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Summary of reviewsThe Cuckoo Brow Inn, nestled in the picturesque and serene Lake District, is celebrated for its beautiful and tranquil location. Situated on the quieter side of Lake Windermere, the inn provides an ideal setting for those seeking peace and relaxation with walking trails and scenic views right at its doorstep. Its proximity to Beatrix Potter's Hill Top Farm and easy access to Bowness and Windermere via the nearby ferry service further enhance its appeal.
Guests frequently praise the breakfast experience, noting the delicious, plentiful and well-prepared food. The full English breakfast and omelettes are standout favorites and the friendly staff enhance the dining experience. Although some guests feel that the breakfast is overpriced, the warm ambiance, hearty portions and fresh ingredients leave a positive impression overall.
Dinner at The Cuckoo Brow Inn is highly acclaimed with evening meals described as superb and beautifully presented. Diners appreciate the generous portions and the care taken in food preparation with the steak & ale pie, roast beef Sunday dinner, lamb shank and sea bass with sweet chili hollandaise receiving special mentions. The friendly and attentive service further elevates the dining experience, making it a memorable culinary destination.
The rooms at the inn are lauded for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Guests find the accommodations cosy yet roomy with large bathrooms, modern furnishings and comfortable beds contributing to a pleasant stay. While there are minor mentions of the need for updates in certain areas, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive with many highlighting the large Victorian bathtubs and super king-size beds as luxurious touches.
Cleanliness is another strong point for The Cuckoo Brow Inn with guests consistently complimenting the spotless and well-maintained environment. Although a few reviews note areas needing attention, the overall impression is that the inn maintains a high standard of cleanliness, which greatly enhances the comfort and appeal of the property.
The staff at The Cuckoo Brow Inn are frequently described as friendly, helpful and efficient. Guests appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the hosts, who go out of their way to make each stay enjoyable. The staff's attentiveness and problem-solving skills contribute to a seamless and pleasant guest experience.
Parking is generally sufficient with decent, free on-site options, though some guests find the spaces limited and cramped. Nevertheless, the convenience of easy parking is a noted advantage.
The beds receive high marks for their comfort and size with many guests praising the presence of super king-size and big double beds. Despite a few isolated remarks about pillow comfort, the general consensus is that the beds at The Cuckoo Brow Inn provide an excellent night's sleep.
As a four-star establishment, The Cuckoo Brow Inn offers a high standard of facilities and service. Guests appreciate the characterful ambiance, the well-implemented luxuries and the cleanliness of the premises. The exceptional food quality and attentive service contribute to a fulfilling stay with many guests eager to return and recommend the inn to others.
Historians and those appreciating old-world charm will find The Cuckoo Brow Inn particularly delightful, as the inn retains its antique items and traditional style. Its historical significance as a coaching inn from the 1830s adds to the nostalgic atmosphere.
Lastly, the inn is highly celebrated for being exceptionally dog-friendly, welcoming pets in all areas of the establishment. The thoughtfully provided amenities for dogs and inclusive atmosphere ensure that canine companions are just as comfortable and welcome as their owners, making The Cuckoo Brow Inn a top choice for pet owners.
In summary, The Cuckoo Brow Inn stands out as a superb destination for those seeking relaxation, excellent food, comfort and a welcoming atmosphere, bolstered by its rich history and picturesque setting. Show more
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Categories
Luxury Inn
Historic Inn
Dog Friendly Inn
Dog Play Area
Do you accept dogs in all rooms? No, some rooms only: Request on Booking
Is there an extra charge? Yes, £ 10.00 per night
Should the dog owner notify you before checking in? Not necessarily
What is the maximum number of dogs per room? Up to 2 dogs are allowed in each room.
