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

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From125US$ /night
Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select 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
8.6
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

Location

The Waterhead Inn is positioned directly opposite Waterhead Pier and a short walk from Ambleside town center. It provides convenient access to the scenic majesty of the Lake District National Park. Excellent public transport options are available from the front door, allowing guests to explore local attractions without a car.

Dining

Dining options at The Waterhead Inn include a menu filled with freshly prepared Cumbrian and British pub classics. Daily changing specials highlight local seasonal ingredients, allowing guests to enjoy authentic flavors. Breakfast is served daily from 7:30 am to 11:00 am, offering hearty portions while taking in stunning lake views.

Rooms

The hotel features a variety of room types, including cozy double and spacious family rooms designed for comfort. Many rooms at The Waterhead Inn offer picturesque views over the lake. A selection of dog-friendly rooms is available, welcoming four-legged companions to join their owners.

Activities

Guests can partake in numerous outdoor activities, from hiking in the surrounding hills to leisurely strolls around Windermere, the UK's largest lake. Ancillary local attractions include Wray Castle and Rydal Mount, both offering rich cultural insights. The inn serves as a launch point for numerous adventures across the Lake District.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

The Waterhead Inn accommodates dogs in specific rooms, ensuring that guests do not have to leave their pets behind. The location provides ample outdoor space for walks and activities with four-legged friends. It emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and their pets.

Highlights

Location: Directly opposite Waterhead Pier .

Dining: Freshly prepared Cumbrian and British pub classics .

Activities: Hiking and cultural attractions .

Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly rooms 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
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Facilities

Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review 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
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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 Airport (CAX)115 min  ·  47.5 mi
Blackpool International Airport (BLK)158 min  ·  65.2 mi
Bus
Bus stop14 min  ·  3700 ft
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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:
43
Former name
Waterhead

Reviews and Ratings

Real comments from travelers who have already stayed
Review score
Based on 891 verified reviews
8.4/10
Great
87%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.1/10
Cleanliness
8.8/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.7/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Staff
8.9/10
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 1643 reviews
8.3/10
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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FAQs
About The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group
What is the distance from The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group to Windermere?
The hotel is located 1 km from Windermere.
How far is The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group from Ambleside Town Centre?
Ambleside Town Centre is approximately a 5-minute stroll from the hotel.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Check-in begins at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
Is parking available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Private parking is available on-site free of charge, subject to availability.
What dining options are offered at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar serving locally sourced meals and refreshments.
Which popular attractions are near The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Nearby attractions include Wray Castle (3 km) and Brockhole on Windermere (2 km).
What amenities are available in the rooms at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and climate control.
Does The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group offer breakfast?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of £15.
Are there facilities for fitness at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group?
Guests have access to a fitness studio at the hotel.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room