Badger Bar Bed & Breakfast Ambleside Exterior photoBadger Bar Bed & Breakfast Ambleside Exterior photoBadger Bar Bed & Breakfast Ambleside Exterior photo
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From142US$ /night
Check-in
03May2026Select date
Check-out
04May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Glen Rothay, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, Ambleside, United Kingdom
-
Near Rydal Cave
Great
8.8
/10
4.7
4.5
/5

Badger Bar - A 3-star historic inn with onsite pub dining, badger feeding, and proximity to Lake District walks

Featuring a blend of historical charm and modern comforts, Badger Bar offers an authentic Lake District experience in its 400-year-old inn. The property includes double, twin, and family rooms, with some accommodations located in a separate cottage. All rooms feature en-suite facilities, digital TVs, and tea/coffee makers. The Rothay and Woodland rooms are ideal for families, offering extra beds and space. A Cumbrian breakfast is served daily. Classic pub meals, including fish and chips, Cumberland sausage, and homemade pies, are available for lunch and dinner in the Badger Bar. The bar serves at least four local real ales and 20 whiskies. Recreational opportunities include badger feeding at dusk from April to October, proximity to Rydal Water, and access to walking paths like Loughrigg Terrace. Local attractions such as Rydal Cave and Dove Cottage are within 2 km. The property is dog-friendly, with designated rooms, and offers free Wi-Fi and ample parking.

Pros

The historic inn includes open fires, wonky floors, and a unique ambiance with no TVs.

Badger Bar is located directly on walking paths, including Loughrigg Terrace, with Rydal Water just a 2-minute walk away.

The pub serves locally sourced food, including signature dishes like fish and chips and Cumberland sausage.

Rooms in the cottage provide secluded woodland settings, ideal for families or pets.

Dog-friendly policies allow pets in most public spaces and select rooms.

Cons

Some rooms have steep steps, which may be challenging for guests with mobility issues.

The badger feeding is seasonal (April to October) and less visible in winter.

“What stands out is the palpable sense of history within this inn's walls, complemented by a team whose dedication to service shines through every interaction. The culinary experience is a highlight, featuring home-cooked meals and quality ingredients. And then there's the unique opportunity to observe badgers in their natural habitat, an unexpectedly charming touch.”
Hotel logo
Luke HarrisonEditor-in-Chief at Hotelewam
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Select your room type

Badger Bar Bed & Breakfast offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double Room
2 persons
18 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Large Double Room
2 persons
30 m² 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Woodland View
2 persons
18 m² 
1 King-size bed
Forest view
Shower
Heating
Double or Twin Room Woodland View
2 persons
22 m² 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Forest view
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Badger Bar Bed & Breakfast offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Badger Bar Bed & Breakfast Location

Glen Rothay, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, Ambleside, United Kingdom
Map view
Glen Rothay, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, Ambleside, United Kingdom
Nearby
Nature reserve
National Trust Dora's Field
50 m
Restaurants
Rydal River Cafe
5.8 km
Rydal Road Rydal Lodge
Explore Ambleside
Explore Glen Rothay Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Rydal Cave
14 minutes walking
Natural limestone cave with stunning rock formations and scenic surroundings. Perfect for short hikes and photo opportunities.
Bridge House
5 minutes walking
Iconic 18th-century building recognized for its quirky architecture. Great spot for pictures and local history.
Dove Cottage
25 minutes walking
The former home of poet William Wordsworth, offering insight into his life. Guided tours available and beautiful gardens.
The Armitt Museum And Gallery
20 minutes walking
Local museum showcasing artifacts and art related to the Lake District. Engaging exhibits cater to families and history buffs.
Hiking Nab Scar
15 minutes walking
Challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding landscapes, suitable for adventurous spirits seeking a workout.
Relaxing at Rydal Water
50 minutes walking
Picturesque lakeside walks perfect for families or solo travelers looking to unwind. Ideal location for picnics.
Fellinis Cinema
25 minutes walking
Charming cinema with a cafe offering gourmet meals and snacks. Unique experience to enjoy movies with fine dining.
Rydal River Cafe
15 minutes driving
Quaint cafe featuring locally sourced ingredients. Offers a mix of traditional dishes and modern, seasonal specials.
Ambleside Roman Fort
30 minutes walking
Historic site with fascinating ruins and displays. Engaging for all ages and provides insight into Roman history.
Stock Ghyll Force
30 minutes walking
Spectacular waterfall with walking paths nearby. Offers enjoyable nature experiences suited for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Ambleside30 min  ·  2.5 km
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX)115 min  ·  76.6 km
Blackpool International (BLK)163 min  ·  108.5 km
Bus
Bus stop28 min  ·  2.3 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:30
Check-out
from 10:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Badger Bar guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
14
Former name
glen rothay

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Badger Bar Bed & Breakfast from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 373 verified reviews
8.8/10
Great
92%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.1/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.8/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Comfy beds
Friendly staff
Home-cooked food
Cons
Poor water pressure
Cramped rooms
Guest reviews
based on 749 reviews
8.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Badger Bar
What are the check-in and check-out times at Badger Bar?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Badger Bar?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What popular attractions are near Badger Bar?
Nearby attractions include Rydal Water (0.3 km), Grasmere (5 km), and Lake Windermere (6 km).
What dining options does Badger Bar offer?
The hotel features an on-site bar and restaurant, serving a range of classic pub food and local ales.
What room amenities are available at Badger Bar?
Rooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and en-suite bathrooms.
What additional services are offered at Badger Bar?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, along with a bar lounge area.
How far is Badger Bar from Carlisle Lake District Airport?
The hotel is located 80 km from Carlisle Lake District Airport.
What is unique about Badger Bar's location?
The hotel is situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park, next to scenic walking trails.
Are children accommodated at Badger Bar?
The hotel offers family-friendly rooms, including options with ample space for children.
What breakfast options are available at Badger Bar?
Guests can enjoy a traditional full English breakfast, including options like scrambled eggs with smoked salmon.
What outdoor activities can be enjoyed from Badger Bar?
Local activities include hiking through nearby hills, mountain biking, and river cruises along Lake Windermere.
What type of travelers does Badger Bar cater to?
The hotel targets nature lovers seeking outdoor adventures and families looking for pet-friendly accommodations.
Does Badger Bar provide any smoking areas?
The hotel is a smoke-free property.

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Check-in
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room