Ambleside Lodge

Our Lake District bed and breakfast, Ambleside Lodge, was originally built circa 1875 as a Gentleman‘s residence, and was named “Rothay Holme“ after the River Rothay which flows from Grasmere into Lake Windermere. Owning most of the land surrounding the church, both sides of the river and down to the lake, it commanded a respectable and enviable position in the community.

In 1912 it was then bought by the local council, and used primarily as council offices until 1978. The field was used for the local sheep auctions on the last Friday of every month, and one of the ground floor rooms was occupied by the local dentist.

The third owner of the property was the National trust, whom for 14 years used the building as their offices, and then finally after being empty for two years Rothay Holme was returned to private ownership. Beautifully restored, and tastefully decorated, it reopened its doors to provide quality and elegant Lake District accommodation to those visiting the National Park.

Featuring some exceptional examples of original oak panelling, dating back to 1654, and brought here in 1875 from local churches, the skills and craftsmanship that were used, can now be shared by all, in the different rooms throughout the building. Most of the walls are between 2 and 3 feet thick and are primarily constructed from Lakeland stone.

Facilities too are good and new for this year are DVD players. Bathrooms are all pleasant, with several having been effectively upgraded and some also have spa baths. The standard of housekeeping and maintenance throughout are to a generally good standard.