Best Attractions Near Colwith Force (Cumbria)
Planning a trip to Colwith Force? Discover the best attractions nearby with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions near Colwith Force
- Top rated
- Closest to Colwith Force
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
57 attractions
-
National park4.9★39,706 reviews
Lake District National Park
The Lake District National Park in Cumbria, North West England, is a vast and iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic mountains, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage. Covering 912 square miles, it features England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, and largest lake, Windermere. The park offers diverse outdoor activities, historic villages, and literary landmarks, making it a premier destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
Mon–Thu 9:00–17:00 · Fri 9:00–16:45Price level $$Time to spend 2–72 hrs
-
Bakery4.7★4,497 reviews
The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
Nestled beside St Oswald’s Church in Grasmere village, The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop is a charming bakery famed for its unique gingerbread recipe created in 1854 by Sarah Nelson. This small, historic shop bakes its signature spicy-sweet gingerbread daily, drawing visitors worldwide to experience a taste of Victorian culinary heritage in the heart of the Lake District.
Daily 9:15–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1 hr
-
Historical landmark4.1★5,066 reviews
National Trust - Wray
Wray Castle is a striking Victorian Gothic Revival castle located on the shores of Lake Windermere near Ambleside. Owned by the National Trust, it features castellated towers, turrets, and extensive informal grounds with lakeside paths and woodland. While the castle interior is currently closed for refurbishment, visitors can explore the beautifully restored grounds, enjoy lakeside views, and visit Joey’s Café. The estate offers family-friendly outdoor activities and guided walks that reveal its rich history and natural beauty.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
-
Visitor centre4.6★3,623 reviews
Brockhole on Windermere
Brockhole on Windermere is the Lake District National Park Authority’s flagship visitor centre, set on 30 acres of stunning gardens and woodlands by England’s largest lake. Offering a mix of family-friendly activities including archery, mini golf, bike hire, and a large adventure playground, Brockhole blends natural beauty with engaging outdoor experiences. The site also features scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and lakeside views, making it a versatile destination for all ages and interests.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
-
National forest4.7★2,551 reviews
Grizedale
Nestled between Coniston Water and Windermere in the heart of England’s Lake District, Grizedale Forest offers a vast 24.5-square-kilometer playground of walking and cycling trails, striking outdoor sculptures, and family-friendly activities. Managed by Forestry England, this national forest combines natural beauty with artistic expression and outdoor adventure, featuring everything from accessible paths and a visitor centre with café and shop to adrenaline-pumping zip lines and mountain biking trails.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
-
Tourist attraction4.7★2,281 reviews
Rydal Cave
Rydal Cave, located near Ambleside in England's Lake District, is a striking man-made cavern formed from a 19th-century slate quarry. Once a bustling site for slate mining used in traditional roofing, the cave now offers visitors an atmospheric exploration spot with stepping stones across shallow water and scenic views of Rydal Water. Surrounded by woodland and walking trails, it’s a favored destination for hikers and nature lovers seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
-
Tourist attraction4.5★2,273 reviews
National Trust - Hill Top
Step into the world of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top, her beloved 17th-century farmhouse in the Lake District. Filled with her personal belongings and the very scenes that inspired her classic children’s tales, this National Trust property offers an intimate glimpse into the life and imagination of the author. Wander through the charming cottage, explore the lovingly restored garden, and discover how the landscape shaped stories like The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Tale of Tom Kitten. A must-visit for fans of literature, history, and the timeless charm of the English countryside.
