Guests say
The Mounting Steps is a well-regarded cottage in Ambleside, praised for its cleanliness, comfortable furnishings, and excellent location. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, the powerful shower, and the cosy atmosphere. The property is within walking distance to the town centre and offers a peaceful garden across the road. While some guests mentioned minor maintenance issues and the challenge of steep stairs, the overall experience is highly positive, with many looking to return.
Guests consistently describe the property as clean and well-maintained, with several reviews highlighting its spotlessness. However, one mention of a 'bit grubby' shower cubicle slightly impacts the score.
The location is highly praised for being within walking distance to Ambleside centre and close to Lake District attractions. The convenience and beauty of the location contribute to a high score.
The property is frequently described as comfortable, with a particularly comfortable bed and cosy sitting room. Some guests, however, noted the steep stairs and a damp issue in one bedroom, which slightly lowers the score.
Facilities are generally well-received, especially the well-equipped kitchen and the bathroom's bath. However, comments about the need for refurbishment in the bathrooms and the small shower cubicle suggest room for improvement.
There is no specific mention of gifts or special attention to detail that would indicate thoughtfulness from the owner towards the guests. Therefore, this category cannot be scored.
About this property
The tiny hamlet of Clappersgate, at the head of Lake Windermere, is just a 10-minute stroll from Ambleside. It is here guests will find The Mounting Steps; a charming cottage set in the cobbled courtyard of an impressive manor house. The property gets its name from the original ‘mounting steps’ once used by riders when setting out on their horses, perhaps to admire the wonderful views and scenery of the surrounding area.
The cottage is set over three floors, with living space and kitchen making the most of the views from the upper floors. Entering at ground floor level, and off the entrance hall, is a stylish bedroom with en-suite featuring washbasin and wc. This room looks into the pretty courtyard with traditional stone buildings and shrubs. A riverside garden is close by and is perfect for relaxing and listening to the water as it runs by. Upstairs is a welcoming and cosy sitting room with lovely views, comfortable furnishings and warming wood burning stove. Perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine or taking a quick nap.
On the top floor is the modern, well equipped kitchen with dining area from which guests can admire the breath-taking view over the roof tops to the Lakeland fells.
There is parking just outside the door of The Mounting Steps, although with so much on offer in nearby Ambleside, guests will be tempted to explore the many independent shops, tea rooms, fabulous pubs and quirky cinemas on foot.
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
Arranged across 3 floors: 1x king size bedroom with a (newly refurbished for 2024) en-suite basin and wc.
Main bathroom with new extended walk-in shower area and separate bath.
Sitting room.
New for 2023: refurbished kitchen with new integrated dishwasher, fridge/freezer and washer dryer (new pictures to follow).
Dining area.
Gas central heating.
Electric wood burning stove.
Electric oven and hob and microwave.
40 inch Smart TV in the lounge, WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
40 inch tv in the bedroom.
Private parking for 1 car.
Riverside garden close by.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Pub and shops nearby.
Babies accepted but guests need to bring own travel cot and high chair.
Nearby points of interest
- Lake Windermere
- Wastwater Lake
- Wastwater Alpaca Trekking
Reviews (17)
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Sally
Lovely appointed holiday let away from the hustle & bustle. The cottage was clean with a comfortable bed & pillows. The kitchen had everything you needed for preparation & cooking. We very much enjoyed sitting at the table & looking out of the window at the view while eating breakfast & when in our evening meal. The big shower was lovely especially after some long walks. Lot's to do around the area, some lovely walks & places to explore &just a short walk into Ambleside. Thank you for a lovely stay.
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Susan
Spotlessly clean and well equipped with all home comforts. Lovey riverside garden across the road where we spent a lovely sunny afternoon. Highly recommended.
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Phil
Had everything we needed and great place to explore the area from. We'd love to return in the future.