Guests say
River Lodge is a spacious property set in a stunning location with beautiful views, ideal for exploring the Lake District. Guests appreciate the ample parking, en-suite bathrooms, and the proximity to Ambleside. The property's layout suits larger groups and families, and the presence of modern facilities like Sky TV is noted. While some guests mention the need for updates, the overall experience is positive, with many looking forward to returning.
The cleanliness of River Lodge has received mixed feedback. Some guests found the property to be clean and well-maintained, while others reported issues with hygiene, such as hairs in drawers and a lack of cleaning supplies. The property's cleanliness appears to be generally satisfactory, but there is room for improvement.
The location of River Lodge is highly praised, with its proximity to Ambleside and local walks being a highlight for many guests. The peaceful setting and stunning views contribute to a positive experience, making the location one of the property's strongest assets.
Comfort at the property is adequate, with guests enjoying the spaciousness and layout. However, there are several mentions of uncomfortable sofas and firm mattresses. The presence of dampness in lower rooms also affects comfort levels. While the property is generally comfortable, there is a consensus that certain aspects could be enhanced.
Facilities at River Lodge are appreciated, such as the Sky TV and ample bathrooms, but there are recurring issues with maintenance. Guests have reported non-working fires, noisy boilers, and plumbing problems. While the facilities meet the needs of most guests, attention to maintenance is necessary to improve the overall experience.
There is no mention of gifts or special touches that would indicate thoughtfulness from the hosts. As such, it is not possible to provide a score for this category.
About this property
If you’re looking for immaculate country house chic, Farrow & Ball colours and sheer comfort, River Lodge is for you. Overlooking the River Rothay, this impressive house split over 3 levels, is only a short riverside walk away from Ambleside Village. River Lodge takes the lion's share of an impressive Lakeland residence, once home to Queen Victoria's physician. Now sympathetically restored, extended and styled River Lodge provides luxurious holiday living in this fantastic location. Walks, rambles and outdoor adventures are all on your doorstep...there's a great local pub only a stroll away. Heading toward Ambleside you can enjoy all its bustling restaurants, pubs and cafes; not to mention 2 cinemas and a jazz bar, and characterful shops. All around you, you’re surrounded by the magnificent backdrop of the Central Fells.
Lying at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, Ambleside makes a superb base for touring the central Lakes, with Grasmere and the Langdale Valley just a short drive away. There is plenty to do here - cruises, boat trips and watersports on Lake Windermere itself and numerous shops, restaurants and pubs in the village to suit all tastes. On the lakeside at Waterhead, the parkland offers lovely views down the lake and a short stretch of beach, whilst a walk in the other direction, following Stock Ghyll through woodland, will bring you to the entrancing waterfall of Stock Ghyll Force. Along with the Lake and the great walking on offer, Ambleside is also famous for its annual rushbearing ceremony and the diminutive 17th century “Bridge House” - one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District and now the National Trust Information Centre.
Accommodation
4 Bedrooms: Sleeps 8: 4 beds & 4 bathrooms.
1 x king-size (zip link-please specify on booking.), 1 x double, 2 x twins 2 ensuite 1 Large Bathroom 1 ground-floor shower room.
Sitting Room
Gas central heating.
Parking for 2-3 cars.
Large farmhouse table, log-effect stove for display only, flat-screen TV and large bay window.
40" TV (Sky multiroom with movies and sport).
French doors to the patio, with space for 8 to sit out.
Breakfast Kitchen, electric cooker, gas hob, fridge & freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, microwave.
Cloakroom/shower room.
Ground floor: Bathroom with shower.
First floor: Double en-suite shower bedroom with balcony, charming twin bedroom, also en-suite shower room, both with pretty outlooks.
Lower ground floor (stairs down from dining area)
Nearby points of interest
- Hayes Garden World Ambleside
- Beatrix Potter Gallery, Hawkshead
- Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
- The World of Beatrix Potter
- Lake District National Park
- Lake Windermere
- Esthwaite Water
- Lodore Falls
- Wastwater Lake
- Church of St Olaf
Reviews (35)
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Marie
Poorly maintained main problem is state of lounge furniture very uncomfortable have been mentioning this for last ten years had problems with dishwasher sorted by son blocking caused by non rinsing of food particles before loading heating was a problem when brought to attention was quickly corrected saving grace of this property is size and position would consider booking for next summer if issues are corrected this property is considered as five star is expensive but not presented as such
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Rebecca
Beautiful property and fabulous location. Loved the scenery from the bay window and did not want to leave at the end of our stay!
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Michele
I agree with the other reviews, the decor is a little tired and the fridge really needs replacing. Having read the reviews we knew it wasn't going to be perfect. But its still a stunning property with fabulous views. Very special indeed.