Mon–Thu 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
-
Mountain peak4.8★1,579 reviews
Scafell Pike
Scafell Pike, standing at 978 meters, is England’s highest mountain and a revered peak in the Lake District. Known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views, it draws hikers seeking a rewarding climb. The mountain features several routes, including the popular Wasdale Head path, offering a tough but accessible ascent through rugged landscapes. Its summit provides panoramic vistas across Cumbria’s fells, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Time to spend 4–8 hrs
-
Scenic point4.8★1,483 reviews
Orrest Head Viewpoint
Orrest Head is a celebrated viewpoint near Windermere in England’s Lake District, offering stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. This accessible and relatively short walk, famously the first climb of Alfred Wainwright, leads through woodland and open paths to a summit where visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of iconic peaks and the lake below. The site is popular year-round for its natural beauty and historical significance.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2 hrs
-
Outdoor activity organiser4.8★1,304 reviews
Go Ape Grizedale
Go Ape Grizedale offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure set in the heart of the Lake District’s Grizedale Forest. Featuring high ropes courses, zip lines, and family-friendly activities, it combines adrenaline-pumping fun with stunning natural scenery. Visitors can challenge themselves on various treetop courses, soar across 3 km of ziplines, and enjoy the forest’s peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Daily 10:00–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
National Trust - Tarn Hows
Tarn Hows is a picturesque, man-made tarn nestled between Coniston and Hawkshead in the Lake District. Managed by the National Trust, it offers an easy, well-maintained circular walk of about 1.8 miles with gentle gradients, accessible paths, and stunning views of surrounding fells. The site is renowned for its tranquil waters, lush woodlands, and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful outdoor escape.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
The Wild Boar Estate is a luxury inn, bar, restaurant, and hotel nestled on the quieter edge of England’s Lake District near Kendal. Set amidst private woodlands, it offers individually decorated rooms, a renowned Grill & Smokehouse restaurant, and an extensive collection of whiskies. Guests enjoy cozy interiors with open fires, home-brewed beers, and access to woodland trails, making it a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–12 hrs
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
Claife Viewing Station, a restored Victorian folly on Windermere's west shore near Sawrey, offers panoramic views of England's largest lake through historic coloured glass windows. Owned by the National Trust, this free-to-visit attraction features a charming café in the courtyard and serves as a gateway for scenic walks along the lakeside and woodlands. Open year-round, it combines natural beauty, heritage, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for photography and relaxation.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Zip World Windermere
Zip World Windermere offers thrilling treetop adventures nestled in the stunning natural surroundings of the Lake District. Featuring high ropes courses, climbing walls, giant bouncy nets, and a spectacular 250m zip line ending by Lake Windermere’s shore, it’s a family-friendly outdoor activity hub. With year-round opening (except Christmas and Boxing Day), accessible facilities, and a dog-friendly policy, it’s perfect for all ages seeking an exhilarating day out amid breathtaking scenery.
Mon–Thu 10:00–15:00 · Fri–Sun 9:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
Hill Top, the cherished former home of Beatrix Potter near Sawrey in the Lake District, is a beautifully preserved 17th-century farmhouse filled with the author’s personal belongings and inspirations for her beloved children's tales. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors a glimpse into Potter’s life and creative world, set amidst enchanting gardens and scenic countryside.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Helvellyn
Helvellyn, standing at 950 meters, is the third-highest mountain in England’s Lake District, renowned for its dramatic ridges and panoramic views. Popular among experienced hikers, it offers challenging routes including the famous Striding Edge and Swirral Edge scrambles. The mountain’s rugged terrain, glacially carved ridges, and scenic tarns create an unforgettable natural experience near Keswick.
Time to spend 4–7 hrs
Wordsworth Grasmere
Step into the world of William Wordsworth at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, where he wrote some of his most famous poetry. Explore the intimate 18th-century cottage, wander through the inspiring garden and woodland, and discover his life and work in the modern museum. With interactive displays, a viewing platform over Grasmere Vale, and a café serving local fare, it’s a deeply atmospheric Lake District experience for literature lovers and families alike.
Tue–Sat 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms is a family-owned Victorian inn located in the heart of Windermere village, offering 13 recently refurbished ensuite rooms and a cozy restaurant specializing in locally sourced British dishes. Just minutes from Windermere train station and the Lake District National Park, it provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with free parking, pet-friendly policies, and a popular bar and terrace for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Daily 8:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Holehird Gardens
Holehird Gardens, managed by the Lakeland Horticultural Society, is a stunning 12-acre volunteer-run garden set on a hillside near Windermere. It features diverse plant collections including alpine beds, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, and six National Plant Collections. Visitors enjoy scenic views over Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells, a historic walled garden with Victorian glasshouses, and peaceful walking paths open daily from dawn to dusk.
