Penny Red Cottage

4.1★

4 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets No
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Features

Off road parking
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Dishwasher
Sky TV
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

22 Customer Review(s)

Richard
March 2024

“Oven does not work properly.”

Despite contacting you several times and it taking 2 days for someone to come out it still does not work properly. Putting it on 259c it still takes 30 minutes to cook a pizza when it should only take 10 minutes at 180c. Reading previous reviews this seems to be a problem that has been ongoing for some time. Also the dishwasher has a habit of stopping mid cycle and not washing

Despite contacting you several times and it taking 2 days for someone to come out it still does not work properly. Putting it on 259c it still takes 30 minutes to cook a pizza when it should only take 10 minutes at 180c. Reading previous reviews this seems to be a problem that has been ongoing for some time. Also the dishwasher has a habit of stopping mid cycle and not washing

- Richard, March 2024

Thank you for your feedback, I can see maintenace attended during your stay and found no issue with the oven. We hope to welcome you back soon. Property Owner
Elton December 2023

“Had a great week in Penny Red.”

It completely delivered on the cosiness the pictures suggested. The two large beds were super comfortable with quality mattresses and feather-down duvets, so we slept a lot and really well. And the main room was made up by the log burning fire. Overall the place just smacked of quality and some good attention to detail. The furniture - drawers, tables and side units - was all good quality, and the main bathroom was really stylish with underfloor heating and a towel rail that actually got hot. Both bathrooms had good showers, and having a bath was a treat. The kitchen was decent but there were issues with the toaster and main oven taking ages to cook things because they never really got hot enough. (Easy to replace a toaster but the oven is a slightly bigger problem.) Other little bugs were that, although it was really nice and cosy, the fire desperately needs serviced/repaired because the door and chimney seals are shot so we were tearing though fuel (Note: Dec/Jan booking). We ended up having to buy logs because the coal we took just wouldn't burn properly and didn't give off any heat. Not the end of the world but almost a disappointment. And one other bit of wear and tear that needs to be sorted out is that the shower head holder in the main bathroom is a bit loose and wobbly which meant the shower would sometimes drop down or flop around the place. Not a huge problem but was a bit annoying. Don't let any of this put you off though, because Penny Red is a really nice place and we would definitely go back.

- Elton, December 2023

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and we are glad that you enjoyed your stay. We are making a maintenance visit in a couple of weeks and will look into the items highlighted. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Thanks again Property Owner
Willow September 2023

“We recently stayed at the penny red cottage, the cottage itself is described as being in the town.”

However it is not, it is a 5 minute walk from the town which for most that wouldn’t be a problem however the booking does not mention the massive hill you have to climb to reach the house. So a simple 5 minute walk into the town turns into a sweaty tired mess. So it would have been nice for a heads up in the description of the area on the booking. I was happy to find that the kitchen is decently stocked with kitchen equipment however the tap in the kitchen drips which is really annoying and there is no description on how to use the oven or washing machine so that took us 15 mins to work out. I was also very disappointed to find that the stunning double bedroom on the top floor with lovely views, the main light does not work so you have to rely on the bed side lamp to navigate yourself round the bedroom. The main disappointment of the house was the extractor fan in the first bathroom is broken. When the wind blows on the house it rattles and makes a ton of noise which is very distracting- sounds like a ping pong ball is bashing round inside. For a house that could comfortably house 4-5 people in the main seating area in the sitting room there is only 3 seats available a sofa and sofa chair, I didn’t quite understand this as there is enough space for a bigger sofa. But if 4 people turned up only 3 can sit down and watch some tv. Apart from that criticism the stay itself was lovely, it has private parking with a spacious gap, the bathroom and bedrooms are very clean and cosy with a nice view and the location is nice.

- Willow, September 2023

Thank you for taking the time to provide us this feedback. The Lake District is a popular tourism destination for both the lakes and it's fells. Ambleside is nestled between Wansfell Pike and Scandale fell so is a naturally hilly town. Unfortunately, we were not made aware of the maintenance issues during your stay otherwise we would have rectified these for you. Penny Red Cottage is an end of terrace, stone built Victorian property and so noise from wind can be expected as altering the foundations is not an option. We would always recommend that guests enquire about the suitability of a property prior to booking. We are glad that you did enjoy your stay and enjoyed the local area. Lakelovers Owner Relations Team Property Owner
Luke August 2023

“Really lovely cottage in a great location Parking is a great bonus Cottage ...”