Is there a maximum weight of dogs accepted? No
Are there any leash-free play areas? Yes
Should the dog be kenneled at all times in the room? No
Should the dog be kenneled/kept in a pet carrier at all times in public areas? No
Should the dog remain leashed at all times in the room? No
Should the dog remain leashed at all times in public areas? No
Are the dogs allowed on the furniture? No
Are the dogs allowed on beds? No
What are the basic requirements to accept a dog?
Owners must clean pet waste immediately
Owners are responsible for any damage caused by the dog
Is there a refundable deposit to guard against damages? No
Do you provide any of these?
Waste-disposal bags
Water Bowls
Except for dogs, do you also accept other pets? Yes
Do you have a written and comprehensive pet policy available on request? Νο
Standard Double or Twin RoomThis en suite super king-size or twin room features a 32-inch flat-screen TV with Freeview channels, a bathroom with bath & power shower and tea/coffee making facilities. Please request twin option if required when making your reservation.
Family Room (2 Adults + 2 Children)Family Room with super king-size beds for adults and children's bunk beds behind a partition wall. It features a 32-inch flat-screen Freeview TV, an en suite bathroom with a bath and power shower and a hospitality tray.
A twin bed option is available for the adult beds, please request this when booking.
Superior King RoomBeautiful views across the Lakeland countryside feature in this elegant room, along with a super king size bed and an en-suite roll-top bathroom for added luxury. There is a 32-inch flat-screen TV with Freeview Channels, free Wi-Fi,
radio, tea.coffee tray and a hairdryer.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Nestled in a picturesque and serene part of the Lake District, The Cuckoo Brow Inn boasts a fantastic location that is often praised for its beauty and tranquility. The inn is situated on the quieter side of Lake Windermere, away from the hustle and bustle, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and relaxation. It is perfectly positioned for outdoor enthusiasts with walking trails and beautiful scenic views right at the doorstep.
The surrounding area is characterized by its rural charm with lovely hills and valleys that offer fabulous picturesque settings. Notably, the inn is a short distance from Beatrix Potter's Hill Top Farm, providing a touch of literary history and making it a great base for exploring the local attractions. The ferry service is conveniently close, allowing easy access to the more bustling areas of Bowness and Windermere when desired.
Guests consistently highlight the inn's perfect setting for exploring the southeastern part of the Lake District with plenty of wonderful walks and interesting places to visit nearby. The quiet and peaceful atmosphere coupled with the stunning natural beauty make it a superb location for a relaxing getaway, whether for hiking, sightseeing or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The Cuckoo Brow Inn generally receives high praise from guests with many noting the food as delicious, plentiful and well-prepared. Standout mentions include the excellent full English breakfast, delectable omelettes and a broad selection of options. Friendly and attentive staff further enhance the dining experience, ensuring guests start their day on a positive note.
However, it's worth noting that some guests feel the breakfast is overpriced with a standard charge of £15 per person frequently mentioned. This has led to a sentiment that the overall value does not align with the cost, particularly when breakfast is not included in the room rate. Furthermore, a few guests commented on the limited choices available in the continental breakfast.
Despite these concerns, the warm ambiance, hearty portions and fresh ingredients receive consistent acclaim. The option for dogs to join their owners during breakfast also adds to the charm of the inn, making it a welcoming choice for pet owners. Overall, while the cost may be a point of contention, the quality of breakfast at The Cuckoo Brow Inn often leaves a strong, positive impression.
Dinner
Nestled in the picturesque Lake District, The Cuckoo Brow Inn offers diners a culinary experience that consistently garners high praise. Guests commend the inn for its delicious and beautifully presented food with several reviews highlighting the excellent quality and taste. The evening meals, in particular, receive glowing accolades for being superb with a variety of dishes that cater to diverse tastes. Meals are noted for their generous portions and the evident care taken in their preparation, often described as cooked to perfection.
The dining experience extends beyond the food itself; the friendly and attentive service from the staff enhances the overall experience. The inn’s chef is frequently mentioned for the skill and pride shown in the cuisine, crafting delightful meals that leave a lasting impression on visitors. Standout dishes such as the steak & ale pie and roast beef Sunday dinner are especially praised, along with well-cooked lamb shank and a delectable sea bass with sweet chili hollandaise.
