THE WATERHEAD INN, AMBLESIDE- THE INN COLLECTION GROUP | Ambleside — Lakeside Comfort

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The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Exterior photo

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Macro Details photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Lake Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 0ER

Next to Lake Windermere

Great

8.3

8.7

/10

5.0

4.5

Loved by The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group guests

Well kept rooms
Warm welcome
Delicious food
Perfect location
Dog-friendly areas
Attentive staff

"The hotel is situated with an unobstructed view of the lake from the indoor and outdoor bar/dining areas- moored sailboats bobbing."

Tristi from United States

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"We had a room overlooking the lake and this was very pleasant the room was a nice size and the on suit bathroom was equipped with a bath and a shower."

Dave Mather from United Kingdom

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"The premises features a very large pub on the ground floor, which is used for a great breakfast for guests."

Kevin

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Location

The Waterhead Inn is positioned directly across from Waterhead Pier, providing immediate access to the scenic elements of the Lake District. Just a short walk from Ambleside center, it serves as a starting point for numerous outdoor activities and attractions. Guests can explore the nearby Wray Castle, only 10 minutes away by car.

Rooms

Room options include cosy double rooms with ensuite bathrooms and spacious family rooms with sofa beds, accommodating up to three guests. Superior rooms boast lake views, and the King-sized or twin beds cater to various preferences. The Lakehouse rooms, located moments from the inn, offer additional space and amenities.

Dining

The Waterhead Inn serves freshly prepared Cumbrian and British pub classics, featuring a seasonal menu that emphasizes local produce. A hearty full Cumbrian breakfast is available daily, ensuring guests start their day with quality fare. Dining is enhanced with superb views overlooking the lake.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

This inn welcomes four-legged guests with dedicated dog-friendly rooms, ensuring pets can accompany their owners during the stay. The rules for pets include areas where they can roam free, adding convenience for pet owners. This inclusivity helps foster a welcoming environment for all family members.

Activities and Transportation

The Waterhead Inn is strategically located near outstanding walking trails and local attractions, making it an active guest's dream. Public transport options right from the inn simplify access to larger sites in the Lake District without the need for a car. Guests enjoy easy day trips to nearby towns and landmarks.

Highlights

Location: Directly across from Waterhead Pier

Rooms: Lakehouse family rooms with sofa beds

Dining: Seasonal menu emphasizing local produce

Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly accommodations available

Activities: Immediate access to walking trails

Transport: Public transport links from the front door

Must-do experiences

Hike up to the stunning viewpoint at Loughrigg Fell nearby.
Sample the famous Grasmere Gingerbread at Sarah Nelson's shop.
Visit the Armitt Museum for local art and cultural history.
Take a scenic boat trip on Windermere for breathtaking views.
Explore the quaint shops and cafés at Ambleside's Market Square.

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

View hotel location

Highlights from guests

Room FeaturesLakeview Bliss

Room 33's spaciousness with amazing lake views made climbing those stairs worthwhile. The balcony was an unexpected bonus.

Richard from Scotland

Review on

DiningDelicious Selection

Breakfast had plenty of options including vegan ones, dinner could have had more. The food was absolutely delicious.

Mei from China

Review on

Guest ParkingCoveted Spot

The inn has rare and coveted parking, very important given the surroundings. If full, the public car park is next door.

Bob from United States

Review on

BathroomPristine & Fab

The bathroom was spotless, it had a lovely bath and an excellent shower, which was very welcome after hiking.

Isabelle from France

Review on

View all

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates

Classic Double or Twin Room

2 persons

26 m²

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room

2 persons

23 m²

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Classic Double or Twin Room View

2 persons

26 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Double or Twin Room View

2 persons

28 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Click button to see more rooms

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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay

Facilities: Great

8.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
Pets allowed
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Canoeing
Hiking
Cycling
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Housekeeping
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

The Waterhead Inn offers a delightful array of dining options where guests can indulge in authentic British flavors. With a vibrant bar and grill setting and a charming dining area steeped in local history, the culinary experiences promise to satisfy both heart and palate.

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Restaurant photo

Bar & Grill

British, Local, Grill/BBQ

Ambiance

A lively and inviting atmosphere, perfect for casual dining among friends and family.

Key Offerings

Enjoy a diverse menu featuring locally sourced meats and fresh ingredients, with highlights such as succulent grilled dishes and hearty British classics.

Reservation

Not needed.

Open daily from 07:30 to 21:00.

Breakfast Service

Continental and Traditional British

Ambiance

A bright and welcoming dining area where guests can start the day surrounded by eclectic memorabilia from the Lakes.

