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River Lodge

(Ref. 1041806)

Ambleside, Cumbria & The Lake District Show on map

3.9

Tourist Board rating Tourist Board ratings icon Tourist Board ratings icon Tourist Board ratings icon Tourist Board ratings icon

  • 8 Guests

  • 4 Bedrooms

  • 4 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Dishwasher
  • Sky TV
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • no (24)
  • location (20)
  • house (19)
  • lovely (14)
  • great (14)
  • property (13)

33 Customer Reviews

  • "Overall a great property and excellent location."

    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.

    Reviewed by Heather3.4Oct 2023

  • "Location was 10/10 and the house is spacious for the amount of people."

    The downstairs is damp and there is black mould around the toilet. We had young children and that is incredibly dangerous. The sofas are horrendous and need replacing. The boiler in the master room makes noise continuously throughout the night. What is most disappointing is that all the above comments have been raised a number of times and I was hopeful they had been addressed but they have not. It is such a shame because the house could be lovely.

    Reviewed by Sian2.2Aug 2023

  • "The setting of the property is super with sheep and the river just over the lane and the position, an enjoyable 25 minute stroll into Ambleside, was a plus."

    The property is very spacious and worked well for a group with a spot to sit and enjoy the view from the kitchen diner in addition to the large living room. As mentioned in previous reviews, the property could do with updating. For example the little balcony, which should be a feature of the property, was uninviting with peeling paintwork, leaves blown in and scattered furniture with a green tinge to it. Nothing that a lick of paint, a good clean and some ‘dressing’ couldn’t fix. In it’s prime this was a beautiful, spacious Lakeland house thoughtfully presented, decorated with farrow & ball throughout. The biggest issue - also mentioned in other reviews - was the boiler. The noise, intermittently through the night, was intolerable from the main upstairs bedroom. We will not return to this property.

    Thank you very much for your comments and for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. The owner will be able to see them and action where necessary. We are glad that you enjoyed the other aspects of the property and all that the area had to offer. Lakelovers Owner Relations Property Owner

    Reviewed by Hannah2.5Aug 2023

  • "Good points The accommodation is large and clean Great location - not far from Ambleside and walks from the house are lovely Bad points The downstairs area (1 bathroom, 2 bedrooms) stinks of damp."

    There are mould marks in a corner of the downstairs bathroom The wi fi is terrible Most of the DVDs don’t work No tin opener provided and the washing up drainer is rusty I would expect better from Lake Lovers, especially given the price we paid, £2,778

    Thank you for your comments. We take your comments on board, and our Maintenance Team will attend the property. Thank you The Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner

    Reviewed by Hannah2.2Jul 2023

  • "Lovely location but the cottage is becoming very dated, unloved."

    For example the lounge sofas are dirty and uncomfortable, the upstairs bathrooms are dated and showers stop after 10 seconds due to lack of water pressure. The kitchen baking trays were unusable so we purchased some to cook. The fire in the lounge hasn’t worked for three years at least and the TV from the downstairs bedroom has been removed. It’s a shame as we’ve liked this cottage but it does need a good bit of TLC now.

    Thank you for your feedback. We are sorry you weren't satisfied with your stay at River Lodge. We appreciate all your comments and suggestions and will make sure to pass them on to our maintenance team. The owner relations team - Lakelovers Property Owner

    Reviewed by John2.5Jun 2023

  • "Lovely well equipped cottage set in a beautiful and peaceful location, well positioned for easy access to lots of stunning nearby walks."

    The kitchen had all the utensils and equipment needed for our party of 8. The house provides ample space to relax and socialise. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend the cottage to anyone wanting to explore the lakes.

    Thank you for your kind feedback. We are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay at River Lodge. We hope to welcome you back. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Mar 2023

  • "The dishwasher drawer is broken and the downstairs bathroom radiator is broken making the downstairs rooms cold in March."

    Thank you for your comments, and for making us aware. We will ask the Maintenance team to investigate. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jasmine3.8Mar 2023

  • "What an amazing house."

    The views are stunning and the best bit I think is the walks. If you don't want to use your car and walking is for you then it's perfect. Fabulous time would definitely go back.

    Thank you for your kind feedback. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to welcome you back again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by H5.0Feb 2023

  • "Lovely house and nice location, unfortunately let down by the tiredness of the furniture uncomfortable couch and fire still not working in the living room, this as been mention in previously reviews over the past 12 months…."

    .but to no avail. Sky needs updating and television again still not working which also been mentioned in previous reviews. Chris & Emma

    Thank you for your feedback. We take all feedback on board and will look into your comments. We hope to welcome you back to the Lake District again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Chris2.5Jan 2023

  • "We stayed at this property at the same time last year and unfortunately this will be our last visit."

