Badger Bar Bed & Breakfast Ambleside Exterior photoBadger Bar Bed & Breakfast Ambleside Exterior photoBadger Bar Bed & Breakfast Ambleside Exterior photo

Badger Bar, Ambleside

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From$142 /night
Check-in
02Sept
Check-out
03Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Glen Rothay, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, Ambleside
-
Near Rydal Cave
Great
8.9
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

3-star historic inn with nightly badger feeding

Amenities

Badger Bar offers log fires and a selection of locally brewed ales, with at least four available at any time. Dining options include a wide range of homemade dishes using locally sourced ingredients, served in a cozy oak-panelled area. Outdoor spaces include two large beer gardens, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Rooms

The hotel features a variety of room options, including family rooms equipped with comfortable seating and scenic views. Special rooms like the Rothay room and Woodland room provide extra space for families, while some rooms allow for dogs accompanied by guests. Each room is designed to reflect the historic charm of the inn, with modern amenities still available.

Location

Located just over a mile from Ambleside and steps away from Rydal Water, the hotel is surrounded by walking paths suitable for all skill levels. The grounds also offer a unique experience with nightly badger feeding, attracting wildlife enthusiasts. Nearby attractions include Grasmere, known for its picturesque landscapes and connections to poet William Wordsworth.

Dining

Dining at Badger Bar encompasses a variety of traditional pub meals such as fish and chips, homemade pies, and seasonal dishes. The inn serves a hearty Cumberland breakfast each morning to set guests up for their day. Local meats and products feature prominently on the menu, ensuring quality at every meal.

Pet-Friendly Policies

Dog-friendly rooms are available, allowing pets to stay in the Woodland and other selected rooms at a nominal fee. Dogs are welcome in most public spaces, ensuring that the entire family, including pets, can enjoy their stay. The surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for outdoor exploration with pets.

Highlights

Location: Just over a mile from Ambleside

Dining: Homemade traditional meals

Badger feeding: Nightly at dusk

Rooms: Family-friendly options available

Must-do experiences

  • Hike up to Loughrigg Fell for stunning lakeside views.
  • Try the Grasmere Gingerbread at Sarah Nelson's shop.
  • Visit the Armitt Museum for local history and art exhibits.
  • Stroll through Ambleside Market on Thursdays for unique crafts.
  • Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Windermere with beautiful scenery.

Select your room type

Badger Bar offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    18 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Large Double Room
    2 persons
    30 sq. feet
    1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Double Room Woodland View
    2 persons
    18 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Badger Bar offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Badger Bar, guests are invited to indulge in hearty British fare within a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere. Locally inspired dishes, complemented by the warmth of open fires, ensure a cozy dining experience after a day exploring the stunning Lake District.
  • Badger Bar

    British pub food
    Ambiance
    Cozy and family-friendly setting with open fires
    Key Offerings
    Signature dishes include huge fish and chips, flavorful curries, and a traditional full English breakfast featuring scrambled eggs with smoked salmon. A wide range of classic pub favorites ensures satisfaction for everyone.
    Reservation
    Not needed
    Dinner served Tuesday to Sunday from 17:30 to 19:30; breakfast and lunch are available at other times.

Badger Bar Location

Glen Rothay, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, Ambleside
Explore Ambleside
Explore Glen Rothay
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
National Trust Dora's Field
5 minutes' walk
A tranquil area with beautiful flower meadows, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Ideal for nature lovers year-round.
Rydal Cave
Rydal Cave
14 minutes walking
Impressive limestone cave with stunning views. Great for exploration and photography, especially during sunny weather.
Dove Cottage
Dove Cottage
25 minutes walking
The former home of poet William Wordsworth, showcasing literary history and beautiful gardens. Guided tours available.
Lake Grasmere
Lake Grasmere
5 minutes' drive
Picturesque lake surrounded by hills, ideal for various water activities. A great place for scenic picnics and walks.
Hiking Nab Scar
15 minutes walking
Challenging hike with rewarding views over Rydal Water. Perfect for adventure seekers looking for an outdoor thrill.
Yoga at High Close Estate
30 minutes walking
Relaxing yoga sessions offered in serene settings. Ideal for wellness enthusiasts seeking tranquility in nature.
Fellinis Cinema
25 minutes walking
Unique dining experience inside a cinema, serving delightful dishes. Great for casual family dinners or movie nights.
Rydal River Cafe
15 minutes' drive
Charming cafe offering local specialties and homemade cakes. Quaint atmosphere with outdoor seating available.
Ambleside Roman Fort
Ambleside Roman Fort
30 minutes walking
Historical ruins with fascinating displays. Family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor activity options for all ages.
Bridge House
Bridge House
25 minutes walking
Iconic 17th-century house over a river, great for photography. Events often held for cultural engagement and local history.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Ambleside 30 min  ·  1.6 mi
  • Airports
    Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 115 min  ·  47.6 mi
    Blackpool International (BLK) 163 min  ·  67.4 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 28 min  ·  1.4 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:30
Check-out
from 10:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
14
Former name
glen rothay

