Guests say
Ghyll Bank House is highly praised for its stunning views, spacious layout, and suitability for large family gatherings. Guests appreciate the peaceful, scenic location and the well-equipped kitchen. The owners are frequently described as friendly and responsive. While some furnishings and decor are noted as dated and a few maintenance issues are mentioned, most guests found the property clean and comfortable, with plenty of space for children and dogs. The approach road is narrow, and some beds could be improved, but overall, guests enjoyed memorable stays and many plan to return.
Most guests found the property clean and tidy, with several positive mentions of cleanliness and well-prepared rooms. A few reviews noted minor oversights, such as needing to clean some kitchen equipment or a drain smell, but these did not significantly detract from the overall experience.
The location is consistently highlighted as a major strength, with spectacular views, tranquillity, and easy access to local walks and attractions. The only drawback mentioned is the narrow approach road, but guests generally felt the setting was worth it.
Guests appreciated the spaciousness and warmth of the house, with plenty of room for large groups. However, several reviews mention uncomfortable or worn mattresses and dated decor, which affected comfort for some guests.
The house is well-equipped for large groups, with ample kitchenware, two dishwashers, and plenty of bathrooms. Some minor maintenance issues (e.g., broken toilet seats, tired decor, heating controls) were noted, but overall facilities met or exceeded expectations for most guests.
The owners are frequently described as helpful and responsive, sometimes providing candles during power cuts and quickly addressing issues. However, there is no mention of guaranteed gifts or welcome packs, so guests should not expect these as standard.
About this property
Staveley 1.5 miles. Ghyll Bank House is a magnificent hillside retreat in the Lake District National Park, offering expansive accommodation and sweeping views. Ideal for large families and groups of friends seeking space, comfort, and a spectacular setting, this characterful property is just a short drive from Windermere, Bowness, and Ambleside. Set in an elevated position above the valley, the house welcomes guests with generous living spaces designed for gathering and relaxing. The sitting room invites slow evenings and shared moments, with an open fire adding warmth and atmosphere. Whether you're watching wildlife drift through the garden or enjoying quiet conversation, the space encourages connection and calm. The kitchen is well-equipped for group stays, flowing into an adjoining dining room where long meals and lively chats unfold naturally. It’s a place where plans are made, stories are shared, and the day begins or ends together. Eight bedrooms offer flexibility and comfort, allowing guests to spread out and settle in with ease. Each room is arranged to suit a variety of group types, making it easy for everyone to find their own restful corner. The bathrooms are well-appointed, offering convenience and privacy after days spent exploring the surrounding countryside.
Outside, the large gardens and patio provide a perfect setting for group gatherings, whether you're enjoying a relaxed lunch with panoramic views or watching the light shift across the fells as evening settles in. It’s a space made for laughter, shared meals, and moments that stretch long into the afternoon.
Ghyll Bank House offers a spacious and scenic base for unforgettable Lake District adventures. Note: This property can be booked with refs. 11534, 11535, 11536, & 2027 together sleeping 28 guests.
Staveley is situated between Kendal and Windermere and has gained a reputation as the Gateway to the Lakes. It is mainly comprised of picturesque, grey slate buildings, sandwiched between the Rivers Kent and Gowan. This once forested area was grazed as early as 4000BC. Iron Age farmers settled first and were followed by the English and Scandinavians and evidence of these early civilizations can be found throughout the region. The village has an excellent range of amenities including a variety of shops, three pubs, a craft shop and a Railway Station. Nearby, Windermere and Ambleside are better known than Chipping and offer a number of attractions such as boat trips on Lake Windemere and a ferry to the Lakeside Aquarium and Grizedale Forest Park.
Accommodation
Eight bedrooms: 1 x first floor double with en-suite bath, basin & WC – also accessed via landing, 1 x first floor double, 2 x first floor family rooms with 1 double & 1 single (one with en-suite bath, basin & WC), 1 x first floor twin, 1 x first floor bunks, 1 x ground floor double leading to 1 x twin with adjacent shower room with shower, basin and WC.
First floor shower room with shower, basin & WC.
First floor shower room with shower only.
Ground floor WC.
Fitted kitchen.
Dining room with TV & woodburner.
Utility.
Large sitting room with TV and open fire.
Hall with open fire
Oil central heating with open fires & woodburner.
Electric range cooker with ceramic hob, microwave, American style fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, 2 x dishwashers, 2 x TV with Freeview, video, DVD.
High speed, super fast broadband.
Oil, electricity & starter pack of fuel for open fires & woodburner included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
2 cots & 2 highchairs (please bring own cot bedding).
Ample off road parking.
Spacious, shared grounds.
Private patio, garden furniture & BBQ.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop & pub 1.5 miles.
Note: No fireworks due to the proximity of animals.
Note: The en-suite to one of the first floor doubles can also be accessed via the landing.
Note: If you wish to charge your electric vehicle at the property, please consult with the owner
Reviews (68)
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Patrick
It was in a beautiful setting peaceful and quiet with stunning views of the surroundings. There were a few things which needed attention before we would think about using it again. The beds were in need of replacing or at least the mattresses as they were uncomfortable and hard springs were felt on a few of them. Although there were enough bathrooms there was only two showers on the first floor maybe fitting showers in the 2 bathrooms with baths only would improve this. We also had to clean some of the kitchen equipment before using as they had obviously been overlooked previously. Basically a little more TLC by the owners and cleaning company would have given a higher star rating and a more comfortable stay.
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Estelle
There were 18 of us - 13 adults and 5 children. The house was perfectly suited for such a big group of us, plenty of room everywhere and they even had some games to keep the children busy. A couple of positive things: - loads of parking, we managed to park 6 cars. - huge house, plenty of space - suitable for hosting large groups of people - the views were absolutely amazing - having a log fire was definitely a benefit, the house was kept warm all night - the owners were lovely and easy to contact, although we didnât have any issues. A couple of things to bear in mind: - not much was provided so ensure to bring everything, for example tea, coffee, and sugar. There is a Spar in the village (10 mins away) but it is very small - the house decor and furniture was outdated, we found the beds quite uncomfortable so I would suggest bringing a couple of extra blankets/quilts to make it comfier Overall, we had a really lovely experience and would consider this property again 100%!
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Maria
There is plenty of room for our two families to catch up and relax. The owners are very helpful and quick to respond if there are any issues. Will be booking again for next year . Maria