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Waterbird, White Cross Bay

Guest Rating
Rating
4.2
out of 5
Guest Rating
Rating
4.2
out of 5
Sleeps up to 7
Pets 1
Bedrooms: 3

Waterbird is a three-bedroom lodge at White Cross Bay Holiday Park on the shores of Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District. The decking sits right at the water's edge and guests repeatedly describe the views as among the best on the entire park. The lodge is named after a flying boat built at this location during the Second World War.

White Cross Bay sits between Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere. You can walk to Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre in minutes. Buses stop outside the park roughly every 20 minutes. The park itself has a bar, restaurant, indoor pool, sauna, steam room and children's play zone.

 

About Waterbird

Waterbird is a three-bedroom lodge at White Cross Bay Holiday Park on the shores of Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District. The decking sits right at the water's edge and guests repeatedly describe the views as among the best on the entire park. The lodge is named after a flying boat built at this location during the Second World War.

White Cross Bay sits between Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere. You can walk to Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre in minutes. Buses stop outside the park roughly every 20 minutes. The park itself has a bar, restaurant, indoor pool, sauna, steam room and children's play zone. Please note: this lodge does not have a hot tub due to park water pressure restrictions.

The lodge sleeps seven across three bedrooms. The master has a king-size bed with en-suite hydromassage shower. The second is a double. The third has bunk beds plus a pull-out trundle bed for children. A family bathroom serves the second and third bedrooms.

Brockhole Visitor Centre is 500 yards away. Windermere village is 2 miles. Bowness boat landings are 3 miles (8 mins). Ambleside with its walking routes and cafés is also 3 miles (10 mins). The World of Beatrix Potter is 2.6 miles away.

One of the largest decks on the park sits directly on the lake. Waterbird suits families, couples and groups wanting a genuine lakeside base. Book it for the views alone.

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Need To Know

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Waterbird Attractions & Days Out

Explore the wonderful attractions and activities surrounding Waterbird 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.

Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 1LJ
World of Beatrix Potter
Distance: 2.6 miles
LA23 3BX
Bowness Boat Landings
Distance: 3 miles
LA23 3HQ
Brockhole Lakeside Walk
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 1LJ
Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall Walk
Distance: 3.7 miles
LA22 9BU
Troutbeck Tongue
Distance: 4 miles
LA23 1PD
SPAR Windermere
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 1AB
Sainsbury's Local Windermere
Distance: 1.9 miles
LA23 1AF
Booths Supermarket Windermere
Distance: 2 miles
LA23 1AD
Windermere Bus Stop (outside park)
Distance: 0.1 miles
LA23 1LF
Windermere Train Station
Distance: 1.9 miles
LA23 1EU
Booths EV Charging Point
Distance: 2 miles
LA23 1AD
Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 1LJ
World of Beatrix Potter
Distance: 2.6 miles
LA23 3BX
Bowness Boat Landings
Distance: 3 miles
LA23 3HQ
Brockhole Lakeside Walk
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 1LJ
Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall Walk
Distance: 3.7 miles
LA22 9BU
Troutbeck Tongue
Distance: 4 miles
LA23 1PD
SPAR Windermere
Distance: 0.5 miles
LA23 1AB
Sainsbury's Local Windermere
Distance: 1.9 miles
LA23 1AF
Booths Supermarket Windermere
Distance: 2 miles
LA23 1AD
Windermere Bus Stop (outside park)
Distance: 0.1 miles
LA23 1LF
Windermere Train Station
Distance: 1.9 miles
LA23 1EU
Booths EV Charging Point
Distance: 2 miles
LA23 1AD

Is Waterbird Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
White Cross Bay has a children's play zone, adventure playground, amusement arcade, aqua jets, water walkerz, arts and crafts, pottery painting, children's disco and messy play sessions. Brockhole Visitor Centre is 500 yards away with a tree top trek and adventure playground right on the lake.
For Couples
The master bedroom has a king-size bed with an en-suite hydromassage shower and heated towel rail. The deck sits right on Lake Windermere with views guests call breathtaking. Ambleside restaurants and Bowness are both 3 miles away. The park's sauna, steam room and jacuzzi are on site.
Pet Friendly
One dog is welcome at Waterbird. The large private deck is enclosed and secure. Dogs must stay on leads across the park at all times and cannot be left alone in the lodge. Woodland walks and lakeside paths start directly from White Cross Bay.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Waterbird

