleside is LA22.

School Ratings in Ambleside

There are 10 schools in and around Ambleside. A further 3 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Ambleside

The average property price is £571K, with terraced houses making up the majority of the housing stock at around £414K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Ambleside

Recorded crime levels are broadly in line with the national average. Criminal damage & arson is prevalent across Ambleside, with 3 recorded incidents in April 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Ambleside

Ambleside sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are strong, with low rates of working-age exclusion from the labour market. Household incomes are generally above the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Ambleside

Broadband availability in Ambleside includes superfast options in many areas, though speeds can vary. Mobile coverage is generally adequate on 4G, but 5G and indoor reception may be limited in some spots. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 1,020 sales

Average Price £571K
£200 £5.56M
Detached £799K 240
Semi £531K 134
Terraced £414K 250
Flat £336K 192

Deprivation and Employment in Ambleside IMD 2025

Ambleside sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
7/10
Income
9/10
Employment
9/10
Education
7/10
Health
9/10
Housing
2/10
Living Environment
2/10
983 Children (0-15) 11%
5,439 Working Age 60%
3,551 Older (60+) 39%
Above Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 18.7% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 8.6% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Ambleside 22 crimes · April 2026

Average Crime Area

Reported crime levels in Ambleside sit broadly in line with national averages for a small town of this size. Violence & sexual offences accounts for the largest share of recorded offences. The profile is typical of a well-populated area with a mix of residential and commercial activity.

13 Violence & Sexual Offences
3 Criminal Damage & Arson
3 Public Order
1 Burglary
1 Vehicle Crime
1 Other Crime
Local Policing
Cumbria Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere and Staveley Visit force website →
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 3 stations

Windermere Train Station 4.4 miles
Staveley (Cumbria) Train Station 7.1 miles
Burneside (Cumbria) Train Station 9.6 miles

Location

Local Government

District South Lakeland
County Cumbria
Ward Ambleside & Grasmere
Constituency Westmorland and Lonsdale
Parish Lakes
Region North West

Notable & Famous People from Ambleside 1 people

John Coward
Ice hockey player
British ice hockey player (1907–1989)