River Lodge | Ambleside | Cote How | The Lake District And Cumbria

3.9★

8 Guests
4 Bedrooms
4 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Dishwasher
Sky TV
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

38 Customer Review(s)

Mark
November 2024

“This was our second stay at River Lodge, and we'll definitely be back next year.”

Minor points to improve: 1) Bin area at bottom of drive has lots of lose trash and litter around the bins, which is a shame as it's a first impression when walking up (recommend housekeeping police that area as well); 2) Wi-Fi is really poor and unusable if more than a couple log-on's (exasperated as River Cottage is in a Cell Signal Dead Zone); 3) A new Smart TV would be really great (connect to Wi-Fi, watch content). Please note that I see these as improvements, not faults as it's a great ...

Minor points to improve: 1) Bin area at bottom of drive has lots of lose trash and litter around the bins, which is a shame as it's a first impression when walking up (recommend housekeeping police that area as well); 2) Wi-Fi is really poor and unusable if more than a couple log-on's (exasperated as River Cottage is in a Cell Signal Dead Zone); 3) A new Smart TV would be really great (connect to Wi-Fi, watch content). Please note that I see these as improvements, not faults as it's a great property that we really enjoy.

- Mark, November 2024
Marie November 2024

“Poorly maintained main problem is state of lounge furniture very uncomfortable ...”

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

- Marie, November 2024
Rebecca October 2024

“Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here.”

Beautiful property and fabulous location. Loved the scenery from the bay window and did not want to leave at the end of our stay!

- Rebecca, October 2024
Michele August 2024

“Beautiful house and a wonderful location, we really enjoyed our week away.”

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.

- Michele, August 2024

Thank you for your feedback. We are glad that you enjoyed the property and the views it has to offer. Thank you for making us aware of the fridge, this has now been replaced. The owner relations team - Lakelovers Property Owner
Barry August 2024

“River Lodge was delightful.”

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.

- Barry, August 2024
Heather October 2023

“Overall a great property and excellent location.”

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.

- Heather, October 2023
Sian August 2023

“Location was 10/10 and the house is spacious for the amount of people.”

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.

- Sian, August 2023
Hannah August 2023

“The setting of the property is super with sheep and the river just over the lane and the position, an enjoyable 25 minute stroll into Ambleside, was a plus.”

The property is very spacious and worked well for a group with a spot to sit and enjoy the view from the kitchen diner in addition to the large living room. As mentioned in previous reviews, the property could do with updating. For example the little balcony, which should be a feature of the property, was uninviting with peeling paintwork, leaves blown in and scattered furniture with a green tinge to it. Nothing that a lick of paint, a good clean and some ‘dressing’ couldn’t fix. In it’s prime this was a beautiful, spacious Lakeland house thoughtfully presented, decorated with farrow & ball throughout. The biggest issue - also mentioned in other reviews - was the boiler. The noise, intermittently through the night, was intolerable from the main upstairs bedroom. We will not return to this property.

- Hannah, August 2023

Thank you very much for your comments and for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. The owner will be able to see them and action where necessary. We are glad that you enjoyed the other aspects of the property and all that the area had to offer. Lakelovers Owner Relations Property Owner
Hannah July 2023

“Good points The accommodation is large and clean Great location - not far from Ambleside and walks from the house are lovely Bad points The downstairs area (1 bathroom, 2 bedrooms) stinks of damp.”

There are mould marks in a corner of the downstairs bathroom The wi fi is terrible Most of the DVDs don’t work No tin opener provided and the washing up drainer is rusty I would expect better from Lake Lovers, especially given the price we paid, £2,778

- Hannah, July 2023

Thank you for your comments. We take your comments on board, and our Maintenance Team will attend the property. Thank you The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
John June 2023

“Lovely location but the cottage is becoming very dated, unloved.”

For example the lounge sofas are dirty and uncomfortable, the upstairs bathrooms are dated and showers stop after 10 seconds due to lack of water pressure. The kitchen baking trays were unusable so we purchased some to cook. The fire in the lounge hasn’t worked for three years at least and the TV from the downstairs bedroom has been removed. It’s a shame as we’ve liked this cottage but it does need a good bit of TLC now.

