The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group
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Summary of reviewsThe Waterhead Inn – The Inn Collection Group is highly praised by guests for its picturesque and convenient location. Nestled by the lakeside with spectacular views of Lake Windermere, the Inn offers easy access to the charming village of Ambleside and its amenities. Proximity to public transportation, the ferry dock and jetty for boat trips makes it an ideal base for exploring the Lake District.
The breakfast experience at the Inn is generally well-regarded with many guests commending the quality and variety of the food. Fresh, filling meals and a wide selection of hot and cold dishes elevate the breakfast experience, despite occasional issues with service and temperature.
Dinner at the Inn receives mixed reviews but leans positive with many guests enjoying the delicious and well-cooked meals. The atmosphere and scenic views of the restaurant are appreciated, although some guests noted a need for more menu variety and better value for the price.
Rooms at The Waterhead Inn are celebrated for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Well-maintained with stylish, modern furnishings, many rooms offer stunning lake views that guests find worth the premium. Despite minor issues such as noise from road-facing rooms and occasional maintenance problems, most visitors find the rooms to be a pleasant retreat.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at the Inn with both rooms and communal areas being described as spotless and well-refurbished. Guests appreciate the high standards of maintenance and the welcoming, dog-friendly environment.
The staff at The Waterhead Inn receive an overwhelmingly positive response, frequently described as friendly, attentive and helpful. Standout team members are often mentioned by name, underlining the personal and professional service provided.
The free WiFi service at the Inn is generally adequate, though reliability and strength can vary. While some guests report excellent connectivity, others experienced occasional dropouts and limited coverage in certain areas.
Parking facilities at the Inn are seen as a mixed bag. While on-site parking is available and often convenient, peak times can lead to cramped and insufficient spaces, posing challenges for guests.
The beds at the Inn receive high marks for comfort with many guests noting their large size and the quality of the bedding. Most visitors report a restful night's sleep, underscoring the Inn's commitment to guest comfort.
While feedback regarding the Inn's four-star rating is mixed, many guests appreciate the cosy atmosphere and spacious rooms. Some feel that the Inn falls short of four-star expectations, citing service issues and minimal home comforts.
Luxury at The Waterhead Inn is noted in its chic ambiance and meticulous refurbishment. Guests often describe the rooms as massive, pristine and offering a high standard of comfort and opulence, contributing to an overall enchanting experience.
Despite some areas for improvement, The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection Group remains a top choice for travelers seeking a scenic, comfortable and well-connected retreat in the heart of the Lake District.
Categories
The breakfast experience at the Inn is generally well-regarded with many guests commending the quality and variety of the food. Fresh, filling meals and a wide selection of hot and cold dishes elevate the breakfast experience, despite occasional issues with service and temperature.
Dinner at the Inn receives mixed reviews but leans positive with many guests enjoying the delicious and well-cooked meals. The atmosphere and scenic views of the restaurant are appreciated, although some guests noted a need for more menu variety and better value for the price.
Rooms at The Waterhead Inn are celebrated for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Well-maintained with stylish, modern furnishings, many rooms offer stunning lake views that guests find worth the premium. Despite minor issues such as noise from road-facing rooms and occasional maintenance problems, most visitors find the rooms to be a pleasant retreat.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at the Inn with both rooms and communal areas being described as spotless and well-refurbished. Guests appreciate the high standards of maintenance and the welcoming, dog-friendly environment.
The staff at The Waterhead Inn receive an overwhelmingly positive response, frequently described as friendly, attentive and helpful. Standout team members are often mentioned by name, underlining the personal and professional service provided.
The free WiFi service at the Inn is generally adequate, though reliability and strength can vary. While some guests report excellent connectivity, others experienced occasional dropouts and limited coverage in certain areas.
Parking facilities at the Inn are seen as a mixed bag. While on-site parking is available and often convenient, peak times can lead to cramped and insufficient spaces, posing challenges for guests.
