Brathay Hall - Brathay Trust

My recent family stay at Brathay Hall, operated by Brathay Trust, was unfortunately far from what I expected. Upon arrival, we were informed that there was an event happening, and no food would be available for us. This was especially frustrating considering the location is at least a 5-minute drive to the nearest restaurants. Not only was finding somewhere to eat an unexpected challenge, but parking in the busy area was also a nightmare. After driving around for ages, we finally found parking, but it added additional costs on top of an already overpriced stay. We were especially disappointed with the sleeping arrangement for our child. They provided what could only be described as a campsite bed with springs holding it together. For the price we paid, we expected a proper single bed, not something as flimsy and bendy as a hammock. The bed looked like it was about to break, and I have photos to show how unsuitable it was. Brathay Hall also offered a £6 per person charge for a pre-ordered breakfast consisting of cereal and bread – not exactly what I expected for the price. One of the main reasons we chose this place was for its discreet location and the promise of onsite food, which was clearly not available. Had I known, I would have opted for better accommodation closer to Ambleside, where more dining options are available. Other issues included a damp, sweaty smell coming from the wardrobe, and to make matters worse, one of the towels had blood on it! I have photos to back this up, which is completely unacceptable. On the plus side, the location is peaceful, and it’s a nice spot if you're traveling with dogs. However, parking was a real challenge – the spaces were extremely limited, small, and very tight. Would I stay again? No. Not for the price, and definitely not with the dismissive attitude of the staff. The lack of customer service was disappointing, and we can't even comment on the food because it wasn't available during our stay.

We booked a Scarfell room which is a lodge with excellent views of Ambleside. Lovely and clean and good decor. We shared a hall with next door. They returned at 1:50am banging the doors and chatting loudly waking us up. Thankfully they never put their TV on. Hardly any sound proofing from neighbours. We were probably just unlucky that we had nosiey neighbours in the night. Would not stay again due to lack of noise barrier.

Stayed in the chalet stlye cabins, clean, warm with a great view. Our HQ for ‘The Lap’ ultra marathon and couldn’t fault it. Would of loved a bath instead of a shower but thats just personal preference. Staff very helpful in leaving us access to the microwave for the pre event porridge. Good comms prior to the event dealing with Sanjay. Would definitely return.

Room lovely, clean & lots of space.would have been perfect But Tv not working- tried to upload channels bur failed to search for any, water cloudy so unable to make a drink, shower plug blocked so couldn’t stay in too long or would have over flowed & view a little bit of a let down.

I couldn't recommend this place more! We went for a superior room, one of the lodges and the view was incredible, the setting was so peaceful looking out onto the hills and Windermere lake. Breakfast was a full English and continental which was brilliant. We loved the views, peace, huge room, great, friendly staff, can't find another setting quite like this in the dales for such a reasonable price and for such a good cause. Can't wait to return! Don't hesitate booking one of the superior room lodges they're beautiful! Plus, the location was absolutely amazing, just a 25 ISH minute walk or three minute drive into Ambleside, great central location for lots of popular places.

Enjoyed a one night stay in a Helvellyn room. Room was clean and cosy with a super comfy bed and en-suite shower. Staff were very friendly. Beautiful view of the lake Feel good factor from knowing that a stay here supports charity work with young people.