The Bridge House: Ambleside’s Quirky 17th-Century Landmark

A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.

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The Bridge House

The Bridge House in Ambleside is a charming 17th-century building perched over Stock Beck, originally built by the Braithwaite family to access their orchards and avoid land tax. This tiny, iconic structure has served many roles—from apple store and counting house to tea room and family home—and was saved by local conservation efforts in the 1920s. Now owned by the National Trust, it remains a beloved symbol of Ambleside’s heritage and a must-see for visitors.

A brief summary to The Bridge House

Rydal Rd, Ambleside, LA22 9AN, GB
+441539432617
Visit website
Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during quieter hours to enjoy the interior space and chat with National Trust volunteers.
Bring a camera for iconic photos of the house over Stock Beck and the surrounding scenery.
Combine your visit with a walk around Ambleside to explore other historic sites and local eateries.
Look for the fine details on the roof, including the traditional ‘wrestler’ slates and slate coursing.

Getting There

Bus

Take the Stagecoach bus services to Ambleside from Windermere or Kendal, with journey times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for seasonal variations. The bus stop is a 5-minute walk from Bridge House.
Car

Driving to Ambleside typically takes 30–50 minutes from Windermere or Keswick. Limited parking is available in town car parks near Rydal Road; expect moderate fees and busy conditions during peak seasons.
Walking

If staying nearby in Ambleside, the Bridge House is accessible via a short, mostly flat walk through the town centre, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair users.

The Bridge House location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Bridge House

A Unique Architectural Curiosity Over Stock Beck

The Bridge House is a small but remarkable 17th-century building that literally spans Stock Beck in the heart of Ambleside. Constructed by the influential Braithwaite family, it was originally intended to provide access to their lands on the opposite side of the beck and to store apples from their nearby orchards. Its unusual position over the water and diminutive size make it one of the most photographed and painted landmarks in the Lake District, immortalized by artists such as JMW Turner and John Ruskin.

Layers of Practical Use Through the Centuries

Over the centuries, the Bridge House has served a variety of practical purposes reflecting the evolving needs of Ambleside’s community. Beyond its initial use as an apple store, it functioned as a counting house for the local mills of Rattle Ghyll, a weaving shop, a cobbler’s workshop, a chair maker’s studio, and even a home to a family of eight. In the Victorian era, it was transformed into a tea room, complete with a cast-iron stove added in the 19th century. Later, it also operated as a bric-a-brac and antiques shop, showcasing its adaptability and continued relevance.

Community-Led Conservation and National Trust Stewardship

By the 1920s, the Bridge House had fallen into disrepair, prompting a passionate local campaign to save it. Key figures in this effort included Edith Fletcher, wife of National Trust founder Hardwicke Rawnsley; Gordon Wordsworth, grandson of poet William Wordsworth; and William Heelis, husband of Beatrix Potter. Their fundraising success secured the building’s purchase and donation to the National Trust in 1926, ensuring its preservation. The Bridge House later became the National Trust’s first information centre in the Lake District in 1956.

Artistic Legacy and Cultural Significance

The Bridge House’s picturesque setting and quaint charm have inspired generations of artists and visitors alike. Harriet Martineau described it in her 1858 guide as “the most curious relic in Ambleside of the olden time,” while the view of the beck and surrounding hills remains a favorite subject for photographers and painters. Its survival amidst Ambleside’s growth symbolizes the town’s respect for its heritage and the enduring appeal of its historic architecture.

Visiting Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to the Bridge House can step inside its tiny rooms, which retain sparse furnishings and the original stove, offering a glimpse into its varied past. The building’s compact interior is accessed via an external spiral stone staircase leading to the upper floor, which is surprisingly light and airy. National Trust volunteers often provide insightful commentary, enriching the visit. Though small, the Bridge House’s charm lies in its quirky character and the evocative sense of history it embodies in the bustling town centre.

Preserving Ambleside’s Heritage for Future Generations

The Bridge House stands as a testament to community spirit and conservation foresight. Its continued care by the National Trust ensures that this tiny architectural gem remains a treasured part of Ambleside’s landscape. It offers visitors a tangible connection to the town’s past and a unique photo opportunity, making it a beloved highlight for those exploring the Lake District.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Honister Slate Mine

17.5 km

Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.

National Trust - Fell Foot

17.7 km

Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.

Lodore Falls

17.9 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.

Surprise View

17.9 km

Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Ashness Bridge

18.4 km

Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.

Lake District National Park Authority

20.1 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.

Eskdale Mill

20.2 km

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.

The Cockpit Stone Circle

20.6 km

Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.

National Trust - Sizergh

20.7 km

Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

20.7 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

20.8 km

Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.

Friars Crag

20.9 km

Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.

Keswick Methodist Church

21.6 km

Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.

Keswick War Memorial

21.7 km

A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.

Moss Force Waterfall

22.3 km

Experience the serene beauty of Moss Force Waterfall, a hidden treasure in the heart of Cockermouth, perfect for hiking and nature appreciation.

Unmissable attractions to see

Golden Rule

0.1 km

Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.

Armitt Library & Museum Centre

0.1 km

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ambleside and the Lake District at The Armitt, a unique museum, gallery, and library founded in 1912.