The beds at the Inn receive high marks for comfort with many guests noting their large size and the quality of the bedding. Most visitors report a restful night's sleep, underscoring the Inn's commitment to guest comfort.
While feedback regarding the Inn's four-star rating is mixed, many guests appreciate the cosy atmosphere and spacious rooms. Some feel that the Inn falls short of four-star expectations, citing service issues and minimal home comforts.
Luxury at The Waterhead Inn is noted in its chic ambiance and meticulous refurbishment. Guests often describe the rooms as massive, pristine and offering a high standard of comfort and opulence, contributing to an overall enchanting experience.
Despite some areas for improvement, The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection Group remains a top choice for travelers seeking a scenic, comfortable and well-connected retreat in the heart of the Lake District.
Dog Friendly Inn
This inn welcomes well-behaved dogs in their rooms for an additional fee of £15 per night, offering special cleansing after each use. It is located near Windermere shore and surrounded by trails. Water bowls are available around the inn, and dog treats are given upon arrival.
Boutique-style Inn
Luxury Inn
Inn Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Certifications:
Green Key (greenkey.global)
Answers last updated by our editors
Inn with Parking
4-Star Inn
Guest Reviews
The Waterhead Inn enjoys an outstanding lakeside position with spectacular views of Lake Windermere. The hotel's proximity to the lake is a recurring highlight, providing guests with wonderful, breath-taking scenery right from their rooms. This prime location offers easy access to public transportation, making it convenient for travelers to explore the surrounding Lake District.
A short walk takes guests to the center of Ambleside, a charming village filled with local amenities and attractions. The proximity to the ferry dock and bus stops further enhances its appeal for those seeking to venture out and discover more of the area. Many reviews particularly appreciate the peaceful and picturesque setting, away from the crowds yet still central.
The hotel's setting is perfect for both relaxed waterfront strolls and more extended walks into Ambleside. Whether guests desire quick access to town or a serene escape by the water, The Waterhead Inn offers a perfect blend of both. Its strategic positioning near the jetty for boat trips and the steamer quay makes it an ideal base for enjoying the stunning Lake District landscape.
Overall, the location of The Waterhead Inn is frequently praised for being both picturesque and convenient, making it a top choice for those seeking a scenic and well-connected retreat in the heart of the Lake District.
The breakfast experience at The Waterhead Inn garners a mix of opinions, though the majority of reviews highlight a positive dining journey. Guests frequently commend the breakfast for its excellent quality with many describing it as superb, first-class and highly enjoyable. The fresh and filling meals, coupled with a wide selection of both hot and cold dishes, leave a lasting impression.
Breakfast offerings feature diverse options, appealing to international tastes and include everything from cereals and pastries to well-cooked hot dishes like Eggs Benedict. The buffet style service is appreciated for providing ample choice and allowing guests to return for more if desired. Some reviews specifically mention the speed and efficiency of the breakfast service, alongside the friendly and attentive staff.
Noteworthy are the positive comments on the quality of the food, often described as delicious and the high standard of presentation. Freshly served and piping hot meals contribute to the favorable dining experience. Guests appreciate the venue for its comfort and recent refurbishments, which enhance the overall ambiance.
However, a few reviews indicate areas for improvement. There are mentions of the cooked breakfast being served not hot enough, cold plates and occasional service lapses like incorrect orders and unhelpful staff. Some guests found the breakfast to be nothing special, adequate or even disappointing, citing issues with the variety and freshness of some buffet items.
Overall, the breakfast at The Waterhead Inn receives high marks for quality, choice and service, making it a well-regarded aspect of the stay, despite a few hiccups noted by some guests.
The dining experience at The Waterhead Inn receives mixed reviews with a significant emphasis on the positive aspects. Many guests enjoyed their meals, frequently describing the food as excellent, delicious and well-cooked. The quality of the breakfast and dinner was consistently praised and the restaurant was often complimented for its lovely atmosphere and scenic views.
