The Waterhead Inn | Lake Windermere Views * Dog-Friendly

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

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

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Key details

About the Hotel

Lake Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 0ER

Next to Lake Windermere

Great

8.2

8.7

/10

5.0

4.5

3-star lakeside inn in Ambleside

Location

The Waterhead Inn, situated across from Waterhead Pier, offers quick access to Lake Windermere. Guests can easily stroll into Ambleside town center, just a short distance away. Excellent public transport links connect visitors to various attractions throughout the Lake District.

Rooms

The hotel provides a variety of room types, including spacious classic double and twin rooms with lake views. Each room is equipped with an en-suite bathroom and select rooms come with comfortable sofa beds for families. The Lakehouse accommodations feature king-sized beds or two singles, offering versatile options for guests.

Dining

The Waterhead Inn serves a seasonal menu of Cumbrian and British pub classics, emphasizing local ingredients. Guests can enjoy a hearty full Cumbrian breakfast to fuel their day, available from 7:30 am to 11:00 am. For evening meals, dinner service runs from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm, offering a cozy dining experience.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

The Waterhead Inn accommodates pets, allowing guests to bring their dogs to select rooms. This option ensures that four-legged companions do not miss out on the adventure to the Lake District. The friendly staff welcomes pets warmly, making it a comfortable stay for guests traveling with their animals.

Exploration Opportunities

Situated in the scenic Lake District, the hotel is a gateway to various outdoor activities and attractions. Guests can enjoy hiking nearby trails, visiting historical landmarks, or relaxing by the lakes. Family-friendly adventures and local exploration can begin right at the doorstep of The Waterhead Inn.

Highlights

Location: Waterhead Pier across from hotel

Rooms: Lakehouse rooms with en-suite bathrooms

Dining: Seasonal menu with local ingredients

Pet-Friendly: Dog-friendly accommodations

Must-do experiences

Savor freshly-baked scones at The Apple Pie Café by the lake.
Hike up Loughrigg Fell for breathtaking views of Windermere.
Visit the quirky Museum of Lakeland Life for local culture.
Explore Rydal Mount, the former home of poet William Wordsworth.
Don't miss the popular Ambleside Market on Saturdays for local goods.

View all

Select your room type

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Classic Double or Twin Room

2 persons

280 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room

2 persons

250 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Classic Double or Twin Room View

2 persons

280 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Double or Twin Room View

2 persons

305 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Click button to see more rooms

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Facilities

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

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

Dining Onsite

The Waterhead Inn boasts an inviting Bar & Grill that captures the essence of British cuisine with a delightful grill and barbecue twist. Guests can enjoy their meals in a charming historic setting adorned with Lakes memorabilia, creating a cozy atmosphere for both casual and refined dining experiences.

The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group Restaurant photo

Bar & Grill

British, Local, Grill/BBQ

Ambiance

Stylish restaurant featuring an eclectic mix of Lakes memorabilia in a historic dining area.

Key Offerings

Highlights include braised blade of beef with horseradish mash and herb-crusted hake with chorizo and butterbean broth. A breakfast buffet with fresh fruit salad and cooked options such as pancakes, smoked haddock, and a hearty full English breakfast make for a delightful start to the day.

Reservation

Not needed

Open daily from 07:30 to 21:00.