The Boathouse Bar and Restaurant (White Cross Bay)

Located On site from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1LF

The Crafty Baa Windermere

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA23 1AB

Francine's Restaurant Ambleside

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 9BU

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Waterbird

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
Waterbird does not have a hot tub. The park's water pressure and infrastructure mean a hot tub cannot be installed at this lodge.
Is it pet friendly?
One dog is welcome at Waterbird. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times on the park and must not be left alone in the lodge.
How many people does Waterbird sleep?
The lodge sleeps up to seven guests across three bedrooms. The maximum number of adults at any one time is five, with the top bunk and trundle bed intended for children only.
What bedrooms does the lodge have?
There is a king-size master bedroom with en-suite hydromassage shower, a double bedroom and a bunk bedroom with a pull-out trundle bed. Guests must bring their own bedding for the trundle bed.
Is there parking at the lodge?
There is one off-road parking space directly behind the lodge. Additional vehicles should be parked at the overflow car park near reception or by the marina.
What facilities does White Cross Bay have?
The park has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, bar, restaurant, children's play zone, amusement arcade and multi-sports court. A complex pass purchased from reception gives access to the pool, entertainment, bar and restaurant.
How do I get there by public transport?
Windermere train station is 1.9 miles from the park. Buses stop approximately every 20 minutes directly outside White Cross Bay, connecting to Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness.
Is WiFi included at Waterbird?
Complimentary WiFi is provided by the park and is included in the rental. It is intended for general browsing and emails only and is not suitable for gaming, streaming or business use. Signal strength can vary with weather and park occupancy.

