Badger Bar, Ambleside
About the Hotel
Badger Bar is a historic 400-year-old inn located in the heart of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its natural beauty. The hotel features grounds where guests can observe badgers being fed each evening, a unique attraction for nature enthusiasts. Nestled between Ambleside and Grasmere, it offers convenient access to local walking paths and scenic landscapes. With an inviting atmosphere and a focus on hearty food and real ales, it captures the essence of a classic English country pub.
Location
Situated centrally in the Lake District, Badger Bar is just a short distance from Ambleside and Grasmere. The area is rich in cultural history, with notable landmarks such as Rydal Mount, the home of poet William Wordsworth, nearby. Public transportation options, including the frequent 555 bus route, provide easy access to the hotel, while parking is available for those traveling by car. Scenic walks around Rydal Water and the surrounding fells start directly from the property.
Rooms
Each of the various rooms includes en-suite facilities, ensuring comfort and privacy for guests. The Rothay room in the main building and the Woodland room in the hotel grounds are particularly suitable for families, offering ample space. Standard rooms provide a cozy atmosphere with comfortable beds, while superior options feature luxury bathrooms and large windows for scenic views. Certain rooms also accommodate dogs, providing additional convenience for pet owners.
Eat & Drink
Badger Bar features a diverse menu of classic pub food, including generous portions of fish and chips, curries, burgers, and Cumberland sausage. Breakfast options include a traditional Cumbrian spread complemented by high-quality ingredients. The bar offers an extensive selection of real ales brewed locally, creating a welcoming environment for casual dining. Reservations are available for lunch and dinner, though walk-ins are accommodated whenever possible.
Leisure & Business
The hotel boasts friendly staff that contribute to a unique and relaxing atmosphere. Leisure activities include hiking, mountain biking, and river cruises, with paths leading directly from the hotel's doorstep. Guests can unwind by the open fires in the cozy bar area or explore the surrounding landscape filled with remarkable walks and natural beauty. Wi-Fi is available for those who require connectivity during their stay.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free parking
- No pets allowed
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Hiking
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Special diet menus
Children
- Cots
Spa & Leisure
- Garden area
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Patio
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel offers a mix of positives and negatives. The rooms, while a bit dated with no views, feature a beautiful four-poster bed and ample space. The service is top-notch, with friendly and helpful staff, although the price may not reflect the value entirely. The location is convenient for exploring the lakes, although not all rooms have the best views. The dining experience is satisfying with a decent menu selection. Overall, a good option with some room for improvement.
The hotel's rooms were large and comfortable, with a mix of beautiful features and some un-renovated areas. Despite facing the road, the location was convenient with good food places nearby. The service was friendly and helpful, making the stay enjoyable. The location was excellent for exploring the countryside, and the dining experience offered good food. Overall, a pleasant stay marred slightly by noisy road-facing rooms and some cold spots due to old windows.
The hotel is set in a stunning location with plenty of walks right from the door. The rooms were comfortable but had a minor design flaw with an overhang above the bed. The service was friendly and helpful, although the music could be a bit loud at times. The dining experience was a hit or miss with tasty evening meals but room for improvement with some dishes. Overall, a beautiful area with lovely staff but could use a bit of TLC in some areas.
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