    Upon arrival the electricity wasn’t working. The fire in the sitting room still isn’t working. The house feels tired and a bit neglected now and the sofas are so worn and uncomfortable. It’s such a shame as it wouldn’t take much to get this property up to where it needs to be.

    Thank you for your feedback. The electricity issue was caused by an issue outside of our control. We hope to welcome you back to the Lake District again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Claire2.5Jan 2023

  • "Beautiful location reasonably well maintained little areas of damp showing through now and ?"

    Potential leak damage below balcony into lounge area x? Drainage pipes need attention could also do with a second bin for rubbish as soon filled up . We had a fantastic stay in your beautiful property and hope to stay again next year

    Reviewed by Senga4.7Nov 2022

  • "Overall lovely cottage and a nice stay."

    A few things to feedback on:- - the two sofas are well worn and quite uncomfortable. Could do with new ones really - the boiler in the utility room near the entrance was running 24/7 even though we had both the hive controls set to schedule and I also turned them to off at times to see if that would stop it, but no - there was no cold water in the kitchen or downstairs bathroom even after running the cold taps for a while, the water was always warm

    Reviewed by John3.4Nov 2022

  • "Riverside lodge was in a lovely house in a good position, great views and away from the hustle and bustle in Ambleside."

    On the whole we were pleased with the property but there were some issues which would make us think twice about booking this property again. 1. Terrible drain smell in ensuite upstairs double bedroom.2. Sofas generally uncomfortable and did smell a bit. 3.No cold water, Water was warm from cold tap. 4. Fire did not work in living room and therefore not very warm or cosy. 5 Constant noise from boiler room in upstairs double bedroom, affecting sleep.

    Reviewed by Judith Alison4.1Oct 2022

  • "We had a super holiday and really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge."

    Amazing location in walking distance to Ambleside and central for many great walks! The house was larger than we expected, lots of parking space and great set up with bedrooms at different ends of the house, it was great to have en-suites to all bedrooms and my mum really enjoyed the balcony! The Sky tv and many kids games was enjoyed by our kids, they are now Cluedo fans :) My only comment is that the double bed was very firm as it’s a foam mattress, but that could be easily fixed and I would definitely recommend River Lodge, and would love to stay again!

    Reviewed by Charlotte4.7Oct 2022

  • "This is a lovely but rather quirky property being on different levels & with quirky & sometimes tiny bathrooms."

    We loved the large dining table & the lovely view from the large dining room window. We found the sofas in the lounge a little uncomfortable, they seem a little tired, but that’s a minor problem. Overall this is a nice house in a great location

    Reviewed by Lois3.8Oct 2022

  • "We really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge."

    There was plenty of room for our two families with 3 children. The kitchen had everything we needed, there was a good sized dinning room, sufficient bathroom facilities, hot showers etc, comfortable beds. The living area had plenty seating space and the house was warm and welcoming to come back to after our day trips. Only negatives were the downstairs double room had a slightly damp smell and it would have been great if the living room fire had worked to add some warmth and cosiness. Also, there wasn't really a garden as such for kids to play in. However, these things would not stop us rebooking in the future. The location is great and we enjoyed lovely walks in the area and good food in Ambleside and local Rydal.

    Reviewed by Jane4.4Sep 2022

  • "Fantastic property plus excellent location with stunning views makes for a great holiday."

    The only downside was the price the following week (down to nearly half what we paid). A little disappointed that Lakelovers would not consider a small reduction

    Reviewed by Yvonne5.0Sep 2022

  • "Stunning property surrounded by breathtaking scenery."

    The layout of the house suited us well seeing that we were two families - one on each side of the house. Good location as it was close enough to picturesque Ambleside and outdoor activities but also quiet and peaceful enough to enjoy nature.

    Reviewed by Leiado4.1Jul 2022

  • "Very good, lovely and convenient location, superb showers (stand out comment from all who stayed)"

    Reviewed by Mike5.0Jun 2022

  • "The location and the property was perfect The only disappointment was that we ..."

    The location and the property was perfect The only disappointment was that we paid much more fir the holiday just because we booked early Weeks before and after were hundreds of pound less I did ask for a reduction but the lakelover representative was not willing to ask the owners

    Reviewed by Chrstine5.0May 2022

  • "Lovely house , very clean great location ."

    A hot house until got to understand how to control the heating . Only down side is the plumbing was very noisy in the night , an overnight on off switch would help those in the lower bedrooms get an undisturbed night sleep

    Reviewed by William5.0Apr 2022

  • "Firstly, I’d like to say that we had a great stay and do plan to come back."

    However there were a number of things that could do with improving. The tv in the downstairs bedroom didn’t work. The automatic lights in the shared downstairs bathrooms turn off when you’re in the shower, and sometimes didn’t turn on at all. The heating knob in the downstairs shower was broken. The fire in the sitting room was broken. The dishwasher was full of dirty dishes on arrival. In general the level of cleanliness could have been a lot better. There were no mattress protectors on the beds, nor pillow protectors on most of the pillows. The sofa is a bit tired and stained. The location of the property and the size of the property was perfect for what we needed, and we did have an enjoyable stay but given that some of my points have been made by other reviewers it does make me wonder if things will have been improved upon when we return next year. Fingers crossed!