The dinner menu offered a varied set of options, which some guests appreciated. However, some reviews highlight a need for more variety, especially for vegetarian dishes. While many found the food to be tasty and the service to be good, issues around high pricing and portion sizes were commonly noted. Some guests felt the food was overpriced for what was essentially basic pub fare and the portion sizes ranged from too small to overly large.
A few guests experienced problems with the quality and temperature of the food with some meals served not hot enough and a few dishes arriving cold. The consistency of menu options seemed to be an issue for some, who noted that the menu did not change often enough. There were also comments about the restaurant service being slow at times and the overall dining experience lacking in atmosphere on certain evenings.
In conclusion, while the food at The Waterhead Inn is often described as delicious and the dining experience generally positive, the feedback also suggests areas for improvement, particularly regarding menu variety, pricing and consistency in service.
The rooms at The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection Group have garnered positive feedback for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Many guests appreciated the large, comfortable rooms that provide a much-needed respite, especially after a long day of hiking. The immaculate condition of the rooms, including well-maintained bathrooms and stylish furnishings, was often highlighted. Several rooms feature stunning views of the lake, which are described as well worth the additional cost. Newly refurbished rooms with modern amenities and high-standard furnishings have added to the positive experiences.
Guests found the rooms to be very comfortable with many noting the large beds and quiet atmosphere. Some rooms come with additional conveniences such as being well-stocked with essentials like tea bags, coffee and milk. The pet-friendly policy is also a significant attraction for some visitors.
However, there are a few drawbacks mentioned. Some rooms facing the road tend to be noisy and there are no lifts, which can make accessing top-floor rooms challenging. A few guests mentioned issues such as room sizes being smaller than expected, outdated furnishings and some rooms needing refurbishment or better maintenance. Additionally, specific rooms suffered from problems like a drainage smell or lack of sufficient bathroom products.
Overall, the majority of the guests found the rooms to be clean, comfortable and well-equipped, making for a pleasant stay despite some minor issues.
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group has received numerous positive remarks for its beds with many guests raving about their comfort. Descriptions such as very comfortable, extremely comfortable and super comfortable were frequently noted, indicating a consistently high standard when it comes to offering a good night's rest. The beds are also described as big, huge and even super king size, providing ample space for relaxation.
Guests appreciated the clean and fresh bedding and linens, adding to the overall comfort. Some reviewers highlighted the firmness and supportive nature of the mattresses, while others praised the softness. There was an occasional mention of less than ideal pillows with some finding them either too firm or too soft, but these did not seem to significantly detract from the overall bed experience.
In summary, The Waterhead Inn demonstrates a clear commitment to guest comfort with its large, clean and notably comfortable beds, ensuring a restful stay.
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group has garnered high praise for its impeccable cleanliness. Guests consistently highlight the rooms and bathrooms as very clean with terms like spotlessly clean and immaculate frequently mentioned. The hotel itself is described as clean and warm with a well-maintained and recently refurbished ambiance contributing to its overall comfort. Communal areas are reported to be clean, bright and modern, enhancing the guests' experience.
Despite a few isolated comments about some areas and facilities being less clean or in need of attention, the general consensus emphasizes the hotel's high cleaning standards. The rooms are not only clean but also comfortable and well-equipped. Additionally, the hotel's clean and dog-friendly environment, along with its lovely decor, has contributed to a positive reputation among visitors.
While some reviewers noted occasional challenges with outdated furniture and minor maintenance issues, the commitment to cleanliness is apparent and well-appreciated. This focus on maintaining a tidy and pleasant atmosphere makes The Waterhead Inn a noteworthy choice for travelers seeking a clean and welcoming stay.
