Guests say
River Lodge is a spacious property in a stunning, peaceful location with easy access to local walks and Ambleside. Guests appreciate the ample parking, en-suite bathrooms, and the views. While some find the beds firm and the sofas worn, the house's charm and setting often outweigh these concerns.
The cleanliness of River Lodge has received mixed feedback. Some guests found the property clean, while others noted areas that required more attention, such as bathroom cleanliness and the presence of dust and grime. The property seems to maintain a reasonable standard of cleanliness, but there is room for improvement.
The location of River Lodge is highly praised for its proximity to Ambleside and stunning walks, offering a peaceful setting with great views. The convenience and beauty of the location contribute to a positive experience for guests.
Comfort at the property is adequate, with some guests finding the beds too firm and the sofas uncomfortable. However, the spaciousness and warmth of the house are appreciated. The comfort level is generally satisfactory, but updates to furniture could enhance the experience.
Facilities at River Lodge have room for improvement. Guests have reported issues with the fire not working, boiler noise, and a lack of cold water. While the property offers a range of amenities, the maintenance of these facilities has been a recurring concern.
There is no mention of gifts or special touches that would indicate thoughtfulness from the hosts. Therefore, it is not possible to provide a score in this category.
About this property
If you’re looking for immaculate country house chic, Farrow & Ball colours and sheer comfort, River Lodge is for you. Overlooking the River Rothay, this impressive house split over 3 levels, is 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 River Lodge provides luxurious holiday living in this fantastic location. Walks, rambles and outdoor adventures are all on your doorstep...there's a great local pub only a stroll away. Heading toward Ambleside you can enjoy all its bustling restaurants, pubs and cafes; not to mention 2 cinemas and a jazz bar, and characterful shops. All around you, you’re surrounded by the magnificent backdrop of the Central Fells.
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.
Accommodation
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)
Reviews (33)
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Michele
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.
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Barry
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.
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Heather
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.