Ambleside Salutation Hotel, WorldHotels Distinctive

This is a great hotel in the centre of Ambleside with excellent, friendly service, There is a welcoming bar and restaurant and lovely accommodation. We felt a little rushed at dinner one evening as the staff began preparing side tables for breakfast service just as our meals arrived, but the food was exceptionally good

Lovely hotel right in the middle of Ambleside and close walk to everything in the town. Short walk to the lake and close to several nice restaurants and pubs. Easy to find and good parking especially for where it is. Welcome at the hotel was disappointing with disagreement over the room rate, they had 'upgraded our room' and made it sound like a good thing but then tried to charge us for that. Pretty poor welcome and a sense of accusation of us getting it wrong (we called up to book so any fault in which rate was entirely theirs in whoever inputted it) in sorting it out rather than looking to solve. Breakfast was good, a nice al a carte option and decent buffet. Room was large and comfortable with a good bed and shower which is important. Pool area and particularly the outside pool was very nice and a great way to relax after walk around the lakes! The lounge bar was a nice place to relax and a well stocked bar meant we went back there on an evening. Overall a nice hotel with a great location.

Staff brilliant, had a slight problem duty manager sorted straight away, very professional. Loved staying here would recommend. Very clean comfortable hotel. very quite and peaceful, Ambleside is a lovely place to visit

A real home from home! I have visited this hotel over a dozen times and am never disappointed. From the delicious breakfast/dinner to the friendly and attentive staff to the marvellous leisure centre, this hotel has it all and is tthe Lake District's best! Don't event hesitate- if you are in the lakes, visit this gem of a hotel!

I took my mother away for 1 night. The hotel is very relaxing in the reception and bar areas with cosy library style seating and lovely sofas. The room was small but perfectly adequate and clean with nice comfy beds and bedding. Breakfast was everything you wanted and more, very fresh and tasty. The bar staff and breakfast staff very pleasant. Would definitely stay again.

We stayed for 5 nights from 16th September, the hotel is as friendly as ever, nothing is a trouble , the room we choose, is a favourite . Breakfast always fantastic , we ate in most nights as the food is plentiful and tasty. The waiters are all effient and friendly , can't wait to come back for another visit.

Spent four days at the Salutation with my hubby. Hotel was fantastic, friendly, helpful staff, nothing was too much trouble. Room was great, we had a balcony room at the back with stunning views. Everything you could need had been thought of for the rooms. Excellent choice at breakfast, which was delicious, and very efficient service. Can't wait to go back!

Stayed for 6 nights beginning of September we returned as had a lovely time last year Again the hotel lived up to our expectations we also had one of the top rooms albeit a different one from last year again with a hot tub on the balcony which was welcome after a days walking Pool area lovely although we did not use this much this year The staff were friendly both reception and breakfast serving staff Still think the drinks are dreadfully expensive in the bar but all hotels are we are members of the WestMorland club which allows us an early booking discount and 10% off all food and drink. Will we return next for a third time? Yes Only issue we have is the parking personally I think they should allocate a specific parking bay to each room

Clearly a venue that's been a part of Ambleside for a lot of years. Seems a nice place inside. Sat outside looking down the road which was new to us. Drinks good, service good. Place just didn't give off a vibe of ‘let's go back'. Other than that all ok.

Very comfortable hotel. The breakfasts were first class. The service was ok but when I was there the lift was out of order and had been for several days. Although I might accept that it was not the hotel's fault. I believe the hotel management let itself down by not offering a decent porterage system while the lift was out of commission.

Typical pub grub - consistent with expectations of good menu, cooked well and presented simply. No phone reservations taken beforehand. Very popular, had to wait to find a seat. . Good atmosphere and staff efficient at clearing and wiping tables. Staff served food with a smile and checked we were happy during meal, despite being run off their feet.

Right in the Heart of Ambleside, this hotel is perfectly located and is as good on the inside as the outside. Dogs are permitted in certain rooms - we always ask for Room 101 (our Dog loves that room). The room has a balcony so you can watch the goings-on in Ambleside or have a drink in the cosy bar. Food is always perfect, breakfast buffet always well stocked and cooked breakfast beautiful....you will never go hungry at the Ambleside. The Spa and Pool are great too for relaxation. Staff always friendly and helpful, the Hotel has a nice family feel. Always our first choice when visiting Ambleside. Cannot wait to return !

Stayed here with my partner last minute bed and breakfast Spa is lovely and the outdoor huge sauna is just perfect it's massive we had the whole thing to ourselves for half and hour and it was lovely The breakfast is to die for it's waiter service too which was great as we stayed at the langdlae twice and it was buffet! The hotel is a old hotel but has been refurbed to a great standard everything is modern in decor the staff are friendly and he room was tidyied every day The location is great ?? in Ambleside lovely little Thai restaurant and pubs I would recommend a room with a balcony

Parking on arrival straightforward - there's a rising bollard system that lets you in easily, but requires a code to get out, to deal with non-residents. Check-in quick and friendly. Our room was in the block outside main hotel; not really an issue. Room looked out onto a rushing stream in a wood - made the room a bit gloomy, but the sound of the stream made up for it. Excellent tea facilities, biscuits, bottled water - refreshed daily. Also a fridge in our room - plus an excellent rucksack (which I'd forgotten to pack so was very grateful for). Dinner a little pricey but perfectly good; decent selection of beer and wine. Gym ok - looks nice, but a bit of an awkward space to work in, and apart from the Concept2 rowing machine was too hi-tech for us to bother with. Swimming pool, steam room and sauna all smallish but fine. Outdoor Jacuzzi is brilliant - even in the rain. When we checked out, there was some problem we couldn't understand...and it turned out to be a partial refund for the building works noise (which we hadn't really noticed). But it was a great gesture and reflects the overall attitude at the place, which is friendly and professional. On top of all this - a brilliant location. We did all our walking without once needing a car to get to the start. 15min walk to ferry, and decent fells all around; Ambleside Tourist Info is right next door, with maps to all of them.

There are massive signs in the swimming pool saying “adults only beyond this point” Two of the three times I have used the spa there have been children in these areas, I'm not a child hater but it is nice to relax in peace and quiet, furthermore it is not advised that children use the spa for health and safety reasons. On one occasion in the out door hot tub a mother put her children next to me then proceeded to go back inside, after around 10 mins she had not returned and I left because I'm not a babysitter. The pool and spa are covered by cameras which are obviously not checked, either that or we just don't care that these rules exist, on my way out I did mention this to a receptionist who told me the residents can do what they like as they have paid to be in the hotel, well what is the point in the signs then??? My boss has paid £400 for each key (there are 4) to access the gym and pool, obviously members don't matter here and had I of paid with my own money I'd be asking for it back! Such a shame as the facilities are nice and I enjoy a swim, I'd also suggest at busier times that a swim lane should be put in place as last Sunday it was impossible to swim even just a few lengths. You need to remember that not everyone is on holiday and that your locals matter too.

Called in on the off chance because the menu looked great. The service was great and the staff looked after us very well. The food however was average. I had slow braised steak that was tough, I was expecting it to fall apart. My wife had chicken which was ok but veg was over cooked.

A fabulous hotel, and lovley staff, a personal mention must go to the beautiful Jana is is the loveliest member of staff and works in the resturant, her kindness is above incredible, she is beautiful and always will be, plus the hotel is excellent to, you wont be dissapointed. A well while stay is recommended.

This hotel is in an absolutely ideal location in the centre of Ambleside. We stayed in the Lakes for three nights and are so glad we chose this hotel! We stayed in room 116 which has its own private balcony, though the view is of some other rooms so we didn't feel like we wanted to use it as there was no privacy. The room itself was spacious, however I'm not sure if it was worth upgrading. It could do with a lick of paint and a bit of a clean as there was lots of dust but it suited us as a base for our trip.

Stayed here as a family and was really impressed with the spa and location. Interior of the hotel was lovely. The only things that let it down was a cleaner eating chips with her hands whilst working (passed her 4 times and each time had her plate out in the corridor dipping her chips in various sauces) - we were a little taken back. We also were not that impressed by the service and food at lunch, blunt waitress and food was quite bland. Would visit again for the facilities and great location.

Nice hotel in middle of Ambleside ,larger car Good welcome! Friendly staff Room in annex room clean tidy and comfortable bed Breakfast good buffet and cooked selection Lots of comfy armchair in lounge and Bar area Good meal and service in the restaurant In yyhe evening

I stayed here for a short 3 night break staying in the single room which was very comfortable and had a small balcony overlooking the main street. All the staff without exception were friendly and efficient with special mention 2 manuel the maitre D of the restaurant a man of great Elegance and charm The spa facilities are excellent especially the Open Air jacuzzi which is you are lucky to get good weather as I did is a marvellous experience the food at breakfast time was fine cooked to order with a good choice if you come by car you get a reserved parking space which in Ambleside is like gold dust the location of the hotel is very central it's not cheap but as the saying goes you get what you pay for and in this reviewers opinion it was worth every penny

We arrived early well before check-in but the hotel was ok with us leaving our car in the car park before checking in later. The staff were warm & friendly when checking in and overall the service was good. The room We really enjoyed the spa facilities and were pleasently surprised by these. It was great sitting outside in the warm jacuzzi in the rain!

Just returned from a one night stay at salutation hotel this was our second stay here. We had a lovely room with a balcony which we enjoyed the pool and hot tub are very nice to relax in. We arrived at 12 30 and reception staff told us rather abruptly we thought that we couldn't check in until 3pm which was fine but they seem to be preoccupied with other things and talking to each other rather than given us there full attention again we felt this when we returned at 3pm. Breakfast was very nice and we would return it is right in the heart of Ambleside with lots going on outside. I also see another review saying house keeping staff being loud we also found this our room was 114 right by the store room and it was a bit noisy at 8am when they started work.

I will start on a positive and say that the reception staff and the Spa were great. However I searched for this hotel and booked a "lodge" for a Jacuzzi. It was expensive, but it was our anniversary so I was looking forward to sitting in a hot tub on the balcony as shown on the picture. When we arrived, our lodge room was more of a small motel room. and a small balcony. No hot tub. There was a tiny bathroom with a bath, this was meant to be the Jacuzzi and it could produce bubbles in the bath!! Not exactly what I had in mind. The breakfast next day was good, but small portions and the coffee machine was not working, with no out of order sign, the staff watched me attempt to get hot water,as there were tea bags situated next to this coffee machine, I a sure it was amusing, then I got my husband to have a go! He had to ask, only to be told it was out of order! why didn't they put a sign on it? If you do go, I would recommend you ask for a room with a hot tub on the balcony.

Recently spent weekend at hotel, as it was our anniversary we had upgraded our room to include a balcony, when booking balcony rooms had stunning views across the town, however the room we were given looked out on to a wall!! Nothing stunning or romantic about it. Asked for different room but none available, they did however discount the extra money which we had paid for balcony. Really disappointed as it was a special occasion and we were unable to use balcony as it was really depressing, when checking out we were informed that they would no longer count it s a balcony room!! Bit frustrating after the fact! Housekeeping very noisy in morning, just after 8am my husband had to ask them to be quiet as they were laughing and joking loudly outside our room. Breakfast was great and the spa was good. I wouldn't choose to stay there again.

My wife and I spent 6 days recently in the Lake District and decided to stay at the Ambleside Salutation because Ambleside is probably the most centrally situated town in the Lake District and the Ambleside Salutation is right in the centre of the town. We were not disappointed. Everything about the hotel is geared towards the customer and the staff could not have been more friendly and helpful. The room was very clean and tidy though we could have done with air conditioning because of the 2018 heatwave! In the usual Lake District weather this would probably have not been a problem. The breakfasts were excellent - the best we have had in a long time - and the service was excellent. We also ate twice in the evening in the restaurant and the high standards were maintained there. It was a short walk to all the shops, pubs and restaurants in Ambleside and the hotel is next door to the local Tourist Information office. For a hotal that is centrally located in the Lake District so that you can easily explore the wonderful sights and attractions of the area, the Ambleside Salutation is a great choice.

Went of here for a trip in July 2018 and were very impressed. Accommodation, service, food quality were very good and staff were very accommodating/helpful/friendly. If you're looking for somewhere to stay then this is up there with the best in Ambleside and location is right in the thick of things. Overall I would recommend this place.

The hotel room with balcony was amazing, overlooking a stream, the balcony was extra large with plenty of shade in the very warm weather. The hotel breakfast and dinner were of a very high standard. The pool and outside jacuzzi were great. Will certainly be returning.

We stayed at the Salutation for our 40th wedding anniversary weekend. The photos on their website are true to life – the hotel is very smart, clean and modern. We booked a Lodge room, although we didn't realise that this was an annexe of the hotel, a block of Westmoreland slate cottages at the back of the hotel, next to the car park. This actually proved to be better for us, as we had family staying elsewhere in Ambleside, and they were able to get to us without having to go through the hotel every time. We had a ground floor room with private balcony/terrace which overlooked the Stock Ghyll stream – very tranquil with a lovely waterfall (don't know what it would be like in winter after heavy rain….), and gate access to the car park so we were able to park our car right next to our room. The room itself was excellent, very large, with a huge bed, dressing table area (nice touch – a jewellery tree, tissues and cottonwool balls!), two easy chairs and coffee table, big wardrobe and shelf area with a fridge (handy for keeping fresh milk rather than UHT always provided by hotels), a lovely bright bathroom with spa bath and big round showerhead. The bed and pillows were very comfortable. The balcony had a wrought iron table and two chairs with cushions (which we eventually found in the top of the wardrobe!). The only bugbears were that the bathroom window wasn't obscure glass (next-door could have seen straight in when I was having a shower so had to keep blinds down) and the fact that the door closer was in such a position that every time you opened the wrong wardrobe door it banged on it. Other than that, the room was perfect. We had Sunday lunch at the hotel restaurant, and this too was excellent and good value for money (£16.95 for 2 courses, £22.95 for 3), and we also made use of the swimming pool with our granddaughter, which was lovely, very light and airy, plenty of seats and loungers, and an outdoor “fountain” pool (loved the big gold camels…!!). I would certainly recommend the Salutation and in fact hope to go back there again – the staff were extremely friendly and polite, and made our anniversary weekend extra special.

My husband son and myself paid £20 each, that's £60 in total for a one day pass to use the pool and spa facilities. We did not gripe about the price as what we wanted was a swim and an hour to relax. However the pool area and in particular the ladies changing rooms were filthy. I noted three separate piles of dirty towels/robes (despite there being a laundry hamper right outside) and there was also marks on the floor where someone had applied talcum, which had not been cleaned. To make things worse there were no hooks in the changing room where I could hang my clean things when getting changed. On my way out I mentioned this to the reception staff who told me the changing area is checked daily at 4pm. That's hardly adequate for somewhere claiming to offer luxury facilities. Not good at all.

We booked a table in the very attractive dining room. The whole Hotel interior is spacious and very well appointed. Service was impeccable and the food and wine delicious. A Manager asked if we were having a good dining experience and was very pleasant. All in all not very expensive but a very good experience. Thanks to our attentive waiter Manuel.

Great place to stay in the centre of Ambleside. We stayed in a Comfortable room on the 2nd floor overlooking the town, a couple of comfy chairs near the window made it perfect for having a drink and watching the world go by. We had fabulous weather so had the windows open which was very noisy in the early evening but quietened down later. We were awoken early by traffic noise though so a room at the back would probably be quieter. We didn't stay sor dinner evening but breakfast was lovely with lots of choice. Great leisure suite with sauna, steam, pool and lovely relaxing hot tub outside. Perfect location for lake Windermere. We would definitley stay again.

My partner and I have just returned from a weekend visit to the hotel whilst in the area for an ultra run with our running group. The hotel is very nice, the rooms comfortable and the staff friendly and helpful. We booked for two nights bed and breakfast but as the run started at 7am we were unable to have a proper breakfast the first day. My partner mentioned this to the staff who immediately agreed to prepare a continental style breakfast for 11 of us and leave it outside our rooms. The cooked breakfast on the second day was fab and every preference and taste is accounted for. We used the spa before checking out....well worth a visit if you have time. The only reason I have rated the hotel a 4 instead of a 5 is that the room was roasting hot with no way of cooling it down so it was almost impossible to sleep. I know this is down to the hot weather but air conditioning would be a bonus!

Fantastic hotel! The staff couldn't have been more helpful in every aspect of our 2 night stay. Nothing was too much trouble. They made my Mums birthday celebration so special. The pool area is excellent. Didn't use the gym but never seen such a well equipped gym which we passed on our way to the pool.

Our room (Langdale) was beautiful with a balcony overlooking a brook. The bed was huge and very comfortable. The hot tub was a luxury touch but as the weather was so hot we had to use it before 6.30am or after 10pm when the sun had gone down - which certainly wasn't a hardship. My only minuscule criticism is that I couldn't use the Nespresso coffee machine - I kept getting hot water only. Perhaps some instant coffee could be provided for us techno-incompetents! Every member of staff was lovely. We will definitely return.

We booked during the rare Lake District heatwave on B&B we were checked in by Cathryn who was attentive, friendly and efficient told us everything we needed to know. Our room was spacious and the balcony an added bonus for enjoying the Ambleside sunset. We had full use of the spa facilities however only used the pool for a quick cool off. We never ate here but I presume the food was good too. Will be returning before he summer is out.

Visited Ambleside salutation hotel 9th June for 5 nights. Stay was part work part pleasure and the hotel couldn't have been more accommodating with allocating an easy access parking space and early breakfast which had an excellent choice and made to order cooked breakfast. The evening meals were good and the staff were very attentive. Excellent location with a 1 mile walk to the lake. Hotel staff went above and beyond to make our stay memorable.

We visited again this year and the rooms are very comfortable clean and furnished well. The Spa is excellent and well worth a visit. Staff were very friendly and helpful . Breakfast substantial and large range to choose from. Will definitely return

We stay in this wonderful hotel frequently and are always blown away by the amazing staff, wonderful location, food and facilities. This time was slightly different as we were married whilst staying there. Unfortunately I had failed to plan on a lack of taxis, but immediately we were offered a lift from the hotel staff so they literally got us to our wedding on time! This really does show the level of friendly service provided. We also managed to leave half our belongings behind and they have been so helpful in getting it back. Thank you so much for everything, we'll see you all in October!

My (new) husband and I stayed at the Salutation for an amazing 5 nights in one of the club suites, including a hot tub. The whole stay was fantastic with the hotel being very clean and all staff being extremely helpful and thoughtful. The breakfasts were also outstanding, with dietary requirements catered for. We will be back again, without a doubt.

We stayed here for the first time between 3rd and 5th June and can honestly say this is the best hotel we have ever stayed in. There aren't enough stars on TripAdvisor to award this place. The staff are extremely helpful and friendly, the rooms are furnished to a very high standard, the breakfasts were outstanding, the evening meals were amazing and the swimming pool was superb and the location is brilliant being in the centre of Ambleside. We cannot praise this hotel highly enough and will definitely visit again in the near future.

Stayed in the Brathay Room for 3 nights on a dinner, bed & breakfast rate. Very impressed with the room, hotel and staff. The breakfast was excellent and evening meals were quite nice (although nowadays serving frozen chips and veg is disappointing). Spa facilities excellent and service excellent throughout stay????

We decided to stay at the Ambleside Salutation Hotel when we visited the Lake District and we do not regret it! The place is beautiful and clean, and we had the opportunity to stay in the Langdale room. It was a big room, with a hot tub on the balcony, which is surrounded by trees. We loved the peaceful sound of the nearby waterfall when we drank our coffee on the balcony after a long day of hiking. The breakfast at the hotel was really good as well, with professional and friendly staff. The swimming pool is decent in size and it was rather quiet when we went there. We absolutely loved our stay.

We had an exceptional four-night stay in the Langdale tree-house suite at Ambleside Salutation Hotel and Spa! From the moment we arrived we were welcomed very warmly, with a drink on the house while we waited for our room to be finally prepared, champagne and a personal congratulations card on entering our room, and a very high standard suite complete with hot tub, fittings and a gorgeous bathroom! The spa downstairs was excellent, with a pool, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, steam room, sauna, ice, themed showers, and an excellent gym area with state-of-the-art equipment. The breakfasts were fantastic and very generous and the items on them were cooked to perfection - I loved the bacon and the mini Cumberland sausages in particular! We dined at night twice and both nights we enjoyed the experience immensely! Ambleside is one of the best places to stay in the lakes once you have a hotel this good - a nice walk to the lake at waterside, with easy access to several main villages and lakes in the park. We were lucky to have very hot and sunny weather throughout which is not always the case at the Lake District! I thoroughly recommend this hotel - we were made to feel very special on our honeymoon and I cannot thank you enough!

Just home from 2 nts stay in a classic balcony double room with lovely hillside views. Spotless, comfortable bed, usual room facilities (shower in bathroom super powerful!) Hotel is situated in central Ambleside. The lounge and restaurant areas are large and again, spotless. Breakfast was exceptional. Superb choices from cereal, juices, pastries, fruit and full English options - nothing was too much trouble. We took advantage of the leisure facilities which were a welcome treat at the end of a day walking. The only gripe was at one point, there were lots of children in the adult only area (outdoor jacuzzi) No staff around to enforce rules. We hadn't gone for a spa break tho so it didn't bother us too much. As some reviewers have mentioned, parking is tricky and a little tight here - I suppose that comes with it being town centre location. It was a busy bhol weekend too. It certainly wouldn't stop us from staying again. Oh...The staff. They make this hotel great. Every single person has a friendly smile, a few words, are professional and unobtrusive. The restaurant staff were brilliant. A real credit in what I'm sure are long and busy days for them. Thank you. We had fab and relaxing stay. We'll be back!

The Salutation Hotel is a smart place to stay in the town of Ambleside. With very attentive staff, good pool area it makes a stay in this lovely lakes town a pleasure. Probably the only downside is the restricted parking area at the front of the hotel. Overall though a little gem of a hotel.

Stayed for 2 nights in a lodge room with hot tub on the balcony. The room was lovely. Spacious and comfortable. There was a kitchen area in the room with appliances that did not work which was a little odd and seemed a little out of place. I'm not sure what the thinking was around this area. We did not try the spa or pool as we preferred to use the hot tub on our balcony. If I had to be super picky I would say it would be nice to be able to set the water temperature ourselves as we found the default temperature of 40' was a bit on the hot side. There was a cover provided for the tub but a lot of debris from the wooded area next to the room still managed to get into the water so if a net was provided this would be helpful to get it out. We pre paid for breakfast and dinners. If I stayed again I would not choose the evening meals. The breakfasts were great with lots of variety however the evening meals were just ok. ... fat wasn't rendered on the steak and my fish skin was soft not crispy as advertised. My chocolate panna cotta has a foreign object in it When I pointed it out to the waitress she just said oh and no apology or further comment was ever made which I found odd. There are many dining options available in Ambleside and I would choose to dine outside of the hotel in the evenings if I stayed again. There is parking for around 30 cars but some of the spaces are a bit tight to manoeuvre into. We had no issues as we arrived at about 1.30pm on our first day and left our car for the duration of our trip. No one seemed to be allowed to check in before 3pm as lots of people were waiting in the bar area. Most hotels in my experience are more relaxed about check in times when rooms are available. I would stay again and recommend to friends.

The Salutation hotel is conveniently situated in the heart of Ambleside and is a lovely hotel with very helpful and friendly staff. The suite Helvelyn suite stayed in was modern, spacious and beautifully decorated. I only ate breakfast here and the choices were excellent. I didn't use the leisure facilities so I can't comment on them. Parking space is at a premium and can be a bit of an issue, but I always found a space. I would certainly stay here again.

If I could give this hotel more stars I would , what a wonderful stay , the best hotel we have stayed in. The balcony jacuzzi was amazing after a long days walking it was just what the muscles needed. The staff were so friendly and helpful and helped us book our trip on the Windermere boat cruise and we choose a walk recommended by them also. The attention to detail in the hotel was brilliant and so clean and tidy, this hotel made our stay , not one bad thing to say.

We found the lounges and dining room downstairs superbly set out and we used them daily after we returned from touring the lake district. The spa facilities etc we did not use, sadly due to an injury and a long activity list, however they looked superb.We shall return to sample them at another date in the future. Best breakfast we have ever come across English or continental, whatever you wanted was there with bells on. If you would like a pause, between the starter and the main course, I would suggest you say so when ordering your meal from the menu.Our main arrived virtually after we had finished our starter. A small point, I do like a pause in between courses.. When next in Ambleside, it will be my port of call.

