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Our top choices for Waterhead hotels

Rothay Garth

Rothay Garth
3.5 star property
Ambleside
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (358 reviews)
"Clean , warm really good bed and on suite"
United Kingdom
Duncan
The price is £89
includes taxes & fees
23 Apr - 24 Apr
Rothay Garth

Wateredge Inn- The Inn Collection group

Wateredge Inn- The Inn Collection group
4.0 star property
Ambleside
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (296 reviews)
"Great place "
United Kingdom
Matthew Robert Harry
The price is £109
includes taxes & fees
22 Apr - 23 Apr
Wateredge Inn- The Inn Collection group

Waterhead Rooms & Suites

Waterhead Rooms & Suites
3.0 star property
Ambleside
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (83 reviews)
"Beautiful clean room presented very well, ideal location for walks in the fells or just nipping into Ambleside town for a drink, would recommend this place to anybody"
United Kingdom
GEOFFREY
The price is £81
includes taxes & fees
21 Apr - 22 Apr
Waterhead Rooms & Suites

Elder Grove

Elder Grove
4.0 star property
Ambleside
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (145 reviews)
"Lovely clean room beautiful house and friendly staff. Would certainly use again"
United Kingdom
Tracey
The price is £101
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Elder Grove

Brantfell House

Brantfell House
4.0 star property
Ambleside
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (198 reviews)
"Wonderful hosts, ideal location, nothing is too much bother. "
United Kingdom
Dan
The price is £110
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Brantfell House

The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection group

The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection group
4.0 star property
Ambleside
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (336 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff and close to the lake with great views. "
United Kingdom
Sophie
The price is £119
includes taxes & fees
19 Apr - 20 Apr
The Waterhead Inn - The Inn Collection group

Windermere Rooms at The Wateredge Inn

Windermere Rooms at The Wateredge Inn
4.0 star property
Ambleside
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (420 reviews)
"Superb location with the Inn Restaurant having amazing views over the lake."
United Kingdom
LESLEY
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
22 Apr - 23 Apr
Windermere Rooms at The Wateredge Inn

Lakehouse at The Waterhead Inn

Lakehouse at The Waterhead Inn
4.0 star property
Ambleside
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (519 reviews)
"We absolutely love this hotel as it has fantastic views to the lake, lovely comfortable rooms and excellent food. The staff are very friendly and nothing is too much trouble for them making the whole stay a real pleasure. We would have no hesitation recommending this hotel as a great place to stay."
United Kingdom
Karen
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
19 Apr - 20 Apr
Lakehouse at The Waterhead Inn

Rothay Manor Hotel

Rothay Manor Hotel
4.0 star property
Ambleside
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (162 reviews)
"Wonderful stay. Hotel is beautiful and the staff are very attentive. "
United Kingdom
Bozenka
The price is £290
includes taxes & fees
19 Apr - 20 Apr
Rothay Manor Hotel

2 Riverside Cottage

2 Riverside Cottage
2.0 star property
Ambleside
The price is £410
includes taxes & fees
25 Apr - 26 Apr
2 Riverside Cottage

Barakat Lakes Escape

Barakat Lakes Escape
3.0 star property
Ambleside
The price is £725
includes taxes & fees
14 May - 15 May
Barakat Lakes Escape

Barakat Lakes Escape

Barakat Lakes Escape
4.0 star property
Ambleside
The price is £651
includes taxes & fees
14 May - 15 May
Barakat Lakes Escape

YHA Ambleside - Hostel

YHA Ambleside - Hostel
4.0 star property
Ambleside
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (200 reviews)
"Great location very helpful staff .."
United Kingdom
Caroline
The price is £30
includes taxes & fees
19 Apr - 20 Apr
YHA Ambleside - Hostel

Fell View

Fell View
3.0 star property
Ambleside
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Lovely little cottage. Very easy walk into Ambleside of no more than 5 minutes. "
United Kingdom
Jade
The price is £422
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Fell View

Waterhead Cottage

Waterhead Cottage
2.0 star property
Ambleside
The price is £650
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Waterhead Cottage

Uldale

Uldale
3.0 star property
Ambleside
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Property was very clean and welcoming. It was easy to get to by train and bus and a short walk from everything in the town of Ambleside. Would stay here again."
United States
Benjamin
Uldale

Waterhead Retreat

Waterhead Retreat
2.5 star property
Ambleside
The price is £497
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Waterhead Retreat

2 The Old Coach House

2 The Old Coach House
3.5 star property
Ambleside
The price is £493
includes taxes & fees
29 Apr - 30 Apr
2 The Old Coach House

Scafell

Scafell
2.5 star property
Ambleside
The price is £455
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Scafell

Juniper Cottage

Juniper Cottage
3.0 star property
Ambleside
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1 review)
"This is a decent place to stay if you go in with expectations in check. It’s roomy and cozy, with conveniences like a washer/dryer, dishwasher, stove/oven/microwave, and some cooking equipment. Lighting is good, lots of outlets is a plus. Internet functions fine, don’t expect blazing speed but certainly adequate. Easy access to dumpsters/recycling is also great. Local area is cute and walkable, convenient if small town shopping is your bag. Be aware parking is tight if you have a larger...
United States
Breanne
The price is £442
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Juniper Cottage
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular Waterhead attractions

Learn more about Waterhead

Escape to relaxing Waterhead! Enjoy its lake views and dining.