The Waterhead Inn, part of The Inn Collection Group, has received an overwhelmingly positive response regarding its staff from recent guest reviews. Visitors consistently describe the team as friendly, helpful and attentive. Many reviews highlight the excellent service provided by the staff, emphasizing their welcoming nature and professionalism. Specific mentions of certain staff members, such as Louis, Eddy, Charlie and Rosie, indicate standout experiences with personable and dedicated staff members. Guests appreciate the hard work and efficiency of the team, along with their polite and courteous demeanor.
However, not all feedback is uniformly positive. Some reviews mention areas for improvement, such as the need for more professional training for certain staff members and occasional lapses in friendliness and attentiveness. Despite these few critiques, the general consensus is that the staff at The Waterhead Inn work very hard to ensure guests have a pleasant stay. Many guests note that the staff is managing well, even while being stretched and they particularly appreciate the cheerful and positive attitudes encountered throughout their stay.
Overall, the staff at The Waterhead Inn are frequently described as amazing, making significant contributions to the positive experience of guests through their commitment and welcoming presence.
The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group generally offers a satisfactory experience when it comes to WiFi. Many guests found the free WiFi service to be excellent and capable of meeting their needs. Users often reported good signal quality with the WiFi working fine or fairly well, contributing to a positive stay. However, the reliability and strength of the WiFi connection varied with some guests noting occasional issues such as spotty service, connection dropouts and the need to frequently re-sign in. While the WiFi was indeed free, its availability was limited with some guests mentioning that it was not accessible in their rooms. Overall, while there are some areas for improvement, the WiFi service at The Waterhead Inn has generally been adequate for most guests.
The Waterhead Inn, part of The Inn Collection Group, offers a mixed experience when it comes to parking facilities. On the bright side, some guests appreciated the availability of on-site parking, describing it as good, convenient and even free. The presence of off-street and private car parks is noted positively. In peak times, however, many visitors found the parking arrangements to be limited and cramped, which could be tricky and awkward. The parking spaces were sometimes insufficient, leading to a scarcity that did not meet the demands, especially for those requiring disabled parking spots. Additionally, some guests mentioned that the car park was inefficiently signed and not always clear. A nearby public car park provides an alternative, although it operates on a pay-and-display basis. Despite the challenges, if timed right, guests might find car parking space onsite.
The Waterhead Inn, part of The Inn Collection Group, receives mixed feedback regarding its four-star rating, facilities and services. Guests appreciate the hotel's cosy atmosphere and spacious rooms, describing them as huge and suggesting that some rooms meet four-star quality standards.
However, several visitors expressed disappointment, feeling that the hotel does not live up to a four-star rating. Issues such as insufficient service, no new towels provided, minimal home comforts and a lack of detailed fire escape instructions were notable concerns. Additionally, the restaurant menu was found to be repetitive, despite the food and breakfast being well-prepared, tasty and nicely presented.
While the hotel has the potential to be fabulous, its current offerings have led some guests to feel that it falls short of four-star expectations, particularly given its five-star pricing. Overall, the Waterhead Inn offers a mixed experience with a blend of comfort and areas needing improvement.
Nestled in the heart of Windermere, The Waterhead Inn – The Inn Collection Group offers an enchanting blend of luxury and elegance. Guests consistently remark on the chic ambiance and the meticulous refurbishment of the hotel, giving it a new and modern edge.
Rooms are often described as massive, pristine and newly renovated, offering a high standard of comfort and opulence. Many highlight the plush and quiet atmosphere, especially on the top floor. Specific luxury touches such as The White Company toiletries and stunning decorations further enhance the sense of indulgence. Several visitors note the fantastic condition of the rooms and rave about the lavish atmosphere that pervades the entire hotel.
While some self-catering suites are considered a bit basic, most areas exude a luxury vibe, particularly the bathrooms which guests describe as pure luxury. The lobby and restaurant are often cited for their stunning fine dining ambiance, adding to the overall high-end experience.
In summary, The Waterhead Inn offers a luxurious stay with a focus on high standards and chic decor, although there are minor lapses in luxury for some amenities. Overall, it provides a refined and sumptuous retreat in the Lake District.
