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Rock Lea, Ambleside

Guest Rating
Rating
4.8
out of 5
Guest Rating
Rating
4.8
out of 5
Sleeps up to 3
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 2

Rock Lea is a sympathetically restored cottage in the heart of Ambleside, Cumbria. This two-storey property retains much of its original character while offering modern comforts. The location puts you in a quiet part of town yet within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Ambleside sits in the central Lake District. You can walk straight from the front door onto fell paths. The town offers an excellent bus service for exploring further afield. The cottage sits in a peaceful area with stunning fell views from the rear.

The accommodation sleeps four guests across two bedrooms upstairs. Downstairs you'll find a well-equipped kitchen with a large freezer and all necessary cooking facilities. The cosy living room features a woodburning stove.

 

About Rock Lea

Rock Lea is a sympathetically restored cottage in the heart of Ambleside, Cumbria. This two-storey property retains much of its original character while offering modern comforts. The location puts you in a quiet part of town yet within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Ambleside sits in the central Lake District. You can walk straight from the front door onto fell paths. The town offers an excellent bus service for exploring further afield. The cottage sits in a peaceful area with stunning fell views from the rear.

The accommodation sleeps four guests across two bedrooms upstairs. Downstairs you'll find a well-equipped kitchen with a large freezer and all necessary cooking facilities. The cosy living room features a woodburning stove. A dedicated parking space for one small to medium car is included - a real bonus in Ambleside. The private patio overlooks a shared garden.

Stockghyll Force waterfall is just 0.5 miles away (5 minutes). Lake Windermere lies 1.5 miles south (8 minutes). Rydal Water is 1.8 miles north (7 minutes). Grasmere village sits 4 miles away (12 minutes).

Rock Lea works perfectly for walkers and couples wanting a comfortable base. The combination of central location and parking makes this an ideal Lake District retreat.

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

Rock Lea Attractions & Days Out

Explore the wonderful attractions and activities surrounding Rock Lea during your stay. Find the best places to visit and things to do in the local area, all conveniently organised by distance and type. Charming villages to lively and exciting attractions - there's something for everyone to enjoy. Browse through our categories including attractions, walks & outdoor activities, shopping destinations and handy tips on getting around. Plan your perfect day out. Whether you're looking for family fun, romantic experiences, or pet-friendly adventures, this cottage provides an ideal base to explore Cumbria's fantastic days out. Click on any attraction for more detailed information including address, opening times and visitor tips.

Stockghyll Force Waterfall
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA22 0EJ
Lake Windermere
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1LF
Rydal Water
Distance: 1.8 miles
LA22 9LR
Loughrigg Fell
Distance: 1.2 miles
LA22 9NG
Wansfell Pike
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA22 0EE
Fairfield Horseshoe
Distance: 2 miles
LA22 9PR
Ambleside Town Centre
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA22 9BT
Booths Supermarket
Distance: 0.4 miles
LA22 9BU
Climbers Shop
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA22 9DT
Bus Stop (555 Service)
Distance: 0.2 miles
LA22 9BS
Ambleside Library
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA22 9BL
Medical Centre
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA22 9DU
Stockghyll Force Waterfall
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA22 0EJ
Lake Windermere
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA23 1LF
Rydal Water
Distance: 1.8 miles
LA22 9LR
Loughrigg Fell
Distance: 1.2 miles
LA22 9NG
Wansfell Pike
Distance: 1.5 miles
LA22 0EE
Fairfield Horseshoe
Distance: 2 miles
LA22 9PR
Ambleside Town Centre
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA22 9BT
Booths Supermarket
Distance: 0.4 miles
LA22 9BU
Climbers Shop
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA22 9DT
Bus Stop (555 Service)
Distance: 0.2 miles
LA22 9BS
Ambleside Library
Distance: 0.3 miles
LA22 9BL
Medical Centre
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA22 9DU

