“Great cottage and location.”
Basic amenities within the cottage were pretty disappointing. For example, salt and pepper is rather basic item to be provided in a self catered cottage. Many go far beyond this, with welcome packages etc. But this rather basic item not provided. Same for toilet roll. Literally one provided. That's disappointing. Outside of the pandemic, I would seriously question using the cottages again for this reason. It's not much of an ask but it seems rather scrimp not to provide some very basic provisions. Also, no washing up sponge for washing the dishes,despite requesting it. Not sure if that was because we are expected to bring our own. Health club access was great. However, advertising on this misleading as it's a ten minute drive, whereas the pictures etc makes one think it's adjacent to the cottage. Despite the above moan, the cottage was lovely. Perhaps more TV channel options too as not a lot of entertainment in the evenings here. Glad I managed to get a booking in the pandemic, but would expect them to up their game outside of pandemic.
The property
This enchanting Grade II listed cottage is one of the very oldest in Ambleside, dating back to the 1580s. It's tucked away in a peaceful historic corner of Ambleside village, with front and rear views to the surrounding fells. Despite a stylish and luxurious refurbishment, the original features shine; flagged slate with underfloor heating, old oak floors and beamed ceilings, traditional open fire and a magnificent curved oak staircase.
Old Oak Cottage is a true hideaway, perfectly formed for lazy mornings and cosy evenings in. But with shops, pubs, restaurants and romantic lake cruises only a stroll away, it's also a truly convenient base.
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Accommodation in detail
Private parking for 1 car at rear. A pretty garden path leads to the solid oak entrance door, entrance lobby and stone-flagged hallway. Cosy but bright lounge / dining room with open fire set in antique range, window seat, traditional furniture and luxurious soft furnishings. Shaker kitchen with underheated slate floor and separate larder. Original curved oak staircase to a spacious landing. From here, access the romantic bedroom with king-size brass bed, the dressing room with views to Loughrigg, and the Victorian-themed bathroom.
Location
This traditional holiday cottage in Ambleside provides a fantastic base for a Lake District holiday, just off the northern shores of Lake Windermere and surrounded by spectacular Lakeland Fells. Scenic walks begin on your doorstep, and the rest of the Lake District is easily reached by car, bus or Windermere Lake cruise.
Ambleside village centre is the Lake District's most sophisticated community, with a wide range of contemporary and high quality shops - from clothing boutiques to expert outdoor clothing stores. The pretty streets are also laced with historic buildings and attractive Lake District cottages, providing a magical atmosphere.
Ambleside village is a foodies delight, with many acclaimed Lake District restaurants to try for a romantic evening out. Try The Glass House - in a beautifully converted saw mill. There is also an abundance of tempting cafes in Ambleside, perfect for a lazy breakfast or afternoon tea. Why not pick up a picnic at Lucy's of Ambleside? A superb delicatessen stocked with interesting local and international treats.
Stroll from the village centre to Waterhead Pier, and you can explore Bowness and Lakeside via the famous Windermere steamers. Cruises depart regularly throughout the day, and also in the evening with buffet meals and live music.
Summary
- One bedroom: 1 x king-size
- Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
- Kitchen
- Sitting room with dining area
- Dressing room
- Leisure club access.
- Gas central heating with underfloor heating in the kitchen and open fire
- Electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge, washer/dryer, TV, WiFi
- Fuel and power inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Cot and highchair available
- Lawned front garden
- Off road parking for 1 car at rear of property
- Sorry, no pets and no smoking
- Pub and shop 5 mins walk.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.
About the location
AMBLESIDE
Windermere 4 miles; Grasmere 4 mile; Keswick 15 miles.
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.
This property offers the following short breaks:
- Winter
- Off-season
- Last minute
- Christmas