    Reviewed by Claire3.8Jan 2022

  • "Property situated in great area with walks straight from the door step."

    Great accommodation, especially if you are a two family party. All fitted out to a good standard, a few things that where listed are not present: internet connection, hit and miss, sky tv was basic. (no sport, no cinema). Overall very enjoyable holiday. Thanks so much.

    Reviewed by Carol2.8Jan 2022

  • "We really enjoyed our stay, but was shocked at the price increase for the same property in the same week next year when I went to rebook."

    Extremely unlikely I would pay the increased price.

    Reviewed by Matthew5.0Oct 2021

  • "Gets very cold and damp in lower floor so need to keep heaters on."

    Weather was nice for us so imagine it gets worse the colder it gets. Kitchen quite small for a cottage for 8 people, really needs another fridge too. About 20 minute walk into Ambleside. Upper en-suite very small. All in all it was ok for us as we were 6 people so we had enough space. Would return.

    Reviewed by Kay3.4Sep 2021

  • "We found no cleaning supplies beyond a very small amount of washing up liquid."

    No antibacterial spray or bleach which seems very odd in the current climate. The standard of cleaning was also not high when we arrived with hairs in bathroom drawers and fecal matter on toilet brushes. The location of the house was perfect and a beautiful setting but unfortunately the lack of hygiene and basic supplies let it down significantly. We had a drainage issue with the downstairs shower and we were impressed with the prompt arrival of a maintenance engineer however he was unable to correct the issue meaning we were unable to use our ensuite shower.

    Reviewed by Laura2.8Aug 2021

  • "Fantastic house in a great location."

    Within walking distance of Ambleside. We had a great holiday.

    Reviewed by Dale5.0Jul 2021

  • "Cottage was perfect and very clean."

    Only recommendation would be to put a mattress protector on the mattresses in the downstairs bedrooms.

    Reviewed by Keighley5.0Jun 2021

  • "A lovely house in a great location."

    However the cleanliness of the house was not up to scratch. There was a lot of dirty and grime about the place and crumbs and pubic hair found in the draws. We had to clean the property prior to feeling comfortable. Not what you want to do when your on holiday. There was no hand wash left in any of the bathrooms which I would expect in all properties. Also the down stairs double bed is not a double bed at all but two singles pushed together. This means there is a rather uncomfortable line down the middle of the bed. The water pump in the downstairs toilet is incredibly loud. Not ideal when you have kids sleeping downstairs. This property lacked the finishing touches this house/location deserves.

    Reviewed by Neil2.5Jun 2021

  • "The views from the cottage were amazing."

    The location was great with some lovely walks nearby. The photos don’t represent how lovely this cottage is. We were really impressed.

    Reviewed by Sadiq5.0May 2021

  • "Little things:- Our daughter asked us to raise the issue of the cot mattress which she felt was far too thin."

    Lots of wine glasses and champagne flutes, but only two tumblers and no pint glasses at all. Drinking beer out of a wine glass is not right. A stair gate for the stairs would have been a nice touch. One cannot allow a dog to go into the garden unsupervised as the local sheep can negotiate the cattle grid with apparent ease, so maybe a gate? The downstairs bedrooms and bathroom were so much colder than the rest of the house which was cooking!

    Reviewed by Bob4.7May 2021

  • "I believe we should have been compensated for tighter check in check out times."

    House was great, thank you.

    Reviewed by Joseph3.8Dec 2020

  • "We have stayed in numerous houses in the lakes-this our first time with lake lovers."

    Much better experience all round compared to your counterparts. No hidden extras and lovely little touches. Thank you Lakelovers & we'll be back!

    WilsonNov -0001

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This property is part of the Lakelovers collection.
We have properties to suit every occasion throughout the southern and central Lake District including; Ambleside Cottages, Bowness Cottages, Coniston Cottages, Grasmere Cottages, Hawkshead Cottages, Lakeside Cottages, Langdale Cottages, Troutbeck Cottages, Ulswater Cottages, Windermere Cottages and smaller hamlets between, which although seldom heard of are none the less equally wonderful. With hundreds of properties available, all of which are inspected and graded by the English Tourism Council, Lakelovers are sure to have a property to meet your needs.

Summary

  • 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)

The 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.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

AMBLESIDE

Grasmere 4.4 miles; Windermere 4.7 miles; Keswick 16.7 miles.

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.

View more holiday cottages in Ambleside

Please note this property has a zip link bed. This will be made as a twin by default. Please contact the call center should you wish it to be a super king. There is no longer a TV in the downstairs bedroom.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Last minute