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Badger Bar from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 375 verified reviews
8.8 /10
Great
91 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.8/10
Free WiFi
8.2/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Guest reviews
based on 375 reviews
8.8/10
based on 738 reviews
8.9/10
Jade from Australia
Couple
Large Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 16, 2026
9.0/10

a sweet retreat

historical building easy location spacious room
i adored the historical building, it was like stepping back in time. the location was so easy to access walking trails. the woodland room was very spacious, it even accommodated my deerhound, such a blessing!
the wifi wasn't the strongest, a bit tricky for planning our daily adventures.
Location
9/10
The hotel offers proximity to walking trails directly outside the door. This made exploring very easy. its central location is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the natural beauty. the accessibility was a standout feature.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast included wide range of textures and tastes, perfect. i found the veggie sausages to be glamorgan. It was such a unique local touch. the quality felt excellent, it really set the tone for our days.
Service
10/10
the staff welcomed us so warmly, it was like coming home! they gave us tips for exploring the local area, helpful. everyone looked after us and made sure we had a laugh with them.
Facilities
8/10
the modern bathroom in the woodland room included a hot shower, a welcome amenity. free onsite parking was also available, a real plus arriving by car. log burners alight throughout the building kept us toasty warm.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Hannah from United Kingdom
Family with children
superior family room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 20, 2025
9.3/10

wonderful accommodation near the lakes

ample space modern bathroom friendly staff
the family room provided ample space we also enjoyed the modern bathroom it included excellent tea and coffee supplies. dinner and breakfast were excellent with high quality ingredients i appreciated the friendly staff and the convenient location for walks.
the water pressure in the shower was very poor it made showering difficult after a long walk i hope this is rectified .
Location
9/10
the hotel is centrally located and offers easy access to walking trails right outside the door free onsite parking is a definite advantage. the proximity to nearby villages allows for short drives to explore local attractions.
Rooms
9/10
our room included a lovely terrace and ample space for three adults the modern bathroom featured excellent facilities the tea and coffee supplies were also very appreciated. the room was clean and well-kept.
Dining
10/10
dinner in the badger bar was enjoyable breakfast offered a very good range of choices all freshly cooked. the cumbrian breakfast was excellent it included high-quality ingredients that kept me full all day.
Facilities
9/10
the outdoor space for drinks provided a relaxing setting the staff were very lovely attentive efficient and friendly. seeing the badgers in the evening was a unique highlight it added to a fitting stay.
0 Helpful
|
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Camila from Brazil
Single
Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 04, 2025
6/10
funky smell stopped water
the room smelled funky and i thought it may be the old furnishings. during a shower, the water stopped and delayed my evening plans.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Badger Bar
What are the check-in and check-out times at Badger Bar?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Badger Bar from Carlisle Lake District Airport?
The hotel is 80 km from Carlisle Lake District Airport.
Is there parking available at Badger Bar?
Complimentary private parking is available on-site.
What types of food does the on-site restaurant at Badger Bar serve?
The on-site restaurant offers a range of classic pub food, including fish and chips, curries, and burgers.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Badger Bar?
Rooms feature a private bathroom, a digital TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
What breakfast options does Badger Bar provide?
A traditional full English breakfast and options like scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and porridge are available.
What attractions are near Badger Bar?
Nearby attractions include Rydal Water, Grasmere, and Lake Windermere.
What local activities are available near Badger Bar?
Guests can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and river cruises along Lake Windermere.
Is there an on-site bar at Badger Bar?
Yes, there is a lounge bar on-site that serves a selection of local ales and whiskies.

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