Is Rock Lea Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
Rock Lea is not ideally suited for families with young children. The cottage has stairs to both bedrooms which may present challenges for toddlers. The shared garden provides some outdoor space but lacks specific play equipment. The location works better for older children who enjoy walking and exploring the Lakes. No pets are allowed which may disappoint families with dogs.
For Couples
Rock Lea excels as a couples' retreat. The woodburning stove creates intimate evenings after days exploring the fells. Both bedrooms offer comfortable beds with excellent light-blocking curtains for lie-ins. The well-equipped kitchen lets you cook romantic meals together. The central Ambleside location puts restaurants and pubs within walking distance. The private patio provides a peaceful spot for morning coffee with fell views.
Pet Friendly
Rock Lea does not accept pets. The property operates a strict no pets policy to maintain high standards for all guests. This includes a no smoking and no vaping rule throughout. If you're travelling with a dog, you'll need to find alternative accommodation in the Ambleside area. The policy helps ensure the cottage remains suitable for guests with pet allergies.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Rock Lea

The Giggling Goose

Located 0.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 9BU

Lucy's on a Plate

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 9BL

The Golden Rule

Located 0.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 9BS

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Rock Lea

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
No, Rock Lea does not have a hot tub. The cottage focuses on traditional Lake District character with a woodburning stove for cosy evenings instead.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at Rock Lea. The property operates a strict no pets policy to maintain standards for guests with allergies.
How many people does Rock Lea sleep?
The cottage sleeps four guests across two bedrooms located upstairs. Both bedrooms feature comfortable beds that guests consistently praise in reviews.
What parking is available?
One dedicated parking space is included directly outside the cottage. The space suits small to medium cars only - larger vehicles may struggle to fit.
Is the garden private?
The cottage has a private patio for your exclusive use. The garden beyond the patio is shared with other cottages in the development.
How far is it to Ambleside centre?
You can walk to Ambleside shops, pubs and restaurants within minutes. The cottage sits in a quiet part of town yet remains close to all amenities.
What kitchen facilities are provided?
The kitchen is fully equipped with all necessary cooking facilities including a large freezer. Many guests cook every evening and find everything they need.
Are bed linen and towels included?
Yes, all bed linen and towels are provided. Toiletries are also included as a thoughtful extra touch that guests appreciate.