We'd booked a double room with a balcony and the room was called Loughrigg. It was very nice . The balcony overlooked the street but we could see the scenery behind . The weather was beautiful which made everything look even nicer. The bathroom was quite small with a shower screen and fixed shower head , it was ok though. The bed was comfortable , hairdryer and tea tray in the draws . Everything was clean and well kept. Since it's in the village centre everything is handy . The pool is quite big but we felt it was too cool for us to get in . We went outside to the hot tub . It was very nice sitting outside in the bubbles . Pool towels are provided .We decided not to eat in the hotel but came back for a drink in the pleasant bar area . Breakfast wasn't included so we went out for that but wish we'd tried it in the hotel . We had a great stay and would definitely recommend it .

We had booked a classic double room, so did not expect bells and whistles. Although fairly small with a limited outlook, the room itself was very well appointed with everything you would expect from a quality establishment. It was clear that attention to detail had been lavished on the small space, with modern decoration and good quality furniture. The bathroom was equally well appointed and very modern with a jacuzzi bath for those that like that sort of thing. It was clear that a lot of thought had been put into making it a comfortable environment and it was appreciated. The public areas of the hotel are equally modern but extremely comfortable. We found the staff to be very helpful, pleasant and efficient everywhere. We had booked on a bed and breakfast basis, but returned for dinner each of the three nights of our stay. Why would you not? The menu is not massively extensive, focusing on comfort food and pub classics, but you will be pushed to find better value anywhere else in Ambleside and the quality is outstanding. Breakfasts are the same. The choice was excellent and the cooked breakfasts were well presented and delicious. The dining area is comfortable and modern and a very relaxing place to eat. We used the pool and spa during our stay and found it to be one of the best of any we have used in the smaller hotels we have stayed in around the world. Pool towels are provided in your rooms and replaced by housekeeping as necessary. You need to exchange your room keys at reception for fob bracelets to gain access to the leisure centre. There seemed to be some issues with the technology as many lockers were out of use. I left my belongings in one that the fob would not activate, but it wasn't an issue as there is a room safe for storing valuables. The outdoor spa area was very pleasant and a bonus. This was a first stay for us and it was extremely enjoyable. Lots of other people must feel the same, as the hotel was very busy - always a good sign. This is a great place to stay and we would love to return in the near future.

I and my wife spent three nights at the hotel which is ideally situated in the heart of Ambleside and within easy (as easy as Lake District roads get!) reach of the Lakes and the coast (Ravenglass etc). We were delighted with all the staff from our initial reception through dining and house-keeping. All the staff were friendly and efficient, acting very quickly on requests (change of pillows and a sink plug not holding water both dealt with in minutes). Our room was billed as overlooking a car park - which it did but only if one looked down! In fact, the view was mostly of the nearby hills and we'd likely ask for the same room again (Superior King) as it was quiet and well appointed. The only inconvenience we suffered was the lift being out of order so the poor girl on reception had to haul a very heavy suitcase up two flights of stairs and along some long corridors. [I gather some guests had overloaded the lift, to see how many they could get in..... and broken it.] Can't really blame the hotel for that and it didn't cause any real problems during the stay. Breakfast was excellent with a large choice but I'd say the only disappointment was dinner on the first evening when we both opted for roast chicken. It was rather flavourless and was not very tender (which I fed back to the waiter). It may just have been bad luck but we opted for dinner elsewhere for the following two nights and I can recommend Zeffirellis (under the cinema) for possibly the best pizza around and their wide range of excellent home-made puddings. We will definitely go back to the Salutation and can wholeheartedly recommend it.

Currently on our last night of a 3 night stay. Welcoming, clean and comfortable. Had dinner here the first night, good service and good food. Breakfast has a very good cold buffet, alongside an excellent cooked breakfast option. Only negative is the plumbing, noise from other showers etc not good. Swimming pool is good too.

The hotel has very well appointed en suite bedrooms with comfortable beds. The public areas are spacious and attractively decorated with a pleasant bar area. All the staff are attentive. The restaurant food is very good especially the breakfasts where the choice is enormous. Being centrally located with parking is a bonus .

Just back from a weekend here with the inlaws. We have been here a few times and like it because it is situated right in the middle of Ambleside, good for restaurants, shops and near to plenty of walks. Parking is also a bonus. Whilst checking in, we were advised that the lift was broken. My inlaws were on the second floor and we decided to swap our room with them (1st floor). One of the staff members Paul asked if they wanted a ground floor lodge room which we very much appreciated. The rooms are clean, lovely white fluffy towels and a fridge and safe. We also used the spa area - pool, steam, sauna and jacuzzi. I also used the well equipped gym. Breakfast is good,with lots of buffet selection, plus choices of fish or full English. Definitely one of the best places to stay in Ambleside.

I have booked the Salutation Hotel for my walking group during April for the last 10 years and cannot speak too highly of the hotel and its staff. Everything about the hotel is superb. The bedrooms – even the Classic rooms which are the cheapest - are extremely comfortable and well appointed, the three lounges have a lovely ambience and the restaurant serves amazing breakfasts and a wide choice of lunches and dinners, all at very reasonable prices. In addition, the hotel has the best outside Jacuzzi any of us has ever seen together with an excellent indoor pool, steam room and sauna, as well as a well equipped gym. Last but not least, all of the hotel staff, from those that make up the bedrooms to the receptionists to the restaurant and bar staff are friendly, polite and efficient. Anyone looking for excellent accommodation anywhere in the Lake District would be hard pressed to find anywhere better than the Salutation Hotel and my walking group will never consider anywhere else for our future trips.

We stayed for two nights and had booked a Classic Double Room. We joined the Moorland Club (£15) first and this entitled us to 10% discount on room rates plus a free nights Dinner for us both. On arrival we were offered an upgrade to the Troutbeck suite for an additional £43.50 per night. It was worth the extra as the room was large plus there was an outside balcony with a hot tub. The hotel is small but perfect. The Spa has a small gym, lovely pool with relaxing beds, steam room, sauna and a large outdoor Jacuzzi pool. Breakfast was outstanding especially the freshly cooked poached haddock and eggs. We dined at the hotel both evenings and whilst the food was good the menu was limited. The staff are wonderful & friendly and very helpful. My wife booked two treatments (hot shell back massage and foot massage) and said they were the best she had ever had. One day we purchased Windermere Lake Boat cruise tickets & steam train from the Waterfront pier. Excellent value for money and wonderful way to spend a day out.

It's clear that a lot of money has been spent renovating this hotel. But money alone doesn't make a hotel successful. The staff are friendly, genuinely helpful and appear to pay great attention to detail. Food was excellent, room excellent and the spa was spotless and relaxing. Highly recommended.

We didn't stay at the hotel but visited 4 nights running for dinner, having sampled offerings elsewhere on our first night. We were made to feel welcome and the atmosphere and service is as it should be. The food is cooked and presented very well and it is difficult to pick out our favourites as it is all very good. Prices are pretty much comparable to those in much poorer establishments (and there is a 10% discount for return visits). Will definitely return here when we visit Ambleside again.

We felt very well looked after in this lovely hotel. It's in the centre of Ambleside and easy for us to manage on public transport. The spa was really nice and as we went in April it was not too busy.

We visit the Salutation regularly when in the lakes and are never disappointed. We had soup which was beautiful but they serve a wide range of food which is always well presented and good value. The surroundings are beautiful and it has a very calming atmosphere.

Stayed in a ground floor room which was large and very comfy if not a little dark. Breakfast was excellent - everything was tasty and the food available was very generous. Spa area was nice, particularly the outdoors area, and the pool is a reasonable size - but unfortunately was busy everytime I went so was difficult to enjoy. The hotel is in a great location, both within the town itself and also as a base for walks around the local area, including to Grasmere and Loughrigg Fell. Would recommend this hotel and would happily stay here again.

Staying in Windermere for a few days I googled local spas for any deals or offers. I happened to find the Ambleside Salutation and a dine and dip offer they had for £28pp (reasonable enough price for sure) We arrived and the receptionist was pleasant enough but to be honest didn't offer much in way of explanation of the deal and facilities. We paid an extra £5 for a robe, which are obviously one size as it felt like a robe fitted for a dwarf I think to call this a “spa” is overselling. It has an outdoor jacuzzi, which in fairness was nice. However inside the hot tub was like warm and barely rippled and was half full. And there was a steam room and sauna. If your looking to enjoy a “spa” look at aqua sana at centre parks or Armathwaite for sure! This isn't a spa! That aside we did get to relax for 45 mins before we went for the meal as we just laughed it off and made the most of it. The meal service was simply just unorganised. We were taken to our table amongst at most maybe 7 other tables. The place was barely a fifth full. It was clearly the manager who seated (he was in a full suit and everyone else was in staff uniform), we sat at our table for 10-15 minutes before anyone even brought us water or took a drinks order... we just felt awkward. We explained we were on the deal which we had prepaid for and the manager told us he'd just sort it out, however it turned out the £28 was just to use in value off the menu, so we just went with it. We had a starter and main each. And a pint each. The value of the total bill was well under the £56 we had allocated and my intention was to say keep the difference and put it in the tip jar. However when we took the bill up we were charged the £7.80 (approx for drinks) hahah so I paid £65 for around £45 worth of food. Nobody had any idea what was going on, how to value or apply the deal we had paid for on arrival. Tbh I wish I'd paid at the end so I could have made a bigger point of the issue! The food was ok. I had the chicken and my partner had lasagne for mains. I will say on a positive, the salmon rosettes came out and were a great portion! Usually hotels scrimp on the expensive items such as salmon and overdo the garnish. This wasn't the case here! The service was just really uncomfortable. Which was a shame as we'd had such a nice day in Ambleside! Nobody knew what they were doing, staff shrugged shoulders, wasn't exactly the romantic relaxing night we had expected together. I'm glad we tried it as I've walked past the venue so many times. But I certainly don't think I'd ever go back and wouldn't recommend to any friends or family.

Stayed here for one night on Thursday 29th. Hotel is in a beautiful location at the top of Ambleside. Stayed in room 'Todd Crag' which had a massive bed, walk in rainfall shower, spa bath and also featured 2 tv's and a Jacuzzi on the balcony. Staff were very helpful, accommodating and friendly. Breakfast is a must for residents and non-residents, many options and very filling from cooked to pastries, cereals, fruit etc. Would definitely recommend and look forward to staying here again.

Food and service was cold! Prices on the menu the same as the local pubs. I'm not sure if they quite understand the art of customer service. In a hardly busy restaurant had about 3 different waitresses and waiters who weren't quite up to speed and what was required from each table. After hard day climbing the fells all a walker requires is a hot full meal at a good price.Fish pie was cold on arrival which i'd already waited 40 minutes for (hangrey at this point) and waited a further 15 minutes.No mention of a discount or a complimentary glass of wine or pudding for the inconvenience (not acceptable from where I come from). I never complain I choose with my feet and will not return for food.

Stayed here for 2 nights whilst visiting the Lake District. We stayed in Langdale, which has a hot tub on the balcony. This is separate from the main hotel in apartments opposite. It is in a great location in Ambleside; there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. Furthermore there are plenty of walks within a short distance. We hadn't visited Ambleside before so were not sure of any walking routes, we asked at reception and they were really helpful and offered us a printout of a route which offered stunning views and took exactly the amount of time we were looking for! The room was spotless, it was really spacious and the bed was big and comfortable. The bathroom was great with a large shower and a spa bath. However the main attraction was the hot tub on the balcony. This was perfect after a long walk and so relaxing- I loved the multi-coloured lights in it. The only negative regarding the room was that it was fitted with a kitchen (oven, microwave etc.) however, there were no cutlery, crockery or utensils. When we enquired at reception we were told that they were not insured for a kitchen and it was fitted by accident and would be removed soon. This seemed a shame as I feel that it would make the room even better if this were to stay. The breakfast was delicious, the staff were more than happy to accommodate any requests. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Ambleside Salutation. It is pricey for the hot tub rooms but it's worth it for a luxurious treat!

Just arrived, put in tiny room. Website only shows large spacious rooms. My partner emailed when we booked weeks ago for an upgrade, didn't even get a reply. Advertise as having car parking! Joke. Hardly any space at all and scaffolding at one end of ‘car park' . Should really be more clear in what they are advertising.

Me and my husband spent 4 days last week at this Hotel. We upgraded to a Lodge with its own hot tub was absolutely lovely. Staff in the main hotel and restaurant were really helpful and the breakfasts were fab! The spa with outdoor hot pool was amazing and well received after long fell walks. Would definitely return and would recommend.

Superbly modernised traditional hotel with very professional and amenable staff, excellent restaurant for both breakfast and dinner. Wonderful lounge and bar facilities for those poor weather days. Highly recommended and good value.

Just spent weekend in saltation hotel. In the centre of town . Clean. Rooms a good size, staff very friendly & helpful. Would recommend. The bus to bowness stops outside hotel . Ladies if you need a powerful hairdryer, take your own otherwise perfect

Fabulous hotel, staff very friendly, Nothing is to much trouble. Xmas party was very good, food and disco was fabulous. New year package is amazing. Bag Pipes playing, Fire works, Disco, and a singer. The room is decorated beautifil. The food is exceptional. Plenty of walks near by.

Very pleasant stay and delighted with upgrade to Helvellyn Room. Staff excellent and facilities very good. Perfect location for Ambleside. Parking could be a little difficult to negotiate but we found space.

Pop in on Tuesday for lunch and it was lovey like always and the staff really friendly and care and look after us look ford visit again later in the year always a home from home hotel high recommend this hotel

Grossly expensive for what we got. The hot tub was cold and the steps up to it a death trap -icy and dark. You couldn't get out of 1side of the bed because of a pole against it that looked like an acro covered in material and this was meant to be a superior room ( and they definitely charged a superior price for it )Management offered a paltry refund when we complained. Very disappointing. I've stayed in lots of cheaper hotels in the lakes that are much nicer and a fraction of the price

I last visited this hotel nearly ten years ago and did so regularly at that time but I realised that it has been too long, this hotel has just got better, the hotel is nice the breakfast is lovely especially the ‘double', the rooms are very welcoming, clean and warm, the shower was awesome and to top it off the swimming pool/ sauna area has got better with the introduction of a larger outdoor hot pool, it won't be ten years till next time.

After the stresses of moving house and winter bugs we needed a few nights r and r. Where better than the Sally! You are made to feel welcome the minute you walk through the door and it really is home from home. All the staff from the top downwards are friendly and helpful. This time, a special mention for the girls on Reception. Because of the weather conditions there were guests cancelling, guests staying on, but the girls coped with all the resultant juggling of rooms courteously and efficiently. We have always found the food to be excellent - I highly recommend the fish cakes if they're on the specials menu! Our room, 116, was a spacious club balcony room with a walk in shower as well as jacuzzi bath. All in all yet another excellent stay at our favourite hotel and we can't wait to return.

A most fabulous stay in a a most fabulous pat of the country. We could not fault anything about the hotel although maybe the food was a little underwhelming. We upgraded for a our first night to a hot tub room which was sumptuous. Huge bed, massive towels and a bubbly tub for 2 outside in a private enclosure. The weather was Ffffffffreezing but once in the tub it was fab gazing at the moon and letting the stress of the week fade away. All staff were welcoming and helpful and incredibly polite. Our second night we moved to the main hotel to a much smaller room but again had all the things you would expect and of a good quality. Sadly the hotel had a power cut for the entire evening although did not affect our room. Hotel manager came around everyone in the morning apologizing for this.. It wasn't just the hotel but half of the town also. To our utter amazement all guests were not charged at all for the 2nd night... Massive respect and thanks to all for a most pleasant stay

Absolutely love this gem of a hotel. Great location in Ambleside. The rooms are super comfortable and the hotel has a lovely cosy feel. The leisure facilities are fantastic especially the outdoor hot tub. Breakfast is a real treat, take your time and enjoy your it all. Plenty to do in Ambleside, good pubs, the cinema and fantastic restaurants! Will definitely be visiting here again!

We visited the Ambleside Salutation hotel last weekend and it was brilliant. It was my husbands birthday so I paid extra and got a suite with its own balcony and hot tub. This was well worth the money. After a days walking it was great to come back to. The breakfast was really great with lots of variety and food cooked to order. Would definitely recommend

Stayed for 3 nights at the end of February in Todd Crag room. Amazing room. Modern, very comfortable, clean, very large. Separate living room with Tv and also a hot tub on the very large balcony. Superb all round. Hotel is very modern and the food is excellent. Every member of staff was professional, helpful and friendly - all were a credit to the establishment. Leisure facilities were great, good modern gym, pool, sauna, steam room and also a large outdoor hot tub. Fantastic location at the top end of ambleside..... We just left the car parked at the hotel and walked out to all of the nearby pubs, restaurants and great walks on the door step. Would stay here again in a heartbeat. Highly recommended.

Fabulous location stunning room with an amazing terrace with super hot tub ! Excellent service and breakfast was fantastic! Hot tub was fabulous just what we needed ! We will be back ! Truly lovely stay and would highly recommend to anyone wanting a little luxury, staff were lovely and couldn't of asked for more!

Where to start with the first night away for us without our 10 month old daughter?! Firstly we arrive at the hotel, which although easy to find suffers from having a tiny car park. Thankfully for us a car was leaving as we arrived so we duly jumped into the vacant space! As we walked up the stairs to reception there was an A4 note stuck to the glass saying that due to a power cut the hotel and spa were closed...now this isn't the start you want to a one night stay! There were people moving around inside so in we went, we were told that everything was fine apart from a power cut that had occurred earlier that day and still wasn't fixed. A generator was on the way to restore power to the whole building. But for the time being the gym and pool would be off limits. We were then informed that due to a function that night there would be no dinner service... I'd saved up a healthy sum for dinner, bed and breakfast to then be told that ‘oh we thought we had contacted everyone' wasn't really what we wanted to hear! The receptionist said she would speak to her manager so off we headed to our room. We were informed 15 minutes later that an area would be available for guests to have dinner, but there would be a delay in courses due to the function. This made us feel like spare parts who were not as important as the function, service should be the same for all! In the end we decided not to eat at the hotel and to instead head into Ambleside, on the way out we were abruptly told at reception that dinner was being served for all guests... I would have thought that all employees would be singing from the same hymn sheet but problems in communication do happen. We eventually got the dinner part of our bill refunded. We decided to eat at Jintana which is a Thai restaurant and is highly recommended! From this point on we didn't have many issues, the gym being out of commission was annoying but there is nothing you can do about a power cut. The breakfast was great with plenty of choice and the location of the hotel could not be better.

Our first stay but definitely not the last. An extremely clean hotel with excellent facilities, probably the best hotel I have stayed at in the UK. The staff were unbelievably pleasant, helpful and thoughtful, you couldn't ask for anything else. We ate both evenings of our short stay and the food was very good and not too pricey with plenty of choice on the menu. Breakfast was superb with loads of choice of everything. The lounge area is very comfy, the room was superb and the location second to none. A big thanks to the Salutation for a great weekend, hopefully see you again soon

Have stayed at the Salutation a couple of times. Great base for exploring Ambleside and this area of the Lake District. Nicely decorated hotel. Staff were pleasant. Lovely pool and spa facilities. Breakfast was good on our second morning, not so great on the first. ( Burnt sausages!!) A couple of niggles with our room stops me from giving 5 stars ( fridge not working. Radiator/ towel rail in the bathroom not working, two single beds zipped together instead of a proper kingsize bed, with no mattress topper to disguise the horrible ridge in the bed! ) but apart from this a nice hotel. Would stay here again.

Thanks for another great three night stay we had a fantastic time. This hotel keeps on giving and giving, with three new fantastic bed rooms coming on line soon what else next. The staff are all helpful, knowledgeable and nothing is to much trouble for them and superbly lead by Paul, Alison, Anna and Sandra. The breakfast is still one of the best in Britain and the spa facilities are to die for. Good luck to Ben in his new role as food and beverage manager, I am sure he will bring a lot to the table with his wealth of experience. (Spanish wine!). Thanks again especially to the new staff. Roger and Linda xxx

This hotel was booked as a Last Minute getaway on Thursday evening. Upon arrival we were warmly greeted by the young receptionist - She was very polite, well mannered & professional in her approach to checking us in. We had been upgraded to a Lodge Double room with a balcony overlooking the river at the back. There was some confusion over our room number but this was rectified straight away. The room itself, classed as a Lodge Double was big in size, airy & clean. Very comfortable. The bed was huge & the balcony even bigger. As everything was clean & spotless, my only criticism is that the bathroom could do with a refurb and more channels on the TV. We visited the Leisure club and spa around 8pm and found the facilities to be of good use. Swimming pool, Sauna & Steam room was excellent. It was very quiet. I ate in the restaurant, 3 Egg omelette with chips - this was extremely over priced at £11 but good quality never the less. Overall an enjoyable stay & would certainly revisit.

We recently had a two night stay in the Todd Crag Room at the Ambleside Salutation Inn which was brilliant. This room had a hot tub on the balcony for our personal use which was a great way of relaxing after our long walks! The room itself was a lovely size with an excellent bathroom. The hotel facilities - gym, swimming pool, steam room, sauna, indoor and outdoor jacuzzi were excellent - very clean and nice areas to relax in. We had one evening meal in the hotel which was delicious and all the staff were very nice. The breakfast was superb. I would definitely go back to the Salutation Inn and can thoroughly recommend it to anyone visiting Ambleside. The hotel also has a very nice lounge to relax in with lovely, cosy fireplaces! We also visited a nearby pub - The Royal Oak which served very nice food and was a very welcome establishment to visit after long walks in the Lakes!

Myself and my husband stayed at this hotel on Sunday 28th of Jan. It is perfectly situated and really convenient for accessing shops and restaurants etc. We parked without issue and after a wander used the pool and spa facilities which were great. Our room was large and felt very luxurious. We didn't eat in the restaurant for dinner but breakfast was fabulous. It was nice to be able to order exactly what you wanted from the cooked breakfast menu as well as having lots of buffet options. The food was delicious and served quickly. We hope to return.

Once again we had a thoroughly relaxing stay here. As always the staff are friendly, polite and efficient. The hotel was exceptionally clean, the room was well equipped, warm and very comfortable. The newly refurbished spa is wonderfully serene. The pool and hot tub area were very welcome after a days walking. All in all a lovely place to stay in this most picturesque part of the UK.

Thoroughly enjoyed our stay, we were in one of the annex rooms” Red Scree” , this has a hot tub on the balcony, a perfect end to a days walking. The whole ambiance in the hotel was very relaxing, didn't get a chance to use the pool or gym had a look and was very tempting only time constraints prevented us from using them. Would definitely return to this lovely well run hotel with very attentive proficient staff.

We have been staying here for about 25 years we have been members of the Westmoorland club more or less since its inception, and have watched the hotel change and grow over the years, we were bought this stay as a Christmas present so decided to book a club room. The room had a balcony which, given the weather we didn't use but the view from the balcony was of the shops opposite, an array of air conditioning units and soil pipes wouldn't like this room in the summer! Also we should have had robes and slippers( according to the write up,) these were not forthcoming even when I asked at reception. I found all the staff polite but the friendliness that we used to experience is not there such a shame, this is the first time in all the years we have been here that I left feeling slightly disappointed. Given that this hotel is not cheap not sure if we will return.

This is a lovely hotel set in the centre of Ambleside. It is dog friendly and there are a number of dog friendly pubs within a few minutes walk. There is also a lovely park handy for the pre breakfast dog walk. Only stayed one night on this occasion but have stayed many times before. Recently refurbished to a high standard. Food in the restaurant is varied tasty and nicely presented. Menu is quite extensive. Only one dog room available on this occasion which was huge, spa bath and hot tub on veranda. Looking forward to staying again.

Stayed again for the new year package for the 3rd year running. The hotel is still as good as ever. We had the usual clean modern, well equipped room overlooking Ambleside. The package is worth every penny - the Gala dinner is perfect. The fireworks and Piper at midnight a really nice touch. Had a great time. The dog loves it too! Already booked to go back this year.

Decided to look for somewhere in town as the expected weather was atrocious. One of our better decisions as our stay was far better than we could have imagined. The bedroom was spacious and spotless while the spa, pool and outdoor hot tub were excellent. Staff were courteous and friendly all the time. We did not use the restaurant but breakfast was of the highest standard. Just wish we could have stayed longer. Will definitely return soon.

We called in for drink and sat within the lovely decor next to the fire! Relaxed atmosphere. We returned later that day for an evening meal. Well worth the visit. Enjoyed thoroughly and reasonably priced. We will revisit in the future..

