Lake District, Cumbria: Accommodation in bunkhouses, hostels and camping barns

Dinah Hoggus Camping Barn

Dinah Hoggus Camping Barn lies on the old Packhorse route to Watendlath on the edge of the village of Rosthwaite in the Borrowdale valley. For walkers it is perfectly located right on the Cumbria Way and the Coast to Coast walk. It sleeps 12 on mattresses (BYO sleeping bag) & has a cooking/dining area. Basic cooking equipment is provided and there’s an electric shower. The pub and village shop are just 300m away.

Wayfarers Independent Hostel

Close to Penrith town centre and perfect for those on the C2C cycle route. Excellent value accommodation to those visiting Penrith, the Eden Valley and the North Lake District National Park. Bike cleaning and maintenance facilities and bike hire on site. Full kitchen and dining facilities, en suite rooms with made up beds, lockers, bedside lights, Individuals, small parties and groups of up to 18 are welcome.

Elterwater Hostel

Located in the peaceful village of Elterwater, in the Langdale valley, 15 mins’ drive from Ambleside. The area has many walks for people of all abilities, from gentle riverside meanders to the challenge presented by the Langdale Pikes, Bowfell and Scafell. Banks, shops and other amenities are nearby. The area is popular for both on and off-road cycling, rock climbing and other outdoor activities. An ideal overnight stop on the Cumbria way.

St Johns in the Vale Camping Barn

St John’s-in-the-Vale Camping Barn, a renovated 18th century stable on a peaceful hill farm, has stunning views to Blencathra, Helvellyn and Castle Rock. The Barn has a sleeping area upstairs (mattress provided) and a sitting/dining area below. A separate toilet, shower and cooking area (BYO equipment) are within the building. A wood-burning stove makes it nice and cosy. Outside there is a BBQ area. As there is no light pollution, the star-filled night skies are magical. Northern Lights have been seen too!

High Wray Basecamp

Situated in the heart of South Lakeland, in secluded woodland, 4 miles from the village of Ambleside, High Wray Basecamp provides an ideal base for groups wishing to explore the Lake District. Local attractions include rambling, fell walking, climbing and water sports. The Basecamp ranger will happily assist on local walks and activities. The Longland block has two dormitories each sleeping 8, while the Acland block has two dormitories sleeping 10 each.

The Wild Wool Barn

Nestled in the peace of the Ennerdale Valley, overlooking Ennerdale Water, The Wild Wool Barn provides luxury bunkhouse accommodation for 6 (plus up to 4 camping). Traditional wood-burning stove, electric heating, cooker and shower, marry tradition with luxury. With no mobile signal or wifi The Wild Wool Barn is a true chance to get away from it all and explore the rarely visited Western Lake District.

The White Horse Inn Bunkhouse

Converted from the stables of this traditional Lake District inn at the foot of Blencathra. The White Horse has great pub food (weekdays 12-2pm & 6-9pm weekends all day), open fires, local ales and a warm welcome. The bunkhouse has a basic kitchen & communal dining area. Guests are welcome to socialise in the pub Close to Sharp Edge with paths to the mountains from the garden. The C2C route passes the front of the inn.

Blakebeck Farm Camping Barn

At the foot of Souther Fell, within easy reach of Blencathra, Blakebeck Farm is set amidst the wildflower meadows of Mungrisdale. On the C2C cycle route and the Cumbrian Way. Perfect as an overnight stop for cyclists or weekend break for walkers and families. The large upstairs room has mattresses provided (BYO sleeping bags) The kitchen has basic equipment and utensils. Towels, bedding, DIY breakfast & pack lunches can be pre-booked. One dog welcome with sole use. Not suitable for parties.

Fisher-gill Camping Barn

Situated in Thirlmere at the foot of the Helvellyn mountains, close to Sticks Pass and the spectacular Fisher-Gill waterfall, the camping barn offers you direct access to numerous walks, hill and rock climbing. It is just off the A591 road, with local and national bus stops at the end of the lane. Accommodation consists of two rooms: a kitchen/diner with all the basic equipment and 10 bed bunk (sleeping bags/liners are required). A pub serving meals is within walking distance. Perfect for quite country retreats, it is not suitable for late night drinking parties

Murt Barn Camping Barn

Nestling in the wild and remote Wasdale valley, Murt Camping Barn is ideally situated for high fell walks including Scafell Pike, Mosedale Horseshoe, Great Gable and Screes Tops. Converted from a hay loft and byre, it sleeps 8, with WC, shower & hot water in the same building. Pubs in the village of Nether Wasdale are just a 10 minute walk away and nearest shops are within 5 miles. Waswater & its YHA are half mile down road, towards the Scafell range of mountains.