Photo by Chris Anderson
Open Photo by Chris Anderson

Top Waterhead Hotel Reviews

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Hotels in Waterhead with star rating

Find out more about Waterhead

Top reasons to visit Waterhead

  • Stunning Lake Windermere: Experience the beauty of England's largest lake, perfect for leisurely boat trips and picturesque lakeside walks.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a range of activities, from climbing at the Ambleside climbing wall to exploring scenic hiking trails.
  • Charming Accommodation: Stay in delightful guesthouses and cosy bed & breakfasts that cater to all travellers.
  • Rich History: Visit nearby historic houses and immerse yourself in the area's cultural heritage.
  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Unwind in the lush surroundings, ideal for a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty.

Find great hotels near Waterhead

Discover the charming accommodation options in Waterhead, Ambleside, where a variety of guesthouses and cosy bed & breakfasts await. Enjoy a family getaway in pet-friendly lodgings that warmly embrace adventure and offer a welcoming atmosphere for all, including LGBTQIA travellers. With the picturesque Ambleside Pier nearby, you'll find the perfect base for exploring this stunning region. Whether you choose the Waterhead Hotel or a quaint inn, your stay promises to be memorable.

  • Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa: Nestled 6.4km from Waterhead, the Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa is a charming 4-star retreat, perfect for families seeking relaxation and leisure. Rated 8.2 out of 10, this hotel features family-friendly amenities including an Arcade Game Room and a children's pool. The full-service spa offers a variety of treatments, including body scrubs and daily sauna sessions, ensuring a rejuvenating experience for all guests. With its scenic setting and focus on family wellness, this hotel provides an ideal escape for those looking to unwind in a tranquil environment.
  • The Daffodil Hotel: Located just 4.8km from Waterhead, The Daffodil Hotel stands out with a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, making it a top choice for business travellers and spa enthusiasts alike. This 4-star accommodation boasts a comprehensive spa offering, including body treatments, a steam room, and accessible facilities designed for relaxation. Its elegant atmosphere and commitment to quality service create a serene backdrop for both work and leisure, making it an excellent pick for those looking to balance productivity with pampering.
  • Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa: A mere 1.1km from Waterhead, the Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa is a premier 4-star establishment with an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This hotel caters to adventure seekers and business travellers, offering a plethora of outdoor activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and bike rentals nearby. The onsite full-service spa, featuring treatment rooms and a sauna, complements the adventurous spirit with opportunities for relaxation. Guests can enjoy a perfect blend of excitement and comfort in this well-appointed hotel.

Where to stay in Waterhead

Waterhead, nestled beside the picturesque Lake Windermere, offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure. Just a stone's throw from Ambleside, visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning scenery and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the lakeside or indulge in a romantic boat trip. For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the lush surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding amidst nature's beauty, making it an ideal base for exploring the enchanting Lake District.

  • Windermere: Nestled approximately 6.4km from Waterhead, Windermere is a charming city renowned for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic ambiance. Visitors flock to Windermere year-round, particularly during the peak seasons of April and the summer months. The area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, with a plethora of recreational activities available, including spa treatments and body wellness options. Notable attractions include the picturesque lake and lush water features, all set against the majestic backdrop of the national park, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
  • Lake District National Park: Situated around 9.7km from Waterhead, Lake District National Park is a true haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The park sees a steady influx of visitors, peaking in February to March and September. Offering breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating hiking trails, it’s perfect for those eager to explore the great outdoors. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, including hiking and visits to spas, while being surrounded by the serene beauty of lakes and natural parkland. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the splendour of the English countryside.
  • Ambleside: Right on your doorstep in Waterhead, Ambleside is a delightful city that perfectly blends outdoor adventure with scenic beauty. With its visitor numbers peaking in April, July, and September, Ambleside offers a wealth of activities, including recreational areas and hiking trails, ideal for those seeking a romantic escape or an outdoor retreat. The local shopping centre adds a touch of urban charm, while the surrounding lakes and national park provide stunning views and opportunities for exploration. Ambleside truly embodies the essence of the Lake District, making it a perfect base for your holiday.

Things to do in Waterhead

Waterhead, Ambleside, is ideal for a romantic getaway or outdoor adventure, offering stunning scenery and a range of activities. You can explore the recreational area, tackle the Ambleside climbing wall, or enjoy a leisurely paddle on the lake. With picturesque hiking trails and water-based adventures, Waterhead is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and excitement amidst beautiful landscapes.

