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

Welcome to The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group – Ambleside

Save money—book now
up to 10%
lower than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From125US$ /night
Check-in
26Apr2026Select date
Check-out
27Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
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
/5

Location

The Waterhead Inn is situated opposite Waterhead Pier and a short walk from Ambleside centre. This location serves as a gateway to exploring the Lake District, renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and walking trails. Excellent public transport options from the hotel make it convenient to access major attractions without a vehicle.

Dining

The Waterhead Inn offers a menu of home-cooked Cumbrian and British pub classics. Guests can enjoy a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Breakfast is available daily from 7:30 am to 11:00 am, providing hearty options with panoramic views over the lake.

Rooms

Accommodations at The Waterhead Inn include double and twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms, providing various options for guests. Superior rooms feature stunning views of the lake and spacious layouts designed for comfort. Family rooms with sofa beds are also available, tailored for those traveling with children.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

The Waterhead Inn offers pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring that guests can bring their dogs along during their stay. The warm atmosphere welcomes four-legged friends, removing the stress of leaving pets behind. This amenity expands the options for outdoor exploration in the scenic Lake District.

Activities and Attractions

Guests at The Waterhead Inn can explore the surrounding Lake District, famous for its hiking trails and picturesque landscapes. Popular attractions include Wray Castle and Rydal Mount and Gardens, both a short drive away. The layout surrounding the inn supports various outdoor activities, enhancing the experience for nature lovers.

Highlights

Location: Opposite Waterhead Pier, walking distance to Ambleside centre

Dining: Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients

Rooms: Superior rooms offering lake views

Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly accommodations available

Must-do experiences

  • Hike up to Loughrigg Fell for stunning views of the lakes.
  • Savor a traditional Cumberland sausage at The Stockghyll.
  • Visit the Armitt Museum for local art and history insights.
  • Take a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere for serene lake views.
  • Explore the charming shops at Ambleside's local market on weekends.
View all

Select your room type

Choose from doubles, suites, or family rooms, many with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and promotional rates
Classic Double or Twin Room
2 persons
280 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Classic Double or Twin Room View
2 persons
280 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Double or Twin Room View
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
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
Show more

Dining Onsite

The Waterhead Inn offers a delightful blend of British and local cuisine in a charming setting, perfect for those seeking a true taste of the region. From hearty breakfasts to elegant dinner offerings, guests can indulge in a variety of comforting dishes with an authentic twist.
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
Set in a historic dining area adorned with an eclectic mix of Lakes memorabilia, the Bar & Grill combines a vibrant atmosphere with a stylish brasserie feel.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include braised blade of beef with horseradish mash and herb-crusted hake with chorizo and butterbean broth, served within an inviting setting that welcomes pets with complimentary dog treats.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 07:30 to 21:00.

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
Nearby
Jenkin Crag
2900 ft
Loughrigg
High Close Estate
1.8 mi
The Hollens
The National Trust
2700 ft
Cylinders Langdale
Merz Barn
3600 ft
Church
St Mary's Church
3900 ft
Restaurants
Table 22 Restaurant
2.2 mi
Waterhead Bay Regent Hotel
Four Seasons Terrace Cafe Hayes Garden World
4200 ft
Lake Road Ambleside
Explore Ambleside
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Wray Castle
Wray Castle
25 minutes walking
A stunning mock-Gothic castle on the shores of Windermere, offering guided tours and lovely grounds for picnics.
Brockhole on Windermere
Brockhole on Windermere
25 minutes walking
An engaging visitor center with gardens, outdoor activities, and boat rentals right by the lake.
Jenkin Crag
Jenkin Crag
11 minutes walking
A popular viewpoint on the way to the lake, ideal for panoramic views and a short hike.
Bridge House
Bridge House
25 minutes walking
An iconic 17th-century house perched over a river, representing local architecture and heritage.
Hiking at Jenkin Crag
11 minutes walking
Enjoy exhilarating hikes with stunning views of Lake Windermere. Perfect for all experience levels.
Kayaking on Windermere
25 minutes walking
Kayak rentals available at nearby locations for a fun day out on the water. Great for thrill-seekers.
Yoga at Rydal Hall Gardens
35 minutes walking
Relax with outdoor yoga classes set within tranquil gardens. Check seasonal schedules for classes.
Four Seasons Terrace Cafe Hayes Garden World
Four Seasons Terrace Cafe Hayes Garden World
16 minutes walking
A delightful cafe offering baked goods and light meals in a charming garden setting.
Fellinis Cinema
15 minutes walking
A unique cinema serving delicious vegetarian dishes, combined with a cozy movie experience.
Table 22 Restaurant
Table 22 Restaurant
40 minutes walking
Contemporary dishes made with local ingredients in an elegant setting. Reservations recommended.
Fellinis Cinema
15 minutes walking
Enjoy first-run films and unique vegetarian cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a night out.
Ambleside Climbing Wall
10 minutes walking
An indoor climbing wall suitable for all levels, with classes and open climbing sessions available.
Getting around
City Centre
Ambleside11 min  ·  3000 ft
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX)115 min  ·  47.5 mi
Blackpool International (BLK)158 min  ·  65.2 mi
Bus
Bus stop14 min  ·  3700 ft
Looking for special rates when booking early?
Explore them with us!
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 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

