"A gem of a pub, in the heart of the Lakes, with lovely smart clean rooms and delightful staff."
John from United Kingdom
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"We ordered food and can honestly say it was exquisite."
Richard S from United Kingdom
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"Pub ideally situated to explore the town and see the waterfalls and climb wansfell as well as many other walks/climbs."
Adventure65719757895 from United Kingdom
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Historic 400-year-old pub hotel in Ambleside
Accommodation and Rooms
The Unicorn offers 5 individual rooms, with en-suite and non-en-suite options available. Each room includes fresh cotton bedding, towels, and tea and coffee making facilities. The building's 400-year-old character means low beams and creaky floors are part of the experience, with rooms situated above the pub.
Dining and Bar
The Unicorn serves fresh bar food prepared on-site by local chefs, with a focus on traditional pub fare such as Sunday roasts and lamb shank. A variety of cask ales and local real ales are available, served at the right temperature. The menu includes a child-friendly selection, and guests receive a complimentary drink on arrival.
Entertainment and Events
Live music takes place every Thursday and Sunday evening, with open mic nights and a quiz night held on Mondays. The pub also hosts live sport events, creating a lively atmosphere for guests and locals. Entertainment typically finishes by 10pm to respect residents.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Dogs are welcome throughout the hotel, including in the bar and rooms, with well-behaved pets allowed in all areas. The Unicorn has a resident pub dog named Bea, adding to the welcoming environment. The hotel's dog-friendly policies extend to a family-friendly approach, with staff accommodating children and pets alike.
Location and Surroundings
The Unicorn is located in the centre of Ambleside, within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and attractions. The Lake District fells and Windermere Lake are nearby for outdoor activities such as hiking and watersports. The hotel is close to public transport and a public car park is available a short walk away.
Highlights
Historic: Oldest pub in Ambleside, over 400 years old
Rooms: 5 characterful rooms en-suite or private external bathroom
Dining: Fresh bar food, Sunday roasts, cask ales
Entertainment: Live music, quiz nights, open mic events
Pet-friendly: Dogs welcome, resident pub dog Bea
Location: Centre of Ambleside, near Lake District fells
Must-do experiences
Hike the stunning Route through the beautiful Rydal Water.
Taste the famous Cumberland sausage at The Ambleside Tavern.
Explore the quirky Armitt Museum for local history and art.
Visit Stock Ghyll Force, a breathtaking hidden waterfall.
Stroll through Ambleside Market on Thursdays for local crafts.
Select your preferred room
Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
Twin Room
2 persons
12 m²
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room
2 persons
14 m²
1 Queen-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Standard Double Suite
2 persons
20 m²
1 Queen-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
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Hotel facilities and services
Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Very good
7.8/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Services
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Children
Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Room features
Heating
Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
The Unicorn offers a delightful dining experience in a cozy setting, perfect for families and those seeking traditional flavors. Enjoy hearty meals accompanied by a selection of local pints, making it a lovely stop for both lunch and dinner.
The Unicorn
Traditional British
Ambiance
Family-friendly and welcoming, with a cozy interior that invites warmth and conversation.
Key Offerings
Featuring classic British dishes paired with a cracking pint of Robinsons beer, it's the ideal spot for wholesome meals that capture the essence of local culture.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open for lunch and dinner.
The Unicorn, Ambleside Location
North Road, Ambleside, LA22 9DT,
Map view
City landmarks
Garden
Rydal Mount
2.18 km
Landmark
Rydal Water
2.7 km
Landmark
Borrans Park
1.28 km
Landmark
High Close Estate
650 m
Landmark
Wansfell Pike
1.79 km
Garden
Rydal Hall Gardens
2.02 km
Landmark
Lily Tarn
1.59 km
Landmark
Dora's Field
2.04 km
Bridge
Bridge House
3.78 km
Landmark
Rydal Hall Sculpture Path
2.2 km
Landmark
High Sweden Bridge
2.18 km
Cave
Rydal Cave
2.49 km
Castle
Wray Castle
3.6 km
Landmark
Loughrigg Fell
3.03 km
Gallery
Old Courthouse Gallery
3.55 km
Landmark
Wansfell
2.69 km
Nearby
Garden
Stagshaw Garden
90 m
Museum
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
460 m
Moss Eccles Tarn
90 m
AmblesideEngland
Copt Howe
90 m
Restaurants
Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside
50 m
2 Bridge Street
The Giggling Goose Cafe
100 m
The Old Mill North Road
Daisys Cafe
80 m
Rydal Rd Central Buildings
Royal Oak
90 m
Main St
Gandhi's Cafe
3.62 km
The Slack
The Old Smithy
3.67 km
The Slack
The Royal Oak Resturant & Bar
3.78 km
Church Street
Greggs
530 m
3 The Old Stamp House Church Street
Shake, Waffle & Roll
500 m
2A Cheapside
Explore Ambleside
Explore Ambleside
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Stagshaw Garden
2 minutes' walk
Stagshaw Garden features stunning herbaceous borders and scenic views, perfect for those who appreciate nature's beauty.
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
6 minutes' walk
The Armitt Museum showcases local art and history, offering insight into the region's cultural heritage.
Stock Ghyll Force
35 minutes' walk
Stock Ghyll Force is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by woodland, ideal for a relaxing hike.
Rydal Water
30 minutes' walk
Rydal Water boasts serene landscapes and walking paths, popular among hikers and photographers alike.
Lakeland Pony Trek
10 minutes' drive
Pony trekking offers guided rides through stunning landscapes-suitable for all ages and experience levels.
Guided Hiking Tours
10 minutes' drive
Guided hiking tours are available to explore local trails, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside
1 minute' walk
A cozy spot with local dishes and fresh ingredients-try their famous scones for a treat!
Gandhi's Cafe
10 minutes' drive
Gandhi's offers authentic Indian cuisine with vegetarian options. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends.
The Old Courthouse Gallery
45 minutes' walk
A local art gallery featuring rotating exhibits and events, perfect for art enthusiasts of all ages.
The Giggling Goose Cafe
2 minutes' walk
A family-friendly cafe with regular live music events, great for unwinding with good food and entertainment.
Getting around the city
City Centre
Ambleside 8 min · 600 m
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 112 min · 74.6 km
Blackpool International (BLK) 160 min · 106.5 km
Bus
Bus stop 5 min · 400 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Guest ratings and detailed reviews
Feedback about The Unicorn, Ambleside from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
8.5/10
Comfort
8.4/10
Facilities
7.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.4/10
Location
9.2/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Welcoming staff
Cosy room
Clean bedding
Cons
Excessive noise
Room overhaul
No evening food
Guest reviews
based on 294 reviews
7.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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