4.3★
Lakelovers rating
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4 Guests
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2 Bedrooms
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1 Bathroom
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Pets No
Features
- Garden / Patio
- Cot available
- Highchair available
- Pub/shop < 1 mile
Reviews & Ratings
* Based on a combined average customer score
23 Customer Review(s)
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Rebecca 
“We had a great week in Ambleside, the property is very well located within easy walking distance of the village centre and waterfront.”
It has lovely views of the hills. Didn't realise on booking it had no WiFi (essential service in 2025) but we bought a mobile WiFi set which worked well. We were comfortable but this property is somewhat "no frills" without WiFi or a dishwasher, but it was fine for a week and we felt we had good value for money.
It has lovely views of the hills. Didn't realise on booking it had no WiFi (essential service in 2025) but we bought a mobile WiFi set which worked well. We were comfortable but this property is somewhat "no frills" without WiFi or a dishwasher, but it was fine for a week and we felt we had good value for money.
- Rebecca, April 2025 -
Jon “This was a least the 5th time we have stayed at Birch Knoll cottage, we visit every few years, so that should tell you that's it's perfect for our needs.”
However this might have to be the last time, as in these modern times the lack of WiFi is a real problem.
- Jon, September 2024Caroline “Thank you we had a fabulous stay, the facilities were good, the toilet maybe needs looking at, we had to flush a few times or play with the sisters to flush.”
And the car parking space could do with widening, we struggled to park and unload etc, at one point a car was parked opposite so we could get it in at all. The house itself is lovely, great location and we enjoyed our stay
- Caroline, August 2024Susan “Beautifully appointed property in a fantastic, convenient location.”
Very warm and comfortable, well furnished and beautifully decorated. The gardens were beautiful too and very private. The drive is fairly small - we have a Mini, so it wasn't a problem, but anything bigger would struggle! Will definitely return.
- Susan, July 2024Brian “The property suited our needs perfectly.”
We were attending our sailing club annual "Windermere Week" with our dinghy's launched and moored next to the steamer pier - so very close to. I have reduced my "mark" for Facilities only because I find an "over bath" shower difficult to use owing to a knee problem - otherwise every thing was good and comfortable. Thanks' Brian.
- Brian, May 2024Victoria “Great location for local walks and bus transport.”
All the comforts of home which proved invaluable when half way through holiday I had to attend Urgent Care in Kendal and spend rest of stay on bed rest. The family carried on and visited all the places we had planned Hill Top, Steam Yacht Gondola, Stagshaw Gardens, Stockghyll Force, Skelghyll Woods and not forgetting the pleasant amble along Borrons Road to the lake and pier at Waterhead with its lovely pubs and waterside cafes. Birch Knoll in our case proved to be fit for all purposes and I hope I will be able to return in the future and finish the holiday I started.
- Victoria, May 2024Wendy “It was very good we loved the inside and the outside of the bungalow we would definitely come again thank you.”
- Wendy, November 2023Stephen “No Wi-Fi deters is from a return visit.”
The parking space is far too small so had to park on road.
- Stephen, November 2023Thank you for your comments. The property is not listed as having WIFI but we take all comments on board. The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Stuart “Our third holiday at Birch Knoll looking forward to the fourth”
- Stuart, October 2023Amy “Lovely cottage about a 10min walk into ambleside Town and 5-10min walk to the lake.”
We have a 7 month old and an 11 year old who both seemed to love it too! We would definitely recommend.
- Amy, August 2023Ann “This is a beautiful cottage set in wonderful scenery.”
A short walk to Waterhead and Ambleside and close to all that the Lake District has to offer. Just a couple of warnings for future stays. We have a Kia Sportage which did not fit into the drive so we had to park on the road which was fine. Also, the shower over the bath could have done with a non slip mat for safety and a screen not a curtain. Other than that we had a wonderful four nights at the cottage.
- Ann, May 2023Mark “The cottage is comfortable and in an excellent location.”
We had a fantastic time. On the down side, the cleaning pack that is left for you has dishwasher tablets when there is no dishwasher and no washing up liquid so we had to buy our own. If you want people to leave the cottage as they find it, supply the right equipment for them to do so. A little tea & coffee and a drop of milk would be good. Wi fi would be handy but the lack of it did not bother me. Mark Mason.
- Mark, August 2022Jon “Our third visit to Birch Knoll.”
Clean and comfortable (apart from the double bed) cottage within easy walking distance to Ambleside town centre and Waterside. Would benefit from having WiFi installed as 4G data connection was often lacking.
- Jon, June 2022Ritesh “The cottage was beautiful and the location is excellent.”
- Ritesh, April 2022Mark “Excellent location between Waterhead and Ambleside.”
A comfortable and warm property with lovely fell views from the lounge.
- Mark, March 2022Tom “Very well priced - a converted retirement flat or similar somewhat updated for the holiday market (new kitchen, boiler, freshly painted, but, e.”
G., sofa blocks front door). Very comfortable sitting room, garage for storage, and well equipped kitchen (we made brownies!). As previously noted, the cleaning was what we now expect from Psyches - they never get around to their deep cleans, changing lightbulbs, etc... Their staff are given so little time for the cleaning. As advertised: no wifi and limited parking.
- Tom, December 2021Kerr “Torn about this review.”
