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From120US$ /night
Check-in
18Jan2026Select date
Check-out
19Jan2026Select 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
4.8
4.5
/5

Location

The Waterhead Inn is situated across from Waterhead Pier, providing easy access to scenic boat rides on Windermere, the UK's largest lake. Just a short walk from Ambleside center, guests can explore local shops and attractions within a few minutes. Excellent public transport links at the inn's doorstep allow for further exploration of the Lake District without the need for a car.

Dining

The Waterhead Inn offers a menu of freshly prepared Cumbrian and British pub classics, showcasing local produce. Guests can enjoy hearty meals with stunning lake views in a welcoming atmosphere throughout the day. The seasonal menu includes daily changing specials available from noon to 9 PM, alongside a dedicated breakfast menu from 7:30 AM to 11 AM.

Rooms

Accommodation options include cozy double rooms and spacious family rooms with options for king or twin beds, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms. Select rooms offer picturesque views of the lake, allowing guests to wake up to breathtaking scenery. All rooms provide comfortable furnishings and convenient amenities such as tea and coffee-making facilities.

Pet-Friendly

The Waterhead Inn welcomes dogs in designated rooms, allowing visitors to bring their furry friends along for the stay. Pet-friendly amenities provide comfort for both guests and pets while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Dog owners can explore nearby trails and scenic areas while accompanied by their loyal companions.

Explore

Located in the Lake District, the inn serves as a gateway to numerous attractions, including Wray Castle and Rydal Mount and Gardens, each only a short drive away. Outdoor enthusiasts will find hiking, cycling, and tranquil lakeside experiences in close proximity. The inn's location provides guests with easy access to the rich history and natural beauty of the area.

Highlights

Location: Easy access to Waterhead Pier

Dining: Seasonal menu with local ingredients

Rooms: Spacious family accommodations

Pet-Friendly: Designated dog-friendly rooms

“In my opinion, this lakeside inn makes the most of its prime location, with comfortable rooms offering superb lake views. The recent renovations have clearly enhanced the dining and bar areas, now catering to both diners and drinkers, including those with dogs. I think it's a particularly strong choice for families wanting to explore the Lake District, thanks to its proximity to attractions and dog-friendly policy.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The hotel 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
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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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free 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

At The Waterhead Inn, culinary delights flourish in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Bar & Grill showcases locally inspired British cuisine, while the eclectic dining area, adorned with Lakes memorabilia, enhances the experience of every meal. Whether savoring breakfast or an indulgent dinner, each bite reflects the heart of the region.
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group Ambleside Restaurant photo
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group Ambleside Restaurant photo
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group Ambleside Restaurant photo

Bar & Grill

British, Local, Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
Bright and stylish restaurant featuring an eclectic mix of Lakes memorabilia.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a seasonal brasserie-style menu, including braised blade of beef with horseradish mash and herb-crusted hake with chorizo and butterbean broth.
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
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 Local Gems
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Jenkin Crag
Jenkin Crag
10 minutes' walk
Stunning viewpoints of Windermere, ideal for photography. The scenic trails cater to all fitness levels.
Bridge House
Bridge House
25 minutes' walk
Historic 17th-century building on the river, a charming photo spot with picturesque gardens.
Brockhole on Windermere
Brockhole on Windermere
5 minutes' drive
Interactive visitor center with outdoor activities, gardens, and a café, perfect for family fun.
Wray Castle
Wray Castle
5 minutes' drive
Fairytale castle offering guided tours and exhibitions, surrounded by beautiful parkland.
Ambleside Climbing Wall
10 minutes' walk
Indoor climbing wall suitable for all levels. Equipment rental available on-site.
Moss Eccles Tarn
Moss Eccles Tarn
15 minutes' walk
Peaceful walking trails around a serene tarn, ideal for relaxation and picnics.
Four Seasons Terrace Cafe
16 minutes' walk
Delightful café with lake views, serving local dishes and cozy atmosphere, great for casual dining.
Fellinis Cinema
15 minutes' walk
Vegetarian cinema with a café vibe, showcasing films and serving dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Fellinis Cinema
15 minutes' walk
A unique cinema offering indie films and a charming café menu, perfect for a fun evening.
Old Courthouse Gallery
Old Courthouse Gallery
15 minutes' walk
Art gallery featuring local artists, hosts exhibitions and workshops for all ages.
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
is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group serves a full breakfast for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
43
Former name
Waterhead
Questions of the users
About The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group
Are dogs allowed to stay in the guest rooms during our visit?
12 September 2024
Yes, dogs are welcome in all rooms at the hotel. The only area where dogs are not permitted is the main restaurant.
Can guests enjoy a dining package that includes both breakfast and dinner?
25 November 2024
Dinner service is available at the Waterhead. Guests can explore the menu options offered at the Waterhead Bar and Grill.
Is the car park free for hotel guests, and is it specifically for their use?
3 January 2025
The car park is exclusively for hotel residents and available at no charge. Look for signage indicating 'Guest Car Park' when entering.
Are pets allowed in all areas of the hotel, including guest rooms?
19 February 2025
Yes, pets are allowed throughout the hotel, including all rooms. However, they are not permitted in the main restaurant.
Are there gluten-free options available for meals during our stay?
15 March 2025
Gluten-free choices are provided for both breakfast and dinner at the hotel.
Is the hotel equipped to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or mobility challenges?
8 April 2025
There are two ground floor rooms that are wheelchair accessible, featuring a low level bath with grab rails and a shower above. However, there are no walk-in showers.
What dining options are available for vegan guests?
29 April 2025
Vegan breakfast options include plant-based milk, vegan spread, fruit salad, veggie grill with plant-based sausage, toast, and cereal.
Can cars be parked in the hotel lot before official check-in times?
10 May 2025
Yes, guests can park in the car park before check-in. Just make sure to register your car license plate at Reception.
What are the designated check-in and check-out times at the hotel?
21 June 2025
Check-in is available from 15:00 onwards, while check-out is required by 10:30.
Are toiletries provided for guests during their stay?
16 July 2025
Full-size toiletries are provided and available for use during the stay. Guests can purchase them at Reception if they wish to take them home.

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