Travel review: Waterhead Boutique Hotel and Bistro in Ambleside

Surrounded by panoramic views and set in a pocket of tranquillity, the Waterhead Boutique Hotel and Bistro in Ambleside offers a splendorous portrayal of the marriage between the Lake District’s natural beauty and its majestic man-made landmarks.

Just a stone’s throw away from the region’s hypnotic body of water, overlooked by a stunning mountain scene, the hotel combines traditional Lakeland elegance with the comfort of a luxury four-star contemporary experience which presents the perfect atmosphere to relax and unwind.

The hotel’s prominent positioning at the head of England’s largest lake, Windermere, itself suggests a certain grandeur while its stylish sophistication illustrates why the Cumbrian venue is so revered. But while the Waterhead’s decor is opulent and palatial it’s the smaller, less noticeable attention to detail, that makes for a more welcoming and inviting environment for guests.

An extensive multi-million pound refurbishment just over a decade ago, which helped it become the Lake District’s first four-star townhouse hotel, gave the Waterhead the “wow factor” it desired with spacious rooms bolstered by en-suite furnishings but it’s an attentive team, assorted complimentary essentials and little welcome notes that apply a more personal touch to your stay.

And who can decline quality cooked food while you plan the day ahead at breakfast before reminiscing about the day’s activities with a cocktail at your evening meal? The head chef brings an abundance of experience and knowledge to his fresh and creative menus, with a strong emphasis on local produce.

In the morning a plethora of subsistence awaits. Tea, coffee, juice, toast, jams, marmalade, honey, cereal, fruit, pastries, yoghurt, pancakes plus a full English breakfast cooked to your liking.

The menu at the award-winning AA rosette Bar & Grill is also equally as generous later in the day. Faced with a Bayeux Tapestry of exquisite, uncomplicated modern European cuisine, coming to a decision wasn’t the easiest of tasks.

However, the handmade crayfish, ricotta and spinach ravioli followed by an 8oz sirloin steak with a honey and bourbon BBQ sauce, buttered greens and dauphinoise potatoes plus a sticky toffee pudding proved an outstandingly delicious selection. Starters are priced from £5.50, main courses from £13.50 and desserts from £4.50.

Also, if you consume more calories than you would’ve liked, why not work them off at the leisure facilities at Waterhead’s sister hotel Low Wood Bay Resort Hotel and Marina situated just a solitary mile away. At the end of the mesmeric lakeside ramble there’s a swimming pool and fully equipped top-of-the-range gym with cardiovascular, strength and functional training equipment. For those who want to remain in relaxation mode there’s also a spa bath, sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub and massage facilities.

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful getaways that Great Britain has to offer and in the Waterhead you have the perfect, warming haven to enrich your escape when the night draws in.

Tariffs start at £139 per room per night, based on two adults sharing a twin/double room and are inclusive of Bed and Full English Breakfast.

For more information contact 015394 32566 or visit the website at www.englishlakes.co.uk.