Absolutely brilliant in every way. The staff made the Hotel. The food was 5star plus. The room was excellent. The whole experience was fantastic and very well worth the price. Well done The Ambleside Salutation ??

We stayed at this lovely hotel in October. I wasnt very sure looking from the outside but inside it is absolutely gorgeous. It is very cosy and quite trendy. Very clean. The room was lovely and spacious and had dressing gowns and slippers in the rooms. The pool facilities were brill and we especially loved the outdoor pool/ hot tub. We cant wait to return this year. Would definately recommend. We are going to eat here next time we come too.

This is the third year we have booked with friends to stay for 3 nights at the Salutation for their New Year package. We had the same room , which is compact but perfectly adequate. The hotel is newly painted & refurbished to a high standard. The breakfast and dinner food were superb, better than before. New Years Eve singing, dancing, fireworks and Pipers were excellent. The Leisure Centre has a new outdoor large jacuzzi. An excellent stay. We have already booked for next year.

Stayed here as a last minute pre-Christmas break and had a lovely time. Lovely central location where you can walk out into the fells or into a restaurant. Room wasn't huge but it was comfortable, welcoming, spotlessly clean and had everything we needed. Staff polite and efficient. Legendary breakfast lived up you expectations. I loved the Salutation and hope to visit again.

Enjoyed a Great Stay - Warm / Informative Welcome - Comfortable / Spacious Room with all amenities on hand - Close to Shops / Restaurants in Ambleside. Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Available - Bar & Parking

Have stayed before but loving the new outdoor hot tub, the new club rooms with a balcony over Stock Ghyll and the breakfast remains as lovely as ever. The location is perfect and the Christmassy feel at this time of the year can't be beaten. We will be back!

My husband and I came here two days after our wedding for 2 nights. We had been upgraded to the langdale room which we were told is relatively new and has a hot tub on the balcony. This was lovely and overlooked the beck at the back of the hotel. It was amazing to lie in the hot tub and listen to the water going past. The room itself was clean, modern and spacious with a lovely bathroom and kitchen area. We didn't use the kitchen equipment apart from the coffee machine which was a lovely touch. Room was stocked with fresh towels, robes, water, biscuits, tea and coffee daily. A newspaper was also delivered free in the mornings. The hotel itself was fab; unpretentious but with excellent facilities. The bar served a good range of drinks for a reasonable price and had very comfy sofas. We used the pool/sauna etc. This was fantastic and we especially loved the outdoor large jacuzzi pool which was really warm on a cold day! We had a massage and facial which although not cheap was well worth it! The girls (I think the girl who I had was called Emily) were very good. The breakfast was above average with a good selection of breads, meats, fruit etc and then full English cooked to order. We didn't eat dinner at the hotel as wanted to explore and found some lovely places all within a very short walk. We would definitely come back and I really can't think of anything negative!

It had already been a lovely day watching the sunset in the snow at Kirkstone Pass Inn and then arrived at the hotel (handy free parking) to find we had been upgraded. I'm assuming this was due to the Christmas party night taking place in the hotel (even though I'd said we weren't bothered about the noise) and they wanted us out of the way. So as an absolute bonus we were given the Red Screes apartment out the back of the hotel. Lovely spacious room, balcony with beautiful view of the stream and outside hot tub. It was fantastic. The hotel was festively decorated for Christmas and the staff were very friendly and helpful. The only downside being that to be honest there wasn't much festive atmosphere in Ambleside itself so after going out for a meal we returned to the hotel to make the most of it. Breakfast was averagely good the next day and then we were off so I can't really comment on the rest of the hotel or facilities but personally I can't thank them enough for a lovely stay.

Just come back from our annual Christmas party night and once again in one word FABULOUS! Not sure how but it manages to surpass the previous year somehow. The staff who welcomes us back, to the service, the rooms which have always perfect and the food both on the party night and the hearty breakfast in the morning. After a tour of the new facilities being undertaken for next year in a word We Will Be Back and we can't wait

We were yet again welcomed with our small dog, lovely clean room. Allowed to check in early as our room was ready. Lovely reception staff. The pool area was very enjoyable again, we did notice a couple of maintenance bits required but also noted that the hotel is closing the leisure centre for 2 days from 17th December so assume those would be addressed. There was also no music in the lobby when having an after dinner drink, we were informed there is something wrong with the system so again, this will get fixed no doubt. The outside spa is just fabulous, especially with a little rain! Car parking tight as always, we are grateful for the spot though as it's a busy time of year. Thank you, we'll be back.

Just came back from our annual stay. Same room as usual, Todd Crag. Always choose this Lakeland room as it is very quiet. Went full board. The breakfast is superb, especially the double grill which keeps me going all day to our evening meal. The restaurant has a very relaxed feel with very friendly staff, many of whom have been at the hotel for a number of years. The evening meals were still up to there usual excellent standard, with a varied menu..I have to mention the cleaning staff who did a good job but still took the time out to have a chat. Our two dogs Duncan and Eric seemed to enjoy their stay again. Looking forward to next year

Staying two nights, this was our first time at the Salutation and it won't be the last. We had a super time... the hotel is in very good decor throughout, including the bedrooms and bathrooms. The parking was fine for our needs. And a TV that works well in the bedroom!! A good welcome from reception and courtesy through out our stay. Over all the hotel processes and procedures seem well thought out, with some innovation along the way and the staff are well trained in them all ( Bravo!) Bar and lounge was super with good beer and lovely sitting areas. Breakfast was great and it is cooked to order - HURRAY! - Such a change to have cooked to order breakfast compared to the many hotels that do the dreaded hot buffets (that are infact usually luke warm and stewed). Dinner was excellent and is priced so that is it simply not worth the hassel of going out to eat. Something we appreciate when going for a "de-stress break". It was so nice to see a hotel that is re-investing into it's property and services - which is not the case for the other two hotels we have recently stayed at Cumbria. Yes, we had a great time and will return. Keep it up 'Sally' and well done to the owner and all the team!

We arrived mid afternoon after a good tour around some of the other neighbouring towns. Luckily had the last parking spot . Reception was busy and friendly. Christmas decorations adorned the hotel and it was taste-full and festive adding a special touch. Sitting in front of the fire on the comfy chairs was very relaxing along with the other guests, bar was open until 11:30 ish for a night cap. Dining room for breakfast was waiter and self service . Offer of other meals and pack lunches. All staff attentive and friendly. Food was tasty and well presented. The room was over looking the town centre , clean and well presented. The pool facilities were a plus it wasn't busy and we enjoyed this very much . Looking forward to another visit . Kimberley & Adrian Gt. Manchester

This is a cracking good hotel. Our room was clean and comfortable, the breakfasts were really good, with plenty of variety and gluten free options and the cask beer was well kept. The well appointed lounge was ideal for a few beers, or something even stronger. For the first time, we had an evening meal here. Again, it was very good with gluten free options, and the dining room is really nice. The service was excellent at all times.

Everything about this hotel is fab - the rooms, the food - both breakfast and evening meal. The public rooms are gorgeous , stylish and comfortable. I loved the gym and spa area. All the staff were amazing friendly, informative and very accommodating. I love this hotel and will definitely return very soon. Thank you.

Well where do I start! It is our first time to Ambleside and this hotel. Just a couple of nights but it's been a beautiful weekend and we will definitely be returning. We have been to many hotels but we can honestly say this is the best we have been to as we could not fault anything. The staff were such lovely smiley people, really enjoying their work and with perfection. The food is to die for, the presentation is really lovely and very reasonably priced. The luxury of the decor and the fantastic Christmas decorations leave you feeling so overwhelmed and oozing comfort and friendliness from everyone who stays and works there. We stayed in s club room on the first floor at the front of the hotel with a balcony (103) and loved it. It had a huge double bed and a jacuzzi/bath, tv with freeview, free WiFi, fridge, drinks and coffee maker, hairdryer. There is nothing more you would need from this beautiful hotel. It was the first day of their Christmas Party Nights and the lounge and restaurant were busy but we were shown to part of the restaurant that was cordoned off for residents and were looked after like royalty. Regarding Ambleside itself. We have never stayed in a village hotel before, always avoiding the hustle and bustle of the town but Ambleside is different. There is no loud thumping music, just quaint little shops and lovely people earning a living. We just enjoyed browsing and Christmas shopping as the atmosphere is so relaxed with many places to eat out if you wish. Really don't want to go home. Thankyou for such a wonderful time. Merry Christmas to you all and a Happy and Prosperous New Year

The forecast wet weather brought a lot of problems to the Lake District last week. We found sightseeing difficult so sought refuge in our hotel - a wise decision! This hotel is beautifully fitted and furnished, very comfortable with friendly helpful staff. Preparations were underway for Christmas and the Christmas trees and decorations are exceptionally nice We would definitely stay here again - good weather or bad!

Lovely stay at this well positioned hotel. The weekend was superb, very comfortable club room with excellent facilities. We used the spa facilities before breakfast each morning and the outside hot tub was a special treat. Breakfast as always has everything you could wish for. The return guests we see shows how good the hotel is being central in Ambleside. We were welcomed by Paul and Anna who are always very friendly as are most of the staff. Only negative upon arrival we arrived 90 mins. early just to ask about leaving the car, the helpful receptionist said it was fine and would take our details and see if the room was ready. A flustered member of staff nearby who was sorting a problem out regarding an error with the owner of switching rooms overruled her by rudely saying to us ' you will have to come back later abruptly. We know this is not the norm, but first impressions to someone else would have been off putting.

Stayed here for the first time , a two day break , the hotel was fantastic, facilities were excellent, one of the best hotel gyms and swimming pools we have ever used in a smallish hotel . The staff are excellent in every way on arriving the manager moved his car to enable us to park as it was pretty full. The day of arrival we were contacted asking if we would like a double room as opposed to the twin which was the only one available at the time of our advanced booking . During our stay my uncle had a fall which involved a trip to the hospital, the staff were so kind and thoughtful making sure he was comfortable as we waited for the ambulance to arrive. We will certainly be visiting again soon and enjoying all that the hotel and Ambleside has to offer . Thank you salutation for a great short break , look forward to seeing you soon

This is the third visit to our favourite hotel in ambleside ,Staff are pleasant and friendly,the rooms are comfortable and clean and there is a lovely large lounge area with comfortable armchairs.The dinning area is pleasant and the food is ample and excellent. We love staying here.

We've just returned from our first visit to the salutation hotel. Having stayed with best western hotels before this was the first time here. From the moment we walked in there was a very warm welcome from the staff on reception. I booked a room with hot tub and balcony for a surprise for hubby's 50th birthday and our anniversary. We were very pleased with the room and facilities in there and of course the hot tub on the balcony. The food was lovely and cooked freshly. We are at the hotel restaurant both nights and sat relaxed in the ample lounge areas after our meal. Breakfast was lovely too. Plenty of choice for all including gluten free options. All of the staff were lovely and couldn't do enough to help you. Superb service and we will definitely return again. Thank you for our cards it meant a lot.

Another lovely stay at the Salutation (we've lost count of the number of times we have stayed here) and as always it was perfect from start to finish!! Great to catch up once again with those staff who we regard as our "friends" and also very impressed with how the new members of staff are fitting in and continuing the excellent standard of service (and friendliness) we have always experienced here. The new restaurant staff deserve extra praise, professional and friendly (always a good combination in my opinion). The new décor is beautiful, breakfast outstanding as ever. No hesitation whatsoever in recommending this hotel.

Just returned from a 1 night stay at The Salutation in Ambleside and have to say it is excellent. The staff are all incredibly courteous and knowledgeable and the rooms and public areas are spotlessly clean. The breakfast was without doubt the best I have ever had at a hotel, and I have had a lot. Great position for exploring the lakes. Will return

Just got back from here after 3 night it was a lovey time love the new decorating and seating area and the staff are really kind and friendly and it good Idea to have fridges in the bedrooms I can not wate to come back

We did have some reservations about booking a hotel in the lakes as our experience in the past has not been good however we were very pleasantly surprised at the quality of the Salutation Hotel. We would highly recommend it, the room was large, beautifully decorated to a high standard with a fantastic very of the hills. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We will definitely return in the future

I brought my Fiancé here as a treat for her 40th. I booked us a club room with balcony, lovely sized room with super king bed & jacuzzi bath. The room was very nice, clean & had all the essentials. The hotel itself is lovely, clean lots of cosy lounge areas. The staff were all polite & helpful. We had breakfast & evening meal & both were lovely, could not fault the food or the service. The leisure facilities & spa are also lovely, the huge outside hot tub was amazing. Most definitely recommend a stay here.

Well maintained, immaculate Decor (always a clue). Only called in on a chilly afternoon for a bottle of wine and a snack. Winston the Red Setter made himself at home and we ordered a bottle of Rioja. Perfect temperature, lovely sofa, whiled away the afternoon people watching and very pleasant too. Just one note; call me a snob (absolutely) but must spa customers appear at the reception and bar in Bathrobes? I appreciate their are areas of the UK where it is acceptable to go to the shops in night wear....please not here

We had 2 nights at this lovely, quality hotel. The room was clean, comfortable and had everything you could want (a v. useful mini fridge that meant we could keep some real milk for a decent cup of tea in the room that was v. quiet so didn't keep me awake at night). Areas like bar and lounges gave many places to be able to enjoy a drink or read the paper. Breakfast was superb in both quality and choice. Evening meal was good and in a relaxed setting. Parking is possibly a bit of an issue if you book in late but there are quite a few places around the back. Nice to be able to walk straight in to lovely Ambleside or head up the hill to the waterfall and endless countryside. A really relaxing treat and we will be counting the pennies in the jar to try and get enough together for another stay as soon as practical.

We stayed in the Rothay suite. It was beautiful and such a lovely treat that the staff had put a bottle of fizz and a lovely wedding card in our room. The bed was huge and the balcony and hot tub amazing. We love the salutation and it's central location for Ambleside.

We stayed at the Salutation hotel for three nights. On arrival we were greeted by really friendly hotel receptionists who gave us a warm welcome and explained where everything was and timings for breakfast etc. We were staying in the lodge room behind the main hotel building. It was spotlessly clean and really spacious and had a large balcony overlooking Stockghyll waterfalls. The bed was a super king it was incredibly comfortable as were the pillows. The spa was really quiet while we were there even though it was half term. The outdoor hot tub was amazing and very welcome after a mornings walking. Breakfast at the hotel was one of the best we have had, a great variety and really fresh local produce. We will definitely stay again and recommend to friends.

It was our first visit with some friends who have been to this hotel numerous times. Staff were excellent. Rooms lovely. Spa was a pleasure also. Only reason it doesn't get 5 stars as the evening meal menu is very standard and nothing particularly special or exciting. There was no creative flair in the food. But please don't get me wrong. The food was lovely, just not special (I do like fine dining). I would stay again as it was a good hotel

My Wife booked and half day Spa experience with a treatment each. Very good sauna's and swimming pool, Jacuzzi and outside hydro pool were great. After our treatments we had a some light refreshment that was included in the price. An all round great experience ! The treatments we had were carried great and very good value for money. We'd certainly go again. We did not use the hotel only the Spa

We booked the Langdale Suite for two nights for our Honeymoon and the room was fantastic. A large room with everything you would need to enjoy a short stay including a large comfortable bed, double wardrobe complete with dressing gowns and slippers, a safe, spare towels for the spa, a dressing table with hairdryer, a large screen television, a DAB radio, a fully fitted kitchen, four comfortable armchairs, a balcony complete with a garden table and two chairs and a Hot Tub which was set to forty degrees. The bathroom consists of a Jacuzzi bath, a walk-in shower, heated towel rail and best of all, underfloor heating and the whole suite was spotlessly clean throughout. Can you tell that we loved it?

We were totally flexible on both dates and who travelled, i.e it could have been just the two of us or the family with dog and we would have paid the highest rates. Charlotte the receptionist was rude and dismissive from the moment we said we would like help with reservations - and just said sorry we don't have a family room available - completely didn't want to take a booking - perhaps she is a disgruntled employee but we just said thank you and goodbye rather than ask about smaller rooms or other dates or party size - safe to say we will never try to rebook at the Ambleside - first impressions are so important and your front of house staff should be helpful at the very least!!!

This hotel and spa is fantastic,great location in Ambleside, we stayed 3 nights in 301 I think it's the rooms located to the left from the hotel with hot tub, room size great and nice coffee and tea. We did have a problem parking as we have a big truck but staff soon sorted thank you. staff are great friendly,breckfast is amazing, and evening meals lovely. Hotel feel is very cosy and inviting.had two treatments in the spa,back massage and gel nails done very nice.would defiantly use again.

We were given the key card for room 116 on the first floor , what a great room. Huge very comfortable bed as usual, two double settees, coffee maker, t.v ( never on) , plenty of drawer space , large wardrobe. Large bathroom with jacuzzi jets and separate shower . There is a large balcony with views over the village and surrounding hillsides. We didn't go driving around the Lakes this visit , we took advantage of the hotels leisure complex , using the outside hot tub and the inside jacuzzi etc . There was as usual great choices of food on both breakfast and evening menus. Plenty of lounge areas for enjoying a drink in the evening. Very helpful and smiling staff throughout the hotel helped to make our stay so enjoyable. Relaxing at its best , thanks again.

So quaint to walk through multiple salons to get to our room in another building... The salons are so cosy and beckoning that one is hard pressed not to stay a while in each one. The second salon even more inviting than the others because of the lovely fireplace. Very nice bedrooms, robes and slippers, whirlpool tub and rain shower, limitless hot water, heated towel rails, tea and coffee in the room - not to be found in many British hotels. The restaurant... Elegantly appointed, crisp starched linen, waiter service pleasant, efficient and unobtrusive. The most delicious food at both breakfast which is included and dinner which is a la carte. I did not have lunch so I am not able to comment on it. I really can find nothing to complain about in this hotel. This is the perfect place to stay for a relaxing and comfortable visit to the Lake District. It is perfectly located for access to many attractions and shops and restaurants. I hope to enjoy a visit here again in the not too distant future.

Just returned from weekend away to Ambleside. The hotel is in great location,right in heart of the town. Easy reach for ferry to Bo'ness,10 min walk . Follow the road straight out of the hotel. The hotel has lovely cosy feel about it,comfortable sofas in bar area,great for chilling after long days walking The food at the hotel is good ,not great selection but enough to satisfy everyone. Breakfast great buffet selection of usual cereals,cold meats,yogurt etc. Cooked breakfast is more than enough to set you up for the day. The spa is a must hot tub outside,sauna,steam room and pool(we went about 3pm only one other couple using it .) Staff very helpful and friendly. Will stay again Oh a heads up there is a bollard on entering the car park so be careful due to hotel being right on the bend of Main Street.

My partner, myself and our Labrador stayed at The Salutation Hotel for 3 nights in September and we would definitely return. We stayed in a dog friendly room, although a little small for all 3 of us, it was fine as we were out and about most of the days. Breakfast and evening meals were excellent, couldn't fault the meals we had. We had Dinner in our room as we didn't like to leave our dog alone in a strange room. This was no problem at all for them. The spa facilities were fantastic, especially the outside jacuzzi, could stay in there for hours! Couldn't get a better location, right in the centre of Ambleside, with plenty of lovely walks in the surrounding area of the town. Thanks to all the staff for making us feel welcome, we will be back.

The hotel sits on a busy street but quiet rooms are available. Very attractive inside with amenities such as a nail salon, massage, swimming pool, and hot tub (which on our visit was unfortunately lukewarm). It's only a short taxi ride away to the train station.

My wife and I stopped here for Sunday lunch in very pleasant surroundings and friendly helpful staff. The starter of melon was refreshing but the roast tended to lack flavour so was disappointing .Probably would go back and try another dish another day.

Went for a quite weekend for the two of us. our room was excellent and very well laid out with a great view of the small river to the rear, which changed to a white water torrent after all the rain. The breakfast and evening meals were very very good and the overall cost was very reasonable.

So many good things to say about this hotel! For one, it's in a fantastic location, right in the centre of Ambleside with shops and restaurants a short walk away, and only a fifteen minute walk from Lake Windermere and the lake cruises that operate from there (well worth doing by the way!) It's a lot bigger on the inside than it looks from the outside and they've made great use of the space - the downstairs is given over entirely to comfy sofas and lounge areas, with the exception of the restaurant and spa. The hotel pool (that we didn't use) is on a lower level. The staff were all amazingly friendly - one was especially lovely, giving us both free drinks at the bar to apologise for having had to listen to a couple having a bit of a domestic near where we were sitting! The food was also lovely - we ate in the hotel restaurant all nights bar one, when we went to a lovely Italian restaurant called Dodds that had been recommended to us and was a few minutes from the hotel. Our only issue with the hotel was the size of the bed - we have a super king at home, and so having a double felt a bit cramped! It (stupidly) hadn't occurred to us that the bed might not be at least a Queen - if we go that way again, we'll make sure to book one of the bigger rooms that I believe have the bigger beds :) Other than that the room was fine though, if a little on the small side. Overall, the Lake District is quite a trek for us and I'm not sure how often we'll go back, but if we go to Ambleside again, I'm sure we'll look to stay here again. Just in a room with a bigger bed :)

Dinner 28 September 2017. I was not staying at the hotel and was dining solo. The welcome was very friendly. Menu was impressive. I chose the fish pie and thought it was excellent. Service was at a very high standard. Hoghly recommended.

Had a pleasant stay here midweek. Small room at front with balcony. Was raining so not able to use it but would have a nice view of hills on a nice day I'm sure. Lounge area nice but perhaps a little busy with furniture. Welcoming staff always eager to help. Breakfast was good with plenty options and cooked breakfast was very nice.

This hotel is in the centre of Ambleside, near to 'bus stops and restaurants. Hotel Reception is excellent and all the areas in the hotel are beautiful. Very good food and good staff service. The bedrooms are lovely and clean, the Spa is literally out of this world. Very good pool area with beds and an outside Jacuzzi with an Egyptian theme. Every member of staff greeted us throughout the hotel and an atmosphere of relaxation is everywhere. We will return in the Spring, if not before.

First time here and was pleasantly surprised with the restaurant and bar. Wonderful ambience and the food was not only amazing but reasonably priced, wish we had booked two nights. The room was average but had extra milk, tea and coffee available which was nice.

great welcome staff very helpful .rooms lovely breakfasts really good pool and out door spa pool fab so clean ! the standard very high we have been three times and just cant fault the place, give it a try you will not be sorry

Just back from 5 nights we stayed in the langdale room lovely size with superb bathroom and hot tub on the balcony The staff were friendly and helpful. The hotel is kept in tip top condition, the food top notch bar a little pricey but then all hotel drinks are expensive wherever you stay. The leisure club was lovely and clean although I feel they could do with more chairs/loungers. Car parking can be an issue as very small does put you off taking your car out incase you can't get a space when you return perhaps the hotel could issue an allocated space to each room Would we return? Definitely

We were having trouble booking a group of 8 of us for an evening meal and came across the menu for the restaurant at this hotel and liked the look of it. Fortunately they were able to accomodate us and it was by far the best meal we had that weekend, or indeed for a long time. Lovely restaurant, but not at all stuffy. Great service and food was delicious. Suited the carnivores and vegetarians amongst the group - not the case everywhere. Very reasonably priced. In fact similar prices for main meals to the Queens and what a difference in quality!! The only thing that was a slight disappointment was that they didn't sell cocktails as one of our friends was looking forward to one as an end of weekend treat. Perhaps it is something to consider. Highly recommended.

Reception is efficient and helpful. There is a glass lift for all those who get claustrophobic in lifts. The room we had was adequate size with a spa bath. Sounds grand but actually it is a normal bath that pumps water out of the sides. The breakfast was right at the top of the tree with a number of hot options. I had kippers which were proper split kippers not those yellow looking objects out of a plastic bag. The choice of bread, cereals and fresh fruit was excellent. Location in the centre of town for those people who are challenged by walking a distance. The secure car park is small and difficult to park in but adequate if you are good at manoeuvring. There is some under cover parking also. This hotel also has a spa which I cannot comment on. Top price for a top hotel. I would stay again if I could afford it.

This was our third visit to the Salutation. We have the club rooms which give more space as some rooms look very small. Rooms are nicely furnished and modern, space can be at a premium even with the larger room. Our club room has a walk-in lake district (aka rainforest) shower. There is a large three area lounge, looks very cosy in the winter. We had wine by the glass from the bar, good qualiy and served in large glasses. We did not have dinner, the menu looks quite basic pub style food. There are some excellent restaurants in the town and close by. Breakfast is good for a three star hotel, they now allow extra portions of your selection on the cooked breakfast. The only real issue we had is the parking. The hotel provides one space per room but many spaces require some tricky manoeuvring in and out and it is possible to get blocked in. It seems like us that many guests stay put to avoid the hassle of finding a space. Shame, as we have decided not to return due to the parking.

