Tripplo's verdict, based on guest reviews
Tripplo’s analysis · Updated 1 October 2026 · How we review hotels
Rothay Manor Hotel suits travellers who want a country house with a town on the doorstep. The listed 1825 house stands in its own gardens at Rothay Bridge, a five-minute walk from Ambleside and about 400 metres from Lake Windermere, so an evening can start with a stroll into town and end in a quiet lounge. Guests speak most warmly about the staff, who come across as friendly and well trained, and about the food: the three-AA-rosette restaurant and a breakfast that many single out as a highlight. The trade-offs are mostly about price and scope. Value for money is where guests are least enthusiastic, and some note that cheaper rooms are easy to find nearby. The dining is refined rather than hearty, and there is no spa or pool, so wet days call for plans beyond the hotel. Couples who care about food, service and a walkable base will feel well looked after.
Guests score it 9.1 out of 10 — the average across the 9 hotels we list in the Lake District is 9.1.
What Guests Loved
- The staff come up in almost every review, described as friendly, helpful and well trained. Guests mention being looked after from the moment they arrive, and several say the service is what made the stay.
- The modern restaurant holds three AA rosettes, and guests repeatedly call the cooking exceptional, praising both the quality of the food and the way it is presented.
Things to Consider
- Value for money is the area guests rate least highly, and some point out that there are cheaper places to stay around Ambleside. Most who raise it still felt the stay was worth it.
- The restaurant serves refined fine dining rather than hearty plates. One guest found the portions on the small side and another came away disappointed, so it is worth knowing that Ambleside's own restaurants are within walking distance.
Should you book it?
Rothay Manor Hotel is worth booking for couples who want refined dining with a town on the doorstep — but pick somewhere else if you want a spa or pool for rainy days.
Book it if you want
- Couples who want refined dining with a town on the doorstep
- Food lovers planning a slow break around breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner
Pick somewhere else if
- You want a spa or pool for rainy days
- You are looking for the lowest price in Ambleside
Frequently asked questions
How far is Rothay Manor Hotel from the centre of Lake District?
Rothay Manor Hotel is 8.7 km from the centre of Lake District.
How do guests rate Rothay Manor Hotel?
On Booking.com it scores 9.1/10 from 325 guest reviews.
How many stars does Rothay Manor Hotel have?
Rothay Manor Hotel is a 4-star hotel.
What amenities does Rothay Manor Hotel offer?
Rothay Manor Hotel offers gardens, terrace, free Wifi, restaurant, bar and room Service.
Weather & sea temperature — Lake District
Right now: 15°
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Rothay Bridge, Ambleside, LA22 0EH, United Kingdom