Shopping

The local shops in Waterhead offer charming gifts and souvenirs, perfect for your visit. If you're up for a drive, check out the Booths in Windermere, about 8.0km away, or visit the Kendal Shopping Centre, around 19.3km away, for a wider selection of shops and boutiques.

Recreation

The Lake District Spa at Waterhead offers a tranquil retreat with rejuvenating treatments, stunning lake views, and a relaxation area. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore nearby walking trails with breathtaking views, or enjoy kayaking on Windermere for an invigorating experience amidst nature.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes around Waterhead with a hike up Loughrigg Fell, offering panoramic views of the Lake District. For a thrilling experience, try watersports at Ambleside Watersports, where you can kayak or paddleboard on Lake Windermere amidst breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

In Waterhead, Ambleside, the Waterhead Hotel provides a relaxed atmosphere with stunning lakeside views and a selection of fine wines. Nearby, the Ambleside Tavern offers a lively pub vibe with local ales and live music, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waterhead

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Waterhead are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Waterhead about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Waterhead is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Waterhead is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you fancy. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Waterhead with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Waterhead

Waterhead, nestled in Ambleside, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a romantic getaway. Explore the stunning Lake Windermere, take a leisurely stroll along Waterhead Pier, or immerse yourself in the rich history of the area with visits to nearby historic houses and majestic mountains. This charming destination caters to travellers seeking both culture and breathtaking landscapes.

  • Ambleside Pier: Nestled in Waterhead, Ambleside Pier offers a vibrant marina experience with opportunities for adventure. Enjoy outdoor activities, stunning views, and a beach-like atmosphere, making it perfect for a leisurely day by the water.
  • Lake Windermere: Located 4.8km from Waterhead, Lake Windermere is an iconic lake renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Ideal for romantic strolls, picnics, or water sports, it provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and couples alike.
  • World of Beatrix Potter: Just 6.4km away, this enchanting exhibit immerses you in the beloved tales of Beatrix Potter. With a focus on culture and storytelling, it's a delightful experience for all ages, showcasing the magic of her characters and illustrations.

Best time to go to Waterhead

The best time to visit Waterhead is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March37.2°F (2.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
July53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December36.7°F (2.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Waterhead

Waterhead, Ambleside, is accessible via several major airports. MANchester Airport (MAN), situated 125.5km away, offers nearby hotels such as the 5-star Kimpton Clocktower and The Edwardian Manchester, both 12.9km from the airport, and Oddfellows on the Park, just 4.8km away. Newcastle Airport (NCL), located 106.2km from Waterhead, has Hemples Lodge, a 4.5-star bed and breakfast 3.2km away, alongside the Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel and Kabannas Newcastle, both 9.7km from the airport. Finally, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is 104.6km away, with notable options like the 5-star Timble Inn and The Grafton, both within 16.1km of the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Waterhead?
The best area to stay in Waterhead is right along the shores of Windermere, particularly around the main landing stage and the area leading up to Ambleside.

This area is the heart of Waterhead, offering direct access to the lake and its activities. You'll find a selection of hotels and guesthouses clustered near the Windermere Lake Cruises pier, from which you can embark on boat trips across the lake. The main road, Borrans Road, runs parallel to the lake, connecting Waterhead directly to Ambleside town centre, which is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk away. There are also several pubs and eateries within easy reach.

For couples looking for a romantic escape, staying close to the lake offers stunning views and easy access to leisurely strolls along the shore. Many accommodations here cater to a relaxed pace, with some offering rooms with lake views or balconies, superb for enjoying the scenery. The proximity to boat trips makes it easy to explore other parts of the Lake District without needing a car every day.

Families will also find this area convenient due to the direct access to lake activities. Children often enjoy the boat trips, and there are gentle walking paths nearby.
When is the best time to go to Waterhead?
The best time to go to Waterhead is typically from late spring to early autumn, specifically May through September, when the weather is generally mild and ideal for outdoor activities.

During these months, you'll find the longest daylight hours, making it great for exploring the Lake District's fells, lakes, and attractions. The weather is usually warm enough for boat trips on Windermere, hiking, and enjoying the many walking paths around Waterhead and nearby Ambleside. While summer (July and August) can be busier with tourists, the longer days offer more opportunities to experience everything the area has to offer.

For those who prefer fewer crowds and don't mind slightly cooler temperatures, May, June, and September are excellent choices. The landscape is particularly beautiful in May and June with spring blooms, and in September, the autumn colours begin to emerge, creating stunning scenery.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Waterhead.
How can I save on a Waterhead hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Waterhead hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Waterhead hotel?
Prices for hotels in Waterhead often vary, but you can find a great deal from £30 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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