Stayed here for a very enjoyable four nights, in a spacious room with a hot tub on the balcony. Staff at The Salutation gave us a friendly welcome, and everything about the hotel contributed to our relaxing stay. Despite the large lounge area, it still offers a reasonable feeling of privacy with well-arranged comfortable easy chairs and sofas, and a well stocked bar area. The hotel has spa treatments and swimming pool available. The Salutation is located right in the small town of Ambleside, so the views aren't particularly wide ranging. But it did mean we could park in the hotel car park and not use the car for 3 days - plenty of choice of local restaurants, cafes and attractions within an easy walk. Bus services too, to take you to and from the walks and scenery. The hotel does a great breakfast at reasonable cost - but there are plenty of choices nearby if you want something else. Just one minor gripe was the credit card surcharge, which although in itself isn't that much - just seems penny-pinching for an upmarket hotel.

Returned to honeymoon hotel for silver wedding anniversary, treated like VIP's even though the first the hotel staff knew the purpose of the stay was when I ordered flowers for the room a few days beforehand (well appreciated, thanks ladies). Had suite with balcony, hot tub, coffee machine and much more with view down street. Room was first rate, the rest of the hotel was mostly first class - is clutter in corridors with vacuums, towels and so on being picky? Both breakfast and dinners superbly cooked and highly recommended. We'll be going back, without doubt.

Overall we had a very enjoyable stay at the Salutation. Reception staff were warm and welcoming. The room was large and comfortable but the pillows were too high and solid for us, however they were quickly replaced by housekeeping when asked. In the bathroom was an excellent walk-in shower and the spa bath was welcome after a day on the hills. There is a popular lounge area but always plenty of comfortable seating available. Breakfast was excellent with a good selection of fresh fruit on the buffet and freshly cooked hot food. Sadly the only thing that marred our stay was the credit card surcharge of £2.50. Not a lot of money I know, but when I had paid over £550 for 3 nights accommodation, the addition of a credit card charge seems miserly and a practice more associated with cut-price airlines than a premium hotel.

Ambleside salutation hotel is located in the quaint village of Ambleside in the Lake District. The nearest rail-station is Windermere, which is about 5 miles. The hotel is rather small and the reception area particular so. The room was very small and had a very low ceiling, further the bathroom was compact. The hotel has a restaurant and the food is fairly good; however, the tomato and basil soup was excellent, so was the freshly baked bread. The butter provided was the best butter I have ever tasted, it was rich and creamy like Lakeland butter should be. Breakfast is not buffet style, and one has to pre-order upon entry if you were lucky to get hold of a waiter – the day I stayed the hotel had a large American group and staff were thin on the ground. The breakfast was very nice indeed despite the slow service and there was moderate level of choice. One key failure – no cheese slices at breakfast – major oversight in my view. The hotel has good leisure facilities, there was a small gym. The indoor pool was of good size and there was a small Jacuzzi. The best part was the outdoor jet spa pool, it was really incredible and the jets are an excellent way to unwind. I was only able to use this on one day as it was out of order the second day, so very disappointed in that regard. The hotel when I stayed was extremely quiet had no more than 20 residents, this despite its many rooms and it being high season. There are a small selection of local shops near the hotel, though if you are after a substantive shopping experience – head to Bowness – on the bus 555 – stop near the hotel which runs to Keswick - Grasmere - Ambleside - Windermere – Lancaster. Overall it was a nice enough hotel though a bit far from key local amenities and with clear areas of improvement. In particular the reception staff could have been more friendly and welcoming

Had a very pleasant break in the Lake District this bank holiday weekend. Nice hotel, staff were friendly and attentive. I really enjoyed the leisure facilities, which was clean and lots of nice options for relaxation. Breakfast was ok, coffee was poor and we didn't have the includes breakfast on the final morning of our stay as we were bored with it at that stage. The food was nice at the hotel, rustic British cuisine. I recommend the Cumbrian Platter and the stick toffee pudding for those with a sweet tooth. Rooms were nice and well appointed. Clean and pleasant is how I would sum them up. We were 23 minutes late checking out (1153 rather than 1130) and got scolded by the receptionist over it who harangued me on the phone as if I was a child!! Over all , a lovely weekend with the poor customer service at the very end leaving a lasting impression. It's so important for front of house staff to be as courteous when you are leaving as when you are checking in. Over all, a nice Property and well worth a weekend visit.

Room was in a separate lodge building adjacent to the main building . Had balcony overlooking a stream and super king bed. Extremely comfortable and well appointed. Complimentary water, tea and coffee facilities etc. Breakfast had a wide choice with fruit and continental choices as well as a full cooked menu . Staff very friendly and polite . Didn't eat dinner so can't comment Hotel is very central with many restaurants and shops in easy walking . Ample car parking but potentially could be tight if hotel is busy

We have stayed at the Salutation a number of times but this time was the best! It is a few years since we last stayed and there has been lots of alterations and renovations since then. The staff were really friendly and greeted us when we arrived. The room was beautifully clean and there were two chairs - which is wonderful-as most hotels only provide one and so one of you has to sit on the bed! There is a fridge in the room and you can help yourself to tea,coffee,milk etc if you run out. The breakfast is superb a wonderful start to the day! We hope to return soon.

Stayed at this hotel for a weekend break with friends. This hotel was excellent. The room facilities were good and it was very clean. Reception staff were very helpful. The gym and spa facilities were very good - especially after a long day walking on the fells. The restaurant was also excellent - for both breakfast and dinner. Bar area is comfortable and very welcoming. It gets very busy in the car park and some spaces are very tight. Overall an excellent hotel and I would definitely stay here again.

Thank you for a great stay. The hotel room was spotless and the spa bath a great surprise. We had two days of fell walking in the morning, swimming and spa in the afternoon. Relaxed drinks and book reading in one of your comfy lounges before dinner. Breakfast was fab and kept us going. Thank you for providing the early breakfast tray (we needed to leave at 4.30 am), it was perfect to get us going. We will be back!

We booked a two night stay for my Mum's birthday. It would have been impossible to make a better choice. Upon arrival the staff are attentive, friendly and genuinely interested in their guests and how their travel to the hotel was. We were checked in quickly and provided with all the information we could possibly want for our stay. The room was luxurious, clean and had a boutique feel. The bathroom was well appointed and had a separate waterfall shower. I could have stayed in their all day if we didn't have exploring to do. We are at the hotel restaurant twice and all thoroughly enjoyed our meals in the elegant dining room. The staff were excellent and nothing was too much trouble. What can I say about the breakfast? It was delicious and I honestly can't think of a better breakfast anywhere I have previously stayed. Top marks and hope to return soon. Keep doing what you are doing as it really works well.

Checked in Tuesday 8th August and made it very clear to reception that we would be leaving early Wednesday morning before breakfast. We were offered and accepted a cold tray breakfast to be left outside our room. This was written on our check in form which we saw. Next morning at about 0545 there was no breakfast. My wife found no one in reception so rang the reception from our room to complain. A man said he would have to get out of bed to prepare it which we declined as we needed to leave and couldn't wait. We left without eating. My wife later complained. The hotel offered her an upgrade on our next visit. This is a cop out as this comes at no extra cost to the hotel and we have never visited Ambleside before and probably won't again. We were only there for a friends birthday party. A refund of the cost of breakfast plus a small extra for the inconvenience would have been the right thing to do. You need to address your shortcomings in a more reasonable manner.

Stayed here to celebrate my wife's birthday. We normally stay in Bowness but we decided on here which was a good decision. The hotel is spotless and has great facilities. Our room had a balcony which was great because the weather was lovely. There is a pool, steam room, sauna, gym and outdoor hot tub. Toiletries and tea coffee etc replaced daily. Breakfast was lovely and set us up for the day.

After trying to book a table in other places in Ambleside. We found this hotel by chance on trip advisor and liked the sound of it. They were really helpful when I rang to reserve the table and we met up with friends for a family meal, food is good and the staff are really friendly. Portions are just right and good value for a hotel setting. The bistro is lovely but we liked the fact that we could sit and relax in any of the cosy bar areas and eat here too if we wanted a less formal dinner. We would definitely recommend.

This is one of my favourite hotels . In every way I think it is perfect! Where to begin ?! Obviously the Lakes is perfect so the location is also ideal as it's right in the middle of Ambleside. The decor and charm of the hotel is great , smart and very clean. The breakfast is outstanding and our evening meal was also delicious. Now the best bit !!! The spa is not like other hotels , it's truly well worth a visit just for this part alone . The outdoor hot tub is heavenly and I think the whole experience is superb value for money . If you want understated luxury which is affordable, look no further . Top marks.

Visited Ambleside recently, and went for an evening meal at The Salutation. Very good menu, reasonably priced food and wine, and a comfortable Dining Room, open of course to Non Residents! Would recommend you to try if in the area.

The hotel,made-up from an old main building and cottages at the back, is in the centre of the Town,surrounded by a main road in the front and small shopping parade on the side road, no garden except for a small patch in the front,parking is okay if you arrive by 4 pm, but it gets tricky after 6pm.we stayed for three nights in the main building in a club room, nice room with a balcony but over looking directly into shops,which are about 10 to12 feet away from the hotel building,we therefore had to keep curtain closed mostly,it was hot during our stay, and rooms had no fans or air-conditioning,the rooms are newly decorated and bathroom is very modern,however our was very small.The staff were very polite and friendly and helpful,excellent breakfast,

Two things make this hotel stand out, first the breakfast, the best you will find anywhere . the choices,high standard and service are fantastic. ( The Peninsular in Hong Kong is comparable but thats self service buffet !!!! ). The other thing is the standard of the bathroom fittings, whirl bath heated mirror etc. We have only given this 4 stars because we could not find anywhere to dry clothes ( although there be a drying room somewhere) and the lack of atmosphere in the bars in the evening, caused we suspect by the relatively high bar prices. Well located and highly recommended.There is also excellent Spa and fitness facilities.

We stayed in the hotel as part of a large group, but can only really speak of our personal experience. We checked in very quickly upon arrival. We booked a lodge deluxe room for extra space as we have a 12 month old with us. Although we were told a deluxe room would be suitable we found the exposed wooden beams in room 303 particularly difficult to navigate when bending down to deal with baby in the cot, and when visiting the bathroom during the night (there is a vertical beam at the end of the bed). Amenities were great and we made use of the swimming pool and the location could not be better.

Just spent 2 nights whilst we covered some more walks in the lakes, Yes we found another great hotel, its not on a budget but you get what you pay for, good size rooms very clean and decorated tastefully ( we had the Fairfield Room with a balcony which happened to looks out over the Fairfield horseshoe walk. We ate both nights in the restaurant food and choice was on form, & the breakfast was excellent. Staff in the restaurant and bar were all very pleasant, there was plenty of seating areas I counted 4 lounges all joined together with loads of comfy sofas and chairs to chill with an evening drink. We visited the spa just to go in the outdoor Jacuzzi, there was a pool steam and sauna room all adequate and clean, the gym looked like it had all top grade equipment, not that we needed any more exercise. Parking was free although was a squeeze Friday night think we got the last place, all in all a great hotel in a great town. 5*****

Stayed three nights at the Salutation which has much character, reception rooms, and an excellent Brasserie. The food in the restaurant was so good that we ate there every evening, even though the hotel is right in the centre of ambleside and other restaurants are a short walk away. Comfortable, clean, good size room and very friendly helpful staff. Would stay again if visiting the lake district.

My husband and I enjoyed a lovely evening in The Brasserie. Warm welcome and friendly, helpful staff. The food is traditional, very tasty and cooked to perfection. I chose gammon which was delicious and my husband very much enjoyed his steak. A very enjoyable, relaxing evening. The staff and management here are exceptional. Thank you.

Stayed here for two nights on a business trip Some BW's can be hit or miss but the Salutation is definitely a big hit. Checked in quickly and given one of the rooms adjacent to the hotel in a outbuilding Lovely room, good size, modern yet cosy, opened the window and realised a stream ran behind the room giving a pleasant background noise to the room Bathroom was very clean and bright, bath/shower with jet bath facility which is novel for a normal hotel room. Our group were recommended several restaurants nearby which would suit us and found a great restaurant called Lucys The bar area in the hotel is divided into 3 rooms with a mix of furniture giving a contemporary feel yet giving a comfortable area to chill out with a drink at the end of the day Only experienced the restaurant for breakfast but it is a large well spaced out area and the food whether it be the cold buffet or the cooked breakfasts were very high standard with attentive staff This is a holiday hotel so don't expect a massive gym but what you have is a niche gym in the basement split up by the original foundations giving you a couple of treadmills, static bikes, fixed weights and a pool Great location in the middle of Ambleside giving you a central base to explore Although there for business this time would definitely come back for a proper break in the future

Nice Bistro with a menu to suit everyone. Snack or large dinner it's great. Recommend the Kirkland Pie. It's so good it doesn't need the accompanying veggies. Paired with a nice g&t makes for a pleasant evening. Only downside - parking is tight

Had a really good stay here last month for 2 nights on the way to Scotland. The Hotel is right in the middle of Ambleside although about 1mile from the lake. Service was great, room was excellent, wifi was very fast and breakfast was superb. Only downside is that parking is poorly laid out and there are not enough spaces so get there early!

Second visit here and not disappointed. Room was excellent and no complaints with breakfast, as much as you can eat which is always dangerous, will certainly be visiting again. Did not try the spa or pool but these are complentary to guests

I stopped here for lunch with a bus tour. The tour guide had 'phoned ahead to book meals and although my order wasn't presented until about 2 hours before we all sat down all I asked for arrived. The whole experience was great. Great service, great food and nothing too much trouble. I highly recommend.

We have just returned home from a 4 night stay at this hotel. We booked a double club room with balcony (110) & it was perfect for us. The view was to the side of the hotel but we enjoyed the privacy as well as the peace & quiet! Check in was pleasant & straight forward. We were told about the spa facilities & breakfast info that was included. The room was beautifully decorated & spotless. We had bathrobes & slippers to use during our stay. Very handy when using the jacuzzi bath & power shower that we had. The huge bed & bedding was very comfortable. The room safe, coffee machine & mini fridge also a bonus. Breakfast was amazing with lots of choice & that catered for all tastes. The cooked breakfast was made to order & simply delicious also. We ate at the hotel on our first night (chicken dinner & burger, onion rings) and enjoyed it so much we did the same on our final night. The restaurant staff were efficient, pleasant & very professional (Rupert, John, Sam, Georgiana, Powel & Hamdia). Also the room cleaning staff were very helpful & polite. I must add that all staff were very tidy & well presented which was lovely to see. They obviously take personal pride in themselves. During our stay we did 2 cruises on Windermere, visited Bowness (Beatrix Potter), Wray Castle and mooched about Ambleside a lot. The location is perfect and we loved it that much we booked the same week next year as there's still loads more to do locally.

We stayed here for one night for my birthday last weekend after a few days Hiking and Climbing in the lakes, we booked the hotel primarily for the SPA and Leisure Facilities. Upon arrival the hotel was clean and the staff polite, the SPA treatments were excellent so no complaints there other than the fact they charge (5 pounds PP) for a BathRobe which we felt should be standard for a hotel like this and is an unreasonble add on charge. The room was high spec and really well kept with an excellent bath and shower, TV and Coffee / Tea Facilities. The hotel itself is located right in the middle of the town and within walking distance of everything, however our room only had a view of the carpark at the rear of the hotel. The WiFi was free and Fast which is rare for the area but very welcome. The main issue we had is that the hotel suffered a power cut during the night / the next morning which meant when we woke up there was no power in the room, however there was power in other rooms and areas of the hotel. Reception explained that this was known about however were unwilling to give us a late checkout, which meant for 50% of the duration of our stay we were without power which is not great, also due to the outage our keycards failed to work. I wasn't expecting compensation but a late checkout or a free breakfast (charged at 12 pounds 50 PP) would have been a nice substitute for showering and getting ready in the dark. What happened wouldn't stop me staying at this hotel again as this was well out of their control but how it was dealt with by the front of house team defiantly would, We weren't asked for any feedback when leaving the hotel which is why I am posting on Trip Advisor so hopefully this will be brought to the manager attention.

Stayed here for one night for a business trip. Car park was full when I arrived and I couldn't find anywhere to park. Check in was as expected but no one made the effort to inform me about the leisure club and gym that guests had free access to. I only found out later when flicking through brochures in the room. Room was clean but tiny, room 304 which was in the attic in a building opposite the hotel. Very low ceilings and I nearly banged my head several times. Breakfast is served at 8am and was excellent. For the amount I paid, I will probably stay somewhere else next time.

Room was a bit small but OK and overlooked second floor balconies/terrace which was OK until Saturday night when some clowns thought it would be a cracking idea to continue their night out on the terrace at 0200hrs! To add insult to injury, some idiot broke out his damned guitar at 0230hrs. Fortunately the hotel seemed to deal with it pretty swiftly as I get the impression that the night duty manager lived in the adjacent building. Breakfast was good - a nice selection but 2 poached eggs on Sunday morning took them nearly 30 minutes to bring to us. The spa & pool facilities are what made the stay though especially after a hard days walk. Overall a pretty good experience.

Just come back from another lovely stay. The rooms are all a really good standard and the views from the balcony are stunning. All the staff were so friendly and couldn't do enough for you. Breakfast was amazing with an incredible selection. We also ate in the restaurant one evening and were pleased with all the meals. Can't wait to return in September.

Above average rooms and extensive facilities at this hotel. make it an ideal base for a short visit to " the Lakes". reserved parking for residents is a real plus in busy Ambleside. The breakfasts were good and the evening meals we took in the restaurant were fine (Special mention for the roast chicken). Not cheap bur fair value for money, we found the staff mostly friendly and helpful. So may well be back.

this place was booked for me for a work overnighter. Genuinely one of the most pleasant 'work' hotels I've stayed in. On arrival, stay were very friendly and welcoming. Checked in without fuss! Enquired about breakfast as we needed to be away before the breakfast times in the morning. The chef agreed to make us breakfast early, so result there. Heading to the room, well, wow, a lovely corner room with double aspect, BALCONY, with views across the town and to the hills beyond. A huge bed, with lovely sofas, relaxing chairs, and balcony furniture! Had a wander around town with a colleague as we were scouting a place to have a meal for the four of us whom were staying over. As it was pouring down we decided to head back to the hotel and make use of the pool facilities. The pool is superb (as smaller hotels go, this is one the best I've come across). Great steam/sauna facilities, plus an outdoor plunge/spa pool too. The gym (didn't use it but had a peak), it very high spec! Not massive, but well equipped none the less. In the end we dinned in house as it saved all the faffing of finding a place that suited all. The dinner menu had enough choice to cater for all tastes. Great food, no bad comments! Only minor gripe during the night was it was generally on the warm side in the hotel, but having the bonus of a balcony, fresh air wasn't an issue. (Room 103 large king size room!) The early breakfast was very welcome. Usual cooked breakfast, made fresh to order, plus the usual continental selection, breads and pastries an the like....it was really good. Overall, I would actually really like to visit here again, with the family......I never say that about 'work' hotels I stay in! Perfect location at the top of the town centre, on site parking and great leisure facilities......plus the most sofas/arm chairs you will ever find in one smallish hotel!!!

We stayed here for two nights as part of a long weekend to Ambleside. The hotel was recommended because of its pool which is reasonably large. The pool was quiet during our stay (Easter Monday to Tuesday). People seemed more interested in the hot tub! We had booked a room with a balcony and were upgraded, although our room did not have a balcony. I didn't complain about this though as I assumed the room and bathroom was larger. The room was okay with a huge comfortable bed, although the room got a little hot. The bathroom was amazing - with a shower and jacuzzi bath and great bathroom products. The range of options for breakfast were impressive (freshly baked bread), although the cooked breakfast was average. Customer service was curt and fairly unfriendly. I didn't feel warmly welcomed and no one asked how our stay was either. On the last night there was a fire alarm at about 6 am. Whilst a sign went up at reception to apologise I thought someone should have come round and spoken to guests at breakfast to apologise, or said more when we were congregating outside. It's better to engage rather than hide behind notices! I thought this illustrated the ambivalent customer service. I can't give less than 4 as nothing was lacking in terms of comfort or facilities and the pool was great, but my feeling were mixed because of customer service and a very average feeling to the place! The location is also a plus point- very convenient for everything.

Me and my partner visited Ambleside over the New Year. His parents bought us a day in the spa and an evening meal at the Salutation. We came here in 2015 and the spa was gorgeous then but when we went back at New Year - it was even better. The outdoor hot tub was amazing! We spent about 1.30-2 hours in the spa and then went to buy a light bite lunch. The service was great and the atmosphere is always lovely in there. We went for our evening meal and that was gorgeous - the bar staff even told us we still had money left on our voucher so did we want to use it up for our drinks after the meal. All the staff are always friendly and welcoming. We will always keep coming back to this place - we love it!

My daughter and I visited the spa for the 'mini spa experience' yesterday (2.7.17) We chose the mini pedicure and on arrival we were asked to choose the afternoon tea we wanted. We both decided on tea and cream scones and jam. We decided to spend an hour in the poolside area before our treatment. The indoor jacuzzi was almost impossible to sit in as the bleach fumes almost took your breath away. A lot of the lockers in the woman's changing room did not work and there was no hand towel or drying facility in the toilet in the changing room. Our pedicure was anything but relaxing. My therapist was foreign and her command of English was not great. I had to keep lifting one foot then the other onto her lap, from a swivel chair, while she roughly and at times painfully gave me a brief pedicure. The 'massage' element lasted about 20 seconds. Plus my daughter, who was sitting next to me, did not get exactly the same treatment and yet we were both having the mini pedicure! When we went to sit and relax the 'cream tea' arrived with the young man declaring in a panic that he did not know where to put our trays as he had never 'done this before!' The light and fluffy scones we had expected were in fact: cold hard lumps of rock, sawn in half and served with a rock hard butter pat, that you could barely cut into, a teaspoon on squirty cream and a pot of jam. I bravely took a small bite and the taste of cooking soda and stale scone refused to leave my taste buds even after a sip of tea! My daughter told a member of staff that our scones were inedible and an apologetic member of staff explained that the kitchen was closed (4pm on a Sunday) and all she could offer us was a chocolate brownie. The said chocolate brownie's were pre-packed and stale and obviously from behind the bar! We drank our tea and got changed and I told the manager that our cream tea was inedible. All she said was: thank you for your feedback, I'll pass your comments on to management! On leaving the car park we found out that to lower the bollard at the exit gate we needed a code from reception! So I had to leave the car, go back inside and get a code; why didn't we get told of this as we left the spa?! All in all a bad experience and nothing like how it used to be when it was run by Oxleys and called the Blue Fish Spa (it is now part of the hotel) We will not be returning again!!!

The hotel is situated in central Ambleside large and imposing ,stands out in the surrounding area . Good parking and has its own health spa inside and underneath the hotel. The staff are very helpful and accommodating, The bar and lounge area is pretty large with different rooms,and the ajoining restaurant is large and could be used for a manner of parties/receptions , the food is great and fresh,although a small menu it has a good selection. There is a lift, and the rooms are ample and spacious,with a great addition in the bathroom ,a thermal spa bath ,you get more space and amenities on the level of room you require ,at a price . Its not a cheap hotel ,but for the price it has very good facilities and is worth a stay ,but you need to book ,its very popular . the spa is ,excellent with a very modern and up to date gym, a swimming pool ,sauna and steam room,there are also inside and outside Jacuzzi,s the larger one outside. Around the pool is a relaxation area,all this is included in the hotel price . If you require facials,massages,and other health treatments its advisable to book in advance ,very busy ,prices are according to treatment and length of treatment . All in all ,a very pleasant experience .

This place has it all, quick easy check in, car park (quite a challenge !), spa and pool, huge comfortable and very clean room (spa bath on the balcony a great extra), very modern bathroom and a kitchen area with coffee machine and fridge. A special snuggle blanket for the dog, who was made to feel very welcome on arrival. The location is great, walking distance to shops, restaurants, buses and the shuttle to the lake.