- John, June 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We are sorry you weren't satisfied with your stay at River Lodge. We appreciate all your comments and suggestions and will make sure to pass them on to our maintenance team. The owner relations team - Lakelovers Property Owner
Catherine March 2023

“Lovely well equipped cottage set in a beautiful and peaceful location, well positioned for easy access to lots of stunning nearby walks.”

The kitchen had all the utensils and equipment needed for our party of 8. The house provides ample space to relax and socialise. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend the cottage to anyone wanting to explore the lakes.

- Catherine, March 2023

Thank you for your kind feedback. We are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay at River Lodge. We hope to welcome you back. Property Owner
Jasmine March 2023

“The dishwasher drawer is broken and the downstairs bathroom radiator is broken making the downstairs rooms cold in March.”

- Jasmine, March 2023

Thank you for your comments, and for making us aware. We will ask the Maintenance team to investigate. Property Owner
Hema February 2023

“What an amazing house.”

The views are stunning and the best bit I think is the walks. If you don't want to use your car and walking is for you then it's perfect. Fabulous time would definitely go back.

- Hema, February 2023

Thank you for your kind feedback. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner
Chris January 2023

“Lovely house and nice location, unfortunately let down by the tiredness of the furniture uncomfortable couch and fire still not working in the living room, this as been mention in previously reviews over the past 12 months….”

.but to no avail. Sky needs updating and television again still not working which also been mentioned in previous reviews. Chris & Emma

- Chris, January 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We take all feedback on board and will look into your comments. We hope to welcome you back to the Lake District again. Property Owner
Claire January 2023

“We stayed at this property at the same time last year and unfortunately this will be our last visit.”

Upon arrival the electricity wasn’t working. The fire in the sitting room still isn’t working. The house feels tired and a bit neglected now and the sofas are so worn and uncomfortable. It’s such a shame as it wouldn’t take much to get this property up to where it needs to be.

- Claire, January 2023

Thank you for your feedback. The electricity issue was caused by an issue outside of our control. We hope to welcome you back to the Lake District again. Property Owner
Senga November 2022

“Beautiful location reasonably well maintained little areas of damp showing through now and ?”

Potential leak damage below balcony into lounge area x? Drainage pipes need attention could also do with a second bin for rubbish as soon filled up . We had a fantastic stay in your beautiful property and hope to stay again next year

- Senga, November 2022
John November 2022

“Overall lovely cottage and a nice stay.”

A few things to feedback on:- - the two sofas are well worn and quite uncomfortable. Could do with new ones really - the boiler in the utility room near the entrance was running 24/7 even though we had both the hive controls set to schedule and I also turned them to off at times to see if that would stop it, but no - there was no cold water in the kitchen or downstairs bathroom even after running the cold taps for a while, the water was always warm

- John, November 2022
Judith Alison October 2022

“Riverside lodge was in a lovely house in a good position, great views and away from the hustle and bustle in Ambleside.”

On the whole we were pleased with the property but there were some issues which would make us think twice about booking this property again. 1. Terrible drain smell in ensuite upstairs double bedroom.2. Sofas generally uncomfortable and did smell a bit. 3.No cold water, Water was warm from cold tap. 4. Fire did not work in living room and therefore not very warm or cosy. 5 Constant noise from boiler room in upstairs double bedroom, affecting sleep.

- Judith Alison, October 2022
Charlotte October 2022

“We had a super holiday and really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge.”

Amazing location in walking distance to Ambleside and central for many great walks! The house was larger than we expected, lots of parking space and great set up with bedrooms at different ends of the house, it was great to have en-suites to all bedrooms and my mum really enjoyed the balcony! The Sky tv and many kids games was enjoyed by our kids, they are now Cluedo fans :) My only comment is that the double bed was very firm as it’s a foam mattress, but that could be easily fixed and I would definitely recommend River Lodge, and would love to stay again!

