When we woke the next morning we were amazed with the countryside views from our room! We couldn’t wait to get out and explore the area around our Hostel.
It was already night time and dark as we drove through the Cumbrian countryside. When we arrived we were greeted by our lovely hosts and already simmering in the kitchen was a delicious 3-course-meal! As it was low-season, we had the entire dining hall just for us! The room is very spacious and now, as it’s renovated, it’s even cosier, as there was a new fireplace and softer lighting installed. After this treat we checked into our room, a 6-bunk-room, which we had all for ourselves. The night was very quiet and we had a very peaceful nights sleep.
When we woke the next morning we were amazed with the countryside views from our room! As we arrived in the night, we didn’t realise, how beautiful the surrounding landscapes are here. So we couldn’t wait to get out and explore the local area, but before that we were again spoilt with a delicious english breakfast, which got us ready for our walking trip. The hostel warden sent us on our way with some useful local information and a map with a recommended route.
So we walked through a typical lakes’ village small and beautiful, (don’t forget to visit the Gingerbread-Shop and get some biscuits for your walking trip!) along the lake to Rydal, where we had lunch in the Badger Pub. Afterwards, we walked to Ambleside, another very picturesque village. There, you could take a boat to Windermere, if you arrive before the last boat leaves (check the timetable). Also I would recommend to check the bus timetable in advance! As they don’t run that regularly out of season, which we realised a little bit too late.
Once back in the hostel, another 3 course meal, made with love from former London-Chef Robin, was the perfect welcome home after a long and lovely day’s walking in the distinguished local countryside. After dinner, we could unwind in the cosy living room, also with a lovely fireplace, tv, games, comfortable couch. The right place to relax after a long day outside!
The hostel contains 53 beds and has a lot of space in the common areas and also outside. If you’re really lucky you might even see deer roaming outside! The perfect place to stay and the location is great, also for groups and coast-to-coast-walkers! I would definitely recommend it and hope that I can go back soon.
by Karin Gomringer