Stayed here on Sunday 25th June and had a fantastic time. We had room 114, which is a dog friendly room and has a balcony with chairs, table and is laid with artificial grass. This was brilliant for sitting outside and reading the morning papers and for our little dog to stretch out and have a run about. The room was extremely comfortable and had a fab bathroom with both a bath and a standalone shower. The reception staff were very welcoming and smiley as well as being efficient. The bar area is very comfortable. The decor within the hotel is very swish. The food in the restaurant was similar to a good quality pub meal and reasonably priced. We shared a plate of olives, bread, balsamic and oil, followed by chilli with rice for my husband and a fish pie for me all in for £30. Great location, free parking and on site leisure facilities- all in all a brilliant stay. We'll definitely be back and sooner rather than later!!!!!

I stayed at the hotel from Friday to Sunday. We stayed in room 301 which is one of the newer Lakeland rooms. It comes with its own private hot tub (Fantastic) on a decked area. The room is equipped with a large comfy double bed and seating area with a TV and docking station. The both room has its own spa bath and walk in shower. The hotel also provided a great breakfast and facilities such as the spa and bar. Overall i am very pleased with my stay and will be coming back.

Lovely friendly greeting when we arrived,room clean and tidy(couple of probs but sorted very quickly ) Spa area excellent lovely pool,breakfast is excellent and service is great too. Ambleside is a great place everything you need,for walkers etc pubs,restaurants plenty to choose . Hotel has some parking .

We stayed here for three nights following a family wedding and met up with friends from Scotland. The location is right in the middle of town with available parking for every room. our room was good, quiet and comfortable. Breakfast was superior to many other hotels that we have stayed at, and evening meals are excellent. The, mainly young, staff are friendly and helpful. A good place to stay if you want to be in the centre of Ambleside and n excellent base for the Lake District.

We booked a family room and a double room. Family room was ok but decor lacking and a bit dingy - it also was right about the entrance to the hotel and the bar! Other rooms on passing looked like they were appointed better however. The room that we purchased for my mum to stay in was better but VERY small. No air con in the rooms either. I do have to say however that the ALL of the staff we came into contact with at the hotel were very friendly and made you feel most welcome! Room maids really cheery and restaurant staff also good. Food in restaurant ok but disappointed with the lack of fresh fruit on offer (mostly was tinned!!!). Stupidly didn't check the bill thoroughy before leaving. Later only to find two rounds of drinks from the bar on there that were clearly not ours! Pool/Gym area lovely!

Outside appearance belies sumptuous interior.Our room first class.Staff are local and friendly.My wife and I had alight evening meal and a high quality breakfast the following morning.Would recommend highly.

We stayed for one night and made the most of the hotel spa and pool. Everything was perfectly maintained and everything worked which is always a plus. The outdoor jacuzzi is to die for with the settings there for you to change and pressure water and the temperature was perfect but could be changed with a quick call to reception. Also hearing the river whilst relaxing was very therapeutic.Sauna and steam room perfect. The pool was a lovely temperature especially after coming from the steam room it wasn't too cold ! I didn't use the gym but there was everything you could want and again perfectly maintained. The room we had was a double with spa bath which again was a lovely extra to have. The fridge and safe were things we didn't expect and were amenities to have! The view was of a back street which wasn't perfect but we didn't go to look out the room window. My only complaint was I didn't like the breakfast as it was greasy however my partner ate mine and his and had no complaints and the choice of food was exemplary! Overall can't wait to come back !

This is our third visit to this hotel, and each time we have had a different room. The hotel and staff are always friendly, and the hotel still has a feeling of home from home. It's a very peaceful hotel to stay at, and remains feeling cosy and warm. Our evening meal, and breakfast were both nice, I like their restaurant, has a nice feel to it. We had a lovely room with a large balcony, and outdoor lights for an evening tipple. We signed up to their loyalty scheme a while back and think it's good to have. Another nice stay - thanks.

Excellent. GF diet catered for with no problems. Bedrooms have every whim catered for. Have rebooked for Wedding Anniversary in July,2017.Leisure facilities second to none. Cleanliness spotless! Would recommend 2 couples & families.

My husband & I have just returned from a 3 night break. Perfect location in the town. Excellent spa, tasty breakfast & evening meal. Clean room with a great shower. Bedroom doors need some adjustment as they do slam. Friendly staff throughout. Parking is a bit tight onsight, would suggest taking a small car if possible.

our second stay at this hotel lived up to all our expectations, the weather kept us in the hotel some of the time ,and we didn't mind at all ,the spa was great ,the whole place is warm and friendly. the breakfast was exceptional, spoilt for choice and freshly cooked.

This was the 2nd visit by my wife and I to this hotel. The first one was not so good (feedback provided) but we thought we'd give it another go this year. We stayed for 4 nights. I am so pleased to be able to report that from start to finish it was excellent! At Reception we had Charlotte and Jess - who gave us a very warm, sincere welcome. The room was outstanding - inviting & totally clean! The food in the Restaurant was great - good choice and very tasty - well done to Olga, John, Hamdya and Geoff plus of course Chef! We met Anna at reception who was very polite and bubbly - Charlotte was very interested in our stay and always asked us questions about our day - even discussing her climb on Helvellyn to describe it to my wife as we climbed it one day. Never forget the cleaning team - all very smartly turned out - polite and really industrious - we met Kelly who was really pleasant. All in all I cant be more positive about our experiences. Thank you all and to those I haven't named (sorry) you're all part of the success and team effort well done! Highly Recommended.

We had the Helvelyn room and it was fabulous. Separate sitting area and toilet with sink as well as two sinks, soaking tub and walk-in shower in bathroom. Convenient to shops, lake and hiking trails. It was a cool day and we enjoyed the outdoor hot tub with massaging jets for neck and shoulders.

We had a really wonderful stay here over bank holiday weekend. Worth paying extra to stay in the Todd Cragg room which has the added bonus of a hot tub! Great location, right in the centre of Ambleside. We absolutely loved it! Very nice, well furnished room. Free parking. Staff were really friendly. Lovely breakfast and evening meal here too. Would 100% recommend!!

My wife and I had a lovely night away from our children in this excellent hotel. We had a very nice room. All the staff are very friendly and the facilities were excellent. The only downsides I would say is the car parking situation is a little confusing as it's not clear that you can park anywhere and the changing rooms need to be better sign posted. I was not aware that there was two male changing rooms and my wife struggled to find the female changing room.

A fabulous place to stay right in the heart of Ambleside,rooms lovely and the food superb,the spa sets this place apart from most in the lakes.Also ideal for dogs as my westie would testify!! Will definitely be returning asap.

Just returned from a lovely week in Ambleside Lake District staying in a wonderful holiday cottage so felt the need to write a review! The cottage is in a great location - walking distance to all amenities, shops, restaurants etc, close to Lake Windermere. The cottage was immaculate, tastefully renovated and fully equipped with more than everything you need in a holiday cottage! The name of the cottage is Water Howes cottage Ambleside and we booked it through cottages.com- it sleeps 6 people with 3 bedrooms but for more details go to - cottages.com website- would thoroughly recommend this holiday let - you won't be disappointed!

We have been visiting the Lake District for many years and walked passed this hotel but never took any real notice. Both of us were pleasantly surprised to book into the hotel at last minute. They staff and accommodation were fantastic. The rooms were clean and excellent, the facilities were also very good. I would recommend it to anyone visiting the area for first time or those visiting regularly to Ambleside. One positive criticism is that they need to do something with the fascia's army the front of the building as it does not do the hotel justice. Its looks like a cheap hotel. Thanks

Having only previously had lunch at the hotel it turned out to be very much as we expected. The food was excellently presented and wholesome. The room with a balcony overlooking Ambleside was a bit on the small side but very well appointed with a large bed. The hotel appears to be in the midst of a complete refurbishment with decorators and carpet fitters working during the day. The furnishings in the public areas and restaurant were obviously new and of good quality. The hotel has obviously embraced new technology but at the price of ditching the human touch. For example the waiter taking breakfast orders on a hand held tablet should have been ideal but he couldn't understand my Lancashire accent! More import when checking out, my bill was printed off with significant extra charges which should have been noticed by the reception staff as I had paid for the room and meal in advance!! No apology but a new bill presented with the charges removed. So the lesson for guests is to check your bill carefully as the staff just rely on the computer. Overall the staff were helpful and friendly, particularly Olga the Spanish waitress. The reception staff seem to consider the area as some sort of Social Club. The other difficulty was car parking which I had been assured would not be a problem but arriving at 15.15 found it to be totally full - perhaps contractors vans taking up spaces?

stayed here for my 40th birthday and have stayed here many times before and this time and every time the service has been flawless. the hotel itself is very clean and is in a prime location in the town centre, the car park is a bit small but have had no problems yet getting a space. will definatly be staying here again

Nice hotel in prime location at top of the main road. All very nice, room, food, staff, BUT parking was a nightmare. Car park much too small for the hotel and if you have a large car, forget it. Our bedroom was right on the front so the view of Ambleside was great ( see photos). Handy to travel to other towns and lakes.

Stayed here for 3 nights while climbing Scarfell etc. Our room was small with a clean smart bathroom. There was a jacuzzi bath/ shower. No walk in shower. We also had a balcony area with fell views which would have been lovely with if it hadn't rained! This hotel has a large pool gym and spa in the basement which is excellent. There is a fantastic hot jacuzzi pool in the open just off the pool. We really enjoyed this following a days walking despite the rain falling! The buffet breakfast is comprehensive and staff friendly.

As soon as we arrived we were made very welcome. Our room had a balcony which was an added treat. Lovely room and very clean. We eat in the restaurant in the evening which was pleasant but not brilliant. My husband had a problem with his main course but it was dealt with efficiently .

We had no hesitation in returning to the Ambleside Salutation hotel yet again. We were not disappointed as the welcome was very friendly and the room excellent. Very comfortable and clean we also had a balcony with hot tub on it. This was much enjoyed. The breakfasts continue to be very good and deserve the great reviews they get. Highly recommended.

We are regular visitors to the Salutation and usually come twice a year for the past 6 or so years. The bar is set high here, we have seen a couple of refurbs in that time and they never rest on their laurels, pleasant lounge areas, well stocked bar, lovely dining area, great leisure facilities, the most comfortable beds I have ever slept in, parking on site (no mean feat in Ambleside) good food generally and top notch breakfast ( try the poached smoked haddock, a real treat!) but the main reason for returning year after year are the staff. Nothing is too much trouble, they always acknowledge your presence, all seem happy in their work and make for a relaxed friendly atmosphere led by the excellent Paul.

Friendly welcome on arrival, spotless rooms, very comfortable beds, spa bath, power shower, first class pool & keep fit equipment and top notch food. All in the centre of Ambleside what more could you ask for.

Everything was excellent , lovely room with balcony, breakfast was 1st Class Was in centre of town so great position , Spa was great after being out walking all day Counld not fault anything , we will be back again.. Bed was lovely and comfy had a good night sleep. Staff were very pleasant and helpful.

This was our first stay in the lakes and the hotel location and facilities were perfect..The minor criticism we had were limited parking.The breakfast started pretty late for 8.00am as we wanted to get out for walks before then.Also felt the staff lack personality albeit service was first class

Went for a overnight stay with my partner just to get away for the evening and relax. And relax we did. The spa facilities are fantastic. The outdoor jacuzzi was amazing ! The hotel was lovely. Very up to date rooms with very comfortable bed.and the jacuzzi bath was a great finish to a lovely evening. The staff were very friend and very helpful with everything. When in the area again I would happily got back !

We have stayed at the Ambleside may times and the staff have always been very welcoming each time we have stayed. The rooms are always excellent as are the breakfasts which get you fuelled up for walking in the lakes. Being right in the centre of Ambleside you have easy access to local pubs and restaurants or the shopping.

Stayed here last week for a 4-night break in a superior room. Everything was exceptional, the staff, food, room and general ambience. We were very comfortable and would have no hesitation in staying here again.

Back to our usual room, 'Todd cragg,' together with out two dogs. We love this particular room because of the sizabl bedroom, lounge area, balcony and hot tub. Very quite room. The staff as always were friendly.and helpful. The restaurant and food was up to its usual high standard.

Great location in the middle of town with parking (don't know if there is a cost). Lounge areas are particularly relaxing. Lots of choice for breakfast from hot to cold to continental. Plenty of staff always available to help.

Pleasant hotel. Well situated. Good facilities and very good staff. Restaurant better than I expected. Comfortable well appointed rooms. Received room upgrades, unexpected and enhanced the experience.

Only actually stopped in this hotel a couple of times but we use it most weekendsfor afternoon/evening drinks. The rooms are very comfortable, clean and modern. The food in the restaurant is excellent with the best breakfast in the Lakes! We haven't used the spa but the swimming pool and hot tub are very welcoming after a day of climbing the fells. The staff are very welcoming and helpful. Looking forward to our 4 night stay at the end of May but will probably be nipping in before that for a drink in the lovely bar area.

We stayed here for a 4 night break and found the hotel excellent in every respect. The room was spacious and the bed was really comfortable. All staff were friendly and knowledgeable about the town and were able to recommend local walks. The breakfast was one of the best I've had in a hotel and the evening meals were tasty and good value for money. The spa and pool were a highlight especially the outdoor hot tub. The hotel is well situated in the centre of the town and you can get around without moving your car from the car park as there are buses to all the nearby towns and walks which start from the town. We can't wait to go back.

Stayed in this hotel many times, v friendly staff, lovely rooms and once again a fantastic breakfast. Definitely would recommend , we'll be back again a few more times this year I'm sure. Have used the spa a few times and it is always great.

Room was better than expected for single occupancy and bed very comfortable. Balcony was a lovely extra I hadn't anticipated. Used spa bath in parents rooms which was heavenly. Jacuzzi outside was amazing, could've spent my entire day in there. Lovely wide range of food for breakfast and dinner. We ate there each morning and most evenings, with great service and food quality each time. Young blonde lad in the restaurant was very helpful and efficient. Packed lunches are a brilliant touch - including flasks unlike other hotels. Really great idea if you're going out hiking. Well placed hotel close to the pier, shuttle bus stop and amidst the shops. Parking is limited but managed a spot throughout our stay. Would definitely recommend and stop here again myself.

We stayed here for 2 nights and had a really lovely time. The Hotel is fantastic and the staff were great throughout from helping us to find somewhere to park to checking us out at the end of our stay. We ate in the restaurant one night and the food was delicious and the staff really attentive and friendly

This place does stand out looking at the exterior but once inside is looks great and is very comfortable. Booked one of the suite rooms and was not disappointed. The room had a nice view overlooking the river and had a hot tub on the balcony. Leisure facilities were very good and very clean. Little bit on the pricey side but if you want to treat someone to something special then would recommend it. Food in the restaurant was very nice, breakfast was excellent.

We have stayed here twice before but this time we just ate in the Brasserie Restaurant. We enjoyed s drink in the bar/lounge first which is a comfy welcoming space. My husband and I shared a fish plate to start which was very enjoyable, For mains, my husband had s burger with extra cheese. He said it was just average, nothing special for £14.95. I had the chilli,con carne. Whilst the beef was very tender, the dish had no flavour at all. We were somewhat disappointed with this meal. However, our past experiences have been really good so would definitely return.

I think the Salutation Hotel is the perfect place for a nice quiet break. If you're an early bird (like me) you can get the lovely pool and hot tub almost entirely to yourself ; and the breakfasts are guaranteed to set you up for the rest of the day. Ambleside can be quite bustling sometimes these days ; but this place manages to remain an oasis of calm and quietness.

This is a lovely hotel in a great central location and with excellent public transport links. The breakfasts and evening meals were superb and the lounge is spacious and relaxing. I had an issue with a noisy external fan outside my bedroom window but I was moved to a beautiful room (405) in the annex which was much appreciated. All the staff are polite, friendly and helpful which is a rarity nowadays. Unfortunately as a previous reviewer has also mentioned there is quite a lot of door banging throughout the hotel which is annoying and could be easily rectified. I was woken on a couple of occasions which was frustrating. All in all though I had a really enjoyable stay and hope to return later in the year although I'll be requesting a quiet room!

Had a very comfortable 2-night stay here in a recently renovated room. Very good beds and bathroom ( shower over bath a bit difficult for elderly person) but well equipped. Dining was generally good with a helpful and obliging international staff. Breakfast buffet was very high quality but note cooked items need to be individually ordered so need plenty of time. The only hassle was the room doors are very heavy and cannot be closed quietly so you can hear them banging from the floor below. Overall though a very pleasant stay.

This hotel is rated by AA as a 3 star hotel but in my opinion its a solid 4 star. The hotel is extremely well presented with comfortable and relaxing seating areas. It is very clean, the staff are very friendly and food is good. The bedrooms are comfortable. I can't wait to return to both this hotel and the Lake District.

Great hotel in the centre of Ambleside. The staff were lovely and nothing was a bother. Our room was spotless and the highlight was the hot tub on our balcony which was enjoyed each day after long walks! The food in the restaurant was of a good standard and the lounge and bar areas were attractive. The hotel is in a good position to explore the Lakes and there are lots of walks of various difficulty from the hotel.The pool and spa are a great addition. Will definitely be returning.

Stayed her a few times before but paid a little more and booked a room on the front with a balcony. Roo. Was small but finished email with a superb view - we even wrapped up and had midnight champagne out in the frost on the balcony. Breakfast was very good and really enjoyed our stay. We will definitely be back soon.

Stayed at the salutation for a birthday night out. Excellent location right in the centre of Ambleside. Warm and professional welcome from the staff on reception. Great room with a balcony overlooking the town and out to the hills beyond (photo arrached). Breakfast was a relaxing experience as waited on by staff apart from the fruits and cereals and delicious spread of fresh bread and pastries. Cooked breakfast made to order and great quality produce. Secure car park included at no extra cost which is always a bonus. Overall a lovely stay and will definitely be back!

Warm welcome from ladies on reception at check in and also by Paul manager. Rooms have been refurbished since our last visit and are outstanding. Lovely touches in the rooms ensuring everything catered for. Excellent breakfast and relaxing stay. Already booked a return visit.

The hotel is locataed in such an idyllic part of the country. The surroundings are beautiful and there's plenty of small, independent shops to treat yourself in as well as supermarkets. The hotel is easy enough to find and the car park is easy enough to park in. They have pin controlled gates to keep out anyone who isn't a resident so you can be assured you will get a space. We arrived around 8pm after a very long drive from Derby. The staff were friendly enough but I found I wasn't told where to find my room, where breakfast is served or where the spa is. I felt a little lost! I decided to go for dinner in the restaurtant and had the roast chicken served with vegetables, stuiffing and potatoes. The chicken was very dry, gravy tasted of bisto and the vegetables were half cooked which was quite disappointing. The room was nice, it had a tv, kettle, coffee/tea and a dock station for my iPhone - big plus for me as I love to have my music on! The bathroom was gorgeous and had a bath with power jets which was a lovely touch. Plenty of towels and a shower too in case I didnt want a bath! The bed wasn't too comfy and there was alot of pillows which were unnecessary. I didn't sleep too well at all. Breakfast was served from 8am and was a 5/10. What I didn't like was you had to seat yourself and then hope a waiter would spot you. This led to people arriving later than me and being served before me - not good when you need to be out and about! The spread was super, offering something for everyone. As I was having a long day on the peaks I went for the hot breakfast option, which you order from your table. The breakfast was disappointing - eggs were watery and way too much salt, sausages were burnt and the has browns just tasted like oil! I had to eat what I could as I had to be out by 9am, the beans were good though! Checking out was enough enough and the staff again were friendly as I left but I would say if you're staying in the area maybe shop around as this wasn't the best stay I've ever had.

Great food and room service . Friendly staff and rooms clean and good facilities . Our second stay was only let down by a very cold outdoor hot tub full of leaves and dirt and a rather chilly swimming pool, we have stayed before with our dog which is great and they are allowed in the bar area .

Just visited for a drink and asked for the use of a computer but was given the impression that the reception staff were far too busy to really help. I was pointed in the general direction but just with a wave of the hand. Everything happens at the main door and whatever happens, it feels as if one has to climb over someone/something to achieve it: chairs, luggage, people in dressing gowns etc... We decided to have a drink but it's an obstacle course! So many chairs stuffed into such a small space: why? The bar is simply in the wrong place and needs to be repositioned and the chunky furniture needs to be re-thought. If you have a family with 'little darlings' they have to clamber over everything to get out and if there's a buggy...well. This could be a tasteful hotel but it's got the panicky atmosphere of a bus station: because of the layout of the reception area and bar. Should this be remedied the improvement would be spectacular.

We stayed three nights in a family room (209) bed & breakfast basis. We've stayed here on numerous occasions before which have all been excellent stays hence we chose to go back. The room is at the front of the hotel above the entrance which makes it very noisy not only when people stand outside for a smoke but when people are coming out of pubs & restaurants combined with early deliveries starting at 07.30 with beer delivery & food deliveries - not a good combination especially a family room. I ended up ringing reception on two occasions to be asked if I wanted him to go outside & see who was making the noise at the entrance?! On two out of three days there was no water or so low water pressure that you couldn't have a shower after walking all day to be told by reception it was united utilities fault. The cost was £164.00 per night there wasn't any discount offered for the above & the lady on reception didn't seem to want to hear that the stay wasn't as good as expected. I won't be returning in a hurry but when I do I will be avoiding the main hotel & getting a Carpark room.

We had a meal on Monday evening and we're surprised how busy it was. We were not guests of the hotel and wondered if you were treated differently but we were pleasantly surprised as the restaurant is beautiful with the most charming, hard working staff. Our meal was beautifully presented, hot and delicious. The price was very good for such quality. A lovely experience before heading home after a lovely weekend.

Wanted to stay here for years and we finally managed a long weekend. The Hotel itself is very nice with good rooms and excellent gym and pool area and a lovely outdoor bubble pool. The food was excellent. Unfortunately the service in the restaurant was very poor with some staff clearly not trained, not able to speak sufficient English to take an order and very long waiting times for orders to be taken and food to arrive. This was the case both at breakfast and dinner. Also the pool area was crowded with vistitors who were not staying at the Hotel and with children in the adults only area. Upon questioning this my comments were met with total indifference. Please address these issues and you would be a genuine four star establishment. As it is the value equation doesn't stack up.

We were visiting family in the Lake District and arranged to meet at The Salutation earlier this week. Looking at the hotel from the outside I made some guesses as to what it would look like inside...oh boy was I so wrong. This hotel has obviously gone through a renovation process and what an excellent job they have made. I must point out that we did not stay there overnight but if the rooms have been refurbished to the same standards as the lounge area then I would be very impressed. The six of us met up at 12:30, had a drink in the very comfortable bar/lounge area. Ordered our lunchtime meal which we had in the restaurant, then returning to the lounge area. The meal was very good, not too much, but what there was was more than adequate and made sure these was little waste. The lounge area is very very comfortable, indeed this area was so nice we didn't want to leave it. In the end we left at 5:00 having enjoyed meeting each other in these great surroundings. The staff were excellent and did everything possible to make our short time there a good one. Well done to all.

A wonderful Hotel situated in the heart of Ambleside village.. Caters for stays, wonderful dining and a superb health suite consisting of gym, pool, hot tubs, inside and out also saunas and steam rooms. We used this on an Monday evening and it was a beautiful place to relax and chill out after a long days walking. Will certainly recommend this hotel as being a great place to visit. We will certainly be returning.

North Americans do not worry about the BW affiliation of this hotel. It is an excellent establishment and offers great value for money allowing you to enjoy the lake district and your vacation. We stayed three people for three nights in a room with two beds, slightly larger than a regular room, and it was perfect in every way. All the beds were comfortable, and the washroom was modern and new. We had a chance to use the pool which was very nice, and breakfast was excellent, truly above the standard of a regular hotel breakfast. Be warned though that parking is tight, so while we always found a spot it was sometimes a bit of a squeeze. Overall although the hotel can be a bit expensive you get what you pay for and we highly recommend it!

Stopped off for a drink while we were checking out Ambleside - somewhat upmarket and we weren't exactly dressed appropriately but the lady behind the bar welcomed us cheerfully and chatted while we ordered our drinks - not a lot of choices but adequate. Nice and quiet - comfortable seating - and the staff were all polite and cheerful. Probably not the greatest place for a casual drink but certainly demonstrates very good customer service

I have just returned from a 4 night stay at the Salutation and this hotel is everything a hotel should be, friendly, comfortable, clean and with great amenities. The staff are helpful and friendly and always seemed happy. I booked a single room for which the hotel allocate small doubles, I think this is preferable to having a room with a single bed. It was nicely fitted and the bathroom had a decent size shower in it. The leisure facilities are of a high standard with a good size indoor pool and a spa with a full range of treatments available. All in all a very enjoyable stay and a hotel I will return to.