Really lovely cottage in a great location Parking is a great bonus Cottage clean, comfortable and spacious for 4 Let down slightly by kitchen setup - small bin, lacking cooking equipment, oven on the blink Would definitely recommend and stay again

- Luke, August 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay. We take all comments on board, and we will ask our Maintenance Team to look into the issue raised with the oven. Thank you- The Heart of the Lakes Owner Relations Team Leader Property Owner
Louise August 2023

“Issues with boiler and leak from heated towel rack in 1st floor bathroom.”

Very cute cottage though

- Louise, August 2023

Thank you for your feedback. Our Maintenance Team are in process of resolving the issue. Thank you- Heart of the Lakes Owner Relations Team Property Owner
James July 2023

“The cottage was excellent, Just what we wanted.”

It was clean, tidy and very comfortable. The facilities in the cottage were also very good. Showers, bath and living quarters were very well maintained. Would definitely stay at the cottage again.

- James, July 2023
Paula March 2023

“Very comfortable, clean & ideally situated holiday cottage.”

The only problem we had during our stay was the heating control unit kept resetting to frost setting which involved us having to manually override it several times a day. We could not find any instruction in the cottage information pack relating to the heating control unit.

- Paula, March 2023

Thank you for your feedback, we are glad you enjoyed your stay. We are sorry that the boiler caused problems but can confirm that the maintenance team that attended during your stay have rectified the problem. Property Owner
Nick February 2023

“Lovely location and clean cottage.”

Boiler old and only partially functional. Didn’t use the main bathroom once for a shower as a result and used the electric shower on the second floor instead. Boiler was eventually switched off by contractor and heaters dropped off instead for last 2 days of stay. Boiler replaced after checkout. Roof leak in main bedroom during Weds evening rain. Moved to top floor bedroom as a result. Upon check out, fridge appeared to be leaking from bottom left. Nice property but could do with some investment from owners.

- Nick, February 2023

Thank you for your comments and we're sorry that the boiler failed while you were with us, this has now been replaced by a brand new boiler. The leak is being sorted by the Heart of the Lakes team, it's felt that this is as a result of replacing the upstairs windows recently. The Fridge has been checked and is working fine, the HOTL team react immediately to any problems that occur during stays and the property has had a lot of investment in the last few months. Property Owner
Richard December 2022

“-garden gate does not stay closed and bangs in the wind.”

When reported to heart of the lakes staff they said they were away of the issue - there is an issue with the drainage. When using washing machine or dishwasher water back flows into the kitchen sink which is very smelly - no cleaning products were left in the properly eg kitchen cleaner, which made cleaning the property difficult - the vacuum cleaner does not work very well which makes cleaning the property difficult - property was dusty and not very clean - plug socket for kettle was partly coming out the wall - shower in the main bathroom did not seem to get hot enough

- Richard, December 2022

Thank you for your feedback. The gate has been repaired, the sink cleared and the socket sorted. A brand new boiler has been installed which will rectify the temperature of the water Property Owner
Veronika August 2022

“It was perfect for a family.”

Easy to find things around and all what you would expect a cottage to have. Lovely and cosy.

- Veronika, August 2022
Rachel July 2022

“This was our first trip to the Lake District and we had a fantastic time.”

