The Unicorn, Ambleside, Ambleside ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

North Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 9DT

Near the Lake District National Park Entrance

Very good

7.3

/10

4.5

4.4

Loved by The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel guests

Friendly staff
Tasty food
Cosy room
Warm welcome
Great customer service
Dog friendly

"Loved the pub underneath; very sociable, great food, vibe, friendliness and good live music."

Penni from Australia

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"What I received was a plate full of flavour, swirl, local sausage sat on creamy mash with rich flavoursome gravy and fresh vegetables."

JT1533 from United Kingdom

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"Pub ideally situated to explore the town and see the waterfalls and climb wansfell as well as many other walks/climbs."

Adventure65719757895 from United Kingdom

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Location

The Unicorn Inn is located in the center of Ambleside, surrounded by the stunning fells of the Lake District. As the oldest pub in Ambleside, it provides access to local attractions and scenic walks. Guests can explore nearby trails, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.

Accommodation

The hotel offers five individual rooms that come with en-suite facilities. Each room provides a cozy atmosphere suitable for business and leisure stays. A dog-friendly policy allows pets to accompany guests, further enhancing the stay experience.

Dining

The Unicorn Inn serves home-cooked pub food that changes daily, showcasing traditional offerings. Guests can enjoy a variety of cask ales, lagers, spirits, and wines, all crafted with quality in mind. The on-site dining options invite relaxation and a true taste of local flavors.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The pub is family-friendly, providing a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Special menus and activities for children can enhance the family dining experience. Space for families to gather adds to the community feel of the hotel.

Pet-Friendly Policy

The hotel maintains a dog-friendly approach, welcoming pets in certain accommodations. This allows guests to enjoy their stay without leaving their furry companions behind. Local walking paths offer scenic routes for memorable outings with pets.

Highlights

Location: Center of Ambleside, surrounded by fells

Accommodation: Five individual rooms, dog-friendly

Dining: Home-cooked pub food served daily

Family-Friendly: Activities and space for families

“As the oldest pub in Ambleside, its historic charm is undeniable, especially with its cask ales and live music adding to the experience; plus, being dog-friendly makes it ideal for walkers exploring the Lake District fells. The rooms have a homey feel, and the staff's warmth creates a welcoming atmosphere, which is a delightful contrast to some reports of rigid service policies. It is a place of character offering more than just a stay.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningFlavourful Experience

The chef's sausage and mash was a flavour explosion. Fresh vegetables and rich gravy completed the dish.

Oliver from England

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BedroomSpacious Comfort

The large double bedroom offered ample storage. It also included tea and coffee making facilities.

Mei from China

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DiningExcellent Value

The pub meals offered large portions for very good money. The food tasted home-cooked.

Hans from Netherlands

Review on

Guest ParkingConvenient Stay

I was able to leave my bag until after the race. This helped me a great deal.

Zara from Wales

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Select your room type

The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Double Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Double or Twin Room

2 persons

2 Single beds

room details

Standard Double Suite

2 persons

1 King-size bed

room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Nice

6.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Live entertainment

Room features

Heating
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Unicorn in Ambleside, dining is a delightful experience that combines traditional family-friendly ambiance with comforting meals. Guests can enjoy a satisfying lunch or dinner accompanied by a refreshing pint of Robinsons beer, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.

The Unicorn

Traditional British

Ambiance

Family friendly and cozy, set in a warm, inviting environment perfect for gatherings or casual dining.

Key Offerings

Savory classics served with a local twist, capturing the essence of British comfort food, complemented by a carefully curated selection of Robinsons beer.

Reservation

Open for lunch and dinner; hours vary.