- Charlotte, October 2022
Lois October 2022

“This is a lovely but rather quirky property being on different levels & with quirky & sometimes tiny bathrooms.”

We loved the large dining table & the lovely view from the large dining room window. We found the sofas in the lounge a little uncomfortable, they seem a little tired, but that’s a minor problem. Overall this is a nice house in a great location

- Lois, October 2022
Jane September 2022

“We really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge.”

There was plenty of room for our two families with 3 children. The kitchen had everything we needed, there was a good sized dinning room, sufficient bathroom facilities, hot showers etc, comfortable beds. The living area had plenty seating space and the house was warm and welcoming to come back to after our day trips. Only negatives were the downstairs double room had a slightly damp smell and it would have been great if the living room fire had worked to add some warmth and cosiness. Also, there wasn't really a garden as such for kids to play in. However, these things would not stop us rebooking in the future. The location is great and we enjoyed lovely walks in the area and good food in Ambleside and local Rydal.

- Jane, September 2022
Yvonne September 2022

“Fantastic property plus excellent location with stunning views makes for a great holiday.”

The only downside was the price the following week (down to nearly half what we paid). A little disappointed that Lakelovers would not consider a small reduction

- Yvonne, September 2022
Leiado July 2022

“Stunning property surrounded by breathtaking scenery.”

The layout of the house suited us well seeing that we were two families - one on each side of the house. Good location as it was close enough to picturesque Ambleside and outdoor activities but also quiet and peaceful enough to enjoy nature.

- Leiado, July 2022
Mike June 2022

“Very good, lovely and convenient location, superb showers (stand out comment from all who stayed)”

- Mike, June 2022
Chrstine May 2022

“The location and the property was perfect The only disappointment was that we ...”

The location and the property was perfect The only disappointment was that we paid much more fir the holiday just because we booked early Weeks before and after were hundreds of pound less I did ask for a reduction but the lakelover representative was not willing to ask the owners

- Chrstine, May 2022
William April 2022

“Lovely house , very clean great location .”

A hot house until got to understand how to control the heating . Only down side is the plumbing was very noisy in the night , an overnight on off switch would help those in the lower bedrooms get an undisturbed night sleep

- William, April 2022
Claire January 2022

“Firstly, I’d like to say that we had a great stay and do plan to come back.”

However there were a number of things that could do with improving. The tv in the downstairs bedroom didn’t work. The automatic lights in the shared downstairs bathrooms turn off when you’re in the shower, and sometimes didn’t turn on at all. The heating knob in the downstairs shower was broken. The fire in the sitting room was broken. The dishwasher was full of dirty dishes on arrival. In general the level of cleanliness could have been a lot better. There were no mattress protectors on the beds, nor pillow protectors on most of the pillows. The sofa is a bit tired and stained. The location of the property and the size of the property was perfect for what we needed, and we did have an enjoyable stay but given that some of my points have been made by other reviewers it does make me wonder if things will have been improved upon when we return next year. Fingers crossed!

- Claire, January 2022
Carol January 2022

“Property situated in great area with walks straight from the door step.”

Great accommodation, especially if you are a two family party. All fitted out to a good standard, a few things that where listed are not present: internet connection, hit and miss, sky tv was basic. (no sport, no cinema). Overall very enjoyable holiday. Thanks so much.

- Carol, January 2022
Matthew October 2021

“We really enjoyed our stay, but was shocked at the price increase for the same property in the same week next year when I went to rebook.”

Extremely unlikely I would pay the increased price.

- Matthew, October 2021
Kay September 2021

“Gets very cold and damp in lower floor so need to keep heaters on.”

Weather was nice for us so imagine it gets worse the colder it gets. Kitchen quite small for a cottage for 8 people, really needs another fridge too. About 20 minute walk into Ambleside. Upper en-suite very small. All in all it was ok for us as we were 6 people so we had enough space. Would return.

- Kay, September 2021
Laura August 2021

“We found no cleaning supplies beyond a very small amount of washing up liquid.”

