Snaptrip says
River Lodge in Ambleside is praised for its beautiful location, spaciousness, and suitability for large groups or families. Guests appreciate the stunning views, ample parking, and proximity to local walks and Ambleside. The property's layout, with bedrooms at different ends and en-suites, is well-received, as is the large dining area.
Guests that stayed at this property said
Cleanliness receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding the property clean while others report issues with hygiene, such as hairs in drawers and a lack of cleaning supplies. The presence of mould and dampness in some areas has also been noted.
The location is highly rated, with guests loving the proximity to Ambleside and the availability of nearby walks. The peaceful setting and stunning views contribute to a positive experience.
Comfort is variable; guests enjoy the spaciousness and layout, but there are complaints about worn and uncomfortable sofas, firm mattresses, and a cold, damp lower floor. Noise from the boiler affects sleep quality for some.
Facilities are adequate but several maintenance issues are consistently mentioned, such as non-working fires, problematic boilers, and plumbing issues. The kitchen is considered small for the number of guests and some entertainment features like Sky TV are outdated.
There is no mention of gifts or special touches that would indicate thoughtfulness from the hosts. Therefore, this category cannot be scored.
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 (32)
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Barry
It was well equipped with modern facilities. A perfect location, secluded, but not too far from the shops. We would highly recommend River Lodge as an ideal place to enjoy the Lake District in comfort. Thank you all.
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Heather
The house was clean and comfortable and was always warm with an abundance of hot water. We very much enjoyed our visit. We were disappointed that there was no washing up liquid, only one toilet roll per toilet and only two bin bags available on arrival. I would not expect to have to bring/buy washing up liquid and bin bags and there should be at least one spare toilet roll per toilet for a one week stay. The provision of drinking glasses was random and insufficient. Some of the lamps did not work (importantly the reading lamp in the window of the kitchen/diner). No bedside lamp on the left side of the large (downstairs) double bedroom.The light switch in one of the bedrooms did not work but Lakelovers responded very quickly to fix this, which was excellent.
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Sian
The downstairs is damp and there is black mould around the toilet. We had young children and that is incredibly dangerous. The sofas are horrendous and need replacing. The boiler in the master room makes noise continuously throughout the night. What is most disappointing is that all the above comments have been raised a number of times and I was hopeful they had been addressed but they have not. It is such a shame because the house could be lovely.