Six of us foreigners touring UK had trouble booking a hotel in the lake district mid season. This was taking a chance, but chances sometimes pay off, and Brathay Hall did so enormously.
Mostly a training school of a kind, Brathay Hall has some separate rooms for hire. They are a little institutional in character and equipment, but comfortable, extremely clean and everything works. The canteen style breakfast was very good and truly set us up for the day. The staff are friendly and helpful, especially the boat keeper, the housekeeper who cleaned our room, the receptionist and the breakfast cook.

But now for the real thing. The setting on the lakeside at Ambleside is spectacular. The grounds are spacious and we wished we had more time to explore them properly. The boathouse is an experience especially if you meet the guy who takes care of the boats who was helpful, informative and entertaining, it really seemed he was glad to see us to tell us about the boats and the history of Brathay. The promontory next to the boathouse is worth visiting as it give some magnificent views and interesting fauna. The views of the lake from the house are truly exceptional with nothing to spoil the view. Most of all, try to rise early and see the mist over the lake, the sheep just waking up and the rabbits scampering about, Idyllic. On any other trip to the lakes, Brathay Hall would be my first choice.

10 of us stayed at Brathay Hall in their dorm room and had a great time. The room was clean, large and came with plenty of cupboard space and places to put our gear. The breakfast included was excellent - nice and hot cooked breakfast to start the day. There is also a nice lounge area if you want to hang out outside of your room. Its a nice short walk from Ambleside village with plenty of pubs and restaurants nearby. The staff are really friendly and its great value for money.

A great budget priced option in the Lakes - we stayed in the grand hall building and wish we'd had more time to explore the grounds. The self-service breakfast was excellent and service was friendly. We did have slight difficulty locating it as the sign on the road outside is rather discreet, but would definitely go again.