"Great location, easy to find and lots of parking nearby."
Elin from United Kingdom
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"The location was perfect, very reasonably priced."
Sarah from United Kingdom
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"It was cozy, just a little out of the way of extra foot traffic."
Robert from United States
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"This is in a great location and the pub is lovely."
Karen from United Kingdom
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Oldest pub in Ambleside with dog-friendly policy and live music
Historic Pub & Atmosphere
The Unicorn is the oldest pub in Ambleside, offering a variety of real ales and a warm welcome. Guests receive complimentary drinks on arrival, and the pub serves simple fresh bar food made on site by the local chef and owners. The pub has a community engagement atmosphere with a homey feel throughout its characterful rooms.
Rooms & Accommodation
The hotel has four en-suite rooms and one small double room with an adjacent bathroom, each with fresh cotton bedding and toiletries. All rooms provide free WiFi and tea/coffee making facilities, and the accommodation is room only with private access. A public car park is located close by, and guests have convenience to local shops and restaurants.
Dining & Ales
The Unicorn serves Sunday roasts and fine cask ales, with a bar menu that includes simple fresh bar food and a child-friendly menu. Pub cuisine features loaded fries, sausage and mash, and vegetarian options like roasted vegetable ciabatta. The kitchen uses local ingredients and offers a variety of cask ales and fresh bar food daily.
Entertainment & Events
Live music events occur every weekend, along with quiz nights and open mic nights that draw locals and visitors. The pub also shows live sport events and has a welcoming atmosphere with a pub dog often present. Entertainment finishes early out of respect for guests staying overnight.
Location & Nearby
The Unicorn is located in the centre of Ambleside, close to public transport and the stunning fells of the Lake District. Guests have easy access to Windermere Lake for outdoor activities and local dining options and shops within walking distance. The hotel is pet-friendly throughout, welcoming dogs in all areas.
Highlights
Historic: Oldest pub in Ambleside, dating back over 550 years
Dining: Sunday roasts and fine cask ales with fresh bar food
Entertainment: Live music every weekend and quiz nights
Pet-friendly: Dog-friendly policies throughout the hotel
Location: Centre of Ambleside, near Lake District fells
Family-friendly: Child-friendly menu and accommodating service
Must-do experiences
Hike up Wansfell Pike for stunning views of Lake Windermere.
Savor the Grasmere Gingerbread at the quaint Sarah Nelson's shop.
Discover the quirky Armitt Museum's treasures of local history.
Stroll through Ambleside's Farmer's Market for fresh local produce.
Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Windermere for breathtaking scenery.
Choose your room category
The Unicorn, Ambleside offers double, family, and suite rooms throughout the Lake District, all including breakfast, free cancellation, and seasonal deals
Twin Room
2 persons
12 m²
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room
2 persons
14 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Standard Double Suite
2 persons
20 m²
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Room Rates & Availability Calendar
See current rates and availability for the Lake District now!
Amenities
The Unicorn, Ambleside provides amenities designed for a relaxing stay and memorable moments
Facilities: Very good
7.7/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Services
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Children
Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Room features
Heating
Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Where to Find The Unicorn, Ambleside
North Road, Ambleside, LA22 9DT,
Map view
City landmarks
Garden
Rydal Mount
2.18 km
Landmark
Borrans Park
1.28 km
Landmark
High Close Estate
650 m
Landmark
Stock Ghyll Force
3.05 km
Landmark
Rydal Water
2.7 km
Landmark
Wansfell Pike
1.79 km
Garden
Rydal Hall Gardens
2.02 km
Landmark
Lily Tarn
1.59 km
Landmark
Dora's Field
2.04 km
Bridge
Bridge House
3.78 km
Landmark
Rydal Hall Sculpture Path
2.2 km
Landmark
High Sweden Bridge
2.18 km
Cave
Rydal Cave
2.49 km
Castle
Wray Castle
3.6 km
Landmark
Loughrigg Fell
3.03 km
Gallery
Old Courthouse Gallery
3.55 km
Landmark
Wansfell
2.69 km
Landmark
Brockhole on Windermere
3.7 km
Camping
Skelwith Fold
3.01 km
Landmark
Ambleside Roman Fort
4.88 km
Landmark
Hayes Garden World Ambleside
4.12 km
Landmark
Jenkin Crag
4.83 km
Landmark
The National Trust
3.78 km
Landmark
Rothay Park
4.06 km
Church
St Mary's Church
3.9 km
Landmark
Merz Barn
3.94 km
Nearby
Garden
Stagshaw Garden
90 m
Museum
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
460 m
Moss Eccles Tarn
90 m
AmblesideEngland
Copt Howe
90 m
Restaurants
Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside
50 m
2 Bridge Street
The Giggling Goose Cafe
100 m
The Old Mill North Road
Daisys Cafe
80 m
Rydal Rd Central Buildings
Royal Oak
90 m
Main St
Gandhi's Cafe
3.62 km
The Slack
The Old Smithy
3.67 km
The Slack
The Royal Oak Resturant & Bar
3.78 km
Church Street
Greggs
530 m
3 The Old Stamp House Church Street
Shake, Waffle & Roll
500 m
2A Cheapside
Explore Ambleside
Local Highlights Near The Unicorn
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Stagshaw Garden
2 minutes' walk
A beautiful woodland garden with paths and views. Ideal for leisurely strolls among native plants and blooming flowers.
