Bridge House was built in the 16th Century in what was then an apple orchard, and constructed originally as a summer house and apple store for the now demolished Ambleside Hall. Later it was used as a cottage, a weaver’s and a gift shop. A family with six children is believed to have lived there at one time. In 1956 it was opened as an information centre for the National Trust, which it remains to this day. To visit, park at the car park next to the fire station on Rydal Road, and walk towards Ambleside town centre when you will find Bridge House on your right hand side.