We have fallen in love with the stunning scenery and will definitely return. We appreciate the cottage is old but it does need a good clean. We never normally leave reviews but felt this one was important to the owner especially if they are employing a cleaning company. The hand mirror and towel rail in the second floor bathroom were covered in dust on arrival. Throughout the cottage there were cobwebs and spiders everywhere including in the bread bin, amongst the cutlery, pots, pans, dishes, plates, glasses, corners of the rooms, around the windows, between the bannisters etc. On the one occasion when we chose to cook something in the cottage we had to clean the baking trays before we used them as they were filthy. The shower head and shower lead in the bathroom on the top floor were mouldy and needed a bleach. When we removed hair from the shower plug we were horrified to see what else came out - it was clear this had not been cleaned for some time. The toothbrush holder in the bathroom on the top floor was mouldy. We even found toe nail clippings on the floor which wouldn’t have been there if the cottage had been hoovered. There were tea stains down the wall in the bedroom. The boiler kept making loud banging noises throughout the night which woke us all up. There was a wasp nest outside the window of the main top floor bedroom which meant we couldn’t open the window as the wasps were swarming. Penny Red was in a perfect spot with beautiful surrounding views and close to the centre of Ambleside. It was on a hill called The Struggle which was fine for us but some people might find this difficult. It was a bonus having a designated car parking space. The cottage was well equipped with everything you need for a break in the Lakes but it just needed a thorough proper clean.

- Rachel, July 2022

Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback. We have passed your comments onto Heart of the Lakes in an effort to ensure that these issues are resolved for future guests. The team at Heart of the Lakes have always been very good at coming out to deal with issues that are pointed out by guests during their stay. Property Owner
Libby June 2022

“We really enjoyed our stay at Penny Red Cottage; it was comfortably proportioned and had everything that we needed for the stay.”

The beds were extremely comfortable, always a bonus especially after a long day in the hills. Location was perfect for Ambleside, and even though it is on the hill out towards Kirkstone the walk back from the village was fine. I perhaps would add to "parking space on the left" in the details - "next to the garage". We were pretty certain this was the correct place but was grateful to know for sure from a neighbour. It is definitely somewhere we would consider staying at again. Thankyou.

- Libby, June 2022

We are pleased you enjoyed your stay, we have recently replaced the mattresses so it's good to know that they are comfortable! Property Owner
Sarah May 2022

“The cottage provided an excellent setting for a relaxing few days away.”

It is cosy, warm and clean, with the most beautiful views from the windows of the surrounding fells and fields. Thank you. It is true that there is a short, steep climb up from the town, but this is nothing unmanageable for someone of average fitness and it means beautiful views on arrival. The only issue we had was that we did not find the TV remote control and did not receive an answer back on texting the number in the cottage folder for assistance. This may require a review.

- Sarah, May 2022
Ian May 2022

“Really enjoyed our stay at Penny Red.”

Lovely little cottage as we expected.Would stay here again and is a great base for Ambleside as you only need walk 5 minutes and your in the centre for pubs,shops and restaurants.If your big walkers, it is central to all main villages,fells,lakes and mountains. Thanks, we’ll be back!

- Ian, May 2022
Chris October 2021

“Nice cottage which was well equipped with everything we needed for an enjoyable stay.”

Great location, short walk into Ambleside and footpaths into the fells just up the road

- Chris, October 2021
Tim October 2021

“This is our second time staying at this lovely cottage.”

Comfortable and clean and we will be back. Thanks for the memories Penny Red.

- Tim, October 2021
Robert August 2021

“The cottage is up a very steep hill called The Struggle!”

This was not clear at all from information given and would cause big problems for anyone with mobility issues/not fit. Mattresses were too soft - needs a mattress topper to give some firmness plus needs a mattress protector on beds. And an anti slip mat in the bath.

- Robert, August 2021
David August 2021

“Wonderful cottage in a perfect location to stroll down to the town.”

Spotlessly clean with very comfortable beds. Lovely quiet location. Instructions and correspondence from Heart of the Lakes was spot on.

- David, August 2021
Fiona August 2021

“Great views from the cottage, situated on a very steep road which made for a steep walk home from town, this is fine for most but anyone with mobility issues would struggle.”

Beds are very soft. Otherwise a great cottage & a great stay.

- Fiona, August 2021
Sean August 2021

“Easy to book, very helpful staff and great information on line.”

The cottage was brilliant in an excellent location and I would definitely return again in the future.

- Sean, August 2021
Victoria July 2021

“We had a wonderful stay at Penny Red in Ambleside: the cottage was beautiful, efficient and comfortable.”