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
6 minutes' walk
Showcases local art and history, providing insights into the Lake District. Free admission on select days enhances accessibility.
Borrans Park
15 minutes' walk
A serene park with stunning views of Windermere. Ideal for family picnics and casual outdoor activities.
Rydal Water
30 minutes' walk
A picturesque lake surrounded by rolling hills. Perfect for a leisurely walk or a peaceful spot for reflection.
Hiking at Rydal Mount
25 minutes' walk
Challenging trails with panoramic views. Guided tours available seasonally for insights into the natural surroundings.
Yoga at Borrans Park
15 minutes' walk
Outdoor yoga sessions offered during summer months. Refreshing environment to unwind and connect with nature.
Rattle Ghyll Cafe Ambleside
1 minute' walk
Casual cafe serving local favorites and hearty breakfasts. Popular for their freshly made cakes and friendly ambiance.
The Giggling Goose Cafe
2 minutes' walk
Charming spot known for its wholesome meals and inviting decor. Great for both vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The Old Courthouse Gallery
45 minutes' walk
Art exhibits featuring local artists. Engaging atmosphere with workshops and community events throughout the year.
Live Music at The Royal Oak
2 minutes' walk
Local pub hosting weekly live music events. Great vibe for a night out with friends or a cozy evening.
Local transport options
City Centre
Ambleside 8 min · 600 m
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 112 min · 74.6 km
Blackpool International (BLK) 160 min · 106.5 km
Bus
Bus stop 5 min · 400 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Read what past guests have said about their stay at The Unicorn, Ambleside
Cleanliness
8.4/10
Comfort
8.3/10
Facilities
7.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Location
9.2/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Staff hospitality
Food quality
Cozy atmosphere
Cons
Parking accessibility
Room updates needed
Guest reviews
based on 294 reviews
7.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About The Unicorn, Ambleside
Is there a private bathroom in the double room?
10 March 2024
Yes, the double room comes equipped with its own shower and toilet, but not a bathtub.
What are my parking options when visiting the inn?
15 April 2024
There is no on-site parking available, but there is public parking just a 4-minute walk away.
Are pets welcome at the inn?
20 May 2024
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the accommodation rooms.
Can I bring my well-behaved dog along for my stay?
22 June 2024
Yes, dogs are allowed, provided they do not sleep on the bed.
Is it possible to check in later in the evening?
30 July 2024
Yes, late check-in is available. Just let the staff know upon arrival.
Are there ensuite showers in the twin room?
10 August 2024
Yes, the twin room includes an ensuite shower.
Do you have facilities for storing bicycles?
25 September 2024
Bicycles cannot be stored in the rooms due to space restrictions and safety regulations.
Is breakfast served at the inn?
5 October 2024
The Unicorn operates a room-only service, so breakfast is not provided.
What dining options are available nearby?
15 November 2024
There are various restaurants and attractions in the vicinity of The Unicorn, Ambleside, to explore and enjoy.
Does The Unicorn have any recreational facilities?
1 December 2024
Unfortunately, there are no spa services or a swimming pool at The Unicorn.