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

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group

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From$271 /night
Check-in
02Sept
Check-out
03Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
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

4-star lakeside inn with complimentary gin and tonic on arrival and a location directly on the shores of Lake Windermere

Location & Scenic Grounds

The Waterhead Inn sits directly opposite the shore of Lake Windermere, offering guests lake views from the restaurant and a terrace seating area that looks out over the water. The hotel is a 20-minute walk through Borrans Park into Ambleside Town Centre, and the pier for Windermere Lake Cruises is located right outside the property. Wray Castle, Zip World at Brockhole, and Windermere town are reachable within a 10-minute drive from the hotel.

Room Options & Accommodations

Rooms include family rooms, superior double or twin rooms with lake views, and double rooms that overlook the lake from double windows. Certain rooms offer a balcony for viewing the lake, and others are located in a separate Lakehouse building across the road from the main hotel. A lift is available to access rooms on the first floor, and all rooms are non-smoking.

Dining & On-Site Bar

The on-site bar and grill serves British pub classics and seasonal game specials, such as venison fettuccine and lamb and potato hotpot, using locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is cooked to order and includes a choice of hot items, cereals, fruits, yoghurts, and muffins. A complimentary gin and tonic is offered to each guest upon arrival.

Pet-Friendly Policies

Dogs are allowed in designated dog-friendly rooms and can accompany their owners in the bar and restaurant areas during meals. The hotel charges £15 per night per dog, and dogs receive a treat on arrival and a sausage at breakfast. Guests who book a standard room will be seated in a designated section of the restaurant if they do not have a dog.

Family Facilities & Nearby Activities

Children can access a kids' menu in the restaurant. The hotel is located near hiking and cycling routes, and the Lake Windermere ferry stop allows guests to take a boat to Bowness. Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the public car park next door offers paid 24-hour parking for £8.50.

Highlights

Location: Directly opposite Lake Windermere, 20-min walk to Ambleside town centre

Rooms: Lake-view rooms with double windows or balconies

Dining: British pub classics with seasonal game specials

Pet Policy: Dogs welcome in rooms, bar, and restaurant for £15 per night

Offer: Complimentary gin and tonic on arrival

Nearby: 10-minute drive to Wray Castle, Zip World, Windermere town

“This Ambleside inn strikes me as an ideal base for exploring the Lake District, especially with pets. I was particularly drawn to the sounds of its locally-sourced menu and authentic ales after a long day of walking. The practical comforts, like free parking and that welcome gin and tonic, also make a strong impression.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Dogfriendly-hotels

Select your room type

The hotel provides many room choices—family rooms, doubles, and pet-friendly suites—with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
  • Classic Double or Twin Room
    2 persons
    26 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    23 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Classic Double or Twin Room View
    2 persons
    26 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

Rates & availability calendar

See current prices and availability for your chosen dates!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Hotels feature amenities designed to keep both you and your pet comfortable
Facilities: Great
8.3/10Review 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
Show more

Dining Onsite

Dine in comfort at The Waterhead Inn, where local flavors take center stage. From hearty breakfasts to delectable evening meals, the onsite options showcase the rich culinary heritage of British cuisine. Gather for a warm, inviting experience that embodies both authenticity and indulgence.
  • Bar & Grill

    British, Local, Grill/BBQ
    Ambiance
    A stylish setting infused with lakeside charm, the Bar & Grill offers both cozy indoor seating and inviting outdoor areas to relax and savor meals.
    Key Offerings
    A delightful menu featuring dishes like braised blade of beef with horseradish mash, herb-crusted hake paired with a chorizo and butterbean broth, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual dining or special occasions.
    Reservation
    Not needed.
    Open daily from 07:30 to 21:00.

Location

Lake Road, Ambleside, LA22 0ER
Explore Ambleside
Explore Ambleside
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Wray Castle
Wray Castle
25 minutes' walk
A stunning Victorian castle by the shores of Lake Windermere, featuring picturesque grounds and family-friendly activities.
Brockhole on Windermere
Brockhole on Windermere
25 minutes' walk
An outdoor adventure center with gardens, water sports, and a café. Great for families and offers stunning lakeside views.
Jenkin Crag
Jenkin Crag
11 minutes' walk
A popular viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Windermere and the surrounding mountains; perfect for photography.
Stock Ghyll Force
Stock Ghyll Force
30 minutes' walk
A picturesque waterfall nestled in the woods, providing a tranquil escape and a beautiful walking route for nature lovers.
Ambleside Climbing Wall
Ambleside Climbing Wall
10 minutes' walk
An indoor climbing venue suitable for all skill levels, offering lessons and rentals. Great for those seeking a thrilling workout.
Moss Eccles Tarn
Moss Eccles Tarn
15 minutes' walk
A serene tarn ideal for relaxation, walking, and picnicking, surrounded by lush woodlands and stunning scenery.
Local Markets
10 minutes' walk
Seasonal markets in Ambleside offer fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies. Perfect for cultural immersion and shopping.
Four Seasons Terrace Cafe
16 minutes' walk
A cozy cafe overlooking the gardens at Hayes Garden World, serving seasonal dishes and homemade cakes. Vegetarian options available.
Fellinis Cinema
15 minutes' walk
A unique eatery and indie cinema serving vegetarian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for movie lovers and foodies alike.
Old Courthouse Gallery
Old Courthouse Gallery
15 minutes' walk
Features local artwork and hosts exhibitions. An inspiring place for art lovers, with changing displays throughout the year.
Fellinis Cinema
15 minutes' walk
Offers not just films but also a vibrant dining scene. Enjoy weekly events including themed movie nights and discussions.
Local transport and travel tips
  • 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
Want access to early-bird pet-friendly hotel deals?
Access exclusive discounts today!
Check Rates
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 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:
43
Former name
Waterhead