Key Offerings

A buffet featuring fresh fruit salad, granola, and a cooked choice including pancakes, smoked haddock, or a full breakfast featuring Cumberland sausage and hash browns.

Reservation

Not needed.

Available during breakfast hours.

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Location

Lake Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 0ER

Map view

Lake Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 0ER

City landmarks

Castle

Wray Castle

2.2 km

Landmark

Brockhole on Windermere

2.4 km

Landmark

Jenkin Crag

880 m

Bridge

Bridge House

2.2 km

Landmark

Hayes Garden World Ambleside

1.2 km

Gallery

Old Courthouse Gallery

1.2 km

Landmark

Stock Ghyll Force

2.6 km

Cinema

Fellinis Cinema

1.1 km

Landmark

Jenkyn's Crag

720 m

Landmark

High Close Estate

740 m

Landmark

Ambleside Climbing Wall

760 m

Landmark

Church Of St Mary

1.2 km

Landmark

The National Trust

810 m

Landmark

Moss Eccles Tarn

1.3 km

Landmark

Mater Amabilis

820 m

Garden

Rydal Mount

3.4 km

Landmark

Ambleside Roman Fort

3.3 km

Landmark

The Homes Of Football At Ambleside

1.0 km

Landmark

Rufty Tuftys

1.1 km

Landmark

Merz Barn

1.1 km

Landmark

Kentmere Gallery

1.1 km

Landmark

Hobbs Gallery

1.1 km

Gallery

Cookhouse Gallery

1.1 km

Landmark

Rothay Park

2.5 km

Garden

Stagshaw Garden

5.2 km

Landmark

Main Gate

3.3 km

Harbour

Ambleside Pier

3.7 km

Landmark

Borrans Park

4.7 km

Museum

The Armitt Museum And Gallery

5.5 km

Nearby

Jenkin Crag

880 m

Loughrigg

High Close Estate

2.9 km

The Hollens

The National Trust

810 m

Cylinders Langdale

Merz Barn

1.1 km

Church

St Mary's Church

1.2 km

Restaurants

Table 22 Restaurant

3.5 km

Waterhead Bay Regent Hotel

Four Seasons Terrace Cafe Hayes Garden World

1.3 km

Lake Road Ambleside

Explore Ambleside

Local Highlights

Jenkin Crag

10 minutes walking

Stunning viewpoints of Lake Windermere and the surrounding hills. A must-visit for photography and nature enthusiasts.

Brockhole on Windermere

25 minutes walking

Home to beautiful gardens and fun activities like archery and canoeing. Ideal for families seeking outdoor fun.

Wray Castle

25 minutes walking

An impressive Victorian castle with picturesque grounds, offering guided tours and seasonal events.

Stock Ghyll Force

30 minutes walking

A spectacular 70-foot waterfall surrounded by lush scenery, perfect for nature walks and photography.

Ambleside Climbing Wall

10 minutes walking

Indoor climbing for all skill levels. Rental gear available and introductory courses offered for beginners.

Kayaking on Lake Windermere

25 minutes walking

Adventurous kayaking sessions available. Rentals and guided tours provided for thrill-seekers keen on water sports.

Wellness Spa Retreats

25 minutes driving

Relaxing spa experiences available nearby, offering massages, therapies, and wellness packages for rejuvenation.

Four Seasons Terrace Cafe

16 minutes walking

Café offering delicious local dishes and outdoor seating with garden views. Perfect for a relaxed lunch.

Fellinis Cinema

15 minutes walking

A unique dining experience with a pizza and film combo. Great fun for families and couples alike.

Table 22 Restaurant

40 minutes walking

Elegant dining with local ingredients and creative dishes. Reservations recommended for a fine dining experience.

Fellinis Cinema

15 minutes walking

A cozy cinema featuring independent films and comfortable seating. Ideal for a relaxed evening out.

The Old Courthouse Gallery

15 minutes walking

Art gallery showcasing local artists and events. A cultural hub for art enthusiasts and families alike.

Getting around the city

City Centre

Ambleside11 min · 900 m

Airports

Carlisle Lake District (CAX)115 min · 76.4 km

Blackpool International (BLK)158 min · 104.9 km

Bus

Bus stop14 min · 1.1 km

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:00

Check-out

from 07:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group serves a full breakfast for free.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Former name

Waterhead

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests consistently praise the spacious and comfortable rooms at The Waterhead Inn, often highlighting the well-appointed bathrooms and, in some rooms, the option of a very large, comfy bed made from zipped-together singles. The location is frequently mentioned as ideal, with some rooms offering partial lake views and proximity to the pier. While some guests have found the prices a little high, the hotel's restaurant is usually busy, with diners appearing happy with their meals, and breakfast includes an excellent range of choices, like freshly squeezed orange juice.