The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection Group is highly praised for its exceptional dog-friendly facilities, services and amenities. Guests have noted that dogs receive considerable attention and are treated like rockstars with the hotel providing dog beds, towels, bowls and treats in the rooms. Dogs are allowed in various areas including the dining and bar sections, making it convenient for guests to dine without leaving their pets behind.
The staff are welcoming to dogs and ensure they are catered to as well as the human guests. Special touches like breakfast sausages and boxed milk for dogs have been particularly appreciated. The dog-friendly attitude is evident throughout the hotel with specific areas designated for dogs to relax and enjoy.
Overall, the Waterhead Inn offers a truly pet-friendly experience, making dogs feel like valued guests. However, there are mentions of the need for guidelines to manage dog accessibility, ensuring the experience remains pleasant for all.
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Location
A short walk takes guests to the center of Ambleside, a charming village filled with local amenities and attractions. The proximity to the ferry dock and bus stops further enhances its appeal for those seeking to venture out and discover more of the area. Many reviews particularly appreciate the peaceful and picturesque setting, away from the crowds yet still central.
The hotel's setting is perfect for both relaxed waterfront strolls and more extended walks into Ambleside. Whether guests desire quick access to town or a serene escape by the water, The Waterhead Inn offers a perfect blend of both. Its strategic positioning near the jetty for boat trips and the steamer quay makes it an ideal base for enjoying the stunning Lake District landscape.
Overall, the location of The Waterhead Inn is frequently praised for being both picturesque and convenient, making it a top choice for those seeking a scenic and well-connected retreat in the heart of the Lake District.
Breakfast
Breakfast offerings feature diverse options, appealing to international tastes and include everything from cereals and pastries to well-cooked hot dishes like Eggs Benedict. The buffet style service is appreciated for providing ample choice and allowing guests to return for more if desired. Some reviews specifically mention the speed and efficiency of the breakfast service, alongside the friendly and attentive staff.
Noteworthy are the positive comments on the quality of the food, often described as delicious and the high standard of presentation. Freshly served and piping hot meals contribute to the favorable dining experience. Guests appreciate the venue for its comfort and recent refurbishments, which enhance the overall ambiance.
However, a few reviews indicate areas for improvement. There are mentions of the cooked breakfast being served not hot enough, cold plates and occasional service lapses like incorrect orders and unhelpful staff. Some guests found the breakfast to be nothing special, adequate or even disappointing, citing issues with the variety and freshness of some buffet items.
Overall, the breakfast at The Waterhead Inn receives high marks for quality, choice and service, making it a well-regarded aspect of the stay, despite a few hiccups noted by some guests.
Dinner
The dinner menu offered a varied set of options, which some guests appreciated. However, some reviews highlight a need for more variety, especially for vegetarian dishes. While many found the food to be tasty and the service to be good, issues around high pricing and portion sizes were commonly noted. Some guests felt the food was overpriced for what was essentially basic pub fare and the portion sizes ranged from too small to overly large.
A few guests experienced problems with the quality and temperature of the food with some meals served not hot enough and a few dishes arriving cold. The consistency of menu options seemed to be an issue for some, who noted that the menu did not change often enough. There were also comments about the restaurant service being slow at times and the overall dining experience lacking in atmosphere on certain evenings.
In conclusion, while the food at The Waterhead Inn is often described as delicious and the dining experience generally positive, the feedback also suggests areas for improvement, particularly regarding menu variety, pricing and consistency in service.
Rooms
Guests found the rooms to be very comfortable with many noting the large beds and quiet atmosphere. Some rooms come with additional conveniences such as being well-stocked with essentials like tea bags, coffee and milk. The pet-friendly policy is also a significant attraction for some visitors.
However, there are a few drawbacks mentioned. Some rooms facing the road tend to be noisy and there are no lifts, which can make accessing top-floor rooms challenging. A few guests mentioned issues such as room sizes being smaller than expected, outdated furnishings and some rooms needing refurbishment or better maintenance. Additionally, specific rooms suffered from problems like a drainage smell or lack of sufficient bathroom products.
