Waterwheel Guesthouse Ambleside Exterior photoWaterwheel Guesthouse Ambleside Exterior photoWaterwheel Guesthouse Ambleside Exterior photo

Waterwheel Guesthouse - 4-Star Hotel in Ambleside

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From$147 /night
Check-in
30May
Check-out
31May
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

3 Bridge Street, Ambleside, LA22 9DU
-
Close to Skelwith Force Waterfall
Perfect
9.8
/10
5.0
5.0
/5

Rooms & Suites

The Waterwheel Guesthouse offers three individually styled guest rooms, each named after local landmarks - Stockghyll, Rattleghyll, and Loughrigg. The Stockghyll room includes a window seat with views of the waterwheel and the Ghyll stream. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee making facilities with homemade flapjacks and a carafe of port replenished daily.

Amenities & Services

Guests receive a complimentary parking permit valid for the Rydal Road car park and many other pay-and-display car parks across the Lake District. The guesthouse provides homemade treats such as flapjacks and millionaire's shortbread left outside the room each day. A tote bag system allows guests to request refills of tea, coffee, port, and toiletries by ticking items on a list.

Dining

Breakfast includes locally sourced Cumbrian ingredients, with options like full English, vegetarian, kippers, and potato cakes. Fresh fruit, berries, yogurts, cereals, and local jams are served on ice each morning. The guesthouse accommodates dietary requirements with advance notice, offering vegan and gluten-free alternatives.

Location & Surroundings

The Waterwheel Guesthouse is situated in central Ambleside, within a two-minute walk of shops, pubs, and restaurants. Nearby attractions include Windermere Lake for boat trips, Rydal Mount and Gardens, and Scafell Pike for hiking. The building dates back to the 17th century and features a curved staircase and original period architecture.

Special Touches & Policies

This adults-only guesthouse enforces a peaceful atmosphere with no children or pets allowed. Guests can access nearby luxury spa facilities during their stay. The hosts provide personalized welcome gestures, nightly refreshments, and detailed local knowledge for walks and dining recommendations.

Highlights

Rooms: only 3 individually styled rooms

Dining: award-winning locally sourced breakfasts

Location: central Ambleside, 2 min walk from all amenities

Special: complimentary parking permit valid across multiple car parks

Policy: adults-only, no children or pets

“This guesthouse immediately impresses with thoughtful touches, from the daily homemade treats to the attentive hosting that makes you feel genuinely cared for. Its prime Ambleside location and the quiet charm of the rooms, especially those overlooking the waterwheel, create a truly restorative atmosphere.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at 4shotels

Select your room type

Waterwheel Guesthouse offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Superior Double Room
    2 persons
    11 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Fireplace
  • Standard Double Room
    2 persons
    11 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Deluxe Double Room Bath
    2 persons
    11 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
May 2026 - May 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Waterwheel Guesthouse offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.9/10Review 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

3 Bridge Street, Ambleside, LA22 9DU
Explore Ambleside
Explore Ambleside
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
High Close Estate
10 minutes' walk
High Close Estate features beautiful gardens and scenic grounds, ideal for leisurely strolls amidst nature.
Stagshaw Garden
1 minute' walk
Stagshaw Garden offers enchanting woodland trails and vibrant plant life, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Rydal Water
30 minutes' walk
Rydal Water is a stunning lake surrounded by picturesque scenery, great for picnicking and photography.
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
7 minutes' walk
The Armitt Museum showcases local art and history through engaging exhibits and collections.
Discover the local attractions near Waterwheel Guesthouse
Wander through significant attractions near Waterwheel Ambleside that offer unique insights and experiences in the South Lakeland district.
Ideal for scenic walks with stunning views: Copt Howe
Great for immersing in local culture and history: The Armitt Museum And Gallery
Perfect for discovering literary heritage and beautiful gardens: Rydal Mount
Well suited to a leisurely outdoor stroll among art: Rydal Hall Sculpture Path
Best for hiking with panoramic views: Wansfell Pike
Suited for nature lovers seeking waterfall vistas: Stock Ghyll Force
Ideal for relaxation amidst lush landscapes: Rydal Hall Gardens
Works well for photography enthusiasts and river views: High Sweden Bridge
Hiking at Wansfell Pike
20 minutes' walk
Hiking Wansfell Pike provides exhilarating views and a moderate challenge for adventurous spirits.
Yoga at High Close Estate
10 minutes' walk
Yoga sessions at High Close Estate foster relaxation in tranquil surroundings, enhancing wellness.
The Unicorn Inn
1 minute' walk
Traditional pub fare with a cozy ambiance known for its hearty dishes and craft ales.
Queen's Hotel Kitchen and Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Contemporary dining featuring local ingredients, with a welcoming atmosphere ideal for casual meals.
Discover dining options near Waterwheel Guesthouse
Seek out dining options near Waterwheel Ambleside that cater to various tastes and occasions.
Great for casual brunch and hearty breakfasts: Daisys Cafe
Perfect for warm drinks and light meals: Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside
Well suited for traditional pub meals in a cozy setting: The Unicorn Inn
Ideal for fine dining experiences with local ingredients: The Bridge Restaurant at Skelwith Bridge Hotel
Best for classic dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere: Queen's Hotel Kitchen and Restaurant
Suited for enjoying Italian dishes and film screenings: Zeffirelli's
Well suited for authentic Thai cuisine: Doi Intanon Thai Restaurant
Great for gourmet takeaways and local specialties: Stockghyll Fine Foods
Zefferelli's
45 minutes' walk
A lively venue with live music and cinema, Zefferelli's offers a diverse cultural experience.
Ambleside Tavern
5 minutes' walk
This tavern features local beers and occasional quiz nights, perfect for a fun evening out.
Getting around
  • 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
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-19:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Waterwheel Guesthouse provides visitors with a free full breakfast.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Waterwheel Guesthouse from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 215 verified reviews
9.9 /10
Perfect
100 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
10.0/10
Comfort
9.9/10
Facilities
9.9/10
Free WiFi
10.0/10
Location
9.9/10
Staff
9.9/10
Value for money
9.7/10
Guest reviews
based on 102 reviews
9.8/10
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.
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FAQs
About Waterwheel Guesthouse
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
What dining options are available at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
A hearty cooked breakfast, including full English/Irish and vegetarian options, is available at the property.
What amenities are offered in the rooms at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Rooms feature a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea making facilities, a desk, private bathrooms, and some have fireplaces.
How far is Waterwheel Guesthouse from Ambleside city center?
The guesthouse is located 800 m from the city center of Ambleside.
What nearby attractions are easily accessible from Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Notable nearby attractions include Windermere Lake (2 km), Rydal Mount & Gardens (2 km), and Brockhole on Windermere (4 km).
What activities can guests enjoy while staying at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Guests can enjoy hiking and exploring the beautiful surrounding hills and landscapes.
Is there internet access at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas of the guesthouse.
What is the closest airport to Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Leeds Bradford International Airport is located 100 km away from the guesthouse.
Are there any wellness facilities for guests at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Guests have the option to access luxury spa facilities through affiliation with the Ambleside Salutation Spa.
What distinguishes Waterwheel Guesthouse from other accommodations?
It offers a unique historic charm with individually styled guest rooms and an adults-only policy for enhanced tranquility.
What are the bathroom amenities provided in the rooms at Waterwheel Guesthouse?
Bathrooms include full-sized baths, luxury natural toiletries from Pure Lakes, heated towel rails, and fluffy towels.

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30May
Check-out
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