Rock Lea Reviews

Well what a lovely lovely cottage. Although it will accommodate 3 adults we thought it was perfect for 2, very cosy with the log burner roaring on a cold March night, well every night we stayed! The cottage had everything we needed from kitchen utensils, washerdryer, bath & hand towels etc and to have parking literally right by the front door is a real bonus and we even managed an hour sat at the bistro table outside the back of the cottage. The cottage is tucked away in The Nook but literally only 3 minute walk into the centre of Ambleside which has a great choice of pubs and restaurants, a couple of 'local' tescos Coops and a petrol station 2 min drive away for logskindling etc. We have had holidays in Yorkshire, Pembrokeshire, Devon and Dorset and we both agreed this was quite simply the nicest cottage we have stayed in in 30 years of holidays......so that says something! We did have an issue with central heating on the first Saturday night which after a phone call on Sunday morning was resolved by midday, very impressed so big thanks to the call centre & maintenance team. One little thing we did think is that a starter pack of logskindlingfire lights would have been a nice touch, and as a reference for future guests the parking outside is ideal for up to FocusToyota CHR size of car. Overall 1010, can't wait to return
The cottage is truly wonderful in every form. From perfect location, to having its own parking space, having every home amenity available, to its cleanliness and to comfort. A home from home. The only thing that we felt could've made it more comfortable was having the heating come on for 6am rather than 7am as in March its still very cold in the morning. We have already booked for April next year.
Jennifer
This was our second stay at Rock Lea and it was as good as the first. The accommodation was spotlessly clean and well equipped. Beds were extremely comfortable even the pillows were very much to our liking, in fact probably better than our own. Bathroom had everything we needed and the shower was quite powerful. Living room, with its wood burning stove and decent furniture, made for cosy nights in. Kitchen was well equipped and oven and hob very easy to use. Only slight downside was noise from workmen on a couple of days, along with their large vehicles. Having said that, we realise that the owners were not to blame for this. Would we recommend YES, DEFINITELY!
Samantha
Lovely cottage in a fabulous location with the bonus of a rare parking space. Very comfortable & extremely well equipped.
On the last day the heating was not working. I tried to ring Sykes using the telephone number in the email given to report problems. Impossible to speak to anyone. Just recorded messages and going in circles . At 9.30 on a Saturday morning you should be able to speak to someone. We left a note . When it was heart of the lakes there was always a friendly voice to speak to . Ive had a few problems with Sykes and you can never speak to a person. Not everyone is happy using portals .
Stuart
Cottage was lovely, we had already booked it for next year. Cant wait to go back, ideal location for everything .Brenda & Stuart.
Rainer
Really good cottage in a central location with parking. We felt very comfortable there. The house was very clean. Everything you need is there. We would love to come back.
Darren
Fantastic location and the house immediately felt like home for a week, super!
Our second stay in this lovely cottage. Weve just booked a third visit for next year. Cozy, convenient and situated in a lovely quiet spot, even in the middle of the school summer holidays! The owner has done a great job and were looking forward to our stay in 2026. Love the map in the kitchen!
Small but very cosy cottage. Ideal location, quiet but close to all amenities. Very tastefully decorated and thoughtfully equipped with attention to detail. This is our 3rd consecutive visit to Rock Lea and we have already booked to return again next year. A lakeside Gem to be throughly recommended.
I think it says it all in that this was our 9th visit to Rock Lea. The property was as good as ever and we shall return for our 10th visit soon.
Superb property
We couldn't fault the cottage, it was amazing and in a perfect location for walking into the beautiful town of Ambleside or for exploring the lakes. The kitchen was well equipped with everything we needed. We loved every minute of our stay.
Patricia
A lovely cosy cottage in a great location
Fantastic property in a great location! Well equipped kitchen, we cooked each evening and the kitchen had all the tools we needed. Large freezer was really handy as we brought frozen food and were able to freeze our bread rolls so they would last the week. The beds were so comfortable and the curtains kept the light out well. Couldnt fault the property at all. We will be back!
Richard
Didn't see any description that it was a shared garden and thought the picture of the garden a bit miss leading, but didn't affect our stay but may others if they are expecting a private garden!
Great location, a well appointed, clean 2 storey accomodation. No negatives at all. We benefitted from decent weather and were able to leave the car most days. That meant having dedicated parking was a real bonus too. The living room is cosy, the kitchen meets all basic needs, the bedrooms comfortable, and the bathroom has as good shower. It was an ideal property for our stay in Ambleside.
Richard James
Very comfortable property, best we have stayed in Ambleside, great location close to shops etc and a parking space outside which is a bonus in this town. Very comfortable beds and kitchen had all necessary facilities. Great view of the fells from the rear of the property.
Enjoyed our stay. Very comfortable and cosy cottage.
Beautiful well maintained cottage. A new garlic press would be a welcome addition to the kitchen utensils.
Lovely cottage in a quiet part of Ambleside. A perfect place to base yourself in for a holiday in the Lakes. There are plenty of walks from the front door door, but if you need to go further afield I would recommend the excellent bus service. Having a parking space was a real bonus, but be warned, a larger car would be too big to fit in. All in all, a lovely cottage.
Philip
The cottage as ever was immaculately clean, warm, well equipped and very comfortable. Toiletries were an added bonus and very nice. One comment in view of the rental charge we thought one toilet roll and no spares was just a little frugal otherwise a perfect week including great weather. Cant wait to return.
