The origins of Ambleside sports have variously been traced back to the granting of the market charter and the annual fair. As far back as the 17th and 18th centuries sporting events were held in Low Wood Bay where events included regattas with rowing races as well as cock-fighting and bare fist boxing (both of which would be unacceptable today). There are many early reports relating to wrestling contests, but whether they were linked to larger organised events along with other sports is not clear. The most significant of these was in 1809 when Professor John Wilson (aka Christopher North of Elleray) offered the then huge sum of five guineas and a silver belt to the winner of the Ambleside contest. Find out more about the history or see what activities are taking place.
