Ambleside, England

From our campsite at Skelwith Fold Caravan Park, we walked into the lovely town of Ambleside, a distance of about two miles. Though it was an early November day, bright fall foliage still adorned some trees' branches.

The United Kingdom's public footpaths provide lovely countryside views, and the Ambleside area is no exception. 

It was strange to me to see hydrangeas still blooming in November. Evidence of the mild climate at the north end of England's Lake Windermere.

The footpath follows along the River Brathay, which merges with River Rothay near the town of Ambleside. 

St. Mary's Ambleside Parish Church built in the Gothic style between 1850 and 1854. 

Rural views of the Ambleside area made for a delightful and mostly flat walk into town.

This view, almost to town, is a good example of how close rock walls can stand next to the road's edge in England. If you need to pull over, you many have to wait a bit before finding a wide enough spot. Better yet, keep on eye out for a "lay by," which in the U.S. we know as a "pullout." 

Upon arrival to town, we were definitely ready for a coffee break, complete with hot milk and a pastry.

The Bridge House in Ambleside sits over the water feature called Stock Beck. Built in the 1600s, this unique building has served several purposes: a counting house for the local mills, apple storage, a tea-room, a cobbler's and a chairmaker's workshop, a weaver's shop, and home to a family of eight. Today it functions as an information center for the National Trust and a fun spot for touristy photos.

This day provided a re-visit of author and illustrator Beatrix Potter. A couple days earlier, I learned at her Hilltop Farmhouse Museum about the Armitt Library and Museum in Ambleside. Exhibits here feature her artwork and business savvy in marketing her children's books with dolls, puzzles, and games. But Potter was a woman of many talents. She was also interested in mycology, the study of fungi, and drew or painted a variety of specimens. Her sheep-raising career is highlighted as well as her forward-thinking regarding conservation. What a remarkable lady! . . . . With our heads full of interesting British history, it was time to head back to our campsite and cozy motorhome. A full day indeed!