Real comments from travelers who have already stayed
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Waterhead Inn is often described as a lovely hotel in a stunning location right on the edge of Lake Windermere, offering spectacular views and easy access to Ambleside town center. Rooms are frequently praised for being big, clean, and well-equipped, with comfortable beds, though some guests have noted that the parking area can feel a little tight. Guests appreciate the varied and decent quality breakfast, as well as the availability of car parking on site.
Show moreShow less
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
Great location
Clean rooms
On-site bar
Friendly staff
Good breakfast
Cons
Overpriced meals
Limited options
Poor continental
Disappointing dinner
Guest reviews
based on 897 reviews
8.4/10
based on 1763 reviews
8.3/10
Stella from United States
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 13, 2026
6/10

Acceptable location, some disappointments

convenient locationslow breakfastroad noise
The location was great, a feature I found convenient for accessing nearby areas.
I was disappointed with the breakfast. It took an excessively long time to arrive one morning. The staff said a chef was ill, but such situations should be anticipated in a hotel. Our room had noticeable noise from the adjacent road, which impacted sleep quality.
0 Helpful
Basil from Greece
Single
Classic Double or Twin Room View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 07, 2026
9/10
cordial staffvegetarian option
the staff was so helpful and cordial. the breakfast was fine and had vegetarian options that suited me well.
the choice of pillows were not great at all.
0 Helpful
Molly from United Kingdom
Couple
Superior Double or Twin Room View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 02, 2026
9.7/10

lovely lake views

great sizegood bathroomhelpful stafftight parking
the rooms had a great size. the bathroom offered very good shower facilities. staff members were friendly and helpful to all guests.
parking felt very tight. i worry about larger vehicles needing space.
Location
10/10
the location is very nice on the shore of lake windermere. open views across to the langdales are visible. it is a short walk to the centre of town.
Facilities
9/10
the restaurant and bar look quite new. they also look beautiful, with comfortable furnishings. i saw that rooms on the water side get a beautiful view.
Service
10/10
the staff always acted great. they seemed helpful when checking guests in. their service also extended to the bar and during breakfast.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Willie from United States
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:November 18, 2025
9/10
spacious roomcomfortable roomhelpful staff
the location was great. our room was a spacious double room.. it was very comfortable. the staff were friendly and helpful during breakfast.
parking felt a little tight.
0 Helpful
Harper from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
2 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:September 25, 2025
9.0/10

relaxing stay near the lake

comfortable bedgood showeramazing locationhelpful staff
I liked the room. It had a comfortable bed and very good shower. the location felt amazing. staff were lovely and so helpful. breakfast offered many tasty choices.
The hotel lacks a dedicated reception area. Interactions happened at the bar, and this felt little inconvenient.
Rooms
9/10
the room included a comfortable double bed. a shower with good water pressure. towels felt new and were fluffy. climate control worked well, maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Service
9/10
Staff members were helpful and friendly . the breakfast service was efficient, with a variety of choices available. requests received prompt attention. It felt really good.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Theodore from United States
Couple
Classic Double or Twin Room View
4 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:September 07, 2025
9.5/10

a lovely stay it has been

cute barlovely decorationspacious roomgood breakfast
i found a cute bar area, lovely decorated. tables are plentiful. breakfast was a delight with spacious rooms. bathrooms felt nice. the location felt fantastic. our room was comfortable and well appointed. the restaurant and bar were lovely. breakfast selection was fantastic. they made it to order also.
Facilities
9/10
the inn has a hide-away car park, very helpful. staff members were excellent and friendly, so cute. the entire area felt very clean throughout. they welcome dogs if needed, such a bonus.
Rooms
10/10
i see very large rooms with a balcony. staff interacted well with all customers. our room was very clean and roomy, so comfortable.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
FAQs
About The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group
How far is The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group from the city centre?
Ambleside city centre is reachable within a 10-minute walk from The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group.
Does the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group have a car parking on site?
Yes, the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group features parking on site.
What is the earliest I can check-in at The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?
At The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group, you can check in from 15:00 till 23:00 on the day of arrival.
What is the earliest and the latest I can check-out at the Ambleside hotel?
At the Ambleside hotel, you can check out from 07:00 till 10:00.
How much does it cost to stay at the hotel?
The price for a room in the hotel starts at £125.
What payment methods are available in The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?
At The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group, you can pay using American Express, Visa, and Maestro.
What are the room types offered by the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?
Superior Room, Family Room, and Classic Queen Room are among the room types available at the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group.
Which facilities are available in the hotel?
Top locations of the hotel include a restaurant, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with a safety deposit box.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
26Apr2026Select date
Check-out
27Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room