The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel Location

North Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 9DT

Map view

North Road, Ambleside, United Kingdom, LA22 9DT

City landmarks

Garden

Rydal Mount

1.4 mi

Landmark

Borrans Park

4200 ft

Landmark

High Close Estate

2200 ft

Landmark

Stock Ghyll Force

1.9 mi

Landmark

Rydal Water

1.7 mi

Landmark

Wansfell Pike

1.1 mi

Garden

Rydal Hall Gardens

1.3 mi

Landmark

Lily Tarn

5300 ft

Landmark

Dora's Field

1.3 mi

Bridge

Bridge House

2.3 mi

Landmark

Rydal Hall Sculpture Path

1.4 mi

Landmark

High Sweden Bridge

1.4 mi

Cave

Rydal Cave

1.5 mi

Castle

Wray Castle

2.2 mi

Landmark

Loughrigg Fell

1.9 mi

Gallery

Old Courthouse Gallery

2.2 mi

Landmark

Wansfell

1.7 mi

Landmark

Brockhole on Windermere

2.3 mi

Camping

Skelwith Fold

1.9 mi

Landmark

Ambleside Roman Fort

3.0 mi

Landmark

Hayes Garden World Ambleside

2.6 mi

Landmark

Jenkin Crag

3.0 mi

Landmark

The National Trust

2.3 mi

Landmark

Rothay Park

2.5 mi

Church

St Mary's Church

2.4 mi

Landmark

Merz Barn

2.4 mi

Nearby

Garden

Stagshaw Garden

300 ft

Museum

The Armitt Museum And Gallery

1600 ft

Moss Eccles Tarn

300 ft

AmblesideEngland

Copt Howe

300 ft

Restaurants

Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside

200 ft

2 Bridge Street

The Giggling Goose Cafe

400 ft

The Old Mill North Road

Daisys Cafe

300 ft

Rydal Rd Central Buildings

Royal Oak

300 ft

Main St

Gandhi's Cafe

2.2 mi

The Slack

The Old Smithy

2.3 mi

The Slack

The Royal Oak Resturant & Bar

2.3 mi

Church Street

Greggs

1800 ft

3 The Old Stamp House Church Street

Shake, Waffle & Roll

1700 ft

2A Cheapside

Explore Ambleside

Stagshaw Garden

2 minutes' walk

Stagshaw Garden features picturesque paths and a diverse range of plants. Perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst nature.

The Armitt Museum And Gallery

6 minutes' walk

This museum houses local artwork and historical artifacts, offering insight into Ambleside's cultural heritage.

High Close Estate

10 minutes' walk

High Close Estate is surrounded by beautiful woodland, ideal for tranquil walks and enjoying the serene landscape.

Stock Ghyll Force

35 minutes' walk

This stunning waterfall offers dramatic scenery and excellent photo opportunities, a must-see for nature lovers.

Hiking to Wansfell Pike

20 minutes' walk

Wansfell Pike offers exhilarating hiking with impressive views of the Lake District, suitable for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Yoga at the Lake

10 minutes' drive

Relaxing yoga sessions by the lake focus on mindfulness and well-being. Check schedules for availability and booking.

Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside

1 minute' walk

Rattle Ghyll Cafe offers cozy vibes with locally-sourced lunch options. Try their homemade cakes and hearty breakfasts.

Gandhi's Cafe

10 minutes' drive

Gandhi's Cafe specializes in authentic Indian cuisine with vegetarian options. Vibrant atmosphere and friendly service await.

Ambleside Cinema

5 minutes' drive

This local cinema showcases the latest films in a charming, intimate setting. Family-friendly screenings schedule available.

The Royal Oak

2 minutes' walk

A lively bar known for its live music events and great local ales, creating a bustling atmosphere perfect for evening relaxation.

Getting around

City Centre

Ambleside8 min · 2000 ft

Airports

Carlisle Lake District (CAX)112 min · 46.4 mi

Blackpool International (BLK)160 min · 66.2 mi

Bus

Bus stop5 min · 1400 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-21:00

Check-out

from 08:00-10:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 235 verified reviews

7.9/10

Very good

77%

Recommend

Cleanliness

7.8/10

Comfort

7.7/10

Facilities

6.8/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.3/10

Location

9.1/10

Staff

8.8/10

Value for money

7.7/10

Pros

Welcoming staff

Great location

Warm rooms

Extensive ale selection

Straightforward check-in

Cons

No breakfast

No evening food

Room maintenance

Bar noise

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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Questions of the users

About The Unicorn, Ambleside

Is there a private bathroom in the double room?

10 March 2024

Each double room is equipped with its own shower and toilet, but does not include a bath tub.

I have a well-behaved dog; can she stay with me?

15 April 2024

Pets are not permitted in the rooms. Only service animals are allowed.

Are there parking facilities nearby?

22 May 2024

There is no on-site parking available. However, public parking is located about 320 meters, roughly a 4-minute walk from the pub.

Can I bring my small dog to stay overnight?

18 June 2024

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed to stay in the accommodation.

Do you provide storage for bicycles?

5 July 2024

There are no facilities available for bike storage.

Can two adults and a toddler stay in one of the rooms?

12 August 2024

Unfortunately, the accommodation cannot accommodate that arrangement for safety reasons.

Is breakfast included with the room booking?

25 September 2024

The accommodation operates on a room-only basis and does not include breakfast.

Are all rooms equipped with en-suite bathrooms?

2 October 2024

Not all rooms have en-suite facilities. This information is provided in the description when booking.

Can you recommend nearby dining options?

20 November 2024

The pub offers a selection of home-cooked meals daily, alongside a range of cask ales and beverages.

Are there family-friendly amenities available?

30 December 2024

Yes, the inn is family-friendly and can accommodate children. Be sure to inquire about specific needs upon booking.

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