No antibacterial spray or bleach which seems very odd in the current climate. The standard of cleaning was also not high when we arrived with hairs in bathroom drawers and fecal matter on toilet brushes. The location of the house was perfect and a beautiful setting but unfortunately the lack of hygiene and basic supplies let it down significantly. We had a drainage issue with the downstairs shower and we were impressed with the prompt arrival of a maintenance engineer however he was unable to correct the issue meaning we were unable to use our ensuite shower.

- Laura, August 2021
Dale July 2021

“Fantastic house in a great location.”

Within walking distance of Ambleside. We had a great holiday.

- Dale, July 2021
Keighley June 2021

“Cottage was perfect and very clean.”

Only recommendation would be to put a mattress protector on the mattresses in the downstairs bedrooms.

- Keighley, June 2021
Neil June 2021

“A lovely house in a great location.”

However the cleanliness of the house was not up to scratch. There was a lot of dirty and grime about the place and crumbs and pubic hair found in the draws. We had to clean the property prior to feeling comfortable. Not what you want to do when your on holiday. There was no hand wash left in any of the bathrooms which I would expect in all properties. Also the down stairs double bed is not a double bed at all but two singles pushed together. This means there is a rather uncomfortable line down the middle of the bed. The water pump in the downstairs toilet is incredibly loud. Not ideal when you have kids sleeping downstairs. This property lacked the finishing touches this house/location deserves.

- Neil, June 2021
Sadiq May 2021

“The views from the cottage were amazing.”

The location was great with some lovely walks nearby. The photos don’t represent how lovely this cottage is. We were really impressed.

- Sadiq, May 2021
Bob May 2021

“Little things:- Our daughter asked us to raise the issue of the cot mattress which she felt was far too thin.”

Lots of wine glasses and champagne flutes, but only two tumblers and no pint glasses at all. Drinking beer out of a wine glass is not right. A stair gate for the stairs would have been a nice touch. One cannot allow a dog to go into the garden unsupervised as the local sheep can negotiate the cattle grid with apparent ease, so maybe a gate? The downstairs bedrooms and bathroom were so much colder than the rest of the house which was cooking!

- Bob, May 2021
Joseph December 2020

“I believe we should have been compensated for tighter check in check out times.”

House was great, thank you.

- Joseph, December 2020
Wilson Nov -0001

“We have stayed in numerous houses in the lakes-this our first time with lake lovers.”

Much better experience all round compared to your counterparts. No hidden extras and lovely little touches. Thank you Lakelovers & we'll be back!

- Wilson, Nov -0001

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Summary

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)

The property

Overlooking the River Rothay, this impressive house is enviably located 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 with immaculate country house chic and Farrow & Ball colours, River Lodge provides luxurious holiday living in this fantastic location.

Walks, rambles and outdoor adventures will begin on your doorstep...there's a great local pub only a stroll away and the highly accoladed Cote Howe Organic tearoom is only a stone's throw away.

A real feature is the reception space: the dining room with elegant farmhouse table, open kitchen, enormous bay window and log-effect stove; the lounge with Sky TV (movies and sport) has French doors to the patio for al-fresco dining; and the sloping gardens have marvelous vantage points to the river and the fells beyond.

Throw in pretty bedrooms and glossy bathrooms...we think you've found the perfect Lakeland retreat.

== Accommodation in detail A driveway leads to parking for 2-3 cars.

Main front entrance to the double-fronted house, which is over 3 levels.

Enter via slate floored hall, then down two steps to the family dining kitchen with large farmhouse table, log-effect stove, flat-screen TV and large bay window.

Sitting room with 40" TV (Sky multiroom with movies and sport), under-floor heating.

French doors to the patio, with space for 8 to sit out.

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): Spacious king-size/zip-link bedroom (please request at booking), second good-sized twin bedroom, both with own direct access to a split-level bathroom with shower over bath.

Location Nearby Ambleside village is as much a place to embrace Lakeland village life as it is a base for exploring and walking in the Lake District.