Price level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Blackwell
Blackwell is a Grade I listed Arts and Crafts house designed by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott between 1897 and 1900 as a holiday home for Sir Edward Holt, a wealthy Manchester brewer. Situated near Bowness-on-Windermere, it overlooks Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells. The house is renowned for its craftsmanship, original decorative features, and terraced gardens designed by Thomas Mawson. Now a museum and cultural space, it showcases furniture and artworks from the Arts and Crafts movement alongside exhibitions and offers visitors a unique insight into early 20th-century design.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Watermill Inn & Brewery
Nestled on the A591 near Kendal, the Watermill Inn & Brewery offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with its own craft beers, hearty food, and comfortable accommodation. This 4-star inn combines rustic charm with modern comforts, making it a perfect base for exploring the Lake District’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
Perched dramatically at 815 feet above sea level in the Lake District, Hardknott Roman Fort is one of Britain’s most remote and evocative Roman sites. Built under Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, this compact fortress guarded a vital Roman road through the rugged Hardknott Pass. Visitors can explore well-preserved remains including the commandant’s house, barracks, granaries, and the nearby bathhouse, all set against stunning panoramic views of the Eskdale Valley.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2 hrs
Ambleside Roman Fort
Ambleside Roman Fort, perched at the northern tip of Lake Windermere in Cumbria, is a remarkable archaeological site revealing the remains of a strategic Roman military base from the 2nd century AD. Visitors can explore well-preserved stone foundations of key buildings such as the commandant’s house and headquarters, enriched by informative interpretation panels and a free site guide. The fort’s scenic lakeside setting offers a tranquil glimpse into Roman Britain’s military presence amidst the Lake District’s natural beauty.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Rydal Mount and Gardens
Rydal Mount and Gardens, nestled between Ambleside and Grasmere in England’s Lake District, was the cherished family home of poet William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850. The historic 16th-century house remains a lived-in family home, showcasing Wordsworth’s personal belongings and portraits. Its five-acre gardens, designed by Wordsworth himself, feature terraces, rock pools, and rare plants, offering breathtaking views over Rydal Water and the surrounding fells.
Mon–Thu 10:30–16:00 · Sat–Sun 10:30–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Honister Slate Mine
Nestled atop Honister Pass in the Lake District, Honister Slate Mine is England’s last working slate mine and a thrilling adventure destination. Offering guided underground tours, adrenaline-pumping Via Ferrata climbs, and scenic hiking, it blends rich industrial heritage with outdoor excitement. Visitors can explore the mine’s history, witness slate production, and enjoy panoramic mountain views alongside family-friendly activities and a welcoming café and gift shop.
Daily 8:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
Faeryland Grasmere
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Grasmere Lake near Ambleside, Faeryland Grasmere is a charming outdoor tea garden and boat hire spot famed for its enchanting atmosphere. Visitors enjoy loose leaf teas, freshly baked scones, and stunning lake views, with colorful tables set amidst nature. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for wildlife spotting and gentle boating, perfect for relaxing after a Lake District walk.
Mon–Tue 10:30–17:00 · Fri–Sun 10:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Lake District
Nestled in the heart of England’s Lake District, Bowness-on-Windermere offers stunning access to Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. Renowned for its vibrant lakeside atmosphere, abundant watersports, and cultural attractions like The World of Beatrix Potter and Windermere Jetty Museum, this bustling town is a gateway to scenic walks, boat cruises, and family-friendly adventures amid breathtaking fells and water views.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
Allan Bank is a charming 19th-century Georgian villa nestled in Grasmere, in England’s Lake District. Once home to poet William Wordsworth and National Trust co-founder Canon Rawnsley, it offers visitors scenic woodland grounds, historic gardens, and inspiring views over the valley. The house features art exhibitions, cozy indoor spaces for picnics, and a rich history linked to the Romantic era and conservation movement.