Bents Camping Barn

Bents Camping Barn, formerly a 17 century shepherd’s cottage, is in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. There are 2 bunkrooms sleeping 14 in total (BYO sleeping bags), a well equipped kitchen and a dining area. Please bring £1 coins for the electric metre. The Coast to Coast path is nearby and the Howgill Fells, Wild Boar Fell and Crosby Garrett Common offer great fell walking. Smardale Gill Nature Reserve and Sunbiggin Tarn are also easily accessible.

Summergrove Halls

Close to the start of the Coast to Coast Walk at Whitehaven and within easy access to the Cumbrian Coast and Lake District. Summergrove Halls offers en suite self catering accommodation in rooms with small double (3/4 size) beds. Bed linen and towels are provided along with basic toiletries. Self cater or choose from the popular dinner menu in Terrace Bar and Grill. Breakfast is available and communal areas include TV room. Nestled in attractive grounds there are nature and cycle trails from the door, as well as an on-site gym.

Lake District Backpackers

In the heart of Windermere, close to shops, cafes and pubs, 2 minutes from the train & bus station and opposite the TIC and tour offices. Easy access to the National Park by the 555 bus, 25 minute walk to the lake with steamer trips and boat hire and access to the fells from our door. Maps and guides available in this friendly, cosy hostel.

Grasmere Hostel

This small deluxe 4* hostel, is situated on a farm in the heart of the Lake District National Park and a short stroll from the idyllic village of Grasmere. It is ideal for individuals, couples, families and groups, especially if you want sole use for a club, school or special event. For groups requiring more space, 4 luxury cottages and a Micro Lodge Pod are also available. The hostel, recommended by the Guardian and the Rough Guide, has first class facilities including a sauna.

Great Langdale Bunkhouse

Great value accommodation for groups, families and individual amidst some of the finest mountain scenery in England. Immediate access to world class mountain biking, road cycling, walking, fell running and climbing. Biomass central heating throughout, separate male and female shower and toilet facilities - always warm with hot showers! No cooking/dining facilities but Sticklebarn Tavern is right next door. Hearty breakfasts at New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel. Well behaved dogs allowed in private rooms.

Shepherds Crook Bunkhouse

Noran Bank Farm is near Ullswater just through Patterdale in Cumbria, just 5 minutes’ walk away from the Coast to Coast route and The Westmorland Way. Shepherd’s Crook Bunkhouse is a barn converted to a very high standard and sleeps 8. Duvets, linen and towels are provided. DIY breakfast and packed lunches can be pre-booked. It is very popular with Coast to Coasters, walkers, cyclists and for family/friends get-togethers.

Watendlath Bothy

Watendlath Bothy sits next to the tarn in the quiet, picturesque hamlet that shares its name. High in a beautiful valley, it offers superb access to the surrounding fells. Visitors should treat the Bothy as a ‘stone tent’ bring their own equipment as for camping such as cutlery, plates, sleeping bags & mats, matches, etc. The perfect choice for people looking to escape to one of the most remote-feeling places in the Lake District.

Swallow Barn Camping Barn

In the picturesque Loweswater Valley, Swallow Barn is part of a set of buildings dating back to 1670 on a working beef and sheep farm. Sleeping 18 on mattresses (BYO sleeping bags), there is a cooking and eating area, metered showers & plug socket + 2 toilets. Perfect for exploring the western fells on both high and low level walks with spectacular views, or enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the valley. On the Sea2sea cycle route. The Kirkstyle pub (1 mi) serves food, Cockermouth (8 mi).

Kirkby Stephen Hostel

Former Methodist Church with a range of accommodation for individuals, families and groups amongst beautiful authentic features; stained glass, arches and panels. With a large dining room and kitchen and a quiet lounge in the gallery. Kirkby Stephen is a market town in the upper Eden valley, On Wainwright’s Coast to Coast path with easy access to the Lady Ann Clifford Walk, the Walney to Wear Cycle Route, the Howgill Hills, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lakes.