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Review score

Based on 897 verified reviews

8.4/10

Great

87%

Recommend

Location

9.4/10

Staff

8.8/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.6/10

Value for money

7.9/10

Pros

Lake Windermere location

Comfortable beds

Helpful staff

Cons

Noisy gas machine

Understaffed restaurant

Theodore from United States

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 30, 2026

9/10

really good stay!

wide choicequality room

the breakfast provided a wide choice. staff offered plenty of options. the location provides an amazing lake view. we found the quality of rooms to be great.

0 Helpful

Christopher from United Kingdom

Couple

Superior Double or Twin Room View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 05, 2026

9.3/10

Excellent Hotel Experience

cute staffclean groundlake view

I found the staff cute. The grounds were clean. The location allows easy access to bus transportation. The room provided a gorgeous lake view. Breakfast each morning included many choices. The hotel offers a sustainable travel program. Guests receive a free drink for deferring room cleaning.

I found the parking very limited. Securing a space was sometimes difficult.

Rooms

9/10

The room size was fabulous. The bed was comfortable. The room offered quiet and relaxing atmosphere. A dog-free dining area provided a welcome option for some guests.

Location

10/10

The hotel faces the lake, with a base point for pier access. The hotel is near multiple bus stops. The hotel is close to the lake cruises. The hotel offers convenient access to other areas in the lake district.

Service

9/10

The staff are friendly and helpful. They offer advice on hiking locations. The breakfast service provided good quality food. The hotel features wheelchair access. The hotel offers very good wheelchair user accommodation.

0 Helpful

Jennifer from United Kingdom

Couple

Superior Double or Twin Room View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 29, 2025

9.0/10

Lakeside Bliss

lake viewdelicious breakfastattentive staff

Our room had fine views of the lake. The breakfast included many choices. I found the staff attentive.

The traffic noise was slightly noticeable due to the hotel's location between two roads.

Service

9/10

The team members were polite and helpful when addressing our inquiries. The responsiveness and attentiveness were amazing. Their dedication ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Rooms

9/10

The provided room included modern amenities and a spacious layout. Everything was clean. The bathroom was well-equipped. The ample space allowed easy movement and relaxation .

Facilities

9/10

The hotel has direct access to the lakeside. This provides beautiful views. A bus stop located across the road provided convenient transport to nearby areas. Taxis from a local company are available at reception.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast provided a hot selection. A continental breakfast was available. The restaurant offered dinner. The food was delicious.

0 Helpful

Mia from United Kingdom

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 24, 2025

8.5/10

Wonderful Stay!

spacious roomgorgeous viewdog-friendly atmosphere

The room had really good features. It was spacious. The gorgeous view added to the appeal. Our dogs were treated very well there.

The parking situation was a bit restricted, though there was a public car park nearby!

Dining

9/10

The restaurant offered high-quality food. The interior was very modern. I noticed a great selection of beer taps.

Rooms

8/10

The hot shower was lovely and powerful. I appreciated the good size of the room. The refresh of the hotel was noticeable.

0 Helpful

joseph from united kingdom

Single

classic double or twin room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 19, 2025

6/10

leaky shower headunreplenished toiletries

the shower head sprayed water all over the bathroom floor because it wasn't properly sealed. it made it difficult to shower without flooding the area.. i also noticed that the complimentary toiletries were not replenished daily. we ran out of shampoo on the second day and had to request more from the front desk. it was like a small oversight, but it was still disappointing.

0 Helpful

Joshua from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

4 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 23, 2025

9/10

spacious bedroomhelpful stafffriendly staff

i found parking easy. the bedroom and bathroom were quite spacious. the staff were very helpful and friendly.

0 Helpful

FAQs

About The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group

What is the distance from the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group to Ambleside city centre?

Ambleside city centre is reachable within a 10-minute walk from the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group.

Can I leave my car in the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group parking lot for free?

Yes, the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group provides parking spaces for free.

At what time can I check-in at the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?

At the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group, you can check in from 15:00 till 23:00.

At what time can I check-out at the hotel?

You can check out of the hotel from 07:00 till 10:00.

What are the booking prices at the Ambleside hotel?

The prices at the Ambleside hotel start from £125.

What payment methods are available in the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?

At the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group, guests can pay using Visa, American Express, and Solo as well as other payment methods.

What kinds of rooms does the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group offer?

The The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group offers such room types as Family Room, Superior Room, and Double Room.

Which facilities are provided in the hotel?

Top locations of the hotel include a restaurant, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with a safety deposit box.