Location

Lake Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 0ER

Map view

Lake Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 0ER

City landmarks

Castle

Wray Castle

1.4 mi

Landmark

Brockhole on Windermere

1.5 mi

Landmark

Jenkin Crag

2900 ft

Bridge

Bridge House

1.4 mi

Landmark

Hayes Garden World Ambleside

4200 ft

Landmark

Stock Ghyll Force

1.6 mi

Gallery

Old Courthouse Gallery

4100 ft

Cinema

Fellinis Cinema

3700 ft

Landmark

Jenkyn's Crag

2400 ft

Landmark

High Close Estate

2500 ft

Landmark

Ambleside Roman Fort

2.0 mi

Landmark

Ambleside Climbing Wall

2500 ft

Garden

Rydal Mount

2.1 mi

Landmark

Church Of St Mary

3900 ft

Landmark

The National Trust

2700 ft

Landmark

Moss Eccles Tarn

4200 ft

Landmark

Mater Amabilis

2700 ft

Landmark

Adventure Peaks

3300 ft

Landmark

The Gilded Lily Bar in Ambleside

3400 ft

Landmark

The Homes Of Football At Ambleside

3400 ft

Landmark

Rothay Park

1.5 mi

Landmark

Lake District Paddle Boarding

1.5 mi

Landmark

Windermere Lake Cruises

1.5 mi

Landmark

Ambleside Waterhead

1.6 mi

Garden

Stagshaw Garden

3.2 mi

Landmark

Main Gate

2.0 mi

Harbour

Ambleside Pier

2.3 mi

Landmark

Borrans Park

2.9 mi

Museum

The Armitt Museum And Gallery

3.4 mi

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

Explore the Surroundings

Jenkin Crag

10 minutes' walk

Panoramic views of Windermere and the surrounding hills. Ideal for walking and photography.

The National Trust

10 minutes' walk

A hub for local conservation with beautiful gardens and walking paths, showcasing the area's natural beauty.

Stock Ghyll Force

30 minutes' walk

A stunning waterfall set in a tranquil backdrop. Accessible via scenic walking trails.

Moss Eccles Tarn

15 minutes' walk

A serene tarn perfect for picnics and relaxation, with walking paths around its picturesque shores.

Ambleside Climbing Wall

10 minutes' walk

Indoor climbing suited for all levels. Equipment rental available; ideal for thrill-seekers and families.

Brockhole on Windermere

5 minutes' drive

Outdoor activities and adventure centre, including mini-golf and zip-lining. Seasonal reservations recommended.

Yoga and Wellness Retreats

5 minutes' drive

Local yoga studios offering classes for relaxation and rejuvenation. Great for solo travelers seeking tranquility.

Four Seasons Terrace Café

16 minutes' walk

Charming café with a menu centered on local ingredients. Perfect for light meals and afternoon tea.

Fellinis Cinema

15 minutes' walk

Dine in a unique cinema setting serving Italian cuisine. Reservations recommended; ideal for a cozy date night.

Fellinis Cinema

15 minutes' walk

Cinema with a café serving meals during films. Family-friendly, showcasing the latest releases and classics.

Ambleside Roman Fort

40 minutes' walk

Historical site with ruins and interpretative signs. Engaging for families and history enthusiasts alike.

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

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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:

Former name

Waterhead

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 902 verified reviews

8.4/10

Great

87%

Recommend

Breakfast

8.5/10

Cleanliness

8.5/10

Comfort

8.7/10

Facilities

8.3/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.1/10

Staff

8.7/10

Value for money

7.9/10

Mark from United Kingdom

Family with children

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 08, 2026

6/10

on-site parkingkitchen exhaustunacceptable noise

The location was good. On-site car parking was available.

My room window faced the kitchen exhaust. The noise was unacceptable until 10:30 PM. It disrupted my relaxation during my vacation. It ruined the experience, despite other aspects of the hotel being fine.

0 Helpful

Theodore from United States

Single

classic double or twin room view

4 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 29, 2025

9/10

fantastic stay!!!

lake frontdelicious breakfast

the location sits right on the lake front, providing amazing views. i barely used my car . breakfast was delicious!!!

0 Helpful

Warren from United States

Family with children

Classic Double or Twin Room View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 19, 2025

9/10

lake viewclean roomdog welcome

The lake-facing room provided very nice views. our large room was clean. dogs received a warm welcome. It was a beautiful experience for them!!!

the room lacked a mini fridge, it would have been useful.