With a backdrop of lake shore and breath-taking Lakeland Fells, it's a wonderful base for a Lake District holiday even if you don't plan to stray too far from your base. The village is steeped with history, scattered with attractive traditional Lake District cottages, and the contemporary shopping streets remain a delight to explore.

Sample excellent cafes and acclaimed Lake District restaurants such as The Glass House, and stock up the kitchen or pick up a picnic at one of the excellent delis, such as the renowned Lucy's of Ambleside.

Ambleside also has two quirky cinemas; Zeffirellis Cinema, Pizzeria and Jazz Bar, and Fellinis Vegetarian Restaurant and Studio Cinema. Historic attractions include the much photographed 'Bridge House', which has to be seen to be believed, and the Roman Fort Galava just outside the village centre.

William Wordsworth's former family home can be visited close by at Rydal Mount & Gardens - a must during your stay.

If you are a Wordsworth fan, remember that Grasmere (his home during his most renowned years of work) is only a short drive north on the A591.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

AMBLESIDE

Grasmere 4.4 miles; Windermere 4.7 miles; Keswick 16.7 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.

Please note this property has a zip link bed. This will be made as a twin by default. Please contact the call center should you wish it to be a super king. There is no longer a TV in the downstairs bedroom.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“This was our second stay at River Lodge, and we'll definitely be back next year.”

“Poorly maintained main problem is state of lounge furniture very uncomfortable ...”

“Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here.”

“Beautiful house and a wonderful location, we really enjoyed our week away.”

“River Lodge was delightful.”

“Overall a great property and excellent location.”

“Location was 10/10 and the house is spacious for the amount of people.”

“The setting of the property is super with sheep and the river just over the lane and the position, an enjoyable 25 minute stroll into Ambleside, was a plus.”

“Good points The accommodation is large and clean Great location - not far from Ambleside and walks from the house are lovely Bad points The downstairs area (1 bathroom, 2 bedrooms) stinks of damp.”

“Lovely location but the cottage is becoming very dated, unloved.”

“Lovely well equipped cottage set in a beautiful and peaceful location, well positioned for easy access to lots of stunning nearby walks.”

“The dishwasher drawer is broken and the downstairs bathroom radiator is broken making the downstairs rooms cold in March.”

“What an amazing house.”

“Lovely house and nice location, unfortunately let down by the tiredness of the furniture uncomfortable couch and fire still not working in the living room, this as been mention in previously reviews over the past 12 months….”

“We stayed at this property at the same time last year and unfortunately this will be our last visit.”

“Beautiful location reasonably well maintained little areas of damp showing through now and ?”

“Overall lovely cottage and a nice stay.”

“Riverside lodge was in a lovely house in a good position, great views and away from the hustle and bustle in Ambleside.”

“We had a super holiday and really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge.”

“This is a lovely but rather quirky property being on different levels & with quirky & sometimes tiny bathrooms.”

“We really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge.”

“Fantastic property plus excellent location with stunning views makes for a great holiday.”

“Stunning property surrounded by breathtaking scenery.”

“Very good, lovely and convenient location, superb showers (stand out comment from all who stayed)”

“The location and the property was perfect The only disappointment was that we ...”

“Lovely house , very clean great location .”

“Firstly, I’d like to say that we had a great stay and do plan to come back.”

“Property situated in great area with walks straight from the door step.”

“We really enjoyed our stay, but was shocked at the price increase for the same property in the same week next year when I went to rebook.”

“Gets very cold and damp in lower floor so need to keep heaters on.”

“We found no cleaning supplies beyond a very small amount of washing up liquid.”

“Fantastic house in a great location.”

“Cottage was perfect and very clean.”

“A lovely house in a great location.”

“The views from the cottage were amazing.”

“Little things:- Our daughter asked us to raise the issue of the cot mattress which she felt was far too thin.”

“I believe we should have been compensated for tighter check in check out times.”

“We have stayed in numerous houses in the lakes-this our first time with lake lovers.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location

AMBLESIDE