It wasnt a bargain break but it was an amazing quality hotel with the best breakfast. Our family room was class and newly refurbished with some nice touches. It has to be the best hotel in ambleside with the best central location. Staff very approachable and pleasant. Cannot say anything negative. Just go!

Weekend break in Ambleside and a Saturday night so popped in for a bar meal as have stayed here before. Dissapointed with the fairly limited choice on the menu and although the food was presented quite quickly it was nothing more than average. Staff seemed more interested in chatting to a group of USA diners rather than attend waiting tables. Really only scores an average given the competition in town.

Checked in on 14th Oct - booked on the phone and paid a deposit of £214 by phone - rather odd when the website said no deposit required but paid it Price quoted was for 3 nights £577 for a Club Double - TBH was expecting something rather larger for that money but hey the room was spotless so didn't worry However , the radiator in the ridiculously small bathroom did not work and the control knob fell off and live wiring was exposed so very dangerous In a bathroom - I told the receptionist on the evening of the 14th ( a girl who was pregnant - sorry the only way I can describe her as don't know her name - she assured me that it would be dealt with It wasn't nothing was done the bathroom was freezing and when we checked out today I mentioned it to her again as she was at reception and she said our maintenance man went to the room and it's fine and working -I had just left that room and NO ONE had been in to sort it out the wiring was still exposed - she basically accused me of lying!!! Not happy !! And for the price this hotel is charging I would recommend you employ older people on reception as last night whilst in the bar all we heard was a discussion about X factor which the staff were watching on the computers !!! Your staff at reception are unprofessional and need more training - But cannot fault the staff in the restaurant who are all so polite and so helpful I am not at all happy about my stay and the way the so called staff deal with customers

We were fortunate enough to be given a two night stay at this hotel by our Daughter & Son in law to celebrate our Ruby wedding anniversary. On arrival we was greeted by Katie who went out of her way to welcome us and make us feel special. Our Room , like the rest of the hotel was kept spotless by an army of pleasant staff. as our stay was B&B we sampled the lovely breakfast. The choice is varied and the food is of a high quality. unlike many hotels today, the breakfast order was taken and delivered piping hot to your table. So much nicer than the usual buffet scrum. We used the pool and both jacuzzi (inside and out) which were great and again kept very clean and at just the right temp. We ate at the White Lion across the road, which is a very friendly pub which decent pub food. I subscribed to their email before we arrived and saving vouchers. Also if you want to leave the car at the hotel you can buy a day ticket for the 599 open top bus for £8 which allows you to hop on hop off between Bowness and Grassmere.(great for a pub crawl or just sight seeing. )

We ate here on both evenings of our stay in Ambleside. The ambience of the hotel was good, the staff were very friendly, and the food was good and reasonably priced as was the choice of wines. After our meal we sat in one of the lounges and enjoyed a quiet drink with friends to finish of our evening.

Thanks to the great staff for making my stay an enjoyable one. Great to catch up with old friends and enjoy the beauty of The Lake District and it hospitality. See you all next year #Love TheLakeDistrict

Couldn't be more central. Ideal if you want to park as they have their own car park. Very welcoming staff. The breakfast menu was varied; the dinner menu was reasonably priced, well cooked and well presented. They are doing some refurbishment, but it never affected the guests with noise or dirt.

Stayed for one night for our wedding anniversary. We were allocated Stock Ghyll Lodge, which we would recommend asking for. Very comfortable and well furnished. The evening meal was not as good as the breakfast. We have been to the Salutation twice before and that has been the case each time. It's not bad, it's just not great. On the other hand, the bar is inviting and we had absolutely no complaints with the swimming and spa facilities. The location, of course, cannot be faulted. The Salutation is expensive but then the Lake District is expensive nowadays. We enjoyed our stay and I think it was just about value for money.

What a lovely hotel. we stayed for two nights B&B and I can honestly say everything was perfect. ( celebrating our ruby wedding) From our initial welcome from Katie at reception to our departure goodbyes the staff are clearly what makes this hotel wonderful. Although most people would rate this hotel high on location ( which is perfect ) I feel the staff are what makes the place. Our room was spotless just as was the rest of the hotel. The breakfast choice is very good and great quality with the added benefit of being served to your table. The pool and pool area are very clean. If you are looking for somewhere to stay for a special occasion in the lakes, then give this a try.

Overpriced for room sizes. Bathroom so tiny there was no towel rack. We upgraded to a club room and expected more. Our bedding smelt very musty. Not very friendly. Location is excellent but need to review prices

We booked this long weekend (3 nights - Fri-Mon) as a treat and chose the Salutation Inn on a recommendation, in particular as it had a swimming pool, jacuzzi, hot tub. At nearly £170 a night we had high expectations. First the positives. The location is great. Right in the centre of Ambleside close to all the amenities and with on site parking. The staff were polite and friendly. Plenty of choice for breakfast (although we've had a better full English). The swimming pool was quiet (positive) but I can imagine it gets quite full at busier times of the year. The jacuzzi was lovely and warm but strangely the outdoor hot tub wasn't particularly so we didn't stay in there long! The not so great (for us anyway). At the price we paid we did imagine that we would have a bigger room (a Travelodge room is more spacious!). The services in the room were good (tea, coffee, TV, comfy bed, swimming towel etc.) but a liquid soap would have been better than the tiny bar of soap provided - though this was replenished. In the bathroom the tap was slightly faulty and part of the hand rail on the bath was falling off. Overall we had a fantastic time but this was more down to the spectacular surroundings than the hotel itself.

Stayed here a few times can't fault the place excellent and friendly staff good reasonable priced food a lovely lounge with none rip off hotel prices and if you have one ? dog friendly well worth a visit

Popped in for a drink with our baby, she needed changing so when I asked where the baby changing was I was met with a rude 'there isn't one as such but we have a disabled toilet' where I could lay her on the floor. The way the three women responded was rude and like we were an inconvenience. For the rest of the time we were there we got evil looks, won't return

This was our first visit to the Salutation having been recommended by our B&B landlady. The pub was very busy but we were able to find a table. The menu is typical pub grub and was ordered at the bar. The meals were served quite quickly and the portions very big. the food was very good. The meals are a very reasonably priced.

Came here for a night with some work colleagues - we had twin rooms and had been upgraded for free due to some mix up over our room bookings. So we were over the moon with our rooms which both had jacuzzi style baths, one of the rooms also had a balcony with a huge 'astro turf' garden complete with a table and chairs, views over the roof tops of ambleside towards the mountains - just stunning. The rooms were spotless, the facilities were great although sadly we didn't get a chance to try out the spa....next time! The staff were super and breakfast was perfect. The hotel is big but doesn't feel full of people even though it was clearly busy. We paid £185 per room, I feel this is really expensive but on a par for most local hotels. Well worth it for a treat.

I have been to this hotel a number of times over the last twenty years and it has never ceased to amaze me how it is always evolving yet keeps that 'personal touch' where all the staff (most who have been there as long as we have been there) make you fell welcome and special. we went just for the night to celebrate our silver wedding anniversary and they did not disappoint. Geoff (owner) and Paul (manager) put us in one of the new 'tree house' suites and it was fabulous. The food as always is superb and the staff as always attentive. we have stayed in higher graded hotels that cannot get anywhere near the level of quality and attentiveness this hotel always provides. The hotel is situated in a prominent part of the town and is a great base to explore the lakes. You will definitely not be disappointed by choosing this hotel for your lakes stay.

Couldn't find any fault with this hotel. From walking in all the staff were very helpful and friendly and nothing was too much trouble. The décor and cleanliness of the rooms was excellent. Breakfast and evening meal were of a high quality. My only reservation is that it is a bit on the pricey side. There are numerous leisure facilities, which we didn't use, but that aside it is quite expensive

Stayed here for 10 nights to celebrate my husband's 60th and my forthcoming 70th birthdays. Several members of our families came to join us for a birthday celebration meal last Friday and the staff looked after us to perfection - the restaurant is so flexible with it's partitions that we had our own dining area,(probably better for the other guests too!) and because the four lounges run off from each other we were able to gather in one without too much disturbance to the other guests - we hope!! Everyone was delighted with the hotel, the food, the wine and, most importantly, the service. We have stayed here before and even if not staying at the hotel, always try to pop in for a meal, or drink, or just to say hello because it really is like home from home. My sister made exactly the same comment, without any prompting from me. It's very comfortable and clean and the food, especially the breakfasts, is excellent, but it's major asset is the staff. They are so friendly and helpful and are brilliant at multi-tasking. After the way the problem with the "wet" room mentioned in someone else's review was dealt with, all I can say is, Nick Knowles, eat your heart out ..... We have to come up to Lancashire in November for yet another (90th) birthday celebration, so are coming back here for a few nights - well, we have to make the journey worthwhile.

Overnight Stay on a Monday night was superb ,great room with spectacular views and staff that care , breakfast set us up for the day ,THANKYOU .location ideal for shops pubs and local attractions .highly recommended .

We have just returned from staying 4 nights at the salutation and it was a pleasure to stay there, the room was excellent, as was the food, ( can only comment on the breakfast, as we ate out most nights) the staff were perfect, rooms were cleaned to a high standard, the only down side, was the new out door jacuzzi /spa pool, this has replaced the hot tub, we visited last year and the hot tub was perfect after a long days hiking, this new one would be a lot better if it was hot, we didn't use it as it was on the cool side, not quite the same, but everything else was perfect

Having stayed at this hotel before we popped in today for a light sandwich lunch when visiting Ambleside. Poached trout and beef sandwiches were tasty and fresh. Large glass of wine and a water and a bill for just under £20. Peaceful environment to sit in , away from hustle and bustle. Enjoyable hour relaxing and flicking through newspapers.

Stayed here again for 2 nights Friday and Saturday. Perfect location for walking in the lakes - lots of walks around the hotel to suit everyone.The hotel is fabulous - rooms extremely clean and modern. The staff (all of them) are very efficient. The breakfast couldn't be better and you have such a choice! We had our dog with us and the hotel is very accommodating in this respect. Thanks go to Sam on reception as he changed our room for our stay at New Year - can't wait to go back.

Come here over 4 times a year with my family it's heaven! The breakfast is the best I've ever had and there is literally everything and the staff are so friendly. The spa and pool are so pretty and the steak room and sauna are perfect to relax in especially the outside jacuzzi

Another excellent visit , stayed for 2 nights and will return for another visit as soon as possible Very happy and helpful staff , they were dealing with water damaged room and still carried on as normal There was a new hydro pool outside hope the water canons get fixed soon and the jacuzzi too,I was a bit sad to see my favourite Canadian Hot Tub was gone I have happy memories sitting in it at night watching the stars and snow flakes, but that's progress

Can you love a hotel? because I love this one, third time here, lets start with the staff they'er all very friendly from the front of house to the people who serve the meals and the meals are great too, don't forget the ladies that do! spotless and the the man who fixes stuff they'er all great and the dog loves it too! Our room was very nice clean well kept loved the shower in the bath room it wasn't over the bath but to one side and the bath room was a large one loved it would I go again well why not just loved it!

A wonderful hotel in a fabulous location. The staff are great, very helpful and attentive. We have stayed a number of times and keep going back. The food is great too. Breakfast is exceptional. If I'm not driving it's oatmeal ( porridge) with a large dash of single malt, provided ??. Rooms are updated regularly and are always very clean and tidy. I thoroughly recommend staying here.

me and the hubby stayed here for the weekend a lovely present off my kids for my 60th hotel was very good had a room with a balcony on front of hotel very nice room a bit small but everything you need bathroom was modern but also small hotel clean and staff very friendly ate both nights in hotel food very good also nice breakfast hotel in good location and would use again

we stayed in Ambleside for a week recently and were lucky enough to have access to the leisure facilities at this hotel We used the pool, sauna and steam room twice, it was lovely to have this facility and certainly enhanced our stay in the Lske District. The changing rooms were clean and the pool was lovely and quite a good size

Very much a last minute decision to stay, actually called reception from my car sat outside as the weather was 'rough'.. Thankfully there was 'room at the Inn' Travelling on my own it was no hardship that the only room available was a twin room. The top floor room itself had a fantastic view across the rooftops of Ambleside. The room itself was to a very high standard with quality fittings, the bathroom was fitted with a pristine looking Jacuzzi bath that my late wife would have needed bribing out of! I have to say a pet thing with me with hotels is the quality of the shower, temperature and pressure wise, this hotel 'hit the spot' on both counts, probably one of the best showers I've ever taken, very impressed. Nice touch is hanging in the wardrobe were cloth bags with 'Pool towels' to take down to the leisure club, sadly I didn't have time to utilise the facilities. Breakfast is a self serve affair with you ordering hot dishes from the staff. An excellent array of foods all served by charming staff, if you leave here hungry after breakfast, simply put it's your own fault. There is parking but spaces it seems are at a premium, the staff kindly found me a space that I'd have never of found without 'guidance'. The only thing I'd add is wherever you stay in the Lake District as this is an inland resort you are going to get hit with Premium prices, I'd say in a lot of instances priced well above comparative London prices, this hotel is no exception at around £140 for a room and breakfast this is not a cheap vacation territory but it's realistic given the location & the quality. The same night I called (Just) a B&B in nearby Windermere and they wanted £120. The Salutation is taking everything into account worth the room rates they charge. I'll definitely return when I have time to thoroughly enjoy the facilities.

Husband payed for a Spa day treatment for me for my Birthday. Excellent service and food. Very clean and relaxing place. Hinting for another Spa Day treatment for next visit. Great value and Excellent service.

I stayed at this hotel as part of a solo weekend hiking in the Lake District, right at the end of my trip. I booked it specifically for the spa and I was not disappointed. Everything was clean and tidy and the pool area was lovely and relaxing. The ducks on the way down to it was an added bonus! The room was clean and tidy and the bathroom had a wonderful bath with jets and the shower was amazing. Food in the restaurant was good and breakfast had a wide choice. The staff were really friendly and helpful. I really enjoyed my stay and will definately be back!

We stayed at the Salutation hotel on 25th August whilst on a tour of the lakes for our honeymoon. What a perfect find it was. In the heart of Ambleside so no need to worry about driving whilst your there. The hotel offers free a free car park to guests and you literally walk out of the hotel and you in the little quaint shops. We were given a gorgeous front room on the 3rd floor with a gorgeous view of the town and fells. It's not often we spend too much time in a hotels lounge however the ambiance was so attractive that we spent a good few hours relaxing in the evening drinking coffee from the lounge bar. The different sections of the lounge and seating make it feel comfortable and allow you to truly relax. The spa is wonderful however I wish we were there to see the new out door hot tub when it was completed. The little rubber ducks over the lights and in the hotel bathrooms are also a cute touch! The breakfast has to be the best breakfast we have ever eaten. Could not fault this hotel and will certainly return in the future.

Very welcoming and helpful staff. We loved the pool and the convenience of a car park to the side of the hotel. Despite being in the centre of town the bedroom was quiet and v comfortable. Ideal location for exploring the area. Good cycle hire shop close by. We were blessed with glorious weather. Super holiday highly recommend this hotel.

One star because 0 isn't an option, miss leading pictures of rooms, half open leisure facilities all at a very premium price. Typical of the Best Western brand... Over priced, out of date and past its sell by.. #crappy

Stayed here on our wedding anniversary, through Booking.com....a room with a balcony, which turned out to be on the front of the hotel with gorgeous views over the town to the fells....it really couldn't have been better. Everything was immaculate and plenty of space for 2, there were chairs and small table in the bay window and outdoor furniture, with cushions provided, on the balcony. The staff were very welcoming and helpful both at reception and at breakfast. The breakfast was excellent with a good selection and served super quick. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable stay and we hope to return.

The staff here are ace. Very friendly, nothing is too much trouble - more like a great family run establishment than a middle-of-the-road chain hotel. I've only stayed here in the Winter before this stay, but I can report that the hotel is scorching hot in all seasons. The only place warmer known to mankind is an old people's home. I suggest checking in early and getting the windows wide open - or if you can bag one of the new rooms with a terrace (e.g. Langdale or Red Screes) as they are outside of the main building. Our family room was large - and they'd made up an additional bed as well as the cot; they really had thought of all possible sleeping arrangements for the four of us. Bathroom looked brand new (wet room style), plenty of hot water, lovely and clean. Can't be faulted. Breakfast is very good - heartily recommend the kippers. As with all hotels, if you are ordering bacon remember to ask for it well cooked (unless you are in the 1% that hotels cater for). Have been in the past, will go again in the future

Just come back from a 5 night stay here , a brilliant hotel £150 per night well worth it with breakfast , not sure what recent reviews want , the rooms are spotless , shower & jacuzzi bath, the food is excellent cost and quality , the whole of the team are effecient and polite and always there to help , couldn't find any negatives . Definitely going back??

This Hotel is in a great location & there is on site parking. We were given the Fairfield Room. Spacious enough but fairly basic. The floorboards from upstairs creaked & we got loads of noise every time they flushed the toilet or ran the bath. We paid £300 for a 2 night stay & that didn't even include breakfast!! That would have been an extra £12.95 each. No shortage of reasonably priced cafes near by. We'll not be staying there again.

Whilst our room was a good size, it was basic! We booked through booking.com and hadn't picked up on the fact that it was room only...our mistake. However, to be told that breakfast would be thirteen pounds per person on top of the one hundred and ninety pounds a night we were paying for an average room, well we were not going to pay that and so took advantage of the reasonably priced local cafe's. I have to say the staff were also very unwelcoming. Just cold and unfriendly, apart from one blonde girl who was always vey bubbly. Not a particularly nice stay and we would not return, I'm afraid.

Spent two days at the Salutation with our grandchildren. Very good location for the hotel, right in the centre of town. The hotel was clean and tidy. Great pool and sauna which we used every day. Excellent breakfast, well presented and nothing too much trouble for the staff throughout the hotel. We ate out both nights and the staff recommended two very good restaurants for us to take the grandchildren. We booked a family room which was compact for all of us but considering the price we had no complaints. All new bathroom with walk in shower and Jacuzzi bath. Will be back to stay again and thanks to all the staff at the Salutation.

Stayed for two nights and was given a free upgrade to their honeymoon balcony rooms at the back facing the river waterfall. Awesome! Room was nice and had a powerful jacuzzi bath. Both could have been a tad bigger. Food, perfect and very good value for money. Narrowly escapes 5 stars because of my runny poached eggs two days in a row when well done ones were ordered. Staff extremely friendly and helpful. Hotel has well equipped gym, swimming pool and jacuzzi. Open`air hot tub was not in operation as going through a refurb which will result in a much bigger, innovate and powerful one so we look forward to going back in a few months.

We had one of the rooms at the back and to lay in the hot tub on the balcony listening to the river while drinking a glass of wine after dinner was just perfect. Rooms large and spotless, bathroom large and breakfast lots of choice. I will return

Convenient location in town centre near shops and a wide choice of local restuarants/cafes Quiet and tranquil setting even though very close to other amenities. Free parking onsite for residents. Friendly, helpful staff Immaculately-kept indoor swimming pool and spa facilties Excellent breakfast with good choice of hot and cold food Enjoyable ambience in restaurant for evening meals with local menu choices

We ( 2 adults 2 children) booked for 2 nights Wednesday and Thursday. We were in for a surprise as we were upgraded with a room with a private jacuzzi. The room and bathroom were big and clean. We used the swimming pool and steam room - not busy and very relaxing. Close to the Lakes took 15 minutes to walk down. Had wonderful weather and did the 4k walk round the Lake. The children said the best thing was the dip in the jacuzzi at the end of the day. Lovely couple of days.

We visited with family including our dog in July to celebrate a special birthday. The hotel is in a fantastic location in Ambleside which is beautiful. It's really convenient for the town centre and bus stops to take you to all the other Great Lake towns and walks. There are some really lovely restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. The hotel serves a great breakfast and has a lovely bar area. The pool, gym and jacuzzi were fabulous on a very rainy day! The staff at the hotel were really great too and even ended up giving an unofficial dog sit for us!!! They set up a special table at breakfast at the entrance to the restaurant to allow our dog to be with us. The hotel (like all others in the Lake District) is not a cheap stay but is worth it for the facilities and location. The rooms with the balconies on the side of the hotel are particularly good and so nice for a sunny evening. Would highly recommend and would definitely stay here again.

well what a lovely hotel. We stayed here for one night only but we didn't want to leave. No hassle check in we where in the wansfell lodge which was stunning, had a whirlpool bath and a huge bed which was very very comfy. Had a good sized balcony looking over the river, unfortunately we couldn't sit out as the weather was awful. The pool and sauna are very well kept and a nice place to unwind. The breakfast was excellent also. Definitely will be revising and I would recommend this hotel to anyone.

The hotel is nice, not too corporate. The staff very friendly and felt as if nothing was a problem. Housekeeping was great. Stayed two nights, the breakfast was very good, good selection and products. We ate in the restaurant in the second night. Very good quality food, service at a good relaxed pace. You weren't rushed at any time. Only downside was the room was so hot with no real cooling (except a small fan), and limited opening windows. Would stay again.

After struggling to find anywhere we liked or that seemed good value for money on groupon for 3 days, me and my boyfriend decided to book 2 nights here to celebrate his birthday. I always like to check several factors before booking to stay anywhere and best western Ambleside met nearly every factor. Free wifi, free parking, reasonable time for the inclusive breakfast and checkin/check out times. Spar facilities and a great location situated in the heart of village. Of course that is what you see on the booking website. There's always a chance it might. It live up to how it looks. Luckily though, it really did. Upon arrival we managed to find a parking spot even though we arrived mid afternoon. The reception staff were very polite and welcoming. We got into our room and immediately noticed how nice the room was. Decorated very stylishly with a huge kingsize bed (possibly a queen size). Complimentary water and tea/coffee/biscuits etc. The bathroom was very nice too with a shower that really makes you want to stay in there forever. And I don't know if it's in every room but ours also had a jacuzzi bathtub which we enjoyed after a long day and drive. Plenty of closet space and hairdryer included. The bed was a little too hard for my boyfriend's taste. But it didn't stop him sleeping! After checking in and dropping things off in the room we decided to check out the spar facilities. A well furnished gym, modern changing rooms with magnetic locks on the lockers. The pool was a little small but big enough to do some causal lengths in. Steam room could be better but the sauna was great. The ice machine outside was a nice addition for after our sauna. The website does show an outdoor hot tub but unfortunately they are undergoing some construction, which seems has been going on for quite sometime. If we ever stayed here again I would like to hope it is finished because on a nice hot evening it would be ideal. After our first night we sat down for breakfast. Very nice with the option to add as many of each item as you like on your full English and a nice selection of you choose the continental breakfast option too. We'd only been out the room an hour when we came back and had all fresh towels, and even a fresh pool bag which had a large towel in. The wifi signal in our room wasn't great and the tv had very basic channels. The hotel is close to the main part of the village with some very nice places to eat around it. There was some noise from the street in the early hours of Friday morning and it woke me up. However I think the window was open due to the heat. That's not really something that can be blamed on the hotel though. Overall me and my boyfriend really enjoyed our stay here and would stay again without question. However it's good that we got a voucher for a cheaper stay next time as the price was quite a lot. But in the Lake District it's expected and I wouldn't say it's overpriced. If you want a nice place to sleep and even relax in for a few days I would highly recommend this place.

Our umpteenth trip to this excellent Hotel located in the centre of Ambleside. Excellent Breakfasts & Evening meals - the Onion gravy with my Cumberland Sausage was superb - it should have been packaged & sent to our Olympic Athletes - they would have won twice as many medals! Great walks from the Door for all tastes & abilities together & a fitness centre to loosen up afterwards

Me and the new wife have just spent three very relaxing days at The Salutation Hotel celebrating our marriage. The staff are all very welcoming and friendly and nothing was to much trouble. We had breakfast on all three mornings which was a cold buffet and freshly cooked warm options and we also ate in the restaurant on one occasion which was equally as nice providing a good selection of meals for all taste. We made full use of the gym and spa which is a great way to spend a relaxing morning or afternoon.

Best Western had a great offer on of dinner and spa. I thought, Yeah, why not a bit of me time. Booked over the phone a couple of days before, no problems. Arrived at hotel to find the hot tub is out of action, has been for a month. Oh well they gave me a towel with no hire charge. No robe, towel a bit less than luxurious and only the one. Changed and went into spa, lighting could be better, quite underwhelming and dull. Nice pool and surround, Jacuzzi ok. Only 6 loungers, due to closeness to pool there were splashes, and with only one towel pp they were damp. Steam room out of action but sauna working ok. Shower just outside sauna a bit difficult to get to a good temperature, it looked as if it had started life as something more complicated. Feeling a bit disappointed about the spa'ness of my little luxury I got changed and went to the front desk. I explained the points I mentioned above and the manager waived the charge for the sauna, I declined to stay for dinner as I was a bit miffed but the staff were excellent when handling my complaints. I guess the building work overran and the steam room being down seemed a complete surprise. Best Western need to up their game getting the facilities right

We booked the hotel for two nights as a base for sight seeing. We found the hotel far better than what we expected for a 3 star (we normally book 4 star). The food was good both breakfast and evening meal, but for us the thing that made our stay was the staff who were all brilliant. The leisure facilities were also good. We are already looking at going back to the hotel next year.