Waterbird Reviews

Great lodge in perfect location. Plenty space for family and dog. Only slight negative is it could do with a bit of tlc. Carpet very dirty, broken recliner which has been mentioned in comments for a while. Still a great holiday and would definitely return.
A perfect lodge with absolutely breathtaking views. We could not fault anything at all. Thank you so much. We would love to return one day.
We loved this log cabin, stayed with my family and everyone loved it! Couldnt fault it, we would love to stay here again, the views were amazing too.
Danielle
Waterbird is a lovely lodge in a stunning location. Its been a blissful weekend and we wished we could have stayed longer.
Loved the lodge,the location was fantastic. And the views were unbelievable. Couldn't ask for a better stay thank you.
Sandra
Site location perfect lodge location and settings stunning. Lodge size was great everything needed supplied. Just missing hot tub on that huge decking.
The view from the lodge is wonderful, probably one of the best on site. The lodge itself still needs some TLC, the wardrobe doors in both large bedrooms are off their tracks so dont open properly, the 2nd bedroom door doesnt shut properly and the bathroom one needs attention. The recliner chair doesnt work and isnt in a position to be sat on and unfortunately it looks like someone has had a bbq on the deck and burnt some of the boards. Not sure if we will be back feeling disappointed
Accommodation was Great a few cob webs here and there ,1 recliner was in the permanent out position and 1 didn't work . The kettle had a cable showing wire very dangerous .All other parts of the Accommodation was great including the decking area .
Glenda
The view from this property is breath taking instilling a sense of calmness. The lodge is tired and needs some updating. The settees need renewing and the beds arent the most comfortable. It states it sleeps 7 but should be changed to 4 adults and 3 children. They have supplied everything you need for your stay and the linens and towels are clean. Setting makes up for everything 109
We had a fantastic stay at the Waterbird lodge with Lake District Lodge Holidays. The lodge was spotless, wellequipped, and very comfortable, with everything we needed for a relaxing break. The surroundings were beautiful and peaceful, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the scenery. The lodge itself was modern yet cosy, with lovely views and a great outdoor space to sit and relax. It felt private and quiet, which made the stay even more enjoyable. Everything was well maintained and clearly cared for, which really added to the experience. The location is ideal for exploring the Lake District, but also perfect if you simply want a quiet getaway. Communication and the overall booking experience were smooth and straightforward. We would definitely recommend staying here and would happily return in the future. A wonderful place for a relaxing escape.
Absolutely loved it! !!! The lodge was just perfect, plenty of room, lovely and clean lots of pots and pans etc for cooking, the location was perfect and the views were just unbelievable!! I would highly recommend this place to anyone thinking of booking. The lodge also had the added bonus of a washing machine that I dont think is listed on the website. Just couldnt fault it at all! Thank you
The reviews were a bit worrying but we had stayed before. The lodge does need some TLC, it could be such a fantastic place, but everything was clean, including the carpets. You cant get any closer to the lake and the view cant be beaten we would def go back. A hosepipe outside would be a good addition for furry friends
Waterbird has beautiful views and large decking, however the actual lodge is in need of refurb. kitchen cupboards are peeling off, the Hot WaterHeating boiler didn't work properly, some reclining chairs don't work. The fire in living room didn't work, mattress's could do with replacing and the mattress protectors weren't changed as had stains on them blood & urine Such a shame as in a prime location on site. wish id read reviews on other booking sites about it first as all mentioned these problems from June 2024, we stayed October 2025. with us paying 1300 for a week, we did not feel this was value for money, and the property would need improvements for us to consider rebooking.
Antonia
A beautiful lodge with wonderful view. Really enjoyed our stay. Thank you.
It was so bad, we left straight away. As others have said in previous feedback, the place is extremely outdated and doesnt match the photos online. The kitchen furniture is peeling off, with visible chunks off. The wallpaper is also starting to peel off, the fridge is missing shelvesprobably previously broken and the biggest deterrent for us was the smell, a very unhygienic smell which we think it must have been from the very very old carpets. Throughout it smelled very bad, in spite of them vacuuming the place. With little children we just felt it was unsafe. Like others have said, the place needs a full refurb especially at this price. It was a very disappointing experience for us, the view is stunning! But the place is a big let down. We never had to leave an accommodation before, so that speaks volumes. I would advise you book something else.
On the whole we had a great stay. only issue was the kitchen. It really needs an up date. The position of the lodge, the view the decking were all fantastic. and whilst we managed with the kitchen it does need some repair work carrying out to it.
Caroline
Fabulous location with the decking right on the water! Very clean and tidy, however inside the lodge ie. the furniture and especially the kitchen is very used and needs replacing. Despite that we had a lovely week in the Waterbird.
