This map shows the Lake District National Park and Cumbria. The locations of camping barns, bunkhouses and hostels in the Lakes are shown with clickable links. Centred on Borrowdale, the heart of Wordsworth Country, this map covers the area from Carlisle in the north to Barrow in Furness in the South, the west coast town of Whitehaven to Kirkby Stephen in the east. Hostels, bunkhouses and camping barns provide self catering accommodation for individuals, families and groups wanting to explore the Lake District and Cumbria. They are perfect bases for cycling, walking, fell running or climbing in the national park. There are hostels on the coast and along the route of the Cumbria sections of the Coast to Coast Walk and the Cycling C2C.
Lake District hostels & Bunkhouses
Beautifully situated on the south facing slopes of Blencathra just 1 mile out of the Lakeland village of Threlkeld, Lonscale is a new hostel offering group accommodation at the FSC Blencathra Centre. Groups of 14-26 can have sole use of this award winning eco-friendly accommodation. There are also 4 self catering cottages and a 110 bed educational centre on this site.
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. The bunk barn is heated with a bio mass boiler. Breakfast or bacon sandwiches available with notice. Walking, cycling and family groups are most welcome.
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, BYO equipment as for camping, such as cutlery, plates, sleeping bags & mats, matches.
The perfect choice for people looking to escape to one of the most remote-feeling places in the Lake District.
Castle Head Field Studies Council centre is set in a country mansion with 20 hectares of private grounds on the southern edge of the Lake District National Park near to Windmere. Sleeping up to 157 across 33 rooms all types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, groups of adults, families and extended family groups. Due to Covid-19, rooms are currently offered on a B&B basis at very reasonable rates.
Howgills Barn offers a beautifully renovated self-catering barn in Sedbergh Yorkshire. Breathtaking 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 into Sedbergh to nearby pubs, cafés 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.
Located between Grange Over Sands and Kendal on the northern shore of Morecambe Bay. The bunkhouse is within the beautiful Whitbarrow Nature Reserve in the southern Lake District. Built for cyclists and walkers with drying room, laundry, communal kitchen, diner, lounges, secure cycle storage, workshop and bike wash. Perfect for groups, families and individuals. Just 500m from the Morecambe ‘Bay Cycle Way’, the Lakes & Dales Loop and NCN 700 & 70 E-bike hire is available on site.
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. Pubs, 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.
This 10-bedroom, 10-bathroom B&B & 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 & the Pennine Fells are close by. On Wainwright's Coast to Coast, the Westmorland Way & the Miller's Way it's perfect for large groups or individuals.
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 & out for you to use and relax in. Home-made food is available.
Bowderstone Bunkhouse is situated along the Borrowdale Valley by the famous Bowderstone – a massive boulder that has lain precariously on one side for the last 10,000 years! It has a kitchen, accessible shower room and communal area, plus running water, electricity and drainage, but linen and mattresses not provided. Please note, Bowderstone Bunkhouse is only for use by clubs, educational groups or other organisations such as the Scouts, as it is on National Trust land and has certain restrictions to its use.
Great Langdale Bunkhouse is situated amidst some of the finest mountain scenery in England with access to mountain biking, cycling, walking, fell running and climbing. The bunkhouse has 18 single beds divided into 3 twin rooms and 2 rooms of six (all bunk beds). The rooms are simple but comfortable and each room has a double plug socket. The bunkhouse has biomass central heating throughout so its toasty warm with an endless supply of hot water and powerful showers.
Nestled in the peace of the Ennerdale Valley, overlooking Ennerdale Water, The Wild Wool Barn provides luxury bunkhouse accommodation for 6 (plus 6 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 and explore the rarely visited Western Lakes.
Situated in the heart of South Lakeland, in secluded woodland, just 4 miles from the popular tourist village of Ambleside, High Wray Basecamp provides an ideal base for groups wishing to explore the Lake District. Perfect for rambling, fell walking, climbing and water sports. The Basecamp ranger will happily advise on local walks and activities. The Longland block has 2 dorms each sleeping 8, while the Acland block has 2 dorms each sleeping 10 and a leaders’ room.
Perched on an outcrop overlooking Morecambe Bay on the edge of The Lake District, Humphrey Head Group Hostel & Outdoor Centre is perfect for family celebrations, reunions, stag/hen parties, schools, clubs & groups.
Remote & private, surrounded by stunning scenery & nature, with outdoor activities on site there is something for everyone.Catering & camping available.
Caldbeck Glamping accommodation is in the centre of Caldbeck Village close to Wainwright's Northern Fells. Opposite The Odd Fellows pub and close to the village store. The self contained barns sleep 8 and 5. Three people can sleep in the Bothy and there is space for a small tent or two. Caldbeck is a 25 minute drive from M6 and right on The Cumbria Way walk and The Reivers Cycle route. Sit back and enjoy everything this hidden Lake District gem of a village has to offer.
