Ideal location, we travelled 03/02/12 to 05/02/12 when it snowed on the 4th, my birthday. Looked fab with the gardens and driveway covered in snow. 10 minute walk to grasmere village, went to Tweedies Bar and Red Lion where we ate both our teas. Nice food at Red Lion.
The hotel bedroom was lovely and warm in the cold weather. Staff friendly.

We stayed for 2 nights and had an enjoyable stay.
The only bad thing I will say is that we were checked in to the hotel with a 'warning' of the consequences of making too much noise etc. They've obviously had issues with this before but tarring all of their young (ish!) customers with the same brush is a little unfair and does not make for a 'warm welcome'.
That said, this was the only bad point and was quickly forgotten.
Service beyond this was great and staff were friendly. The hotel had a very relaxed, cosy feel and the open fires were very welcome after the snowfall we had this weekend!
The room was comfy and had all we needed.
The hotel is a short walk to Grasmere village or a short drive to Ambleside, both of which had plenty of choice for dining and other attractions.
For the price, and the location, we would return to Forest Side :D

The approach to the hotel was beautiful, the hotel itself was characterful and had big rooms with high ceilings and open fires. The attitude of the manageress was disappointing from the outset. We were chastised for being a few minutes early for check in and as KGB voucher holders we were made to feel like second class compared to those who had paid full price. We were not allowed to have wine or any alcoholic beverage in the bedroom and any wine taken by guests was subject to an £8.00 corkage fee. The manageress was very officious, but this may have been due to her and one other person being responsible for the entire running of the hotel. Perhaps more staff should be employed to lighten the load of the manageress. By and large we had a good stay, but we were disappointed with the way we were made to feel on our arrival. The staff were very helpful with information about local amenities and restaurants.

Despite some negative reviews on Tripadvisor, we really loved our stay in this charming old hotel. (We can only assume some people get their kicks from sniping...)
The building was set back in trees and looked beautiful with the frosting of snow. It was full of character, warmed by open fires and so quiet. We had a large, four poster room and big clean bathroom. The hearty breakfast was delicious and due to KGB deal it was all really good value for money.
Thanks to Forestside for a great break away and don't believe the negative moaners on here!