While some guests noted higher prices for food and beverages and suggested booking ahead due to the inn's popularity, the high-quality dining has been described as worth every penny. The varied menu, rich in local ingredients, caters well to all palates, featuring everything from hearty pub grub to exquisite finer dishes. For those seeking a memorable dining experience in a cozy pub setting, The Cuckoo Brow Inn stands out as a worthwhile destination.
Rooms
The Cuckoo Brow Inn generally offers a comfortable and pleasant experience for its guests with many praising the rooms for their spaciousness and cleanliness. The rooms were often described as cosy yet spacious, well-appointed and featuring large bathrooms. Guests frequently mentioned the comfortable beds and modern furnishings, adding to the overall pleasant stay. The facilities in the rooms are noted to be excellent, contributing to a comforting atmosphere.
Many reviewers highlighted the sizeable and comfortable accommodations with several rooms offering fantastic views and being newly refurbished. Housekeeping seems to maintain a high standard of cleanliness with numerous mentions of spotless rooms and tidy environments.
Despite some mentions of the rooms needing updates or certain aspects like decor or minor smells being less than ideal, these were often overshadowed by the positive feedback regarding comfort and design. Cosiness was a recurrent theme with some rooms even making guests feel right at home.
Specific attributes such as large Victorian bathtubs and super king-size beds were also highlighted by guests, pointing to a touch of luxury in some quarters. Overall, the rooms at The Cuckoo Brow Inn are well-received for their charm, comfort and cleanliness, making it a reliable choice for a cosy stay.
Beds
Reviewers overwhelmingly praised the beds at The Cuckoo Brow Inn, highlighting their comfort and spaciousness. Guests frequently described the beds as very comfortable with many noting the presence of super king-size and big double beds. Numerous reviews mentioned the beds allowing for one of the best nights of sleep, thanks to their superb comfort. The inn offers a variety of bed types, including double beds and bunk beds, which were particularly appreciated by families.
While a few reviews indicated minor discomfort with pillows or specific bed arrangements, the consensus was clear: the beds at The Cuckoo Brow Inn are large, comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep. Comfort is a recurring theme with many guests emphasizing that the rooms themselves enhance the overall pleasant sleeping experience. Despite a few isolated issues, the overall impression is that The Cuckoo Brow Inn excels in providing a restful and comfortable environment.
Cleanliness
The Cuckoo Brow Inn receives commendable praise for its cleanliness from guests. The majority of reviews highlight the hotel's spotless and meticulously maintained environment with rooms and common areas frequently described as very clean, comfortable and inviting. Guests often mention the clean, well-kept and comfortable accommodations, noting that the atmosphere is both comforting and cozy.
However, a few reviews point out areas in need of attention, such as floors and window sills, which some guests have found in need of a major clean. There are also occasional mentions of sticky tables in the bar/restaurant and bathroom floors. Despite these isolated issues, the overall feedback remains overwhelmingly positive with many guests emphasizing the exceptionally clean and tidy nature of the property.
A few minor concerns such as weak shower pressure and the need for some decorating in specific areas were noted, but these do not detract significantly from the overall positive impression of cleanliness and comfort. The Inn’s dedication to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness is evident and appreciated by those who stay there.
Staff
The Cuckoo Brow Inn stands out for its outstanding staff, consistently described as friendly, helpful and efficient. Visitors often receive a warm and welcoming greeting with many noting that the staff couldn't do enough to make their stay pleasant. Hosts are mentioned as both warm and courteous, contributing to a lovely and friendly atmosphere. Patrons frequently commend individual employees, highlighting their attentiveness, professionalism and super-friendly demeanor.