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 & book swap and a dining room. Free tea, coffee and WiFi . Prices include a basic breakfast. A great place from which to explore Carlisle, the Tuille House Museum, the Eden Valley, Hadrian’s Wall and more. The staff look forward to welcoming you as their guest to the hostel & the city.
Slack House Farm is a working, organic farm overlooking Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall. On the NCN 72 cycle trail and bordering the dark-skies of Kielder and the Northumberland National Park. Half a km from Hadrian’s Wall National Trail. The bunkbarn is adjacent to the farm’s cheese dairy. It is heated and has basic self-catering facilities and an outdoor cooking/barbecue cabin. Breakfasts, farmhouse suppers, ready meals and packed lunches available.
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 for fell walking, rock climbing, bird & wildlife watching, mountain biking, orienteering & canoeing. The centre generates its own hydro-electricity. Vehicle access is by forest track and a BT payphone is on site as most mobiles do not work here.
Thorney How offers clean, comfortable accommodation in Grasmere. Family-run and welcoming it provides en suite, simple B&B and self-catering. Close to the Coast to Coast path, local village and lake.Your perfect Lake District base. A bar, restaurant and spacious grounds complete the experience.
Located right on the Hadrian’s Wall National Trail this newly converted bunkhouse is aimed at walkers or cyclists. With drying room and cycle storage this is the perfect stop-over on the trail. Open for individuals from April to October, Florrie’s provides a comfortable bed, breakfast and evening meals plus the opportunity to socialise with other guests at the bar. From October 2020 the bunkhouse will be open to groups in the winter season with self-catering.
Situated in the village of Greenhead on both the Pennine Way and Hadrian’s Wall, the bunkhouse is ideal for walking the Pennine Way Trail or The Wall Path or for exploring the nearby Roman heritage sites. It has a self-catering kitchen big enough for large groups. The flexible accommodation can be booked by the bed, the room or for sole use. Greenhead hostel/ bunkhouse is run by Greenhead Hotel just over the road.
Kendal Hostel, a Georgian townhouse in the historic market town of Kendal, is next to the well known Brewery Arts Centre and only a stone’s throw from the town centre. Facilities include 13 bedrooms for up to 65 guests, kitchen, lounge, dining room, bike shed and free WiFi. Single/double/family/group rooms plus mixed & single sex dorms.
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 a large, two-storey 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 & ale.
Yealand Old School provides newly refurbished, self-catering accommodation with en suite bedrooms and group dorms. Relax in the grounds of the Quaker Meeting House. A short stroll from Summerhouse Hill and Warton Crag amidst spectacular limestone scenery and nature reserves. LEJOG passes the front door on Route 6. Quiet village location with pub serving food.
Situated next to Rydal Beck in the heart of the Lake District, Rydal Hall Bunkhouse provides accommodation for groups of up to 29 in four dormitories plus a large common room, drying room & a fully equipped stainless steel kitchen. There is also a quiet campsite for individuals and families, eco-pods in the grounds and en suite accommodation for up to 50 in the main hall and a tea shop.
Cragg Camping Barn, with stunning views of the Buttermere Fells, is a great base for all outdoor enthusiasts with great walking, climbing and mountain biking close by. Sleeps 8 with a kitchen and seating area, hot shower on a meter and toilet/ washbasin with hot and cold water. BYO sleeping bag and stove/eating utensils if you wish to self-cater. Under-5’s and dogs welcome (sole occupancy only). Cragg House Farm also has a holiday cottage sleeping two.
The highest hostel in Britain! Escape the crowds at this remote mountain hostel. Hire the whole place for a small group of friends or family. No roads, no other buildings, no phone signal: just uninterrupted beautiful mountain views. An easy walk or mountain bike ride from Keswick or Threlkeld. Rustic but comfortable with a wood burning stove, hot showers, a well-stocked shop/bar and full bedding provided.
In the heart of Windermere, close to shops, cafés 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 the door. Maps and guides available in this friendly, cosy hostel.
High Wallabarrow is a traditional hill farm in the Duddon Valley, the Lake District’s quiet corner. The well equipped camping barn, an old farmhouse, sleeps 10 upstairs. Downstairs there’s a large living area with woodburning stove and fully equipped kitchen. Mattresses provided BYO sleeping bags/pillows. Toilet just outside and shower nearby. 15 mins’ walk to pub, 10 mins to climbing crag. Not suitable for rowdy groups.
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.
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.
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.
High House in Seathwaite, at the head of the beautiful valley of Borrowdale, offers comfortable bunkhouse/hostel accommodation. Popular with walking and climbing clubs and educational groups, early booking is advised. 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.
Close to Penrith town centre and perfect for 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 welcome.
Refurbished to a very high standard, the Parish Room is a great base for outdoors enthusiasts to explore Skiddaw, the Northern Lakes, Keswick and the Cumbrian coast.
