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High Sweden Bridge Circular

To the north of Ambleside is an ancient packhorse bridge. High Sweden Bridge is thought to date from the late 1700s and crosses Scandale Beck on the route from the town to Patterdale. Though no longer used by horses it is still popular with walkers heading for the fells or on this scenic stroll.

Our walk crosses both High and Low Sweden Bridges, and passes the folly named "The Tower of Friendship and Beauty"(1) in the grounds of Eller How on the outskirts of Ambleside. Built by Henry Boyle a keen botanist and landscape gardener, son of John Boyle of Wedgwood and Boyle Potteries, it has the names of many famous visitors, including the Wordsworth's, carved into the brickwork.

Parking in Ambleside is reasonably plentiful although it does get busy at holiday times. There is the main car park above the town centre on the A591 towards Rydal. And for longer stays the Miller Field car park at the bottom end of town is large and often has space when the other has filled up. There are a couple of smaller car parks dotted around too.