Catherine
This was our second visit to Rock Lea and it was as lovely as our first visit. The cottage has everything you could need and is warm and cosy. We are already planning our third visit!
This visit was our 8th visit to Rocklea and once again we were not disappointed. The cottage is warm and comfortable, ideal for returning to after a days walking. We were able to leave the car at the cottage and walk from the door every day. We will return for our 9th visit!!
Pauline
Second visit here which tells you all you need to know. Lovely cottage with comfortable furniture which makes a difference after a lot of walking. Well equipped and very clean. Fantastic location , literally a couple of minutes from the town centre and parking right outside a huge bonus in Ambleside
Lovely comfortable cosy quiet cottage. From the moment we walked in the door we loved the cottage, it is very homely. The car parking is great and very easy to get to the cottage. Great location nice short walk into Ambleside and easy to get to the main road when going out in the car. We definitely will be back again the future.
Philippa
Beautiful property. Very comfortable and snug .
Pauline
Superb location literally a couple of minutes from two great traditional pubs and a few minutes into town. Parking right outside is an absolute bonus for Ambleside. Ideal for a couple. Comfy sofas and the wood burner was lovely given the cold spell. Well equipped kitchen. Nice bed and very functional bathroom. All well equipped and very homely. Would definitely stay again
Carolyn
Cottage was lovely, very clean and well maintained. It was well equipped with crockery, pots, pans etc. A very good location with an easy stroll into the town. Would definitely return to Rock Lea.
Lovely cottage and great location. Had everything we needed for our weeks stay. A few cobwebs around that should really have been cleaned but otherwise very clean. Parking space outside door but other spaces on first come first served basis which the locals are very aware especially the garage owner down the road who seems to think he can park his customers cars there.
A nice little cottage in a good location and convenient parking. Everything you need for an enjoyable stay in Ambleside.
Stella
All we could have wished for including items sometimes overlooked such as a teapot, with enough 'utensils' to use the dishwasher just a couple of times. Excellent quality towels, bed linen and ample hot water. ideally situated in Ambleside and car parking slot was a bonus.
Catherine
Rock Lea is probably the best holiday cottage we have stayed in. It is clean, nicely decorated and all furniture was very comfortable. The facilities provided are great, even down to small details such as a sewing kit! We are already planning a second visit! Thank you!
Nicola
Beautiful cottage, cosy, comfortable and equipped with everything you could want. Close to centre of Ambleside, a really beautiful place to stay. Unfortunately there was quite alot of noise throughout two nights of our seven night stay. A van alarm from the garage along the lane repeatedly going off at 2.15am! Another night we were awoken by 8 visitors arriving at youth hostel centre ? across the yard reversing with beepers up lane in minibus at 1.30am and lots of noiselights outside. Having said that it's a quiet area without passing road noise, and we were able to park outside the cottage in a designated place. The hostel building ? across the yard did seem to have frequent, short stay guests arriving throughout the days and nights. We weren't aware that this facility was opposite the cottage when we booked. Well equipped kitchen, however, the microwave was difficult to use as the duration of cooking time was tricky to set. The dvd player remote control didn't work, the battery wasn't one that was in the spares left at the property.
This was our 7th visit to Rock Lea which as usual provided us with everything we needed for a relaxing week. The allotted parking space is a bonus as we can leave the car at the cottage and walk from the door. All the shops are in walking distance. We look forward to visiting again soon.
We had an amazing time. The cottage is beautiful,so cute and prettyThe log burner was gorgeous,we did take our own wood with us. The private parking outside was a bonus.The owners have thought of everything to make it like home from home. We did go and buy a bird feeder for the tree.It was lovely watching the birds every morning so i hope people keep it topped up.The location of Rock Lea was perfect for the shops pubs and restaurants.We will definitely be returning.
Another wonderful relaxing break at our favourite cottage in Ambleside. The weather was rather wet but we were able to return to the warm cosy cottage to dry out in front of the log burner. We look forward to a return visit next year.
Claire
Excellent cottage. Was clean and very well equipped. Im sure if you forgot any thing at home Rockea had one you could borrow. Unfortunately when we arrive the heating wasnt working and the day after we had no hot water. However the issue was resolved that day, and the following day the engineer called to ask if everything was still working. Thank you for looking after us so well. We understand issues happen, but its how they are handled that matters. Would recommend the company and cottage to anyone. Thank you for a great holiday!
This was our third visit to Rock Lea Cottage. We are pleased that the cottage is still well maintained and looked after. You used to supply a basket of logs for visitors convenience. You supplied toiletries for our use. They were ok, but I always bring my own, so they are not that necessary. We love the position of the cottage, the beautiful, peaceful garden and the plus of having our own parking space. It is very rare that we repeat a holiday, so I think this says it all.
Alison
Thank you so much for an amazing stay in such a quiet, yet central location. Very comfortable cottage and with own parking spot. We plan to book next year for more walks and exploring by bus. Felt so relaxed, we didn't want to come home!! We are going to buy a boot tray mat as we liked your one so much for our walking boots. Great idea.
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Millans Park, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9AG