Reviews and Ratings

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
The Waterhead Inn is favored for its location right by the lake, providing guests with stunning views and easy access to lovely walks. The breakfast receives high praise for its delicious options and fresh preparation, and the on-site restaurant is appreciated. While some guests have mentioned that the rooms can get warm, many find the bedrooms gorgeous, spacious and clean.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 916 verified reviews
8.4 /10
Great
87 %
Recommend
Location
9.4/10
Staff
8.7/10
Free WiFi
7.8/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Lakeside location
Clean rooms
Helpful staff
Excellent food
Cons
Slow breakfast service
Cold breakfast plates
Dog-friendly bar
Flat beer
Guest reviews
based on 916 reviews
8.4/10
based on 2010 reviews
8.2/10
David from United Kingdom
Single
Classic Double or Twin Room
3 nights in December 2025
|
Reviewed: March 01, 2026
9/10
spacious room hotel location amazing breakfast
THE room was spacious and clean. The hotel location is great. The breakfast was amazing , it included many choices.
i was charged more than expected for a coffee.
0 Helpful
Thomas from United Kingdom
Couple
Classic Double or Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 16, 2026
9.0/10

a return visit delight

friendly staff lovely setup filling breakfast
the staff greeted us in a friendly manner.. isabelle was especially polite. she. the room provided a lovely setup with a lake view from room 7. the bathroom was spacious and clean, equipped with a fabulous sized shower. a comfortable night was followed by a fresh and filling breakfast.
Rooms
8/10
the spacious bedroom included a comfortable bed alongside useful amenities. a carrier bag with opened crisps from a previous guest was found in one drawer, indicating a need for closer inspection during cleaning.
Location
9/10
the location offers an unobstructed view of the lake, visible from both indoor and outdoor bar and dining areas. moored sailboats add to the scenic views. it provided a short walk into the town.
Facilities
10/10
breakfast offered many choices. the communal areas are beautifully decorated, offering comfortable seating. i noticed the staff was friendly throughout the inn.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
William from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 10, 2026
9.3/10

Excellent Stay, Great Location

easy parking spacious bedroom delicious food
The hotel offers easy parking behind the building. My room included a spacious bedroom and bathroom, both very clean. The staff was friendly and helpful throughout my stay. Breakfast provided many choices and the food tasted delicious.
Location
9/10
The hotel sits directly on the shore of the lake. I walked easily into the town center. The location offers convenient access to both natural scenery and local amenities.
Service
10/10
The staff was polite and accommodating. They greeted me warmly upon arrival. They addressed every request I made promptly. I felt very welcome throughout my stay.
Rooms
9/10
The room was quite spacious. It came equipped with comfortable furniture. The bathroom was clean and well-kept. I found everything I needed for a comfortable visit.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast included various fresh options. The hot buffet was constantly replenished. I enjoyed the high-quality ingredients. The dining area was clean and inviting.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Hugh from United Kingdom
Couple
Classic Double or Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 28, 2025
9.5/10

fantastic stay!

comfy bed spacious room hot egg
the beds were super comfy and the rooms were surprisingly spacious! breakfast had such a great selection, i especially loved the hot scrambled eggs, they cooked them just how i like. checking in was quick and easy too! i got complimentary drinks for opting out of daily cleaning, such a bonus!
parking felt a little tight, i had to maneuver quite a bit to get my car into a space.
Service
10/10
The staff was great, the service was excellent. it was really good. The welcome drink was lovely! the complimentary drinks was a treat and the team worked so hard!
Location
9/10
The location is great. It is near the town centre! the hotel is also situated near a lake, providing great views! it also near lake cruises, so convenient for short excursions.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Thomas from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 18, 2025
5/10

average stay with some issues

long queue difficult entrance
the location was superb..
Check-in lacked convenience, as i waited a full hour. long queues at the bar doubled as the reception. senior citizens, like myself, were placed on the third floor with stairs. It took us 30 minutes to locate the room, and no one offered assistance. the entrance to the room was difficult to access
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:30.
How far is The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group from Windermere?
The hotel is 1 km from Windermere.
What parking options are available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Free private parking is available on-site, subject to availability.
Is there an on-site restaurant at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group has an on-site bar and grill offering British pub classics.
What activities can guests enjoy at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Guests can enjoy hiking, cycling, canoeing, and fishing.
Is breakfast available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 15 GBP.
What amenities are available in the rooms at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and an electric kettle.
Which restaurants are close to The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Nearby restaurants include The Pier Cafe Bar, Rothay Manor Restaurant, and Ambleside Fish and Chips, all within 4 km.
What are the key highlights of The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Highlights include free parking, a relaxing garden bar, and beautiful views of the lake.
Is there a fitness center at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
The hotel includes a fitness studio for guests to use.

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