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AMBLESIDE,
A small market-town, romantically situated in the vale of
Brathay, and half-encircled by a range of stately mountains.
It is a mile north of the head of Windermere, and is built
in pleasing irregularity on the side of a hill, commanding
prospects of the vale, the parks of Rydal, Brathay, and
Windermere, amongst which the various outlets and approaches
wind interestingly, detaining the tourist at every step by
new combinations and unexpected beauties. Excellent fare can
be had at the Salutation, Commercial, and White Lion inns,
and in lodgings. From its central station, the town is
frequently made the head-quarters of tourists for a
considerable time, as within the compass of seven miles are
the following lakes;- Windermere, Esthwaite Water, Elter
Water, Coniston, Rydal Water, Grasmere, and Ulles Water. It
was formerly the site of a Roman station; ruined wall and
traces of fortifications are discernible, and armour and
coins have been found. Most of the houses have been rebuilt
or altered; the old market-house, also, which was supported
on pillars and galleried round, shared the same fate in
1796, so that the town now
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