
Film

An award-winning vegetarian destination in the heart of Ambleside, bringing together a vibrant restaurant, relaxed terrace café, independent cinema and live jazz bar.

An award-winning vegetarian destination in the heart of Ambleside, bringing together a vibrant restaurant, relaxed terrace café, independent cinema and live jazz bar.
Zeffirellis is a popular place for family and friends to gather, whether for an Italian-inspired meal or an evening of dinner and a film. With five cinema screens across our venues, there is plenty to enjoy. Upstairs, our jazz bar welcomes internationally acclaimed artists for live performances throughout the year, adding something extra to your visit.

Join Us
We are open every day, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the day. Breakfast is served from 9am, lunch from 11.30am and dinner from 4.30pm.
Browse the films currently showing at our cinema.

Film

Live Music Event

Live Music Event

Live Music Event
Make an evening of it
Enjoy a two course meal (main course and starter or dessert) and a reserved cinema seat.
Available for all films and meal times.
You may dine either before or after your chosen film depending on the schedule.
Zeffirellis Adults: £31.75
Children U12: £21.50

3 - 6 September 2026
Our Tenth Year!
Ambleside Days is a Contemporary Jazz Festival which takes place inside the auditorium at Zeffirellis for a 4 day period. A celebration of world class contemporary Jazz performances featuring some of the world's most outstanding players coming together for this unique festival in the heart of the English Lake District.
Love film?
Are you passionate about film and music and keen to support the future of independent cinema and live music at our unique venue in Ambleside?
Are you a regular visitor through our doors, whether it be to see a movie, hear some music, have a meal with family or enjoy a cocktail and jazz with friends, why not consider supporting us and becoming a member?
Joining our Members Club is a great way to make some savings on your tickets, food and drink.
The Inward Eye Film Festival returns to Zeffirellis this November, bringing together acclaimed films, inspiring conversations, celebrated writers, filmmakers and special guests for a unique weekend in the heart of the Lake District. The programme will feature award-winning cinema, documentaries, Q&As, writers workshops, live music and exclusive events, with further announcements coming soon. Register your interest below to be among the first to hear about screenings, guest appearances and festival updates.
We are proud to share that Zeffirellis has been ranked #9 in Time Out’s list of the 50 best cinemas in the UK and Ireland! Described as “a gem at the northern tip of Lake Windermere,” Zeffirellis continues to stand out for its unique blend of cinema, dining, and live music. From its five modern screens and comfortable seating to its much-loved dinner-and-a-movie experience, it’s a venue built around creating memorable moments.A huge thank you to our team and community who make Zeffirellis what it is. We are delighted to see that passion recognised on such a prestigious list. Read the article here
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026/27 Cinema Season from the Royal Ballet and Opera, bringing an outstanding programme of opera and ballet to our cinema throughout the year. The season features six live broadcasts and three specially recorded screenings, including much-loved classics such as The Nutcracker, Carmen and Swan Lake, alongside exciting new productions of Götterdämmerung and Così fan tutte. Whether you are a lifelong opera and ballet enthusiast or discovering these iconic works for the first time, the new season offers a wonderful opportunity to experience world-class performances on the big screen. Book your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable season of music, drama and dance!