Tue–Thu 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Rothay Park
Rothay Park is a charming 11.9-acre public park located in the heart of Ambleside, within England’s Lake District. Surrounded by dramatic natural landscapes, it offers peaceful walking paths, riverside views, a children’s play area, and well-maintained gardens. The park is a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking relaxation, family outings, and scenic escapes in a serene setting close to Ambleside’s town center.
Mon–Fri 9:30–16:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Bridge House
Nestled over Stock Beck in the heart of Ambleside, The Bridge House is one of the Lake District’s most photographed and cherished historic buildings. Built in the 17th century by the Braithwaite family, it originally served as an apple store and access point to lands across the beck. Over centuries, it has housed weavers, cobblers, and even a family of eight. Today, preserved by the National Trust, it stands as a quaint symbol of Ambleside’s rich heritage and artistic inspiration.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
Stott Park Bobbin Mill, located in Ulverston, Cumbria, is the last surviving Lakeland bobbin mill, offering a rare glimpse into Britain’s industrial past. Built in 1835, it produced wooden bobbins essential for Lancashire’s textile industry until 1971. Now a working museum operated by English Heritage, it showcases original machinery, live demonstrations, and the lives of mill workers, preserving a vital piece of Victorian industrial heritage.
Wed–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
National Trust - Townend
Nestled in the scenic Troutbeck Valley near Windermere, Townend is a remarkably preserved 17th-century farmhouse that was home to the Browne family for over 400 years. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors an intimate glimpse into rural Lake District life, featuring original carved furniture, a unique family library with rare books, and a charming cottage garden. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories of the family’s heritage and local traditions.
Tue–Fri 10:00–15:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Bowder Stone
The Bowder Stone is a colossal andesite lava boulder weighing around 2,000 tons, located in Borrowdale near Keswick in England’s Lake District. This natural marvel, formed by a rockfall approximately 10,000 years ago, balances precariously on its edge and offers visitors a unique climbing experience via a metal ladder. Steeped in Norse mythology and local history, the site combines geological wonder with cultural heritage in a stunning glacial valley setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd
Heaton Cooper Studio in Grasmere is a renowned art gallery showcasing the works of the Heaton Cooper family, celebrated for their evocative Lake District landscapes. Established in 1938 by William Heaton Cooper, the studio continues a century-old artistic tradition begun by Alfred Heaton Cooper in 1905. Visitors can explore original paintings, prints, and books that capture the region’s natural beauty with impressionistic and detailed styles.
Daily 9:00–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
The Steam Yacht Gondola is a beautifully restored Victorian steam-powered vessel offering luxurious cruises on Coniston Water in England's Lake District. Operated by the National Trust, the Gondola provides scenic journeys with historical commentary, connecting visitors to the area's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Cruises include stops at notable sites like Brantwood and Monk Coniston, blending history, nature, and leisure on one of the Lake District’s most iconic lakes.
Mon–Thu 12:00–13:00 · Sat–Sun 12:00–13:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
RockShop
RockShop in Ambleside is a unique indoor attraction combining a gift shop with interactive experiences centered on gemstones, fossils, and dinosaurs. Located on North Road, it offers a family-friendly environment with a Dinosaur Den treasure hunt, a Gem Pit, and a creative bead bar. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it caters to visitors of all ages seeking a fun and educational outing in the Lake District.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1 hr
The Lancrigg
Nestled in the heart of Grasmere, The Lancrigg is a charming Grade II listed country house and wedding venue offering stunning views of the Lake District fells. With a beautifully restored barn, extensive private grounds, and a warm, family-run atmosphere, it provides a timeless and romantic setting for weddings and celebrations. The venue combines historic character with modern vintage interiors and is surrounded by woodland that inspired literary greats like William Wordsworth.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–8 hrs
Queen Adelaide's Hill
Queen Adelaide's Hill is a gently rising green hill near Windermere, England, offering spectacular panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding Lake District fells. Easily accessible from a small car park, this viewpoint is ideal for a short, peaceful walk with rewarding vistas, especially at sunset. Named after Queen Adelaide who visited in 1840, the hill combines natural beauty with historical charm, making it a perfect spot for photography, picnics, and tranquil moments.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens
Stagshaw Gardens is an enchanting eight-acre woodland garden perched on a steep hillside near Ambleside in the Lake District. Owned by the National Trust, it features naturalistic plantings of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and magnolias amid winding paths, wooden bridges, and a bubbling beck. Visitors enjoy tranquil woodland walks, stunning views over Windermere, and the nearby Skelghyll Woods, home to Cumbria’s tallest trees.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Latterbarrow
Latterbarrow is a picturesque hill located near Ambleside and Hawkshead in England’s Lake District. Renowned for its accessible walking trails and panoramic 360-degree views of Lakeland fells, lakes, and countryside, it offers a rewarding outdoor experience. The hill features a historic summit with a small folly and is popular for family-friendly hikes, nature escapes, and stunning photographic opportunities.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Eskdale Mill
Eskdale Mill, located in the village of Boot near Holmrook, is a Grade II* listed watermill dating back to the 1500s. It is the last working water-powered corn mill in the Lake District National Park, featuring original double overshot waterwheels, historic milling machinery, and a modern hydro-electric wheel. The mill offers interactive exhibits, historic gardens, and a tranquil setting by Whillan Beck, providing a unique glimpse into traditional Lakeland rural life and water-powered industry.