However we do not feel that the outside area matched the quality of inside - weeds and a lot of overgrowth, and the garden furniture needs either painting/tidying up or replacing. Overall, we would definitely return and throughly enjoyed our break.

- Victoria, July 2021
Pam May 2021

“Good comfortable bed and quiet location.”

happy to stay there

- Pam, May 2021

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Summary

Across three floors
Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x second-floor double, 1 x second-floor single
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
Open-plan living area with kitchen, dining and sitting area with multi-fuel stove
Gas central heating with multi-fuel stove
Electric oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, TV with Sky, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for one car
Garden with furniture
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.

The property

Penny Red Cottage takes its name from the little red letter box set in the end wall of the property. This charming cottage offers an excellent holiday base in any season. Formerly a bobbin worker's cottage, this stone-built end terrace property dates from early Victorian times. It has now been transformed to make the most of modern day living with all the comforts of home. Built on three floors there are views from all the upstairs windows. With walks from the door to the surrounding fells and a short downhill stroll to the centre of Ambleside you will have everything you need for an enjoyable stay in the Lake District. Accommodation: Entrance porch into ground floor open plan fully fitted living/dining/kitchen with multi-fuel stove (TV with basic Sky channels and free Wi-fi). On the first floor the large double bedroom has character deep set window and decorative original Victorian fireplace. Bathroom (bath with shower over, basin and wc). On the top floor you will find two further bedrooms - a double with views to Wansfell, and a single (maximum sleeps 4), together with a shower room (shower, basin and wc). Good views from both bedrooms on this floor. Outside: Postage stamp front garden has just enough room to sit out of doors. Private parking for one car. Village centre 5 minutes walk downhill for pubs, restaurants, cinema, bowls, tennis and mini-golf. Walk to the lake (approximately 1 mile).

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

AMBLESIDE

Grasmere 4.4 miles; Windermere 4.7 miles; Keswick 16.7 miles.

Lying at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, Ambleside makes a superb base for touring the central Lakes, with Grasmere and the Langdale Valley just a short drive away. There is plenty to do here - cruises, boat trips and watersports on Lake Windermere itself and numerous shops, restaurants and pubs in the village to suit all tastes. On the lakeside at Waterhead, the parkland offers lovely views down the lake and a short stretch of beach, whilst a walk in the other direction, following Stock Ghyll through woodland, will bring you to the entrancing waterfall of Stock Ghyll Force. Along with the Lake and the great walking on offer, Ambleside is also famous for its annual rushbearing ceremony and the diminutive 17th century “Bridge House” - one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District and now the National Trust Information Centre.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute

Ambleside, Cumbria & The Lake District (Ref. 1042487)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Oven does not work properly.”

“Had a great week in Penny Red.”

“We recently stayed at the penny red cottage, the cottage itself is described as being in the town.”

“Really lovely cottage in a great location Parking is a great bonus Cottage ...”

“Issues with boiler and leak from heated towel rack in 1st floor bathroom.”

“The cottage was excellent, Just what we wanted.”

“Very comfortable, clean & ideally situated holiday cottage.”

“Lovely location and clean cottage.”

“-garden gate does not stay closed and bangs in the wind.”

“It was perfect for a family.”

“This was our first trip to the Lake District and we had a fantastic time.”

“We really enjoyed our stay at Penny Red Cottage; it was comfortably proportioned and had everything that we needed for the stay.”

“The cottage provided an excellent setting for a relaxing few days away.”

“Really enjoyed our stay at Penny Red.”

“Nice cottage which was well equipped with everything we needed for an enjoyable stay.”

“This is our second time staying at this lovely cottage.”

“The cottage is up a very steep hill called The Struggle!”

“Wonderful cottage in a perfect location to stroll down to the town.”

“Great views from the cottage, situated on a very steep road which made for a steep walk home from town, this is fine for most but anyone with mobility issues would struggle.”

“Easy to book, very helpful staff and great information on line.”

“We had a wonderful stay at Penny Red in Ambleside: the cottage was beautiful, efficient and comfortable.”

“Good comfortable bed and quiet location.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location

AMBLESIDE