Excellent all-round hotel. Value for money and quality service. Rooms and hotel feel and look very plush. ideally located near to bars and restaurants. staff very friendly and willing to help with any request.

We arrived at the Salutation to be greeted by enthuastic and helpful staff who allowed us to park our vehicles in the car park before check-in. On our return to the hotel Check in was quick and painless the staff were helpful and well mannered. The room I stayed in had a balcony which was large and had enough space to hold a BBQ

Sunday lunch & access to the pool all day, for only £16.95!(per adult) Excellent value, we swam in the morning & then enjoyed a two course lunch (3 courses available also), several roast options, including freshly prepared vegetables, all of which were delicious & a very fine dessert menu, the chocolate bread & butter pudding was gorgeous! Three of our party opted for the children's menu & again the food was spot on! The staff were very attentive & the restaurant was spotless, we couldn't fault a thing. Once lunch had settled, we returned to the pool & relaxed on the comfortable sun loungers, whilst our children played happily for the remainder of the afternoon. All in all a very relaxing & hugely enjoyable day! We will certainly be returning!

I love this hotel, wonderful location, luxurious. great attention to detail and super friendly and attentive staff. Stayed for one night in a suite with a hot tub outside which was great. Huge comfortable super king sized bed, large bathroom with jacuzzi bath. Breakfast was excellent! Thanks to Reuben who checked us in. He was friendly and helpful - he also helped us book for another occasion we loved it so much. We'll be back!

Probably the cleanest room I've ever stayed in, dog friendly, good staff, lovely comfortable rooms, fantastic breakfast (really good cold buffet plus a la carte hot breakfast), ample parking and great location. What more could you want!?

Lovely hotel right in the centre of Ambleside. Parking was fine there seems to be enough spaces as it goes round the back of the hotel too. On arrival there were 2 friendly members of staff on for everyone arriving and we didn't have to wait long. Everything explained and told about breakfast, swimming pool etc. Our room was clean and had a lovely modern bathroom (we booked the basic room) We only had breakfast in the hotel which was nice and a good choice with everything you'd expect. Only criticism about the room was I would have like some hooks in the room just to hang our wet coats after a walk. Would definitely stay here again.

Just love The Salutation. It's such a friendly, comfortable hotel with excellent staff. The food is super, the rooms comfortable and I never want to leave! It has good parking facilities and you know your car is safe. And they still serve Prosecco!

What a find! Have stayed many times in the Lakes and this is one of the best hotels I have stayed in. The staff are so efficient but so friendly, from management(setting an example) to waiting staff to reception.They could not be faulted and a real credit to the hotel. Our room was newly refurbished and really lovely. Amazing bathroom. Food was fresh and reasonably priced. Breakfast provide everything you could possibly wish for. Can't wait to return!!

Stayed here for two nights on a trip up to Scotland for a wedding. The room we stayed in was very comfortable. Fantastic bathroom with a great shower. Had a loverly breakfast and a Loverly evening meal. In a Loverly little town. The outside is nothing special to look at but it is clean and very tidy. On returning for the second night we realised they had been painting outside our room and it smelt of gloss paint. We mentioned it to reception and was moved to an even better room witch was twice the size and with lots of extras. I understand they need yo pain at sometime so was not annoyed and very happy with the outcome. Nothing seemed to much trouble. Would certainly go back.

Good central stop for touring the Lakes. We had a nice big room in a separate part of the hotel. Parking can be at a premium. Curious to know who thought it was a good idea to have a glass door to the toilet??? Apart from that we had a very good stay. Restaurant was very good with a limited menu. Same each day.

We stayed here during our recent stay and were very impressed. The outside suggests a slightly dated hotel but the inside was above our expectations. Very friendly staff, reasonable food, a nice pool, good rooms. All in all very happy.

Booked a night away here last Sunday. Stayed in a room with a balcony. From the moment we arrived the front desk staff were lovely,no issues we parked the car in the hotel carpark which was fab as its right in there town center and I thought parking would be hard.our room was lovely the view was amazing,very clean.we used they swimming pool,steam room,sauna,jacuzzi. It was all clean beautifully decorated just what we needed.we ate in there restaurant which was fantastic the waiting on staff were lovely we had a male waiter don't know his name but he was brilliant. The food was amazing and not at all expensive.breakfast was just as good as our evening meal and there was something there for everyone my only one down side was we only stayed one night so staying longer next time thank you for a lovely night just what we needed.

Were do I start. Well it was my girlfriends birthday on the Thursday and we had decided to have a long weekend in Ambleside as it's so beautiful, there's lots to do and our friends who have just got engaged live there. So we planned a nice relaxing weekend and also to meet up with our friends. I decided to book a room at the Best Western Salutation hotel as I have heard that Best Western hotels are meant to be top class and known for being nice and having good facilities. Another thing that sold it for me was they mention they have their own free private car park and make out they have enough spaces for all their guests (explaining it's one car per room) so I thought great. As I know there is very little free parking in Ambleside and it would be hard to find a space near the hotel without P&D. Remember what I've put here about having enough spaces one car per guest and we'll get back to this point in a moment. I booked a king sized lodge suite room, staying Friday and Saturday night and leaving on Sunday. It was just shy of £200 a night. So not cheap by any means. This doesn't include breakfast or any food by the way. Only two complimentary bottles of water about 300ml each and 2 pack of two biscuits and coffee, tea, hot chocolate sachets etc. This didn't bother me too much as it was my girlfriends birthday and I wanted to treat her. The pictures of the room I was booking looked amazing and really big, also it had an indoor pool, gym, sauna, hot tub and jacuzzi you could use for free while you stayed there. Not to mention the pictures of the food looked amazing. I knew where abouts the hotel was from previous visits to see our friends. So I was sold and booked it. I was given the confirmation booking number and directions to the hotel. It didn't however tell me about the bollard in the way of the car park. So I didn't know if I needed to go in to get a code first or what. This isn't helpful as it's on a narrow one way road. So it's not like you can just stop. Fortunately I saw another car just pull up to it and the bollard lowered. Wait for the green light and drive through. You do however need a code to get out. This is given to you at reception when you check in. It's also not clear if all the spaces are for the hotel as there are shops right next to the hotel and one of the car parks which is undercover is attached to this shop and there are cupboards and all sorts in the car park. It turns out. Yes it is the hotels car park as well. If you park under there, be careful of screws and nails. I spotted a few when I parked under there and was lucky enough not to run over any. Checking in at the hotel and I was sort of half greeted by this middle aged woman. She wasn't over enthusiastic or cheerful. Not how are you, welcome or anything. Just "name, okay this is your room, you need to sign here, I need a card off you that you paid with, reg number of your car, sign here and here. If you want to use the facilities you need to drop your room keys off here and we'll give you locker keys in return" Then she just pointed past this sitting area next to the bar and said your room is through there and across the car park. For hotel that cost this much a night I expected to be shown to my room or at least have someone be abit more helpful. As we had 2 heavy bags between us. We went off to find our rooms on our own with the vague instructions she had given. We looked into this room where people were reading and it looked like a sitting area. We turned around and went up this other hall and it led to the dinning area. The woman at reception chased us and went "no through there" were we had looked originally, there was a doorway in the corner but with her vague wave of the arm before we had no idea where she had pointed in the first place. So we felt a little daft. Laughed it off and eventually found our room. It was right next to where we had parked pretty much Ghyll lodge I think it was called. Driving past it into the car park I would never of guessed it would of had rooms in it. Anyway, we found our room right at the top of the stairs 3 sets of stairs with heavy bags wasn't the best but I managed with our bags. The room didn't look like the picture shown on the site. It didn't look as big or as modern. However it was still bigger than a normal room and very nice. It had a nice sized TV. Shower and bath. With jets for the bath. The window over looked the hot tub outside and the other one the car park. We put out stuff down and then went out for a walk. We'd already been out in local towns before checking in looking at various attractions. So it was about 5 when we left the hotel. We went to see our friends and had tea out. It was very late when we got back so we just wanted to go to bed. We had read the information book before going out and all the cards they had left about being greener for the environment. Just as we were about to go to bed. To our disgust we found speckles of dried blood on both sides of the bed. It wasn't alot but this is not the point. For the amount of money I had paid, I certainly didn't expect that. I've had better services and always immaculate clean bedding at Premier inns etc. So a top quality hotel I expected better standards and it was falling well below that. It felt to late to ring so we slept to the centre of the bed but I wasn't happy. We woke early and decided to go for a swim. I left a note for the cleaners above the blood specks on one side and the card saying I wanted fresh linen above the blood on the other side. I don't normally make a fuss and I'm not hard work so I thought I'll leave it at that and not complain at reception as I hate doing it. The bad review I'm giving has come about as it only got worse from there. The same women was on reception and when we went to get the locker keys we asked where the pool was. She simply replied " that way near the elevator" Well as I've never been there before I don't know where the hell the elevator was. So again very helpful (not) we found it ourselves and went down these narrow stairs which was next to these doors open which led to an office and behind the bar I think. Not what you'd expect. We saw a sign above our heads saying wet changing rooms. No arrow, nothing. I found the mens but that turned out to be the one for the gym. It didn't help anyway as we couldn't see a ladies. We then decided to go down to the pool and see if they were down there. It said no shoes beyond this point so that's why we were hesitant until we got changed. We took our shoes off and went down. Bingo, that's where they where. We had a swim, jacuzzi and steam. Showered changed and went back up. Breakfast finished at 10 but brunch was at half 10 until 2. I said to my girlfriend we'll do that and go out for the day. We dropped our swimwear off at the room and went down to the dinning room. Baring in mind we had read the information and it had not said there was any other dining facilities. We walk up to where this young girl is tidying at the beginning of the dinning room and asked if we could have a table for 2 for brunch. She looked confused and said "I'll just ask" and walked off. My girlfriend thought we might of got it wrong but I remember it said half 10 til 2 and it was 11. The girl came back with another older member of staff which informed us brunch was served in the bar area and the menus were on the table and we have to order at the bar. So confused to why it didn't say this in the information book in our room, or why the girl who worked there didn't know or why we were not told by reception when we arrived. We walked off back to the bar area. To were there was maintenance going on above the bar and the Shutters were closed. We were just sat at this table in front of reception while this guy was on a ladder in front of the bar doing maintenance or something. Very unimpressed I told my girlfriend we weren't eating here and we went back to our rooms. Got our coats and went to a place my friend had recommended. The ApplePie Bakery. This was just down the road and was a real treat. A lovely menu, great food and nice staff. However I think we went at the right time. So if you go, make sure it's before 12 as the cafe gets packed and even getting food to takeaway is hard as it's so busy. Just shows how good the place is when it's always busy. After that we went out in the car to an aquarium and went shopping. When we returned we found there were no spaces on the car park. Although as I said before, it made out there was a car space per room. So I was baffled to why we didn't have a car space. Not to mention the car park isn't very accommodating to big cars as I have a Nissan navara pickup so it was a challenge the first time. I was fuming there was no spaces, especially after everything else that had annoyed me. My girlfriend went to see reception while I waited in the car in the car park. She came back with a youngish gentleman who said all the cars in the car park were guests of the hotel. I was annoyed as I felt I was lied to. However the young guy offered us the managers car park space on the road behind and I followed him in the car. Bare in mind he was in just a shirt and pants and it was tipping it down with rain. As I parked in this small space he offered my girlfriend his umbrella and if we had received this service from the beginning I wouldn't be complaining. I can't fault him but I can find many faults in the rest of the hotel. From the treatment and experience we had from this visit. I can probably say with confidence we won't be staying at a best Western again. Definitely won't be staying at the Salutation Best Western in Ambleside again. Finally as I was checking out. I was seen to by another lady, this one abit younger than the first. Who simply asked my room number and said "you have nothing left to pay, goodbye" No, did you have a nice stay, drive safely, hope you use again, was everything to your satisfaction? Well it certainly wasn't! It just simply seemed they wanted your money and that was it. It certainly wasn't value for money. I would give it no stars if I could. The one star I'll give to the guy who helped us as he was lovely. The rest of the star almost ruined our break. Hope you find this helpful. I've been told many of the B&Bs in the area are really good and owned by lovely people with reasonable prices. My mate said if he'd of known I was going to the best Western he would of told me not to go there.

I had never been to the Lake District before coming to stay in Ambleside for a family break. This is a lovely hotel, and one of the only hotels we found that did a discount for single room occupancy which rocks. The only bad thing to say is that I think they need to get some door closers to stop the doors banging and I didn't like how they tucked the duvet under the bed with the bed spread - it made it very heavy to get off!!. I loved all of the seating areas and comfy setees. All of the staff where very friendly and helpful - it is worth paying for the insurance because we had to go home a bit early due to a family emergancy and they refunded us the rest of our money.

From arrival to departure, this hotel is perfect. I travel constantly and am used to having to negotiate for a service or an odd request for something or other i've forgotten to bring. Whoever trains the Reception Team deserves an award as do the team themselves. Professional, slick and hospitable - great combination. The breakfast experience is a banquet quite frankly - just beautiful: continental breakfast buffet was so extensive, I swear there were choices in just about everything - this is a very classy hotel. I too didn't like the cooked breakfast the first day but the next day it was lovely - even perfection has to have a little flaw and, as flaws go, it's the only one I was aware of after three days there. I'm not sure giving the breakfast waiters little computers on which to log your order was a good idea - if you forgot to add "bacon well done" at beginning of your request, the waiter "has to start again". Not all progress is good...... The facilities are ace - everything you could want, pool, sauna, jacuzzi, professional health and beauty salon. The lodge rooms facing the river are lovely and you can sleep with the sound of a rushing river wafting through from your private veranda. Lovely hotel in a charming town, a fantastic staff team where nothing is too much trouble - proper!

Stayed here in the Lodge for two nights and before I get on a roll, I have to say the hotel layout, decor, services, staff and our room, were all first class. That the breakfast is the only let down is a pity but it has to be said that despite the lovely presentation, what arrived on the plate just wasn't tasty and in the case of the black pudding, downright yuk!!! I know, I know, some will see this as nitpicking but for me it's a biggie on the list of criteria of enjoying an overnight stay and it's an easy fix if they source a selection of better products. Oh! and I don't know how others feel but a toasting machine that seems to be favoured by a growing number of hotels nowadays, is another big no no in my book. Ditch the machine Salutation, bring us the toast along with a tastier plate of brekkie you'll maintain all the five star reviews.

Our favourite place to stay in the Lake District. The standards are always as good as the last time. Some new faces (staff wise) who seem to be settling in and benefitting from the support and standards of "senior" staff. We stayed in a Lakeland Room with hot tub on the balcony.....luxury!!! The breakfast is the best we have ever experienced in an hotel, lots of choice of both hot and cold food. Fresh crusty bread every day (my favourite was the caraway seed loaf). Sadly we had to come home... but look forward to the next time.

Chose to go to ~The Salutation as this was a family holiday including 3 generations with 2 members of the family having additional needs. The hotel looked comfortable and in a central location - it also gave almost half price for single occupancy whilst providing a double bed. We were not disappointed. The whole hotel has a luxurious feeling, the staff are courteous and attentive without being 'in your face'. My only criticism would be that the bedroom doors slammed! A closing mechanism that allowed them to to close gently would have avoided irritation from doors banging in the evening, night and morning.

Stayed one night in January (used booking.com). Friendly welcome, well appointed room (corridors were slightly maze like but ok once you got your bearings!). Very large bed and bathroom. Rooms very clean. Great value but remember to check if your rate includes breakfast or not. Bar area very cosy too - good for meeting up with people.

This hotel is situated in the beautiful surroundings of the Lake District. It is very welcoming and has a relaxing atmosphere. Rooms are very comfortable and well appointed including a fridge. Ideal base and stay for visiting the Lake District and the hotel accepts dogs which is a huge bonus.

We stayed here for two nights for some chill out time and that's exactly what we received. The entrance to the car park is to the right of the hotel. There is enough parking for one car per guest room so you should never be without a car space. On arrival we were made to feel welcome and this continued throughout our stay. All of the hotel staff we encounted were very friendly and were always happy to help in anyway they could. There is a small lift to the bedrooms if required. Our room was immaculate, not a speck of dust anywhere. This also applied to the bathroom, totally spotless and shining like a new pin. There was also an added bonus of a jacuzzi bath which we weren't expecting. Plenty of hot water. The view from the bedroom window was spectacular (we were in a front facing room). It looked out over part of the town centre and over to the hills and trees in the distant. Although the room was facing on to one of the main roads there was minimal noise. I always take ear plugs with me as I'm a light sleeper and I didn't have to use them at all. There is a fridge and tea/coffe making facilities in the bedroom and a good sized television. We didn't feel the need to use the television much as there is an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna in the basement of the hotel for you to enjoy and relax. These were also kept immaculate. There is also a gym but we didn't use this, but what I saw of the gym looked good. Breakfast ...OMG....was probably the best I've ever had in a hotel, the choice was magnificent. There were choices of cereals, cooked porridge with the option of adding whisky to it, yogurts, continental style comprising of two types of fish, hams, cheeses, tomatoes, sliced melon,( that's as much as I can remember on the continental breakfast), bowls of fresh fruit, (grapefruit, apricots, prunes, figs, mixed summer fruits, mixed fruit, grapes, apples, pineapple etc), fresh whole fruit, cooked English breakfast, kippers, smoked haddock, omlets, and a hearty full English breakfast with two of everything for those who would like a large cooked breakfast, (the cooked breakfasts are served to you at your table) choice of white or brown sliced bread, fruit bread, bread rolls, croissants, choc chip muffins, choice of jams & marmalades. Tea & coffee was served at your table and was plentiful and hot. Utterly scrumtious. On the first night we had dinner at the Priest Hole Restaurant which is approx a few mins walk from the hotel, and the second night we had dinner at the hotel. Both meals were delicious. There are shops, restaurants on the doorstep of the hotel. It's approx a 30 min walk to the lake, however if required there is a shuttle bus which will cost you £2 per person each way. The shuttle bus picks up and drops off at the White Lion Hotel. I can recommend booking a treatment at Oxleys health spa which is attached to the hotel. It's soooo relaxing. We will definitely be returning to this hotel and will certainly book some more treatments at Oxleys health spa when we are there. Superb.

Despite 20+ previous stays in the area, I'd never used the Salutation before but I'd certainly consider it in future. Although it lacks some of the character of smaller, independently-run hotels, the staff are generally friendly, the rooms are of a decent standard, the bar/lounge areas are attractive and comfortable and a real bonus is the excellent pool/gym. Breakfast was very generous although I'd prefer quality to quantity given the choice. Service polite and efficient. Free parking and a location which is just about as central as it's possible to be in Ambleside also help to make this a practical choice and at £330 for a 3 night stay for 2, it seemed good value in comparison with other hotels in the area.

I have been staying at the Salutation for around 20 years, sometimes with a walking group from N Ireland, but on other occasions with my wife. We have recently returned home after another visit, and can confirm that the experience of the "Sally" is still excellent. Others have commented that the staff turnover is low (which is usually a good sign), and although we noticed some new faces, it was also good to recognise some familiar ones too, and be recognised in return! Due to rooms in the main building being fully booked (bank holiday weekend) we stayed in Woodlands, one of the Lakeland suites across from the main entrance. It was unbelievably quiet, spacious and well appointed, although it was quite expensive so if you tend to use a room just to sleep in it may not be for you, and we will probably revert to a club or classic room in future. As always the breakfasts were terrific and service prompt and friendly (missed Joe beavering around!), and the hotel is spotless. Car parking can be tight, but is organised as well as possible given the site. Would stay more often if the ferry across the Irish Sea was cheaper, but hope to make another walking trip before long, as the Salutation always gets our vote when visiting Ambleside.

Stayed here 25 year's ago on the first night of our honeymoon, it was great then, but even better now. Stayed for 2 nights in super room with plush furnishings, balcony with a hot tub. Only minor faults, wardrobe was small for size of room, wash hand basin was too small, and took ages to work out how to turn coffee machine on, but as I say minor issues. Had a meal first night, excellent menu and service. Breakfast was excellent. Swimming pool and steam room were great. Didn't use gym but had plenty of machines. All in all an excellent couple of days with excellent customer service in a quality hotel. Many thanks, and we will be back

We stayed at the Salutation Hotel for 3 nights this month and had a wonderful stay. We had booked a balcony room which was lovely with everything in it you could wish for and much more and having the added outside space of the balcony was amazing. We also had dinner in the dining room which had a very good choice on the menu and would certainly recommend it to others. The leisure suite to relax in after a day out was the icing on the cake. I also have to a big thanks to all the hotel staff for making our stay memorable. Overall a stunning hotel in the middle of the lake district. We look forward to returning in the near future.

We stayed for 5 nights in a lodge room. Lovely sized room, comfortable bed, great breakfast. It's fabulous to walk all day then take advantage of the swimming pool and hot tub. Loads of fantastic restaurants nearby. Great location, staff all very helpful, room nice and clean. Definitely recommend.

Stayed here for a couple of days touring the area. Had a great room in nearby annex to the main building. Nice quiet room recently refurbished to a good standard. Breakfast in main hotel with a great selection of items. Lovely stay, hope to return soon.

Four of us enjoyed a well presented meal in the lovely dining room and there was plenty of choice on the menu to cater for all. I had a lovely creamy fish pie with plenty of salmon, followed by Chantilly meringue nests. All the main courses and desserts were attractively presented. Service was efficient and we were well looked after. The use of partial partitions cleverly divided the restaurant into smaller areas so that parties could be catered for without impacting on other diners. There were some special deals on offer whereby you could use the hotel spa facilities and have a meal as well - worth investigating if you are staying in Ambleside.

had a fab time staff where really nice and helpful start to finish the woodlands suite was great very clean and roomier enjoyed are stay cant wait to go back and it was so nice of the staff to leave a birthday card on the bed boss stay all round thanks

Had a great 3 days at this lovely hotel in the heart of Ambleside. Staff very attentive and what was great was lots of laughter! We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Todd Cragg room which was fab! Food excellent. As dog lovers know many hotels that accept dogs don't give you a nice room but this was a great room and the boys loved the balcony. We were just worried they would jump in the hot tub ! We will be back

Well what can i say.. I arrived on the 8th June 2016 and stopped at the salutation hotel i found the staff were more than welcoming and polite. I stopped here for the one night but my stay was perfect the room was spacious ceiling was a little low in points but on the whole the room was clean tidy with a comfy bed... I dinned in the onsite resturant i had a 8oz sirloin steak with peppercorn sauce it can only be described as beautifull tottaly recomend this hotel and resturant thanks guys take care and will see you again maybe with the family next time ... Regards Stuart

This hotel is perfect for a family get away. Myself, my husband and our one year old stayed here for 4 nights and had a great time. Staff were polite, friendly and accommodating - even when we were asking a lot of questions! Our room was lovely, very clean with plenty of room for a travel cot and baby things. The only thing I could fault was there were 5 or 6 unavoidable steps to access our room (117) which wasn't really a problem but slightly inconvenient with a pushchair. But we didn't specify that we would be using one so that is our fault really! Food was delicious every day that we ate there, our baby seemed to enjoy the children's menu as well. We will definitely recommend and visit again :)

We stayed here for our honeymoon this month with our one year old, we were a bit apprehensive with taking such a young baby to what appeared to be such an adult hotel, but it was absolutely brilliant. Can't fault the staff or the amenities. The restaurant food was excellent, as was the award winning breakfasts (for good reason). We stayed in the club double, room 117, my only gripe would be that it's above the laundry room and you can hear washing/drying machines and fans going all hours, if you're a light sleeper this could be a deal breaker.

We recently visited here for an evening. The stay was nice but nothing too impressive. For the price we paid, the room seemed incredibly tiny and there was also mound on the wallpaper in one of the corners. The spa area was really pleasant and clean. As we only stayed for the one evening, we decided to eat in the restaurant. The food was ok but again wasn't the best. It wasn't the worst experience but not sure if I'd go back again.

