How Head Cottage in Ambleside is praised for its excellent location and charming character. Guests appreciate the property's proximity to local amenities and the quiet, comfortable atmosphere it provides. While some guests have noted issues with maintenance and cleanliness, the cottage's 16th-century accents and the convenience of its kitchen are well-liked. The lack of Wi-Fi and some outdated facilities are mentioned, but many guests express a desire to return, indicating an overall positive experience.
Cleanliness has received mixed feedback. Some guests have reported cobwebs and dust, a sticky kitchen floor, and a dirty microwave, suggesting room for improvement. However, other reviews describe the cottage as clean and comfortable, indicating that experiences may vary.
The location of the cottage is consistently praised for being peaceful yet conveniently close to the centre of Ambleside, with easy access to local attractions and walks. The scenic views and central hub for exploring the Lakes are highly appreciated by guests.
Comfort is generally rated well, with guests finding the cottage quiet and comfortable. However, there are concerns about the bed's stability and the overall 'tired' feel of the property, suggesting that some aspects of comfort could be enhanced.
Facilities have been noted as adequate but with several areas needing attention. Guests have mentioned the absence of a freezer, issues with taps, and inadequate lighting. The lack of Wi-Fi and modern amenities has also been highlighted, although some guests did not find this to be a significant problem.
There is no mention of gifts or special thoughtful touches provided by the hosts in the reviews, so it is not possible to assess this category. Therefore, the score is set to null.
Reputedly built using cobbles taken from the Roman Fort at Waterhead and dating from 1548, this interesting grade II listed cottage is one of the oldest recorded buildings in Ambleside. This one-bedroom cottage for two sits in a lovely hillside location away from the hustle and bustle of the town but just a short stroll away from its attractions; shops, bars, cafes, restaurants, recreational facilities and excellent cinemas. As you approach this unique cottage you will note the remarkable front entrance, originally formed during the Tudor period. Walk through the front door into the interesting L-shaped open plan living room with its deep-set period windows and oak lintels. Enjoy an evening meal in the kitchen and dining area before strolling down Peggy Hill and into town for the evening or cosy up in front of the Lakeland stone hearth with its gas burning stove. After a good night’s sleep in your comfortable bedroom with its king-size bed and en-suite bath-room, wake up to pretty views through its deeply set period windows. After breakfast, you might want to head out for a walk into the up-lifting Lake District countryside. If you are looking for a challenging walk the Fairfield Horseshoe, Wansfell and Loughrigg are easily in reach as are the gentler walks in Rothay Park and Under Loughrigg. The cottage is perfectly placed for exploring the Lake District by foot, by car or by public transport and offers character accommodation for a couple in any season.
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.
One king size bedroom with en-suite shower, basin and WC.
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with gas fire and two recliner chairs.
Storage heaters and gas fire.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, TV.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Travel cot and highchair available upon request.
Roadside parking on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Note: No Wi-Fi available
Pam
Iâm not sure if no WiFi was listed when I booked, but there isnât any. The pictures & listings show there is a bath - whilst the new shower room is v nice I wanted a bath. There is no sofa (again on pics and listings) and downstairs is very dowdy and not at all cosy. No facilities to dry wet clothes with no dryer or radiators (storage heaters only). I couldnât make the downstairs TV work & there was a visible tangle of wires & plug boards. No freezer / freezer compartment and a tiny little table (not a âdining areaâ!). The kitchen waste bin was placed on the lounge carpet, which overlapped with a tucked-up rug. Kitchen poorly stocked & the microwave needs replacing. Disappointed as I loved the old world charm but it could be so much more cosy and better equipped downstairs.
Valerie
The limited space has been used well and it makes a fabulous base for a break. Not our first visit to this property and hopefully not our last â¤ï¸
Gareth
Bathroom looked like it had just been renovated, as it was different to the photo in the listing with a walk-in shower replacing the shower over a bath. As others have mentioned parking can be problematic or should I say the way others park their cars in the spaces available is the problem. A good location to explore the local walks to High Sweden Bridge & Stock Ghyll Force. I would definitely return.
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