We had to cancel an earlier booking last minute due to a positive covid test and the owner allowed us to move the booking back a couple of months. This was very much appreciated. The location of the cottage is excellent. 10/15 mins stroll from Ambleside centre and 5 mins from Ambleside pier. Nice garden area. However the cleanliness wasn’t great. There were spiders and webs all over the ceiling throughout the property and dead spiders on the carpet suggesting it hadn’t been hoovered. The bed covers weren’t done up properly, the bin collection notice was out of date, the car space is too small for a modern car (street parking is Ok though), TV signal was awful, the skirting boards and bathroom edging was tatty in parts (also covered in dust). Our booking was for adults and a toddler. High chair etc is provided for a toddler so clearly that’s expected but the small bedroom doesn’t have any space to put up a cot, and there are wires all over the floor in various rooms. The advert doesn’t state there is WiFi however these days WiFi should be expected. That was a disappointment (especially given the terrible TV reception - seemingly from poor wire connections).
- Kerr, September 2021Rob “We had a great week at Birch Knoll.”
Fantastic location for both Ambleside and the lake. Great walks in the area, garage makes for excellent, secure storage for four bikes.
- Rob, August 2021Helen “The property particulars state that a car can be parked in the garage but there is a sign in the garage saying that vehicles are not allowed.”
We booked the property on the basis that there was secure storage for a motorbike and trailer. 50% price increase since 2019 is excessive and unwarranted. At this price I would expect wifi and a dishwasher at least.
- Helen, August 2021Querida “This cottage is pleasant and clean.”
Parking is not an issue as plenty of room to park outside the rear gate if you can not get on the off road parking (it's a quiet cul-de-sac). Although it didn't say it had WiFi - I didn't specifically check as there is no reason not to have WiFi in Ambleside although I always check in more remote areas, so disappointing when we realised it didn't have any - this needs resolving in this day and age. Also the main road that runs along the front garden is noisy when you are out in the garden (although it is totally private due to high hedge) however we knew exactly where the cottage was so we were expecting that. Quiet in the house though. Really convenient location 5 mins walk from lake - we brought kayaks and easily wheeled them to the lake. There are the remains of an old Roman fort in the field opposite which is nice for a stroll round when waiting for everyone else to wake up - accessed via the park 5 mins away. The garage is really useful - we kept kayaks in there and would also be good for wet gear and/or bikes. Also there is a freezer in garage which was useful. I had trouble getting dryer to work which I reported and they responded within the day. Nice view from sitting room. I'm never keen on a dining table over a carpet especially with kids - I always worry I'll get a bill for cleaning but fortunately no mishaps. There is a front porch area which is useful for storing things you don't need every day like cool boxes, extra coats etc as you access the house via back kitchen door. All in all it is a convenient, pleasant, clean cottage.
- Querida, July 2021Ian “We didn’t realise there was no wi fi and feel that shoukd be said in the listing.”
The tv pixilated on itv and needs to be checked ( we fiddled with the wires and got it to work . The sink in bathroom did not empty easily The description on arrival was confusing as it suggested that you go to your office to pick up keys ( on a Sunday it was closed ) although you also mention the key case and code it is confusing you office in Windermere is lake lovers and we were looking for Sykes !! But the positioning was excellent and really handy for both the lake and Ambleside . We enjoyed our break and hope the comments above help you Kind regards Ian
- Ian, July 2021John “It could really do with wi-fi.”
We are in the 21st century. Need to emphasise that it is a small parking space. I barely got my car in, and only with it hanging over the pavement. But a very good holiday.
- John, June 2021Mr Dean “Had very enjoyable stay at Birch Knoll which is good for older people.”
Its very convenient for buses and boats and some lovely restaurants. Parking outside not easy if you have large car.
- Mr Dean, Sep 2019Summary
- Quality Assessment completed November 2024 - Grading Retained
- 2 bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 twin
- House bathroom with shower over bath
- Sitting room with dining area
- Kitchen.
- Gas central heating
- Electric oven with electric hob
- Microwave
- Fridge with freezer compartment
- Washer/dryer
- TV
- DVD
- Fuel and power inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Parking for one car
- Garden with furniture
- Garage suitable for storing bikes and canoes
- Sorry, no smoking and no pets
The property
A beautifully presented Lakeland bungalow with private gardens and fell views, only 5 minutes walk from the centre of Ambleside and close to Waterhead Pier.
Birch Knoll has been recently refurbished and boasts a stylish, contemporary interior with bright, airy living space and elegant dining area.
This is a wonderfully convenient Lake District holiday home, a stroll away from lake cruises on Windermere and with vibrant village life close by.
Walks abound from your doorstep and manageable journeys by car or bus will take you throughout our spectacular National Park.
Accommodation in detail Birch Knoll sits in well tended garden, with private parking for one car in the garage and further secure parking right outside the property.
Entrance porch leads to bright and airy lounge / dining room with feature electric fire, comfortable furnishings and superb views.
Stylish, well equipped kitchen suitable for all holiday purposes.
Inner hallway gives access to the two bedrooms, both with attractive views, and to the bathroom with separate WC.
Location Waterhead nestles at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, where Windermere Lake Cruisers make regular departures to Bowness and Lakeside.
There are a couple of small shops, cafes, pubs and lake shore restaurants to tempt you out, and the delights of central Ambleside are only a few minutes away. Ambleside itself, only 20 miles from the M6 is known as the 'gem' of Lakeland.
There's a friendly atmosphere, interesting industrial history, exceptional shopping and an array of eateries and entertainments including a renowned cinema, jazz bar and pizzeria.
The surrounding landscapes are spellbinding, with views across Lake Windermere and a famously picturesque stretch of the A591 taking you from Ambleside, past tranquil Rydal Water to Grasmere.
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.
This property offers the following short breaks:
- Winter
- Off-season
- Last minute
- Christmas
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