RockShop

0.1 km

Discover gemstones, fossils, and dinosaur-themed fun at RockShop Ambleside, a family-friendly indoor treasure trove in the Lake District.

Ambleside Town Centre

0.3 km

Ambleside Town Centre: A vibrant market hub at Lake Windermere’s edge, blending heritage, nature, and local charm.

White Platts Recreation Ground

0.3 km

A vibrant central park in Ambleside offering mini golf, tennis, bowling, and family-friendly play areas amid scenic Lake District surroundings.

Rothay Park

0.4 km

A serene and scenic green space in Ambleside’s heart, perfect for family outings, riverside walks, and peaceful Lake District escapes.

Ambleside Roman Fort

1.2 km

Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.

Borrans Park

1.3 km

Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.

Stepping Stones

1.4 km

A tranquil riverside retreat under Loughrigg near Ambleside, blending scenic beauty with cozy comfort in the heart of the Lake District.

National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens

1.8 km

Discover the tranquil woodland beauty of Stagshaw Gardens, where vibrant spring blooms meet stunning views over Windermere.

Rydal Mount and Gardens

2.1 km

Explore William Wordsworth’s cherished home and gardens, where poetry, nature, and history intertwine amidst stunning Lake District views.

Rydal Cave

2.4 km

Explore the atmospheric man-made Rydal Cave, a historic slate quarry nestled beside tranquil Rydal Water in the scenic English Lake District.

National Trust - Wray

3.6 km

Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.

Brockhole on Windermere

3.8 km

Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.

Zip World Windermere

3.9 km

Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Zip World Windermere, the ultimate outdoor family activity hub.

Essential places to dine

Dodds Restaurant

0.0 km

Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.

The Priest Hole Restaurant

0.2 km

Historic 16th-century setting serving hearty British and Cumbrian dishes with warm hospitality in the heart of Ambleside.

The Old Stamp House Restaurant

0.3 km

Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.

Lucy's on a plate

0.3 km

A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.

Lake Road Kitchen

0.3 km

An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.

The Samling Hotel

2.2 km

Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Blue Smoke on the Bay

2.7 km

Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.

Windermere Restaurant (The W)

2.8 km

Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.

The Gaddum

3.9 km

Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

4.2 km

A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.

The Jumble Room

4.9 km

Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.

Stove Restaurant & Bar

5.0 km

Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

7.0 km

A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.

The Tilly Bar and Kitchen

7.1 km

Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.

Hooked Seafood

7.3 km

Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.

Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.

A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Windermere Social Club

7.4 km

A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.

Wheelhouse Nightclub

8.3 km

Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.

The loose moose

29.0 km

A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.

secret bridge

38.6 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.

The Lounge C9

39.4 km

Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.

Manhattans Nightclub

39.4 km

Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.

Hollywood Nightclub

39.4 km

Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.

Secret Carlisle

50.9 km

Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.

Club Britannia

51.2 km

A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.

Carlisle R A O B Club

51.5 km

Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.

Black Box Music Institute

51.5 km

An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.

Hawes Club

51.8 km

Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.

Settle Working Mens Club

60.3 km

Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.

The George Inn

60.9 km

Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

G & P Events and Mobile Bars

67.4 km

Discover a vibrant bar and events venue in Kettlewell, Yorkshire, perfect for gatherings amidst stunning Dales scenery.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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The Bridge House: Ambleside’s Quirky 17th-Century Landmark

A brief summary to The Bridge House

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking

The Bridge House location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Bridge House

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Bridge House

A Unique Architectural Curiosity Over Stock Beck

Layers of Practical Use Through the Centuries

Community-Led Conservation and National Trust Stewardship

Artistic Legacy and Cultural Significance

Visiting Experience and Atmosphere

Preserving Ambleside’s Heritage for Future Generations

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Honister Slate Mine

National Trust - Fell Foot

Lodore Falls

Surprise View

Ashness Bridge

Lake District National Park Authority

Eskdale Mill

The Cockpit Stone Circle

National Trust - Sizergh

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Friars Crag

Keswick Methodist Church

Keswick War Memorial

Moss Force Waterfall

Unmissable attractions to see

Golden Rule

Armitt Library & Museum Centre

RockShop

Ambleside Town Centre

White Platts Recreation Ground

Rothay Park

Ambleside Roman Fort

Borrans Park

Stepping Stones

National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens

Rydal Mount and Gardens

Rydal Cave

National Trust - Wray

Brockhole on Windermere

Zip World Windermere

Essential places to dine

Dodds Restaurant

The Priest Hole Restaurant

The Old Stamp House Restaurant

Lucy's on a plate

Lake Road Kitchen

The Samling Hotel

Blue Smoke on the Bay

Windermere Restaurant (The W)

The Gaddum

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

The Jumble Room

Stove Restaurant & Bar

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

The Tilly Bar and Kitchen

Hooked Seafood

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Booths, Windermere

Forget Me Not

The Original Man Shop

Pretty Things

Herdy Bowness

LAKELAND Leather

Tesco Express

Lonsdale Galleries

Mountain Warehouse

Love the Lakes Bowness

Lakeland Distribution Centre