The Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel Room photoThe Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel Exterior photoThe Unicorn, Ambleside Hotel Exterior photo

Book The Unicorn, Ambleside in Ambleside, Lake District

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Check rooms and rates
From$93 /night
Check-in
12Sept
Check-out
13Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

North Road, Ambleside, LA22 9DT
-
Near the Lake District National Park Entrance
Very good
7.7
/10
4.5
4.4
/5

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.

Select your room type

The Unicorn, Ambleside offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Twin Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    14 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Standard Double Suite
    2 persons
    20 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
    Heating

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Unicorn, Ambleside offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.5/10Review 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

Guest Parking

  • No parking available.

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
Show more

The Unicorn, Ambleside Location

North Road, Ambleside, LA22 9DT
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.
Getting around
  • 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
Guest Parking
No parking available.
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.

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Unicorn, Ambleside from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 234 verified reviews
7.9 /10
Very good
77 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.3/10
Comfort
8.2/10
Facilities
7.5/10
Free WiFi
8.4/10
Location
9.1/10
Staff
8.8/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Staff hospitality
Food quality
Cozy atmosphere
Cons
Parking accessibility
Room updates needed
Guest reviews
based on 286 reviews
7.7/10
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.
Open reviews
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.

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