Guests say
Top Notch is a well-liked cottage in Ambleside, praised for its stunning views, convenient location, and comfortable beds. The balcony is a highlight, offering picturesque scenery. The property is equipped with essentials and added entertainment options, making it a cosy retreat. However, some guests suggest updates and deeper cleaning could enhance the experience.
The property generally maintains good cleanliness, with several reviews mentioning it being 'spotlessly clean' and 'squeaky clean'. However, there are concerns about dust, long hair on the carpet, and areas that could be cleaned more thoroughly, which slightly lowers the score.
The location is highly praised for its central position in Ambleside, close to amenities and public transport. The views from the property are consistently lauded, contributing to a high score in this category.
Guests find the beds comfortable and the living space cosy, suitable for couples and families. However, some reviews mention an uncomfortable mattress and the need for better lighting, which affects the comfort score.
The property is appreciated for its well-equipped kitchen and entertainment options like Netflix. Nonetheless, issues with parking, a non-working shower, and damaged or missing items indicate room for improvement in facilities and maintenance.
There is no mention of gifts or special thoughtful touches provided by the host in the reviews, so it is not possible to assess this category. Therefore, the score is set to null.
About this property
Enjoying a superb position close to the bustling town centre of Ambleside, with panoramic views to Loughrigg Fell and the Fairfield Horseshoe, is this delightful apartment, Top Notch. Perfect for a small family in pursuit of an action-packed break to the Lake District National Park or a group of four seeking a peaceful retreat in these breath-taking landscapes, this delightful abode has something for everyone! Head up to the apartment and relax into your evening within the living/dining room, featuring a plush sofa, wall-mounted TV and a gas fire for those cold winter nights. Open the full height patio door out to the balcony and enjoy this south-westerly aspect catching plenty of sun and providing a charming spot to indulge in a well-deserved glass of wine at the end of your day. When you’re not dining at one of the many fine restaurants within the village, the fitted galley kitchen has been well-appointed with all the essential appliances for preparing delicious home-cooked meals. A small flight of stairs will lead you up to the bedrooms, including a king-size and twin, both of which feature ample storage space for housing all your belongings. Finishing the interior is the spacious bathroom where you can prepare for the day with a brisk shower or grab a soothing bath upon return to the cottage. Immerse yourself in your local surroundings by strolling into the centre of Ambleside, where you will be spoilt for choice by the excellent selection of shops and eateries that are awaiting to be explored. Head to the shores of Lake Windermere, home to a plethora of viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surroundings mountains or climb onboard an iconic steamer to enjoy a circular voyage of lake, considered to be most popular attraction in the National Park. Other attractions in the area includes Borrans Park, Lakeside Aquarium and the National Trust owned Hill Top, which was the former farmhouse of Beatrix Potter. Uncover breath-taking vistas on hikes through the Green Gable or see the enchanting waterfall of Stock Ghyll Force on a walk along the Grasmere Waterfall Walkways. With plenty to fill your sightseeing itinerary, a stay at Top Notch promises a memorable retreat.
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
Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size, 1 x twin.
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Living/dining room with gas fire
Gas central heating with gas fire.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, Smart TV, Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking for one car.
Balcony with seating.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Wifi.
Please note that between 4th November 2024 and 28th February 2025 parking will not be available outside the apartment.
Parking is available at local car parks and owner will reimburse the permit paid for one car.
Nearby points of interest
- Hayes Garden World Ambleside
- Beatrix Potter Gallery, Hawkshead
- Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
- The World of Beatrix Potter
- Lakes Aquarium
- Lakeland Motor Museum
- Lake District National Park
- Lake Windermere
- Esthwaite Water
- Lodore Falls
Reviews (26)
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Barbara
As soon as you enter there is a smell of damp that goes throughout the whole apartment. The entrance/âconservatoryâ leaks so if you happen to leave your shoes in it, they may well be wet the next day! The apartment itself is tatty and tired. There are stains on the furniture and there was even a blood spot on one of the pillows. There is dust and dirt in many places including next to where you sleep. Itâs the worst place Iâve ever stayed in and struggle to understand the claims of previous reviews. The toilet seat doesnât sit on the base correctly so slides each times itâs used. When we arrived, there was no soap or anything you could use to wash your hands, small things but when added together really made us question the justification of the price and advert! I took lots of photos and sent to Sykes. Lake lovers in the town offered to come and clean but it would take a lot more to bring the place up to standard, also why wasnât it already clean? I have spoken to Sykes who said they would pass the photos on to housekeeping for future guests! We just stayed out as much as we could otherwise we would have lost our holiday in lovely Ambleside. Really disappointed with Sykes who are normally great.
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Fiona
Very clean and tidy. Everything we needed, from leaving wet walking gear in the entrance conservatory, to relaxing on the balcony. Gorgeous views at the front. Small dark bedrooms at the back, but very quiet. Parking a tight squeeze with a Mini, but just about okay. Best to get the bus for day trips.
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Monica
The cottage was well equipped and has been clearly cared for. The kitchen had everything needed for cooking, the bedrooms were comfortable and it was a quiet place. We would not hesitate to book here again if returning to Ambleside.