Mon–Thu 10:30–16:30 · Sun 10:30–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Galleny Force Waterfall
Galleny Force Waterfall, also known as Fairy Glen, is a stunning natural attraction nestled in the lush Borrowdale Valley near Keswick in the Lake District. This enchanting waterfall cascades through a mossy gorge into crystal-clear pools, offering visitors a tranquil and scenic spot perfect for wild swimming, photography, and nature walks. Surrounded by ancient woodland and dramatic ravines, it is a hidden gem celebrated for its serene beauty and refreshing atmosphere.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Borrans Park
Borrans Park in Ambleside is a scenic green space offering stunning views over Lake Windermere, picnic areas, and direct access to the ruins of Ambleside Roman Fort. This historic site features the remains of a stone fort dating back to the 2nd century AD, built during Emperor Hadrian's reign, alongside a Roman road and interpretive panels that reveal its military and commercial significance in Roman Britain.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Stepping Stones
Nestled under Loughrigg near Ambleside, Stepping Stones offers a charming riverside retreat known for its scenic beauty and tranquil setting. This picturesque location features comfortable accommodations with well-equipped kitchens and inviting gardens, making it a perfect base for exploring the Lake District’s natural splendor and walking trails. Its proximity to iconic lakes and countryside paths enhances its appeal for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful escapes.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Windermere
Windermere, nestled in the heart of England’s Lake District National Park, is the largest natural lake in England, stretching over 16 km. Surrounded by rolling fells and charming villages like Bowness-on-Windermere, it offers a blend of serene natural beauty and vibrant tourist attractions. Visitors enjoy scenic lake cruises, watersports, historic museums, and tranquil walks with panoramic views, making Windermere a quintessential Lake District destination.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–6 hrs
Ritson's Force
Ritson's Force is a picturesque waterfall located near Wasdale Head in the Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England. Nestled in a tranquil valley surrounded by England’s highest mountains, this accessible natural attraction offers visitors a serene spot to enjoy cascading waters amid rugged scenery. Its proximity to popular hiking routes and the charming hamlet of Wasdale Head makes it a rewarding stop for nature lovers and walkers exploring the area.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Wordsworth Daffodil Garden
Nestled in the picturesque village of Grasmere near Ambleside, the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden is a tranquil and scenic spot celebrating the legacy of poet William Wordsworth. Open year-round, this garden features vibrant daffodil blooms that inspired Wordsworth’s poetry, set alongside peaceful walking paths and views of the nearby lake and countryside. It offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and literary enthusiasts alike.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1 hr
National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck
Nestled in Windermere, St Catherines Cottage on Patterdale Road offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort amid the stunning Lake District landscape. This historic cottage area is surrounded by scenic hiking trails, peaceful gardens, and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere is a magical indoor experience that brings to life all 23 of Beatrix Potter’s beloved tales. Visitors can explore intricately crafted 3D scenes, step into Peter Rabbit’s garden, and enjoy interactive exhibits that celebrate the enchanting Lake District countryside. The attraction also features a themed café and a renowned gift shop, making it a delightful destination for families and fans of the author alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
Blea Tarn is a tranquil mountain tarn nestled in a hanging valley between Little Langdale and Great Langdale in England's Lake District National Park. Surrounded by iconic peaks such as the Langdale Pikes, it offers stunning reflective waters, peaceful woodland, and diverse wildlife. Managed by the National Trust, Blea Tarn is accessible via a short walk from a nearby car park and is a favored spot for photographers, walkers, and nature lovers seeking scenic beauty and serenity.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Armitt Library & Museum Centre
The Armitt Museum & Library in Ambleside is a unique cultural institution founded in 1912 by Mary Louisa Armitt. It combines a museum, gallery, and library dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of the Lake District, showcasing collections related to Beatrix Potter, Kurt Schwitters, and local history. Housed in a stone and slate building within Ambleside's conservation area, it offers rotating exhibitions and engaging experiences that celebrate the region’s artistic and intellectual legacy.
