Rothay Manor
Ambleside, near the head of Windermere · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: Rothay Manor Hotel
Grade II listed Regency house on the edge of Ambleside, family-run in feel, with a well-regarded kitchen, a hot tub and gardens away from the traffic.
Photos
Photos via Google
About Rothay Manor
Rothay Manor is a Grade II listed Regency building a few minutes' walk from the centre of Ambleside, set back from the road in its own gardens. Built in the 1820s as a merchant's house, it has the tall windows, verandah and proportions of the period, and the current owners have refreshed the interiors with a lighter, more contemporary take on the English country house look rather than a full modernisation.
There are around twenty bedrooms across the main house and adjoining wings, ranging from compact classic doubles to suites with sitting areas and garden access. Rooms are individually decorated, and the quieter ones face the garden at the back. Bathrooms are modern, and the overall standard is comfortable rather than showy.
Food is a genuine draw. The restaurant serves a seasonal menu that leans on Cumbrian producers, with tasting and a la carte options and a strong wine list, and afternoon tea is a fixture. There is a lounge with an open fire, a bar, a small spa treatment offering and an outdoor hot tub in the garden, which is a welcome thing after a day on the fells.
The position is the practical advantage: Ambleside's shops, pubs and bus links are a short walk away, Windermere pier is a couple of miles south, and the Langdale valley, Fairfield Horseshoe and Loughrigg are all within a short drive. It works best for couples and for walkers who want a proper dinner at the end of the day. Rates are firmly in the upper bracket, and weekends in summer need booking well ahead.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
Had an unfortunately very short stay at this fantastic hotel. Staff were incredibly friendly and called a few days before to check details and ask if we wanted to eat at the hotel. We had a ground floor pavilion room with a terrace. Room was beautifully decorated and really comfortable (would have been nice to have been able to lock patio door from outside but very small criticism). Loads of power sockets and nice touches, generally just very comfortable. Really warm evening and we sat on the terrace for drinks before our meal (we had the hotels Rowan gin). Our meal from the à la carte menu was great and wine list was extensive with some reasonably priced wines. All three courses and the bread were excellent. Slight drawback was breakfast we were in a hurry to leave and service was slower than we would have liked (although normally happy for a more relaxed breakfast). Yoghurt was to have a cherry compote but instead came with macerated strawberries which was fine as pleasant. Breakfast menu was extensive although full breakfast was unfortunately not up to standard of previous nights food. Although cooked to order bacon, mushroom, fried eggs and fried bread were way overcooked but sausage was great. Didn’t have time to visit Ambleside but looks a lovely village. Would be even better with a pool or views of the lake (but you have to compromise on some things - the hanging gardens of Babylon or majestic wildebeest on the Serengeti) but well worth a visit. Had a really good time at the hotel and would strongly recommend it - looking forward to going back.
a month ago · via Google
We came here for their tasting menu, which was absolutely exceptional! The flavours and dishes were incredible. Lovely cosy and intimate setting with brilliant and attentive service. I'll be dreaming about that tomatoe custard all week! We will certainly be back!
2 weeks ago · via Google
We booked into the restaurant for a birthday celebration. The staff were absolutely fantastic friendly and engaging and knowledgeable about the food they were serving. The food was amazing from first bite to the last. No rush just proper old school service. Thank you to you all for making our evening so very special
5 months ago · via Google
Had afternoon tea at Rothay Manor Hotel. Beautiful setting. Staff excellent. Friendly and helpful. Location stunning. Decor throughout Fabulous. Food second to none.. great experience
a month ago · via Google
Guests mention this hotel offers exceptional food, including delicious breakfasts, afternoon tea, and Sunday roasts, with many highlighting the quality and variety of dishes. They also appreciate the warm, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere, noting the comfortable rooms and beautiful grounds. Visitors consistently praise the staff for being friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, providing excellent service.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Borrans Road, Ambleside, LA22 0EH Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Ambleside, near the head of Windermere
- Star rating
- 4 star
- Guest score
- 9.1 / 10 (900 reviews)
- Prices from
- £195 per night
- Good for children
- No
- Destination
- Lake District