The Vault Travel Guide

Free Guide: Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.

A brief summary of The Vault

Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.

Nestled in the heart of Ambleside, The Vault is a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant housed in a former bank building. Known for its exceptional tapas, creative cocktails, and warm, inclusive atmosphere, it offers a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary flair. With live music, pool tables, and a commitment to sustainability, The Vault is a lively spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind and savor fresh, handcrafted drinks and dishes.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.5 Excellent · 43 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • MonClosed
  • TueClosed
  • Wed3 pm–11 pm
  • Thu3 pm–11 pm
  • Fri1 pm–12 am
  • Sat1 pm–12 am
  • Sun1 pm–11 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
1 Cheapside, Ambleside LA22 0BL
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Local bus services connect Ambleside with nearby towns such as Windermere and Kendal, with stops within 5-10 minutes walking distance from The Vault. Typical journey times range from 20 to 40 minutes depending on origin, with fares around £3-£6. Services run regularly but check schedules for weekend and evening availability.

Car

Driving to The Vault is straightforward via the A591, with public parking available within a 5-minute walk. Parking fees apply, typically £1.50 to £3 per hour. Note that Ambleside town centre can be busy during peak tourist seasons, so allow extra time for parking.

Walking

If staying in central Ambleside, The Vault is easily accessible on foot. Walking from Ambleside Railway Station takes approximately 15-20 minutes along mostly flat terrain, suitable for most mobility levels.

Discover more about The Vault

A Storied Setting Transformed

The Vault occupies a distinctive spot in Ambleside’s town centre, housed in a building that once served as a bustling bank. This historic backdrop lends the venue a unique character, where echoes of the past mingle with the vibrant energy of today’s social scene. The interior balances heritage elements with modern touches, creating a welcoming environment that invites guests to linger. The design subtly nods to its banking origins while embracing the warmth and conviviality of a contemporary cocktail bar.

Exceptional Tapas and Craft Cocktails

The Vault’s culinary offering centers on expertly prepared tapas, with a menu that caters to diverse tastes including vegetarians. Dishes such as halloumi, spring rolls, and freshly baked bread are highlights, alongside generous sharing platters that encourage communal dining. Complementing the food is a thoughtfully curated cocktail list, featuring creative and fresh drinks made with house-crafted syrups and sustainable ingredients. The bar prides itself on quality and innovation, ensuring every sip is memorable.

An Inclusive and Lively Atmosphere

More than just a bar, The Vault cultivates an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity. Its mission is to make cocktails accessible and fun for everyone, welcoming a broad spectrum of patrons from students to retirees. The venue hosts live music and offers pool tables and sports viewing, enhancing its role as a social hub. Friendly and attentive staff contribute to the inviting vibe, making it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience.

Commitment to Sustainability and Freshness

Sustainability is at the heart of The Vault’s ethos. The team emphasizes fair practices and environmental responsibility by sourcing sustainable ingredients and minimizing waste through creative use of produce. Freshness is paramount, with all syrups and many ingredients prepared on-site. This commitment not only elevates the quality of food and drinks but also aligns with growing consumer values around ethical and eco-friendly hospitality.

Community and Creativity in Action

The Vault’s team is a blend of creativity and professionalism, led by a passionate management and mixology crew dedicated to delivering an exceptional guest experience. Their approach turns everyday tasks into moments of joy and culinary adventure. This dynamic spirit is reflected in the lively events and the vibrant social atmosphere that permeates the venue, making it a standout destination in Ambleside’s bustling town centre.

A Destination for All Seasons

Open primarily from early afternoon into the late evening on select days, The Vault suits a variety of occasions—whether a casual afternoon drink, a lively evening with friends, or a weekend treat. Its central location and engaging environment make it an ideal stop for those exploring Ambleside or seeking a memorable night out. The blend of historic charm, fresh flavors, and spirited ambience ensures The Vault remains a beloved fixture in the Lake District’s hospitality scene.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · before 10am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 40% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 40% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 60% of the busiest month
  5. May: 70% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 80% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 90% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 80% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 60% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 50% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 50% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 7am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 8am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 9am: 20% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 10am: 30% of the busiest hour
  5. 11am: 40% of the busiest hour
  6. 12pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  7. 1pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  8. 2pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  9. 3pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  10. 4pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  11. 5pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  12. 6pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  13. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  14. 8pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  15. 9pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  16. 10pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  17. 11pm: 50% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

Explore The Vault on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Vault, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to The Vault, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near The Vault

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Westmorland
More of the region

Explore more of Westmorland

Discover Westmorland: A charming blend of stunning natural landscapes, historic villages, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the English countryside.

Explore Westmorland
United Kingdom
More of the country

Explore more of United Kingdom

Discover the United Kingdom: A blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offering a unique travel experience for every visitor.

Explore United Kingdom
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Westmorland

Discover Westmorland with Evendo - a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Plan your trip effortlessly with rich details and local tips.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • High-quality images and rich descriptions
  • Local tips and essential contact details
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Explore Westmorland like never before with Evendo, the ultimate free travel guide app. From landmarks to restaurants, plan and book your perfect trip today!

  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
  • History of Westmorland and travel essentials
  • Near Me feature for nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases
  • Global coverage with information on 7,000+ destinations

Welcome to Westmorland, a land of breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant local culture. With Evendo, your ultimate travel guide, you can explore everything this magnificent region has to offer. Imagine visiting the stunning Sizergh Castle, wandering through the picturesque Kendal Castle, or getting lost in the serene beauty of the Lake District National Park. Evendo makes it easy to discover these and many more hidden gems.

Our app provides detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Westmorland. Each location features rich descriptions, high-quality images, local tips, and essential contact details, making it easy to plan and organize your trip. Whether you want to dine at the charming L'Enclume restaurant or explore the quaint shops in Kirkby Lonsdale, Evendo has you covered.

With Evendo, you can effortlessly book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more searching for what to see and do or figuring out how to get there. Everything you need is in one place, right at your fingertips. The app also includes a history of Westmorland, travel essentials, and tons of local advice to ensure you get the most out of your visit. Use the 'Near Me' feature to easily see what's around you, no matter where you are, and discover curated local tips to experience Westmorland like a local.

Evendo is 100% free to use, with no in-app purchases or additional costs. Plus, it covers over 7,000 other destinations worldwide, so once you download the app, you have the world in your pocket. Download Evendo today and start your unforgettable journey through Westmorland and beyond!

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.