Carlisle Diocesan Youth Centre

Near St John’s-in-the-Vale and just four miles from Keswick. The centre offers flexible accommodation for groups in modern en suite bunkrooms. With fell walking, climbing, orienteering, geo-caching and cycling on the doorstep and amazing views from the two buildings. Perfect for a group retreat, large family get-together or field trips. The buildings can be hire separately or together. BYO sleeping bag, pillowcase and towel.

Arnside Independent Hostel

This large family run Edwardian house hostel overlooks Morecambe Bay with great views of the Lake District mountains. The Lakes, Yorkshire Dales, Arneside Knott and Leighton Moss are all easily accessed from here. Enjoy spectacular summer evening sunsets in the garden with fire pits and BBQ or winter evenings relaxing by the fire in the lounge, playing board games and a local ale from the licensed bar. Self cater in the large kitchen or book a delicious home cooked supper in the restaurant.

Skiddaw House

The highest hostel in Britain! Escape the crowds at this remote mountain hostel. No roads, no other buildings, and no phone signal; just uninterrupted views of beautiful mountain wilderness. But there’s no need to compromise on comfort, with wood burning stoves, hot showers, a well-stocked bar and your bed made up for you. We’re half way up Skiddaw but an easy walk or mountain bike ride from Keswick or Threlkeld.

Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre

In the Ennerdale valley, one of the most beautiful, least spoilt and quietest in the Lake District, Low GIllerthwaite Field Centre sits at the foot of Pillar and Red Pike. Well equipped for groups it is the perfect base fell walking, rock climbing, bird and wildlife watching, mountain biking, orienteering, canoeing. The centre generates its own hydro-electricity via. Vehicle access is by forest track and a BT payphone is on site as most mobiles do not work here.

Greenhead Hostel

Situated in the village of Greenhead on Hadrian’s Wall, the hostel is ideal for walking the Pennine Way or The Wall or for exploring the nearby Roman heritage sites. It boasts a newly refurbished self-catering kitchen (big enough for large groups). The flexible accommodation can be booked by the bed, the room or for sole use. The hostel is run by Greenhead Hotel (over the road).

Hawse End Centre

Hawse End Centre sits at the head of the magnificent Borrowdale Valley on the shores of Derwentwater with easy access to Keswick via launch or lakeside walk. The house is a large, comfortable, country mansion, ideal for large groups, while the Cottage is more suited to smaller group, families and individuals. For the more adventurous there are two yurts with stunning views and transparent domes for star gazing. Catering & outdoor activities with instruction can be booked in advance.

Hudscales Camping Barn

Hudscales Camping Barn perches at 1000ft on the northern-most flank of the Lakeland Fells. It overlooks the villages of Caldbeck and Hesket Newmarket and is on the Cumbria Way. BYO sleeping bags, mats, stove & utensils. There is a separate toilet and wash basin and a metered shower. A wood-burning stove provides added comfort (logs extra), there is electric lighting plus metered power points, (electric heaters are provided if required). There’s also a games room with pool table/dart board.

Hillside Farm Bunkbarn

A Georgian farmstead, still a working farm, right on Hadrian’s Wall National Trail and Cycleway near the Solway Coast AONB. Stunning views over the Solway Firth marshes towards Scotland. Bunkbarn or B&B rooms available. The bunkbarn, in a converted stable block, has cooking facilities & hot showers. Towels and sleeping bags can be hired. Communal, but not sleeping, areas are heated. Breakfast or bacon sandwiches available with notice. Walking, cycling and family groups are most welcome.

Kendal Hostel

Kendal Hostel is a family run hostel set in, a Georgian townhouse in the historic market town of Kendal, right in front of the well known Brewery Arts Centre and only a stone’s throw from the town centre. 13 bedrooms sleep up to 68 guests which are welcome to use the Kitchen, Lounge, Dining Room, Bike Shed and FREE Wi-Fi.

Rydal Hall Youth Centre

Rydal Hall Youth Centre is sheltered on three sides by the Fairfield Horseshoe and offers access to the best of Lakeland’s activities. It provides accommodation for groups of up to 29 in 2 dorms and 2 leader rooms, a large common room, a drying room & a fully equipped kitchen. There is also camping for groups and families and en suite accommodation for up to 50 in the Hall. There are also eco-pods in the grounds sleeping 3 & 4.

