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The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Exterior photoThe Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Room photoThe Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Beach photo

THE WATERHEAD INN, AMBLESIDE- THE INN COLLECTION GROUP, Ambleside

•
8.2|Great
Check rooms and rates
From$125 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
02Nov
Check-out
03Nov
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

Lake Road, Ambleside, LA22 0ER
-
Next to Lake Windermere
Great
8.2
8.7
/10
5.0
4.5
/5

Lakeside inn with dog-friendly policy and complimentary gin and tonic on arrival

Accommodation & Comfort

The Waterhead Inn offers 43 rooms with private bathrooms, allergy-free options, and key card access. Rooms include heating and non-smoking throughout, with daily housekeeping maintaining high cleanliness standards. Select rooms provide views of Lake Windermere and are located in the Lakehouse building, accessible via lift.

Dining & Bar

On-site bar and grill serves British pub classics using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy outdoor dining on the terrace with scenic lake views. A complimentary breakfast is offered each morning, with diverse options including cooked-to-order dishes.

Pet-Friendly Features

The hotel welcomes dogs in designated rooms and provides dog-friendly amenities such as treats and doggy sausages at breakfast. Staff members show attention to four-legged guests, making them feel included. This policy allows pet owners to bring their dogs without extra restrictions.

Location & Activities

The inn sits directly across from Lake Windermere, with a pier for boat trips to Bowness. Wray Castle, Zip World at Brockhole, and Windermere are a 10-minute drive away. Ambleside town centre is a short stroll, and the hotel is surrounded by walking and cycling routes in the Lake District.

Guest Services & Extras

Complimentary gin and tonic is offered upon arrival for each guest. Free on-site parking is available subject to availability, with a public car park nearby as backup. The hotel also offers a sustainable travel program: guests who defer room cleaning receive a free drink.

Highlights

Location: Right on Lake Windermere, next to pier for boat trips

Rooms: Lakehouse rooms with lake views, dog-friendly options

Dining: Seasonal locally sourced menu, British pub classics, outdoor terrace

Pet policy: Full dog welcome including breakfast sausages and treats

Extras: Complimentary gin and tonic on arrival, free parking, sustainable travel drink program

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.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
  • Twin Room
    2 persons
    26 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    23 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Room a View
    2 persons
    26 m²
    1 Queen-size bed / 2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.2/10Review 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

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
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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
The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Restaurant photo
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, LA22 0ER
Map view
Nearby
Jenkin Crag
880 m
Loughrigg
High Close Estate
2.94 km
The Hollens
The National Trust
810 m
Cylinders Langdale
Merz Barn
1.08 km
Church
St Mary's Church
1.18 km
Restaurants
Table 22 Restaurant
3.48 km
Waterhead Bay Regent Hotel
Four Seasons Terrace Cafe Hayes Garden World
1.26 km
Lake Road Ambleside
Explore Ambleside
Local Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Jenkin Crag
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
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
Wray Castle
25 minutes walking
An impressive Victorian castle with picturesque grounds, offering guided tours and seasonal events.
Stock Ghyll Force
Stock Ghyll Force
30 minutes walking
A spectacular 70-foot waterfall surrounded by lush scenery, perfect for nature walks and photography.
Ambleside Climbing Wall
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
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
    Ambleside 11 min  ·  900 m
  • Airports
    Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 115 min  ·  76.4 km
    Blackpool International (BLK) 158 min  ·  104.9 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 14 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
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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:
38
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
Powered by AI
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 7 verified reviews
8.3 /10
Great
100%
Recommend
Location
9.4/10
Staff
8.7/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.0/10
Pros
Lake Windermere location
Comfortable beds
Helpful staff
Cons
Noisy gas machine
Understaffed restaurant
Guest reviews
based on 7 reviews
8.3/10
based on 1947 reviews
8.2/10
Isabel from Spain
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 24, 2025
7/10

decent stay at lakeside hotel

excellent breakfast pleasant staff cold shower extra charge
the breakfast was excellent. the evening meal was also lovely. the staff were pleasant. a well-stocked welcome tea tray was available.
we were charged extra for a pet friendly room. there was nothing extra provided like dog bowls. the shower was cold on both days.
0 Helpful
Theodore from United States
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 30, 2026
9/10

really good stay!

wide choice quality 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 staff clean ground lake 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
|
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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 view delicious breakfast attentive 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
|
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Mia from United Kingdom
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 24, 2025
8.5/10

Wonderful Stay!

spacious room gorgeous view dog-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
|
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joseph from united kingdom
Single
classic double or twin room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 19, 2025
6/10
leaky shower head unreplenished 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 2026
|
Reviewed: September 23, 2025
9/10
spacious bedroom helpful staff friendly 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 check-in and check-out time at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
How far is The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group from Ambleside Town Centre?
The hotel is located just a short stroll from Ambleside Town Centre.
Is parking available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Free private parking is available on-site, subject to availability.
What dining options are available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant and a bar/lounge area for guests.
What are the nearby attractions to The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Nearby attractions include Wray Castle (approximately 5 km) and Brockhole on Windermere (approximately 2 km).
What room amenities can guests expect at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and climate control.
Does The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group offer breakfast?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 15 GBP.

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