Overall, the majority of the guests found the rooms to be clean, comfortable and well-equipped, making for a pleasant stay despite some minor issues.
Beds
Guests appreciated the clean and fresh bedding and linens, adding to the overall comfort. Some reviewers highlighted the firmness and supportive nature of the mattresses, while others praised the softness. There was an occasional mention of less than ideal pillows with some finding them either too firm or too soft, but these did not seem to significantly detract from the overall bed experience.
In summary, The Waterhead Inn demonstrates a clear commitment to guest comfort with its large, clean and notably comfortable beds, ensuring a restful stay.
Cleanliness
Despite a few isolated comments about some areas and facilities being less clean or in need of attention, the general consensus emphasizes the hotel's high cleaning standards. The rooms are not only clean but also comfortable and well-equipped. Additionally, the hotel's clean and dog-friendly environment, along with its lovely decor, has contributed to a positive reputation among visitors.
While some reviewers noted occasional challenges with outdated furniture and minor maintenance issues, the commitment to cleanliness is apparent and well-appreciated. This focus on maintaining a tidy and pleasant atmosphere makes The Waterhead Inn a noteworthy choice for travelers seeking a clean and welcoming stay.
Staff
However, not all feedback is uniformly positive. Some reviews mention areas for improvement, such as the need for more professional training for certain staff members and occasional lapses in friendliness and attentiveness. Despite these few critiques, the general consensus is that the staff at The Waterhead Inn work very hard to ensure guests have a pleasant stay. Many guests note that the staff is managing well, even while being stretched and they particularly appreciate the cheerful and positive attitudes encountered throughout their stay.
Overall, the staff at The Waterhead Inn are frequently described as amazing, making significant contributions to the positive experience of guests through their commitment and welcoming presence.
Wi-Fi
Parking
4 Star
However, several visitors expressed disappointment, feeling that the hotel does not live up to a four-star rating. Issues such as insufficient service, no new towels provided, minimal home comforts and a lack of detailed fire escape instructions were notable concerns. Additionally, the restaurant menu was found to be repetitive, despite the food and breakfast being well-prepared, tasty and nicely presented.
While the hotel has the potential to be fabulous, its current offerings have led some guests to feel that it falls short of four-star expectations, particularly given its five-star pricing. Overall, the Waterhead Inn offers a mixed experience with a blend of comfort and areas needing improvement.
Luxury
Rooms are often described as massive, pristine and newly renovated, offering a high standard of comfort and opulence. Many highlight the plush and quiet atmosphere, especially on the top floor. Specific luxury touches such as The White Company toiletries and stunning decorations further enhance the sense of indulgence. Several visitors note the fantastic condition of the rooms and rave about the lavish atmosphere that pervades the entire hotel.
While some self-catering suites are considered a bit basic, most areas exude a luxury vibe, particularly the bathrooms which guests describe as pure luxury. The lobby and restaurant are often cited for their stunning fine dining ambiance, adding to the overall high-end experience.
In summary, The Waterhead Inn offers a luxurious stay with a focus on high standards and chic decor, although there are minor lapses in luxury for some amenities. Overall, it provides a refined and sumptuous retreat in the Lake District.
Dog Friendly
The staff are welcoming to dogs and ensure they are catered to as well as the human guests. Special touches like breakfast sausages and boxed milk for dogs have been particularly appreciated. The dog-friendly attitude is evident throughout the hotel with specific areas designated for dogs to relax and enjoy.
Overall, the Waterhead Inn offers a truly pet-friendly experience, making dogs feel like valued guests. However, there are mentions of the need for guidelines to manage dog accessibility, ensuring the experience remains pleasant for all.
No, The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group.
Yes, The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group.
No, The Waterhead Inn- The Inn Collection Group doesn't have a gym.
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