Simply stunning. We have stayed in many lodges over the last 30 years and without doubt this tops them all. We had a wonderful time. The decking is great for sitting back and admiring the first class view. If you have any paddle boards or kayaks this cabin is right by the launch site to the lake so is ideally situated for fans of water sports. The cabin itself is very comfortable and has everything you need. We had the an amazing holiday and have made some wonderful memories.
Yvonne
The kitchen was in a bad state of disrepair. Some cupboard doors had large chunks of the plastic topcoat snapped off exposing bare chipboard doors and the cupboards around the cooker were severely heat damaged with the previously melted topcoat flapping about when you open close the cupboard doors. However, despite its initial appearance the kitchen had a good cooker, fridge, freezer & dishwasher and large selection of pick n mix crockery, cutlery and glass ware. First few days were okay bcoz the weather was nice but as soon as we tried to use the heating and hot water at the same time the boiler cut out stating low pressure leaving us with no heating or hot water until the pressure was adjusted and the boiler reset. This happened multiple times each day. The bathrooms were bright and clean however the glass shower screen in the family bathroom fell off the wall when nobody was even in the bathroom and smashed all over the floor breaking the toilet seat in the process. The maintenance team were quick to this incident although they were not able to replace the screen during our stay rendering the shower unusable! The Chrome heated towel rail in the ensuite bathroom was also very rusty
Brendan
The kitchen and bathrooms are very tired. The kitchen fronts are falling off. Such a shame we were constantly worried more was going to come off when opening and closing draws and cupboards. The boiler kept cutting out and hot water was on and off a lot.
Good things The view ! The outside deck area The place was nice and clean Bad things The kitchen is falling apart The boiler kept losing pressure and not working. Thankfully I knew how to top it up The shower in master suite ran constantly and dripped all night. Our plans changed on Sunday. I messaged company on their dedicated messaging service to see if we could stay an extra night as it looked like it was available. I could see from website office was shut on Sunday so long shot. I rang 930 when office opened and it rang out and I went on to hold for 10 minutes and couldnt get to speak to anyone. This was frustrating I also never got a response to my message which is pretty poor! Overall, the location and view is magnificent. We got a deal on lodge so the location just about made up for the bad things but a lodge in this location and valued at this much and at full rental price is disappointing. It needs money spending on it.
Caroline
This is the second time we have stayed here and the lodge location is amazing. It is however starting to look tired and require some updating. We had issues with the boiler and had to reset it daily to get hot water. This would be a problem for anyone who wouldnt know how to do it. The kitchen is also in need of updating as cupboard doors are worn, door in the fridge broken, mismatched plates and bowls. I still feel the third bedroom would benefit from 2 singles instead of bunks but that is personal preference to make it an option for 6 adults if required. Tvs in the rooms with signal instead of dvd only would also be good. The new decked area looks fab and this was the reason our 2023 break was cancelled.
I asked Sykes before our holiday if we could have the bedding washed in fragrance free washing powder and Sykes couldnt help with that so I had to take all our own bedding. This showed the bunk bed mattresses plus the trundle mattress needs replacing. We had to phone about the boiler it stopped working we have 3 children 1 only 5 months old the very next day. We did get 2 men from site and 1 from Sykes come to look at it and sort it but we had to reset the boiler ourselves every day. The Sykes guy said he had booked maintenance for Monday but this did not happen. This is our second stay at Waterbird and although it has some really good points we have had issues each time. The size of the lodge is really good for us and the views are amazing but Im not sure we would stay there again. A little maintenance inside the lodge would be good especially the kitchen cupboard by the oven. We did have a great holiday the swimming pool is a plus point for our children but lack of communication from reception and the changing of swim times made it difficult to use the pool each day. This is an activity you pay extra for which we are happy to do but we were left disappointed at times.
William
We had an excellent holiday stay. The lodge was welcoming, it was lovely and warm when we arrived and spotlessly clean. Most importantly we booked this lodge for the views and our Expectations were Exceeded the Views took Our breath away, we would definitely stay there again imagine it in the summer wow.
We loved the lodge, the location and the view, its a very special place. There is plenty of space and it has three great bedrooms. Hope to revisit next year. The only disappointing thing was and its probably not important to a lot of people, but the pans and crockery and cutlery could all do with a refresh, nothing matches and its basic, they let it down and the hoover was broken.
Sorry couldn't hoover up but hoover head tachment wouldn't stay on, round the ... Sorry couldn't hoover up but hoover head tachment wouldn't stay on, round the kitchen unit doors getting a bit tatty but overall, was beautiful, brilliant RR unbelievable views utter piece & tranquil, thanks sooo much for letting us stay in you're beautiful lodge
Praveen