0 Helpful

Mia from Australia

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 14, 2025

9/10

Wonderful Stay!

helpful staffgood mealperfect location

I found the staff very helpful. Staff members were friendly! The meal choices were good. I will definitely use this place again because of this and I highly recommended it. The hotel's location is also perfect.

The parking is a bit restricted. I found it tight, even though there is a public car park next door.

Dining

9/10

I enjoyed the modern interior of the restaurant. The beer taps offered a great selection. The food tasted very high quality and fresh which enhanced the dining experience. It was quite satisfying.

0 Helpful

Peter from United Kingdom

Couple

superior double or twin room view

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 26, 2025

9.7/10

super stay!

smooth check-infriendly staffbeautiful room

check-in was smooth, i even got shown to my room! staff were so helpful and friendly. the room was excellent too, it was beautiful when i arrived, i can't thank the hotel beauticians enough. i will return, i'm already planning my next visit!

The hotel parking was a little haphazard around the back. I noticed a dog poo.

Dining

9/10

breakfast had plenty of choice, i loved it! i ate in the restaurant each evening, the food all round was excellent. i also appreciate that the hotel is very dog friendly.

Rooms

10/10

My room was lovely, very comfortable, and much larger than expected. it had everything i needed. the bed was huge and comfortable, and the towels were large and fluffy. the decor was lovely. My room was clean.

Location

10/10

the hotel is literally on the lake edge! the location is great for views, it's a beautiful place, so i enjoyed seeing it. the area is amazing in its beauty. i highly recommend it.

0 Helpful

James from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Double or Twin Room View

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: November 14, 2025

6/10

adequate stay with issues

inconsistent temperaturedisruptive noise

i found a few things amiss . the bathroom lacked basic amenities. the shower temperature was inconsistent. it fluctuated between scalding hot and lukewarm, quite unpleasant! it started early each morning and continued throughout the day. these issues detracted from an otherwise acceptable experience.

0 Helpful

Jason from Canada

Single

Superior Double or Twin Room View

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: August 17, 2025

9.0/10

Lakeside Solace

warm staffdelicious breakfasteasy access

The staff greeted me warmly. My mornings began with delicious breakfasts, setting the stage for serene days. I relished the ease of access to the lake and nearby trails, ideal for quiet strolls. The comfortable bed guaranteed restful nights.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast included a good selection of hot and cold items, also the bar provides a pleasant setting with various drink options. I enjoyed the fish and chips. It was lovely and perfectly complemented with good service.

Facilities

8/10

Parking is available, yet spaces can be tight when the inn is busy. The inn provides drink vouchers in exchange for opting out of daily housekeeping. These vouchers can be used at the bar.

Location

10/10

The inn sits right on the water, and amazing views become accessible. There are boat trips to Bowness directly from the inn. The area has bus stops nearby.

Rooms

9/10

The room had a comfortable bed, also it was of good size. Each room includes all required amenities. The lake views from the rooms are beautiful. The windows provide that.

0 Helpful

FAQs

About The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group

What is the distance from the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group to Ambleside city centre?

Ambleside city centre is reachable within a 10-minute walk from the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group.

Is there free parking in the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?

Yes, the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group offers guests to park their cars at parking spaces for free.

At what time can I check-in at the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?

At the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group, you can check in from 15:00 till 23:00.

At what time can I check-out at the hotel?

You can check out of the hotel from 07:00 till 10:00.

What are the booking prices at the Ambleside hotel?

The prices at the Ambleside hotel start from £125.

What payment methods are available in the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group?

At the 4-star The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group, guests can pay using American Express, Visa, and Maestro as well as other payment methods.

What room types does the The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group comprise?

The The Waterhead Inn, Ambleside- The Inn Collection Group offers such room types as Superior Room, Classic Queen Room, and Family Room.

Which facilities are provided in the hotel?

Top locations of the hotel include a restaurant, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with a safe deposit box.