Stayed here for 3 nights on my own and loved it. Really warm and welcoming staff, the room was very well decorated and furnished. Slept really well and the breakfast was amazing! The cold buffet part was so good I couldn't face the cooked breakfast. The staff were really helpful and friendly. One of the restaurant staff with a big beard, he was funny and they had an East European waitress who was extremely helpful. Full credit to them. The pool, sauna and gym are great too so they'll definitely see me again. If I had to give a downside I'd say parking is a bit tight, get there early... but that's more a problem of the town rather than the hotel, they've done their best with the space they've got.

The hotel has a very welcoming atmosphere. The staff were friendly and polite. Sunday lunch was very good indeed. We then had full use of the leisure facilities, pool, steam room, sauna, outdoor hot tub. We had a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Had 5 nights in this hotel in May. It was a very pleasant experience with the rooms and food excellent. I particularly liked the swimming pool which was a good size and very clean. The position was good in relation to travelling round the area. Would definitely stay again.

We've stayed here regularly over the last few years. They have been updating the rooms over the last year with a few still being improved. We were in the main hotel and our room was lovely with a comfortable bed, & tea/coffee making. Biscuits and small bottles of water were left every day. We also had a small fridge in the room which was really useful, (no noise from it). The bathroom had a walk-in shower & whirlpool bath which was great after a long hike in the mountains, plus decent toiletries. We were left a gift in the room of Kendal Mint Cake which is a traditional aid to exhausted hikers! The internet connection was poor, we were on the second floor, but not sure if this was the reason, it's the first time we've had an issue as usually we've found it to be fairly fast. We ate in the restaurant and the Beer battered Haddock was excellent. The service was very slow even though there weren't many guests there, not sure why. Breakfast was, as usual, fantastic. They always serve top quality bacon, eggs, black pudding etc. The range of self service food is great too. Yogurts, fruit, cereal, cheese, toast, bagels, muffins, jams, honey......etc! There are plenty of excellent hikes straight from the hotel and lots of hiking shops if you need to update your kit. There are many decent restaurants nearby and several places to get a sandwich made for your picnic/hike. Or you could get a picnic lunch from the hotel. We are looking forward to our next visit.

Only called in here for a drink at the bar. Whilst the choice of real ales is small, the one that they did have was excellent. They obviously do the usual keg beers, wines etc. If you want to sit down and relax in comfortable seats in a quiet ambience this is the place to go. They also allow well behaved dogs in!

This trip away was return to our honeymoon destination (Ambleside). Our stay was excellent, all hotel facilities were easily accessible and explained fully by the helpful staff. We will definitely return.

stayed here for our anniversary,hotel pleasant, hot tubs in spa and pool great, overall experience good, but staff and waiting time at breakfast worst experienced.overall staff very helpful but failed desperately at breakfast.Breakfast itself is best you can have, hope service will live up to it if we ever stay here again.

Lovely room with double aspect, two armchairs looking out to the front. So relaxing. Very clean and fantastic breakfast, catered for everyone. Everything you needed was there, hairdryer, tea/coffee biscuits and bottled water and lovely dressing gown. No complaints.

What a lovely hotel with a great breakfast! Great comfy bed so got a really fab night's sleep (was a tad cold but extra heating was provided so not a problem) followed by a great continental buffet breakfast and a freshly cooked hot breakfast the following morning! What more do you need? Will return!! A must as I will need to try the gym facilities next time!

We tried a classic room for this three night visit and we found it very comfortable and the view of the western part of the Fairfield Horseshoe delightful. As ever the staff were friendly and helpful, the breakfast varied and well prepared and the pool facilities great (an issue with the lady's showers/changing area once reported was quickly taken in hand). The Hotel is ideally suited for a mooch around Ambleside or being used as a base for the many walks that radiate from the town.

First stay at the Salutation Hotel Ambleside and we were not disappointed. Although rated a 3 star hotel we felt it was more 4 star. The hotel is situated in the centre of the town so is close to shops, restaurants and pubs etc. and there is plenty of walking direct from the hotel. There is free parking at the back of the hotel (car parking is a bit tight for large cars!) We stayed in a Lakeland room which was situated at the back of the hotel on the ground floor so no views, but the facilities in the room made up for this; lovely bathroom, separate seating area, king size bed, robes. slippers, tea and coffee making facilities and a free newspaper. We were on a bed and breakfast 2 night stay. The breakfast is lovely with plenty of choice (cold and hot). We decided to dine both nights at the hotel and again the food was really good with plenty of choice and accompanied by great friendly service. All in all a great stay and we will be back.

Booked on the day as part of a road trip so really had no idea what to expect. Previous stays at BW Hotels have been unremarkable to be honest. We booked a Tree House room which came with all the trimmings, SK bed, separate living area, walk in shower, whirlpool bath, balcony and even a hot tub. Room was everything and more, spacious, contemporary design, spotless. Even had a small kitchen area which came in handy for storing our drinks in the fridge and a decent coffee machine. Service at reception was excellent. Swimming pool and gym very well appointed and again modern clean decor. Large dining room and lounge area. Noticed some complaints about parking on other reviews. We parked up and left the car for our two day visit so didn't have an issue. We noted that the hotel did have some reserve signs up so would suggest you request these if required. Yes it is tight and there were a couple of spaces I wouldn't have been happy leaving my car but equally a few covered spots so I suppose it's right time right place. Also used the spa and found the prices reasonable ad the spa area the same high standard as the rest of the hotel. Breakfast was good, lots of choice. Only downside for me was no skimmed milk and no offer to get some for me. So black coffee at breakfast and no sitting in the lounge with a cappuccino. Not to worry though as there is a Costa and several other coffee shops just across the road. Again the fridge came in handy so I was able to buy my own supply for the room. Overall impression, wonderful hotel. Someone has spent a lot of money getting it just right. At £180 per night, our Tree House suite wasn't average price but well worth every penny. The hot tub on the balcony overlooking a waterfall and the river just made the whole experience a special treat. With the lovely town of Ambleside on our doorstep and many really good quality restaurants, it was the perfect location. If we had stayed longer we would have tried the Brasserie for an evening meal but there were too many others to try in the town. We will definitely be back.

Booked a three night stay at this hotel after picking for location. Given club single and was thrilled with balcony and view, the down side was that it was a small room and the bathroom impossibly small. Requested a move and offered to pay difference between single and double. Room was changed at no extra cost and its just the best. Hotel staff are really helpful and obliging. Will return !!

Staff went out of their way to be friendly and caring. Nothing was too much trouble. The menu had the widest range of food I have ever experienced in a quality restaurant, and was excellent value for money whilst still being of a high standard. Breakfast was just superb. Lovely room. The variety of lounges meant for a very relaxing environment to read or just chill and the ambience was relaxing. A great stay.

We have stayed at the Salutation many times.We keep returning because of its location,friendly service,great views and fantastic breakfast.May of the people staying are 'regulars'. It's worth becoming a member of thw Westmoreland Club at the Hotel.For £15 you get lifelong 10% off room charges,food and drink.

A very refined Hotel, managed to a professional standard; not the cheapest place in the world but very good value. Rooms were lovely , clean and warm with quality fittings. Swimming pool, sauna, outside hot tub a real bonus. Located in the town so pubs and restaurants close by; stunning walks to waterfalls and over to Troutbeck start at the Hotel. Hotel staff were international and knew how to look after you.

Fabulous hotel, room was clean, comfortable and cozy. Used the spa facilities after a 10 mile walk, very relaxing. Breakfast set us up for the day! Parking was easy and secure. Ideal location we will definitely be back again

This is my 3rd visit to this fantastic hotel and most certainly not my last! In terms of facilities this hotel as all you need from the sumptuous and expansive lounge and bar, excellent restaurant, health club and spa, great views and rooms to match all your needs including some with private alfresco hot tubs! Service is the watch word here and nothing is too much trouble! Location is another reason why this hotel is a must. Nestled in the heart of town with many fine eateries in spitting distance and some great shopping opportunities. You are also very central for many local beauty spots including Tarn Hows, Windermere, Coniston, Keswick, Grasmere, etc, etc, etc My personal thanks to Geoff and the team for making our stay perfect! See you next year!

We stayed here beginning of April- a very very wet weekend but saved from being a total disaster by the hotel ! Our warm welcome spotless room and delicious food made up for the incessant rain! We ate in the hotel the two nights we stayed and were spoilt for choice from an extensive menu! The breakfasts were excellent - absolutely amazing choice again cooked or fresh fruit etc - the bread selections were amazing ! All the staff were so kind helpful and friendly. There was a large party of some kind in the afternoon while we were there but nothing was still to much trouble and we got the tea and sandwiches we ordered in quick time ! We would certainly stay again ..... but only if we could guarantee no rain! Oh and two other great pluses a fabulous swimming pool and their own car park which is a real bonus as hotel in the centre of Ambleside!

third time here and just lovely in every aspect :-) really have nothing bad to say about this place clean, tidy, friendly, helpful staff ..and a cracking scrambled egg for breakfast nothing else needed to be said xx

Stayed for 3 nights and about our sixth visit. As usual all the staff were really friendly and welcoming. Room had been refurbished and was cosy and warm, really love having a jacuzzi bath after a day on the fells. We had a room at the rear with a balcony and the views are simply stunning. Breakfast as always was the best in The Lakes. Can't wait to return in June!

As a Lake District regular I have avoided Ambleside, too touristy, very expensive and everywhere closes early. The Salutation however staying in the Lodge Club Rooms was a very pleasant exception. Clean, comfortable with young friendly staff and the combination of good quality rooms, lovely public areas and a first rate spa made for a memorable four day stay. The negatives are minor: the parking is a major challenge, minor problems with the room met a mañana approach and the female who thought it ok to walk into the male spa changing room to speak with her husband in the shower was well, interesting! If you do not have young children and find boisterous activity in the pool area a bit of a pain choose dates outside of school holidays, otherwise the spa area is a real positive. I enjoyed the Salutation, I'll go back. But check the door on the changing room if you blush easily.

This is a lovely hotel which has very attractive décor. (Public spaces have been recently refurbished I think.) We have stayed here before and never been disappointed. I have to say that the staff are really good, friendly and very efficient. The food is always tasty and well presented. We had a nice sized bedroom 103 on the 1st floor with a balcony overlooking the front of the hotel. Gets the full sun most of the time. Hotel is dog friendly which is great for Lakeland walking and there are dog friendly pubs very close as well as the hotel bar. Would recommend this hotel without question.

Ideally situated to explore this beautiful area. Very friendly staff; extremely dog friendly (our yorkie was made very welcome and even given a big blanket). room and bathroom spotlessly clean, fab power shower; very comfortable bed; food in restaurant very tasty and lovely ambience; drinks and food reasonably priced. will be back, thank you ??

I usually do B&B in a smaller hotel with male friends. I wanted to keep my wife happy and the hotel delivered! Spa for massages, swimming pool, lovely rooms, centre of town, great breakfasts, friendly efficient staff and a comfortable bar. The weather was great - result all round.

Firstly I would like to say the staff here are the best I have ever encountered in a hotel in the Lakes area. The hotel rooms were fantastic with one exception, my bedroom. The room was in the one of the lodges out of the main building, the bathroom in room 304 was ridiculous to say the least, I may suggest that someone trying to wash their face in the washbasin has not been tested by any of the management. In my opinion this should be used as a stock room only. The food here was very good however the menue in the evening wasn't very sophisticated for such a top class looking restaurant. Some of the suggestions were beef burgers,sausage,mince beef and mash potato pie,these were more suited to the bar than the restaurant. I settled for salmon first night and steak the second night, no complaints on either although the menue didn't change for the second night. We were not made aware if there were any different 'specials' available. One of my friends was very annoyed at the fact you had to pay £2.50 if paying by credit card on settling your account at the end of our stay.

Salutation is in the centre of Ambleside. Perfect to enjoy a walk to Rydal, Grasmere, Loughrigg fell or Fairfield . Just a few minor irritations about our stay. Double bed great but bathroom far too small. Incredible view from the balcony but why does it have to be lit up all night? Grubby window with live insects crawling about. Very horrible tweed bed cover. Rough as a cat's tongue to my delicate fair skin. Looked at the gym and pool. Nobody available for advice. Very dangerous. Pool smelt very strongly of chlorine. Not inspiring. However staff were pleasant and breakfast very good.

We had a brilliant family break at the hotel. Excellent location in the centre of the village allowing an easy walk to some wonderful restaurants. Credit to the entire team, as any member of staff we encountered at the hotel, were welcoming and friendly. Room was comfortable with a jacuzzi style bath which my kids loved. We also made use of the pool, steam room, sauna and outdoor hot tub. Ambleside is a great location to explore the area and with lovely weather, fantastic hotel with wonderful service, we didn't want to return home.

Very nice hotel well situated. Very friendly staff, clean of course. Parking space. Nice breakfast too. Spa is quite nice. You find anything you would like to find in a hotel. You will not forget this place in the heart of ambleside. Recommended!!

Stayed for 2 nights and could not fault the hotel, staff or facilities. Room was extremely comfortable and had everything we needed - even a tray to put our muddy boots on! Bathroom was scrupulously clean, with spa bath and powerful shower and I shall definitely be saving in my complimentary duck money box for a return trip! Great choice of food at breakfast with the full English prepared to order and beautifully cooked. Ambleside is a lovely town and a perfect base for exploring the area with several towns within easy reach.

Excellent hotel and friendly, helpful staff, great location in the centre of Ambleside, king-size bed and tidy room helped with the relaxation, food quality and presentation excellent although the evening dinner menu could do with a little more adventurous choices, minor point as we had a great time thanks

Very Friendly staff serving good food at excellent prices. Not stayed there but it has a spa as well and pool for those who like such things. The restaurant is carpeted, well decorated and light, not modern but well appointment and makes for a restful atmosphere. Will always use it as a place to eat in a comfortable Cambrian abode.

We had a family short break in Ambleside and chose to stay at this hotel, we were pleased that we did. The hotel was well presented inside and out, the food was good and we were made to feel very welcome by the staff.

I had planned and booked this, paid in full, well in advance. I had at the time of booking explained it was a treat for my wife's 50th Birthday. Frankly we felt (apart from Charlotte and David in the restaraunt plus all of the cleaners on the 2nd Floor that we'd just walked in off the street and booked. No mention to my wife of the birthday - would have been a nice touch - to know your customer (KYC) they had all of the details. Additionally room 219 is extremely stuffy - we had the window open all the time - at night we perspired so much our sleep was interrupted and we did not get one good night's sleep - was there some kind of winter mattress or cover under the sheets? Is it a winter's duvet in use? This was not pleasant. The hook in the bathroom was not secure to the wall - Upon arriving, the reception team were at best fair, we were not given a briefing of the hotels facilities nor meal times etc. Considering we were there for a 4 night stay we walked past the Reception desk every day on more than one occasion not once did any reception staff recognise us by name or by more than a ritual hello or nod of the head - We were always within 6 feet of each other (missed a courteous trick with that one).There were positives also which I have listed in the Best Western Survey.

Stayed here with a group of friends for the weekend having last stayed at The Salutation eight years ago. I was impressed with how beautifully the hotel had been refurbished since my last stay. Rooms were very nicely equipped with lovely bathrooms (great shower pressure) and very comfy beds. Staff were friendly and efficient and we enjoyed the excellent breakfast, leisure facilities and spa. From start to finish we had a lovely stay and couldn't fault a thing (apart from the non-stop rain which was out of the control of the hotel!)

Fantastic location in the heart of Ambleside, we had a suite with a view so loads of room and good value for money. Cleaning staff excellent, room was spotless for entire stay. Was disappointed with 'cumbrian breakfast'. I would surgest you fore-go this and opt to order separate items of what you would like. I.e. if you want more than a single mushroom order the amount in clear specified numbers. I had to say I would like 6 mushrooms. If you want more than one piece of bacon again ask in number. The same goes for toast and butter, this can make the whole ordering of breakfast rather laborious but its worth making a list prior to going to breakfast so you get what you want rather than some lonely looking items scattered about the plate. I also personally would fore-go the cumbrian sausage as well. also be aware a portion of tomato at breakfast is half a tomato grilled. But in comparison to all the other breakfast options I would give their poached eggs 10/10. Went for dinner just the one evening, and went to other places for our other four nights, dinner ok, not wow just ok. but as I mentioned the accommodation and staff are fantastic.

Excellent hotel with friendly staff in a brilliant location. Nice welcoming atmosphere and comfortable lounge/bar with good fitness facilities and excellent pool. Bedroom was modern and comfortable and very clean and the hotel is perfectly situated for exploring Ambleside and surrounding area or to have relaxing retreat.

We had been staying over in Hawkshead in our caravan over the easter weekend it had been a bit of a washout, we called in here for a nice meal and my partner suggested I stayed over for the night with my daughter as a treat to bring up our spirits, it did the job perfectly after our lovely meal, served by lovely staff. We retreated to our recently refurbishd very nice room both had a Jacuzzi bath then ordered drinks via room service. Had a very relaxing sleep in a lovely bed then down for breakfast again the staff were excellent and the food also, unfortunately we were unable to experianc any of the other hotels facilities as hadn't come prepared but will definitely be returning too do so

This is our first stay at The Salutation and it won't be our last. I am not a fan of the larger chain hotel in general however I was pleasantly surprised and I stand corrected. We had a wonderful relaxing stay and put this down to both the exceptional management and the hard working staff because they provided a practically seamless service. We love Ambleside and stay frequently preferring to eat out in general, but the food at the Salutation was so good, and the service was outstanding. The hotel is so comfortable, so relaxing, so friendly. I am running out of compliments! To all the Staff at the Salutation who contributed in providing an outstanding service, you gave us a wonderful Easter break... Thank you very much I salute you all.

We stayed here for 2 nights in a well appointed room with a balcony. The room was warm (a little too warm at night), the bed was huge but comfortable. There were a few little niggles with the coat hooks and toilet roll holders all hanging off the wall, so a few little repair jobs required there. The restaurant was clean, the staff were attentive and professional, the breakfast was delicious and you could order as much or as little as your appetite demanded. We had dinner one evening which was also very tasty and well presented. The bar area was clean and comfortable with lots of sofas and arm chairs, a nice place to relax with a bottle of wine. The spa was quite small but had two Jacuzzis, sauna, steam room and small pool. The outside Jacuzzi area was in need of a little TLC and a clean up of the area, it looked a little tired. All in all a very enjoyable stay at this hotel with good amenities, friendly staff and well presented tasty food.

We booked in here on Easter Sunday for a three course Sunday lunch, which was lovely, all nicely cooked & presented with good service! We also used the leisure facilities for the afternoon afterwards including the gym, pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub and a nice little tropical shower. Really clean, modern and just generally a great afternoon when it was a rainy day outside. Will definitely be back and will recommend to friends.

Been coming to the Salutation since 2002, and it has greatly improved over that time. The hotel offers free parking, which is a godsend in Ambleside, especially in the busy season. It's controlled via a bollard system, with an exit code from reception. The welcome was good, three people on reception. Check in is from 3pm and we had room 202. Twin room with view over the front and on to the market place. Beds very comfy, all mod cons- tv, kettle,safe , toiletries etc. A couple of chairs in the room meant we could sit and admire the views out of the window. Room was very clean and looked as though it had recently been refurbished. Bathroom had a bath, a jacuzzi type one and a really good power shower. The hotel has a good leisure set up. Down stairs to a gym, pool, jacuzzi, steam room and out door hot tub. Robes and towels were provided in our rooms. The hotel looks as though it's had a recent refurb, very neat tidy and clean. Breakfast was excellent. Nice full English with local produce. A very good continental spread and local breads. Service was good and all staff from reception, to bar, to housekeeping were very friendly and efficient. Bar area was quite buzzing both nights we were there and restaurant was doing a good trade WIFI is free. Location of this hotel is superb, right in the heart of Ambleside, good for the shops and for walks out. Prices vary on rooms and time of year but w e got a. Winter saved deal at £90 b&b per night for two. Not much more than a local b&b but with great leisure facilities. A really good hotel, in a great location that ticks all the boxes.

I stayed at this hotel for 2 nights . Fantastic place . The rooms were clean and functional . Very comfortable. The heated pool , gym , sauna and steam room was absolutely fantastic . Well maintained and very clean . Breakfast we very good . Staff were great , helpful and extremely friendly . The location is great . All round a fantastic please to stay . Highly recommended.

brill hotel. Excellent facilities. As a family it had everything we wanted. Great breakfasts. Lovely bar. Great vetgetarian restaurants in Ambleside. Will stay again. Great pool with outside hot tub. Compact but great gym. Snug parking but we always found a place to park

The Salutation is a great hotel with a great team running it. Nothing is too much trouble and the location and facilities are second to none. Had a great time and can't wait to return. All the staff are so helpful you are made to feel so welcome it is a great place to unwind and relax,

The salutation hotel is one of the best hotels we have stayed in whilst visiting the lakes. The service is excellent and the staff make it pleasant and enjoyable. The rooms are well appointed and clean. We didn't use the swimming pool or spa but they were available as well as towels etc. The parking can be a bit of a problem but other than that we will return again

Just spent 2 nights here on a weekend break with friends- rooms lovely, comfortable, bathrooms clean, well appointed, breakfasts amazing and welcome/service from all the staff we interacted with was great. Will definitely come back here.

The most recent of many visits to this hotel was, as usual, a pleasure. The standards of service, decor and cleanliness are high and it it feels like coming home, particularly as we could request a favourite room when booking. The breakfasts are exceptional and the quality and presentation of the evening meals have improved since we last dined in the hotel. The wonderful outdoor hot tub and pool are relaxing, but can be quite busy as this area is open to non-residents. As often mentioned the parking can be quite tight, but this is as a result of so many guests now driving vehicles the size of a small truck!

We stopped here for two nights and had a beautiful stay. The health suite is stunning very clean and tidy. We took advantage and used the Canadian hot tub outside which was an added treat! The breakfast was amazing you ordered exactly what you wanted I ordered the traditional breakfast but with an extra sausage and egg which cost no extra! We also had a drink in the bar both nights which was relaxing and charming. And to top it of our room had a jet bath which again was an added treat! Lovely stay and look forward to returning.

Comfortable room, if a little small. Bathroom very smart and most fantastic shower. Bed, pillows and linen very good. B/fast selection exceptional range and quality. Lift a bit temperamental and our room did seem a bit of a trek along cluttered corridors.

Just returned from another excellent jazz break at the Salutation. Once again, without exception, the staff were first class. There was always a happy smile and nothing seemed to be too much trouble even though the nature of the event must cause a considerable upheaval to the usual running of the hotel. Well done to Paul and his first class staff. Looking forward to the next break in October.

We recently returned from this hotel, having been given vouchers for our 60th birthday last year . As before , all was as we wanted . It's a hotel which is very relaxed and suits us well. Nothing pretentious or fussy . The food was lovely , particularly breakfast . The service in the dining room is very attentive but easy going and friendly . Nothing to make you feel out of place or uncomfortable . The dining room itself is well set out and adjusted for the number of diners which makes for a cosy , yet private dining experience . The Spanish waiters deserve a mention as they made a great joke ( in a good way ) about my new Spanish language skills . They were excellent . Our club room was lovely with great views. Huge comfy bed and everything we needed . Very warming comforting after a day's walking . Would def return and recommend

This was our second visit to this hotel , our rooms were very comfortable and quiet with everything we needed, all recently redecorated and very clean All the staff from reception, waiters to the lovely cleaners are friendly and seem to enjoy working here , nothing is any trouble , breakfast had loads of choices We used the gym which was well set out the best I've seen in a hotel, loved the pool and jacuzzi especially enjoyed the Canadian hot tub outside , well done everyone at The Salutation

We stayed in a club double room it was fantastic! - an enormous comfy bed, spa bath & large shower. Spotlessly clean. The hotel staff are so friendly & helpful, they make you feel really welcome. The leisure facilities are great - simply a perfect place to stay. Highly recommend to everyone can't wait to visit again.

We were visiting Ambleside for an overnight stay and found the Hotel ideally situated in the centre of Ambleside. It was a short walk to all the shops and ameneties. Our visit was to have a meal at The Old Stamp House restaurant, which was only 5 minutes walk from the Hotel. Our room however was in an annexe which meant walking outside from the main building to reach the room, luckily it was not raining during our stay.

This was our first visit to Ambleside. We were blessed with beautiful sunshine. The hotel is the ideal place to visit this town. It is centrally placed with a bus stop and taxi rank close by. There is also a car park. The hotel is very inviting, the food and amenities were perfect and the bed was very comfortable. All in all a very welcoming and peaceful stay.