There is a modern well-equipped kitchen, large hall, meeting room with sofa and large TV. There is also disabled access throughout. Separate male/female toilets and two shower rooms. Bring your own beds, bedding and towels. Free WiFi. Sorry no stag/hen parties.
Set in 12 acres of its own ancient woodland, Rookhow provides a simple and comfortable retreat for families, friends and groups. A small, cosy hostel converted from stables of the nearby Quaker Meeting House (available as an extra space for group activities).
Near Coniston, Windermere & Grizedale Forest. Rookhow is the perfect base for walking, mountain biking or for workshops or training events.
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 & the Cumbrian Way. Perfect as a weekend break for walkers. The large upstairs room has bunk beds for 10 people (BYO sleeping bags) & a large farmhouse table. The kitchen has all you need to cook a simple meal, electric hob, microwave, toaster, fridge & kettle. One dog with sole use only by prior arrangement. Not suitable for parties.
Former Methodist Church with a range of accommodation for individuals, families and groups amongst beautiful authentic features; stained glass, arches and panels. There’s a large dining room & 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 Pennine Journey, the W2W cycle route, the Howgill Hills, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.
Holme Wood Bothy offers basic accommodation in a spectacular secluded location, right on the shore of Loweswater. This stone tent provides a roof, kitchen and sleeping platform. Visitors must bring all camping equipment including plates, matches, sleeping mats & bags, food & water.
If you are looking for a remote and basic getaway with easy access to the lake, this bothy is your perfect choice. Great for canoeing on Loweswater.
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.
Within the old primary school at Lowick Green, nestled between Coniston water(4 miles) and Ulverston, the bunkhouse has a lounge with wood-burning stove, large 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.
Nestling at the foot of Blencathra, with paths to the mountains from the doorstep Lowside Farm Camping Barn & Pods are your perfect Lake District base.
Sleeping groups of up to 14, the newly converted camping barn is modern & comfortable, The six, 4 berth luxury camping pods, provide extra accommodation for larger groups, older family members and those with small chilldren. All bedding is provided.
The White Horse Inn has 2 bunkhouses in the converted stables of this traditional Lake District inn at the foot of Blencathra. Guests are welcome in the Inn which has great pub food, open fires, local ales and is open from 11am to 11pm. Each bunkhouse has a basic kitchen, dining area and bunkrooms sleeping between 4 and 6. Paths to the mountains from the garden & the C2C route passes the door.
Situated in Thirlmere at the foot of the Helvellyn mountains, close to Sticks Pass & the spectacular Fisher-Gill waterfall, the barn has direct access to numerous walks, hill & rock climbing. It is just off the A591 with local & national bus stops at the end of the lane. Accommodation consists of two rooms; a kitchen/diner with all the basic equipment & a 10 bed bunkroom (BYO sleeping bag). A pub serving meals is a short walk away. Perfect for quiet country retreats, but not suitable for noisy groups. No mobile phone signal or WiFi.
St John’s-in-the-Vale Camping Barn is an 18th century stable on a peaceful hill farm, with stunning views to Blencathra, Helvellyn and Castle Rock.
The Barn has a sleeping area upstairs (mattresses 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.
Things to do in the Lake District
The Great Outdoors
Cumbria is a paradise for the outdoor enthusiast. With amazing walks, lakes, scenery and mountain passes, people come from all over for outdoor activities such as climbing, water sports and mountain biking.
Hostelling is the ideal way of taking in the stunning landscape of the Lake District National Park. The Lake District is home to Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Scarfell Pike, one of the peaks used in the Three Peaks Challenge. Other famous peaks include Blencathra, Catbells, Coniston Old Man and Skiddaw. Poets, authors, walkers and watersports lovers alike have all fallen for the charms of, Coniston, Derwentwater, Ullswater Grasmere and the many other lakes and tarns in the area.
World Famous Towns & Attractions
The small towns and villages of Kendal, Keswick, Ambleside, and Bowness on Windemere, are centres of tourism with many family-friendly attractions including the Cumberland Pencil Museum, the World of Beatrix Potter, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, and Carlisle Castle.
Soaked in Culture & Steeped in History
For the literary minded the National Trust manage Hill Top, home of Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth’s Childhood home at Cockermouth. Meanwhile, the Wordsworth Trust run his home at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, near Ambleside. Admirers of John Ruskin can visit his home at Brantwood on Coniston, and lovers of Lake District artists can find their work showcased in galleries across the region.
For those who like a more gentle view, the river Eden sweeps through the Eden Valley to the east of Penrith and is the home to otters which can be regularly seen in the area. The Eden valley is also the home of Andy Goldsworthy’s art installations “Sheep-Folds” which can be found across the area including near the villages of Melmerby, Brough and Tebay. Contrast this with the high fells of Shap known to most only from the route of the M6 as it climbs over Cumbria past Carlisle towards the border.