Excellent location, spacious cottage. It can be a 5 star accommodation with proper maintenance and TLC. Currently it looks tired and worn out. Kitchen cabinet doors are cracked and need repairreplacement. Confusion about who maintainslook after the property ?Parkdeans ?? Sykes ??? owner. Inability to contact the appropriate personagency for the gate access code and how to work fireplace was frustrating. Telephone numbers provided have long voice mail message basically asking to email which was impossible due to virtually no wi fi signal in the property. Shower in ensuite is partially blocked due to limescalemould. If it works well, it could be quite pleasant. Bed mattress in master bedroom is quite old and not comfortable. For the price of rental one would expect better quality and comfort.
This was our 4th visit to Waterbird over the last couple of years. We love this lodge and the fact of its position lakeside. However we have noticed a bit of deterioration in a few places mainly around the kitchen cupboards where a lot of the coverings are coming away. Also a new kitchen litter bin would be appreciated after constantly putting the broken lid back on. These may seem petty gripes but we do pay quite an amount to stay there so feel its not too much to ask to put these things right. Overall though we would absolutely recommend Waterbird and hope to stay there in the future.
Audrey
Third time staying at Waterbird, last stay 2022 New carpet in lounge area a vast improvement as well as new composite decking and railings which although smaller than before is still vast compared to all other lodges on site. New deck furniture with padded cushions available which is fab and comfy. Called maintenance as electric chair not working, was fixed that day but broke again the following day, didnt call them out again as became insignificant to be honest. Left a note to say check that and main oven at end of holiday as couldnt work it unless on high, We had a fantastic sleep in the double bedroom, but matresses in the the main suite and bunk beds need replacing very soft and springy but apart from that the lodge was great. Booked 7 nights this time and felt like a real holiday and a great break. ,
Excellent lodge, in the best location. the comfort of the lodge allowed us to enjoy the best of the location regardless of the weather. will definitely return in the future, the booking was easy the access instructions first class. could do with better instruction on how to locate the lodge when on site but defo a great place to stay with the family.
Lodge badly in need of upgrade sofa worn and dirty definitely needs ... Lodge badly in need of upgrade sofa worn and dirty definitely needs replacing Bedding needs replaced Tv in bedroom not working Rust on shower room accessories and mirror Mould in bathroom blinds Kitchen cupboards poor condition Table in bedroom chipped and chair broken Crockery needs replaced and glasses Weeds growing out of gutters Loved the location but disappointed in conditions inside the accommodation
We have been going to White Cross Bay for 30 years and love it. This was the third time we have stayed at Waterbird and it is simply stunning. The new decking is a great addition. It has the most amazing views and is very well equipped. We will be going again without doubt.
Lesley
We had a fabulous stay at Waterbird for a long weekend. The views are amazing and the property is spacious with everything you need. There are a few areas that need updatingrepair. Kitchen cupboards need updating, ensuite shower needs to be repairedreplaced and resealed. None of these would stop us returning! A hot tub would put the icing on the cake
Rachel
Fantastic location of the lodge, with amazing unspoilt views. Unfortunately the actual lodge is quite dated and shabby. Definitely needs updating.
This lodge is amazing! we took my parents for a weekend away , it was spotless, everything you need including towels, kitchen cloths etc.. it was breath taking , would highly recommend this lodge.
Vincent
Absolutely stunning lodge! Must have the best location on the site. Huge decking area which actually backs onto the lake. Doubt youd find a better view. Also its right next to the boat launch ramp so perfect if youre paddle boarding or kayaking. On arrival we found the lodge immaculately clean, the place is lovely and light inside and theres so much space. Two large double bedrooms, one has a lovely ensuite, plus a 3rd room with a bunk bed and a pull out extra bed which was perfect for us as we were two families sharing. Even with our excited kids zooming round there was loads of room. The kitchen had all the utensils and crockery you need, and a decent cooker and hob if youre planing on eating in. Good sized dining table too. The location of white cross bay is perfectly slap bang in the middle between Ambleside and Bowness. Regular busses pick you up from right outside the park and its about 10 mins to either location where theres an abundance of pubs, restaurants and shops etc. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back!
Lodge has a view to die for but sadly thats it , needs updating in places and ... Lodge has a view to die for but sadly thats it , needs updating in places and on arrival smells when opening door , nothing in lodge , washing up liquid, dishwashing tablets, salt, pepper absolutely nothing , no televisions in bedrooms , only kids room bunk beds no lights on decking at night, , could be a lovely lodge just needs some love and home comforts saying that it is a rental lodge and I dont think the owners use it , wouldnt rent again as there is nicer lodges on white cross
Sylvia
The carpet needed a good clean everywhere , it was very cold inside on our arrival . The furniture did not smell the best , the bunk bed room stank awful . Sheets were not clean had to change them Noticed Cupboards facia started to peal in kitchen The positive is , it realy has the most amazing view of lake Windermere the decking was amazing . Overall we would wish to stay again but in the hope it would have cleaner carpets . Its such a shame when travelled 6 long hours to get to the lodge you dont provide a welcome pack not even a tea bag .
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