New Ing Lodge

This 10-bedroom, 10-bathroom B&B and hostel offers comfortable, friendly, accommodation with delicious food. Shap is in the Eden Valley, just off the M6, on the edge of the Lake District National Park. The Howgills and the Pennine Fells are a short drive away. On Wainwright’s Coast to Coast, the Westmorland Way and the Miller’s Way and perfect for large sole use groups.

Maggs Howe Camping Barn

In the quiet, unspoilt valley of Kentmere, a ramblers’ paradise of woods, fields, lanes, a scattering of traditional farms & the fells covered with Wainwright walks. There is plenty to do including biking, riding & fishing, as well as quiet enjoyment. Maggs Howe provides B&B in 3 farmhouse rooms and a camping barn (BYO sleeping bag). Breakfast (£8) and suppers (from £14) are available with notice. Dogs need prior permission.

Cragg Camping Barn

Cragg Camping Barn, with its stunning views of Buttermere fell is a great base for all outdoor enthusiasts, with great walking, climbing and mountain biking close by. The simple accommodation has mattresses for 8, a kitchen and seating area a hot shower on a meter, and a toilet/ washbasin with hot and cold water. BYO sleeping bag and stove/eating utensils if you wish to self-cater. Sole occupancy only. Cragg House Farm also has a holiday cottage sleeping two, enquire for details (017687 70204).

Greengill Barn

A converted traditional barn on the edge of Morland in Cumbria’s rolling Eden Valley. Close to the Lake District and handy for the M6. Great for gatherings of family or friends wanting to visit the Lake District, the Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales and the Borders. There is a large fully equipped kitchen/dining room and comfortable games room. On NCR 71 and Wiggo’s Loop on C2C. Good local walking and easy access to lakes & fells. Local café and pub for meals & real ale.

Holme Wood Bothy

Holme Wood Bothy offers basic accommodation in a spectacular secluded location, right on the shore of Loweswater. This “stone tent” provides a roof, kitchen area and sleeping platform. Visitors must bring camping equipment including plates, matches, sleeping mats and sleeping bags and water. If you are looking for a remote and basic getaway with easy access to the lake this bothy is the perfect choice. Great for accessing the lakes and canoeing on Loweswater.

Thorney How

Thorney How offers clean, comfortable accommodation in Grasmere. Family-run and welcoming it provides en suite, B&B and self-catering accommodation. Close to the Coast to Coast path, local village and lake it is your perfect Lake District base. A bar, restaurant and spacious grounds complete the experience.

Carlisle City Hostel

Carlisle’s only independent hostel. Located on picturesque Abbey Street, the building is an old Georgian terrace accommodating up to 20 guests. There is a communal kitchen, lounge with TV, DVDs and book swap and a dining room. Free tea, coffee and WiFi in communal areas. Prices include basic breakfast. A great place from which to explore Carlisle, The Tuille House MuseumThe Eden Valley, Hadrien’s Wall and more The staff look forward to welcoming you as their guest to hostel and the city.

Fell End Bunkhouse

Overlooking the Howgill Fells, these two 18th century buildings provide bunkhouse accommodation for groups, DofE, families and people with special needs. Great for walking, cycling, canoeing & caving. The Schoolhouse sleeps 8 with an extra bed in a side room. Greenslack has 2 bunks and 1 single bed plus an accessible bathroom. Fell End is owned by the Bendrigg Trust, a charity offering accessible outdoor activities.

Denton House

Denton House is a purpose built hostel and outdoor centre in the Lake District offering bunkhouse accommodation. Warm and well equipped for self-catering, the centre was designed for groups with parking for 40 cars. A variety of outdoor activities can be arranged on site. There is equipment storage and access to the River Greta across the road.

Dacres Stable Camping Barn

A short drive from Kendal, Dacres Stable Camping Barn is on the Eastern edge of the Lake District National Park. On a gated road away from the main A6 it is a perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District and the Eden valley. Great too for mountain biking, walking, & cycling on quiet tracks and lanes. The camping barn comfortably sleeps 8 on a sole use, self-catering basis. A separate big barn provides play space for children and extra storage.

