After a long journey down from the north in freezing conditions, we arrived at Ambleside to a very warm welcome from proprietors Peter & Ruth. Leaving our car in Ambleside's private car park at the rear, we were shown to our room. Before leaving us to unpack, Peter gave us some very useful recommendations of places to visit for our evening meal - luckily we had no need to use the car, as the town's eateries are within a five minute walk. Being fans of programmes 'The Hotel Inspector' & 'Three in a Bed', we knew the weak points of hotel cleanliness, and did our best to find them. We were utterly defeated - Ambleside has to be the most spotless guest house we've stayed in. More than enough wardrobe space (with ample clothes hangers - often overlooked), a mini widescreen TV, comfy beds, tea/coffee tray (Earl Grey!), and immaculate ensuite. Before departing for our meal, we were invited to complete the breakfast menu: a huge range of options, from fresh fruit, cereals, fruit juice & coffee to a full cooked breakfast which can be individually customised (1 or 2 eggs, fried, scrambled etc), or just tick the whole lot!

Having slept soundly, we went down for breakfast & were greeted by Ruth, who had our fruit juice prepared, and soon returned with a cafetiere of coffee & rounds of toast. Peter brought our breakfasts, which were hot, plentiful & of the best ingredients. He would periodically return to refill our coffee, and bring us more toast. We had to eventually call a halt to his hospitality, as we feared we'd have no room left for the delight's of Stratford's tearooms!

We only stayed one night, but wish it had been longer. Peter and Ruth felt like old friends, and couldn't do enough to make our short visit a happy one. We're beginning to wonder if we should be posting this review, as we want to keep Ambleside our own little secret!

I stayed at The Ambleside Guest House for a weekend of sightseeing and theatre. The guest house is very well located, in easy walking distance of everything, including Anne Hathaway's Cottage which is just 15 to 20 minutes walk out of town. Peter and Ruth are extremely friendly, welcoming and helpful. Peter gave lots of good advice for things to do and places to eat, and took a real interest in my stay. I didn't have the cooked breakfast, although other guests seemed to really enjoy it, and the other options were perfectly fine, although nothing special. I stayed in a single room which was very small, but fine for my needs. Both bedroom and bathroom were spotlessly clean and comfortable. I would definitely recommend staying here.

Food, hosts, breakfast and location all excellent.

The 4 of us stayed at this B & B and had a very enjoyable experience. The location was excellent with great advice and ideas given by the owner. All within walking distance to anywhere in the area/downtown. Highly recommended by these 2 couples.