The staff's ability to accommodate various requests and problem-solving skills is frequently acknowledged, contributing to a seamless guest experience. Whether it's the friendly bar staff, the helpful receptionists like Sylvia and Cameo or the diligent service team, guests feel genuinely taken care of. The inn's personnel not only meet but often exceed expectations by going the extra mile, ensuring every visitor feels valued and comfortable. This level of service, coupled with the professional and courteous nature of the team, truly enhances the overall charm and appeal of the Cuckoo Brow Inn.
Parking
The Cuckoo Brow Inn features a variety of parking options that generally receive positive feedback from guests. Many reviewers mention the availability of on-site parking and highlight it as a decent and free parking area. Some guests appreciate the helpfulness of the staff regarding parking arrangements. The car park is described as having plenty of flat spaces, which enhances convenience. Despite these advantages, there are occasional comments about the limited number of parking spaces with some guests noting that parking can get cramped and may be awkward at times. However, the overall consensus indicates that parking is generally sufficient and adds to the ease of staying at the inn.
4 Star
The Cuckoo Brow Inn delivers an exceptional four-star experience, reflected in its boutique-style setting and high standard of both facilities and customer service. Guests praised the characterful ambiance and noted the luxuries in the rooms that contribute to a feeling of being welcome and at home. The cleanliness and overall upkeep of the inn were consistently highlighted as exceeding expectations for its price point.
A central feature of the guest experience at The Cuckoo Brow Inn is the food, which was frequently described as fantastic and cooked to perfection with some dishes even likened to Michelin star quality. Service, too, received high marks for being fast and attentive, adding to the overall high quality of the stay.
The staff were noted for their pleasant demeanor and attentiveness, ensuring that nothing was too much trouble, which added greatly to the sense of a well-run bed & breakfast. Guests described the hotel as beautiful, lovely, solid and tidy with many expressing a strong desire to return and wholeheartedly recommending it to others. Overall, visitors found everything to be great and faultless, underscoring The Cuckoo Brow Inn as a superb choice for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Historic
Nestled on the tranquil side of Windermere Lake, The Cuckoo Brow Inn is a country hotel exuding character and charm. As an old coaching inn from the 1830s, it offers a nostalgic experience that takes guests back to the 40s and 50s. This historic gem is a rare find in its location, boasting a lovely old pub with a rustic interior and authentic decor. Visitors will appreciate the original features and typical Lake District decorations, which create a great atmosphere full of character.
The inn's setting is beautiful, surrounded by historic tall trees and bits of history all around. Its old-world charm is evident in every corner, from the nicely set pub to the stable rooms, which are very comfortable. The Cuckoo Brow Inn retains its antique items and traditional style, making it a true heritage legacy in the Lakes. The combination of the gorgeous surroundings and the hotel's historic importance makes it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine old-fashioned inn experience.
Dog Friendly
The Cuckoo Brow Inn boasts an impressive reputation for its exceptionally dog-friendly environment. Known for being accommodating to dogs throughout the entire establishment, including the dining areas, it ensures canine companions are as welcomed as their owners. Guests have praised the inn for taking in canine family members and maintaining a relaxed atmosphere filled with a welcoming dog-friendly ambiance. The inn's policy allows pets to join their owners everywhere, making it a comfortable and inclusive experience for dog owners.
The hotel features many dog-friendly amenities, from fenced gardens for pets to explore, to specialized wall displays. The accommodations, described as very comfortable and highly enjoyable, underscore the inn's dedication to providing a haven for both humans and their furry friends. With an environment that caters well to dogs and even accolades for having some of the best dog-friendly rooms in the lakes, The Cuckoo Brow Inn is celebrated for its pet acceptance and commitment to ensuring dogs feel just as welcome as their owners. This highly dog-friendly inn is perfect for those seeking a getaway where their pets are treated with the same level of hospitality as the guests themselves.
No, The Cuckoo Brow Inn doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Cuckoo Brow Inn.
Yes, The Cuckoo Brow Inn welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Cuckoo Brow Inn.