Fell End Camping Barn

Fell End is a traditional 18th Century Lakeland stone barn, located within its own grass courtyard approximately ½ mile from the farm. It is within easy distance of Coniston (6 miles) and the Duddon Valley (5 miles). Come and stay and witness the Star-Filled Skies, a truly breathtaking sight. Experience the ‘Sound of Silence’ in the tranquil and calming Fell End Barn. BYO your own cooking equipment, torches, bedding and mat.

Yealand Old School

Stroll from the doorstep to Warton Crag for a view across the sands of Morecambe Bay. In early summer hunt out a host of wild flowers on the limestone scenery at nearby Gaitbarrows NNR and Hutton Roofs crags. Kids will enjoy Lakeland Wildlife Oasis, a small zoo close by. The New Inn is only 300m away. Relax in the grounds of the adjacent Quaker Meeting House. Car park. Groups only at weekends, except when there’s a last minute vacancy

Howgills Barn

Howgills Barn offers a beautifully renovated self catering barn in Sedbergh Yorkshire. Breath taking views, plenty to see and do on the doorstep & set in a private location where the children can enjoy some freedom. A five minute walk in to Sedbergh to nearby pubs, cafes and restaurants. Dogs welcome too. Hot tub available. Five stars on trip advisor from over 100 reviews, gives a flavour of the quality of the accommodation.

Slack House Farm

Slack House Farm is an organic dairy farm overlooking Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall. It is on the NCN 72 cycle route and is only 0.5km from the Hadrian’s Wall National Trail. The bunkbarn is next to Gladje in the Scypen café and farm shop (Birdoswald cheese is made on-site). The bunkbarn is warm and cosy and has basic self-catering facilities. Breakfasts, farmhouse suppers and packed lunches can be provided.

High House

High House in Seathwaite, at the head of the beautiful valley of Borrowdale, offers comfortable bunkhouse/hostel self-catering accommodation. Popular with walking and climbing clubs, outdoor education and corporate groups, early booking is advised. The building is only let to one group at a time. Two dorms are available each with toilet, washbasin and shower. There is a third dorm reserved for K Fellfarers members, and club members may use this room during your stay. If you wish to have Exclusive use, including this Members Room, there’s a £25 supplement per night.

Derwentwater Independent Hostel

Family run and friendly, Derwentwater Independent Hostel is a Georgian mansion in 17 acres of grounds with stunning mountain views. Just 2 miles from Keswick, close to the Coast to Coast route and the delights of Borrowdale it makes a great base for individuals, families, groups and conferences. The hostel has plenty of space in and out for you to use and relax. Home made food is available.

Lowick School Bunkhouse

Within the old primary school at Lowick Green which is nestled between Coniston (4 miles) and Ulverston. The bunkhouse has a lounge/meeting room with wood-burning stove, kitchen/dining room, great views of the mountains and an outdoor area with campfire River Deep Mountain High Activity Centre provides a wide variety of outdoor activities. Group and family packages include activities in the price.

Longrigg Residential Centre

Recently refurbished and standing in its own grounds, overlooking the unspoilt splendour of the Howgill Fells Longrigg is perfect for mixed groups or families wanting to explore the Lakes and Yorkshire. Walking, cycling, canoeing and caving are nearby. BYO Sleeping bags and pillowcases. A large kitchen is equipped for group catering. The lounge has easy chairs and access to the patio. A separate games room has pool table, TV and table football. Outdoor activity instruction and equipment available.

Catbells Camping Barn

Catbells Camping Barns sits on the slopes of Catbells in the tranquil Newlands Valley, with magnificent views over the Lake District. The Cumberland Way passes through the farmyard. Keswick is only 4 miles away and both Borrowdale and Buttermere are within walking distance. The camping barn has mattresses, bring your own sleeping bag, and is heated with a multi-fuel stove (not suitable for cooking). In the adjacent building is a toilet and a cooking area BYO stove and equipment). It is possible to walk to a pub which serves food.

Rookhow Centre

In the Rusland Valley, surrounded by glorious woods where bonfires/BBQs are permitted, near Coniston, Windermere & Grisedale Forest. Rookhow is the perfect base for walking, orienteering, mountaineering, biking and other outdoor activities or quiet retreat. A small, cosy hostel converted from stables of the nearby Quaker Meeting House (available for group activities). The sleeping areas can be rented as private/family rooms.