Places of interest #10 in Ambleside

Faeryland Grasmere

4.5 · 667 reviews
Whimsical, serene, and rustic.
Faeryland Grasmere, Red Bank, Ambleside LA22 9PX, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The venue offers rowing boat hire as a primary activity alongside its tea garden service.

2

The garden maintains a distinct 'faery' theme with decor scattered throughout the natural foliage.

3

It sits at the southern end of the lake, providing direct water access for boaters.

4

The establishment uses vintage teaware exclusively for its tea service.

Overview

Faeryland Grasmere is a unique riverside cafe and tea garden located directly on the shores of Grasmere Lake in the English Lake District. It is famously known for its extensive selection of over 40 varieties of loose-leaf tea served in vintage china. The property offers traditional wooden rowing boat rentals, allowing visitors to explore the lake directly from the garden. The setting is characterized by its secluded, fairy-tale-themed decor and views across the water toward the fells. It functions primarily as an outdoor venue, with seating situated amongst mature trees and grassy banks. The site is accessible via the Red Bank road, which offers a quieter, pedestrian-friendly route away from the main village center.

Photo spot

The wooden jetty at the water's edge, capturing the rowing boats with the mountains in the background.

Insider tips

Bring a warm layer, as all seating is outdoors and temperatures drop quickly near the lake.

Check weather forecasts before visiting, as the site closes during heavy rain or high winds.

Arrive early in the day to secure a rowing boat, as they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to visit during severe weather, as the outdoor-only seating and boat hire will be unavailable.

Good to know

Operates seasonally; typically closed during winter months and inclement weather.

Etiquette

Casual, weather-appropriate clothing is expected; avoid blocking the narrow lakeside paths with gear.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Mid-morning on a sunny weekday during the summer months to ensure dry conditions and boat availability.
Address
Faeryland Grasmere, Red Bank, Ambleside LA22 9PX, United Kingdom
54.455, -3.030
Get directions
Details
Signature ExperienceLoose-leaf tea served in vintage china
ActivityTraditional wooden rowing boat hire

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning on a sunny weekday during the summer months to ensure dry conditions and boat availability..

The wooden jetty at the water's edge, capturing the rowing boats with the mountains in the background.

Close by you'll find Lake District National Park, Wordsworth Grasmere, Rydal Cave.

United Kingdom

About Ambleside