Wed–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Colwith Force
Colwith Force is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall on the River Brathay near Ambleside, Cumbria. Dropping about 40 feet over rocky steps, it offers a tranquil and picturesque setting amid lush woodland. Easily accessible via footpaths from Elterwater, this natural gem captivates visitors with its serene atmosphere, rich flora, and photogenic cascades, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Ambleside Town Centre
Ambleside Town Centre is a bustling hub nestled at the head of Lake Windermere in England’s Lake District. Renowned for its charming streets, independent shops, historic landmarks like the iconic Bridge House, and a lively atmosphere filled with cafes, galleries, and cultural venues, Ambleside offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local heritage. It serves as an ideal base for exploring surrounding fells, lakes, and historic sites.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Bird How
Bird How is a charming, rustic National Trust holiday cottage nestled in the remote Eskdale Valley of the Lake District. This peaceful retreat offers a unique off-grid experience with no TV or phone signal, perfect for disconnecting from everyday life. Surrounded by dramatic fells and rivers, it serves as an ideal base for serious walkers and hikers eager to explore challenging routes including the nearby Hardknott Pass and Scafell Pike. The cottage’s woodburner and tranquil setting make it a cozy haven after outdoor adventures.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
White Platts Recreation Ground
White Platts Recreation Ground is a spacious and vibrant public park located in the heart of Ambleside, offering a variety of recreational activities including a 9-hole mini golf course, tennis courts, a bowling green, and a children's play area. Managed by Lakes Parish Council, it provides facilities such as accessible toilets and nearby parking, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure and sports in a scenic Lake District town centre setting.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Eskdale
Eskdale is a stunning valley in the western Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England. Stretching from the West Cumbrian coast near Gosforth to the foot of Hard Knott Pass, it offers a rich blend of rugged mountains, deep gorges, serene lakes, and historic sites. Known for its dramatic landscapes including Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, Eskdale is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking tranquil natural beauty.
Time to spend 1–6 hrs
Wasdale Head
Wasdale Head is a remote hamlet nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Cumbria, renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery including Scafell Pike, England's highest peak. This tranquil valley offers rugged hiking, serene lakeside views at Wastwater, and a rich outdoor heritage, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–6 hrs
Explore Colwith Force on the map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Colwith Force, mapped for you.
More about Colwith Force
Colwith Force travel guide
Discover the serene multi-tiered waterfall of Colwith Force, a tranquil natural gem nestled in Ambleside’s lush woodland.
Tell me more about Colwith ForceMore to explore near Colwith Force
Explore more

Explore more of Cumbria
Discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of Cumbria, from the stunning Lake District to historic landmarks and vibrant local culture.
Explore Cumbria
Getting your guide ready…
We are putting together a fresh copy of the Colwith Force guide. This can take up to a minute.
This can take a few moments. If your browser asks, choose Allow so the download can start. You'll find the guide in your Downloads folder.
Nothing happened? Download it again
Sorry, the guide is taking longer than usual. Please try again in a minute, or get it by email instead.
