"Little things like a tipple of port and daily homemade flapjacks in the room are just a couple of the many little things that made this stay memorable."
Jack from United Kingdom
read full review
"From the festive decor and personalized welcome plaque to the homemade goodies and promises of any refills of the tea and coffee service and port nightcap bottle, we felt very pampered."
Julie L from United Kingdom
read full review
"The breakfast was great with local products."
Chris from United Kingdom
read full review
4-star adults-only guesthouse in historic Ambleside
Accommodation
Waterwheel Guesthouse offers three individually styled guest rooms, each with a private bathroom featuring a bath and shower. Guests can choose rooms with garden or mountain views, or the Stockghyll room with a view of the old waterwheel and stream. The Deluxe Double Room includes a roll-top bath and underfloor heating.
Dining
A homemade breakfast is served daily, using locally sourced ingredients from Cumbrian butchers and suppliers. Options include full Cumbrian breakfast, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals, with fresh fruit, yoghurt, and granola. Guests receive homemade flapjacks and a decanter of port replenished each day.
Location & Parking
The guesthouse is a short walk from Bridge House and a 17-minute walk from Waterhead Pier on Windermere Lake. A complimentary parking permit is provided, valid at the nearby Rydal Road car park and other pay-and-display sites across the Lake District. The adults-only policy ensures quiet evenings despite the central location.
Guest Services & Extras
Hosts Debbie and Paul offer personalised local knowledge on walks, restaurants, and weather conditions. A nightly refreshment service restocks tea, coffee, biscuits, and homemade treats, with a tote bag for requesting replacements. High-speed fibre WiFi and free luggage storage are available for check-out day exploration.
Historic Character
The building dates from the 17th century, featuring a curved staircase, original stone walls, and a riverside setting beside a former mill. The guesthouse is tucked down a cobbled lane, offering a secluded feel within the town centre. Each room retains period features such as antique wardrobes and window seats overlooking the beck.
Highlights
Rooms: Only 3 individually styled guest rooms
Breakfast: Homemade full Cumbrian with local produce
Parking: Complimentary permit for multiple Lake District car parks
Policy: Adults-only for a quiet, tranquil stay
Treats: Homemade flapjacks and port replenished daily
History: 17th-century building with original features
Location: Central Ambleside, steps from Bridge House
Must-do experiences
Hike the Rothay Park trail for stunning views of the lake.
Savor a slice of Grasmere gingerbread at Sarah Nelson's shop.
Visit the Armitt Museum for a glimpse of local history and art.
Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Windermere to soak in nature.
Explore the bustling Ambleside Market for local crafts and produce.
Select your room type
Waterwheel Guesthouse features a range of room types across England, from double and family rooms to suites, with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers included
Superior Double Room
2 persons
11 m²
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Fireplace
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
11 m²
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Deluxe Double Room Bath
2 persons
11 m²
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your stay in England now!
Facilities
Waterwheel Guesthouse provides amenities to make your stay in England comfortable and memorable
Facilities: Perfect
9.8/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
No pets allowed
Adults only
Luggage storage
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Room features
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Waterwheel Guesthouse: Location in England
3 Bridge Street, Ambleside, LA22 9DU,
Map view
City landmarks
Garden
Rydal Mount
2.21 km
Landmark
Borrans Park
1.25 km
Landmark
High Close Estate
610 m
Landmark
Rydal Water
2.72 km
Landmark
Stock Ghyll Force
3.08 km
Landmark
Wansfell Pike
1.78 km
Landmark
Lily Tarn
1.59 km
Garden
Rydal Hall Gardens
2.05 km
Landmark
Dora's Field
2.07 km
Bridge
Bridge House
3.82 km
Landmark
Rydal Hall Sculpture Path
2.23 km
Landmark
High Sweden Bridge
2.21 km
Castle
Wray Castle
3.56 km
Landmark
Loughrigg Fell
3.03 km
Cave
Rydal Cave
2.51 km
Gallery
Old Courthouse Gallery
3.59 km
Landmark
Wansfell
2.7 km
Landmark
Brockhole on Windermere
3.67 km
Camping
Skelwith Fold
2.99 km
Landmark
Ambleside Roman Fort
4.92 km
Landmark
Hayes Garden World Ambleside
4.16 km
Landmark
Jenkin Crag
4.87 km
Landmark
The National Trust
3.82 km
Landmark
Rothay Park
4.1 km
Church
St Mary's Church
3.94 km
Landmark
Merz Barn
3.98 km
Nearby
Garden
Stagshaw Garden
50 m
Museum
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
500 m
Moss Eccles Tarn
50 m
AmblesideEngland
Copt Howe
50 m
Restaurants
The Unicorn Inn
30 m
North Road
The Apple Pie Cafe
3.89 km
Rydal Road Located Behind Our Bakery Shop
Sheila's Cottage Restaurant
3.64 km
The Slack
Queen's Hotel Kitchen and Restaurant
50 m
Market Place Queens Hotel
Zeffirelli's
3.77 km
Compston Road
The Sour Dough Pizza Company
50 m
Old Lake Road
The Ambleside Inn
3.62 km
Market Place
The Fulling Mill
3.9 km
Rydal Road
Explore Ambleside
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
High Close Estate
10 minutes' walk
Victorian mansion with stunning gardens and walking paths, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Stagshaw Garden
1 minute' walk
A picturesque garden featuring diverse plants and scenic views, ideal for a quick nature break.
Rydal Mount
25 minutes' walk
Home of poet William Wordsworth, showcasing beautiful gardens and historic exhibits.
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
7 minutes' walk
A local museum with art, history, and natural science displays, including works by local artists.
Hiking at Wansfell Pike
20 minutes' walk
A thrilling hike offering breathtaking views of the Lake District-ideal for adventure seekers.
Relaxation at Moss Eccles Tarn
1 minute' walk
A serene spot for picnics and birdwatching, perfect for those seeking tranquility and nature.
The Unicorn Inn
1 minute' walk
Traditional pub serving hearty meals and local ales in a cozy atmosphere-great for families.
Queen's Hotel Kitchen and Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Offers a fusion of classic and modern dishes, famous for its warm ambiance and seasonal menu.
The Apple Pie Cafe
10 minutes' drive
Known for its delicious homemade pies and café treats, this family-run establishment emphasizes local ingredients.
Zeferelli's
45 minutes' walk
A lively venue hosting live music and film screenings; perfect for a night out with friends.
Old Courthouse Gallery
45 minutes' walk
A gallery offering engaging exhibitions and cultural events, suitable for art lovers of all ages.
Getting around England
City Centre
Ambleside 6 min · 500 m
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 112 min · 74.6 km
Blackpool International (BLK) 160 min · 106.3 km
Bus
Bus stop 5 min · 400 m
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Find exclusive rates for stays across England now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-19:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
What previous guests said about staying at Waterwheel Guesthouse.
Cleanliness
9.9/10
Comfort
9.9/10
Facilities
9.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.8/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
9.7/10
Pros
Really good hosts
High cleanliness standard
Varied breakfast options
Comfortable room decor
Perfect Ambleside location
Cons
Pillow quality
Limited room space
Guest reviews
based on 117 reviews
9.7/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.