"Location - love the stream running in the side of the hostel, the picturesque location, mountain access."
Mrs from United Kingdom
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"The games room had the biggest selection of board games I think I've ever seen in a YHA hostel."
PeterC from United Kingdom
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"All the shared areas were very comfortable and cozy."
Virginia from United Kingdom
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YHA Borrowdale: A riverside hostel at the heart of Borrowdale Valley's walking country
Location & Setting
The hostel sits by the Derwent river in Borrowdale Valley with mountain views of Castle Crag. It is a recommended stop on Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk, 7 miles from Keswick. Whinlatter Forestry Centre is 10 miles away and offers Go Ape, walking trails, and mountain-biking trails.
Accommodations
The majority of rooms contain bunk beds; private rooms with shared bathrooms and dormitories are available. Camping pods and landpods are located by the river for guests seeking an outdoor stay. Overnight guests receive a discounted parking rate of £5 per vehicle for 24 hours (subject to availability).
Dining & Bar
The on-site bar serves Cumbrian ales and offers a range of drinks in a chalet-style setting. Hot meals are available in the restaurant from 5pm to 8pm, and a full English breakfast is served in the morning. A self-catering kitchen is provided for guests who prefer to cook their own food.
Entertainment & Facilities
The hostel has a games room with pool table, football table, and board games/puzzles. A TV lounge and a drying room are available after days on the fells. Outdoor furniture and a picnic area allow guests to enjoy the riverside setting.
Family & Group Services
The hostel offers family rooms and has facilities for disabled guests, including an emergency cord in the bathroom and toilet with grab rails. Meeting/banquet facilities can be arranged for groups. Luggage storage is provided, and key access and smoke alarms are fitted for safety.
Highlights
Location: Riverside setting in Borrowdale Valley, on Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk
Dining: Cumbrian ales, hot evening meals, full English breakfast
Entertainment: Games room, TV lounge, board games & puzzles
Parking: Discounted overnight rate of £5 per vehicle for 24 hours
Access: Whinlatter Forestry Centre with Go Ape 10 miles away
Must-do experiences
Hike up to Castle Crag for stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
Try the local Kendal Mint Cake for an energizing snack on hikes.
Visit the nearby Ashness Bridge, a picturesque photo opportunity.
Explore the waterfalls at Lodore Falls for a refreshing escape.
Join a guided wildlife tour for a chance to see local fauna up close.
Select your preferred room
Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
2 Bed Private Room
2 persons
6 m²
1 Bunk bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Bunk Bed Male Dormitory Room
1 person
8 m²
1 Bunk bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Bunk Bed Female Dormitory Room
1 person
8 m²
1 Bunk bed
Heating
Shower
room details
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Hotel facilities and services
Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Luggage storage
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Billiard tables
Dining
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
Board games
Game room
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Garden area
Room features
Heating
Garden furniture
Self-catering
Shared kitchen
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
At YHA Borrowdale, delicious dining options invite guests to savor hearty meals in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. From generous breakfasts to tempting café stops, every choice reflects the charm and warmth of the region, enhancing your stay with rustic and wholesome flavors.
Restaurant #1
Vegetarian
Ambiance
Warm and family-friendly, perfect for gathering after a day of adventure.
Key Offerings
A delightful all-you-can-eat cooked breakfast featuring sausages, bacon, eggs, hash browns, tomatoes, and beans. For lighter appetites, enjoy a continental selection with fresh fruit, cereals, yogurts, and pastries.
Reservation
No
Breakfast only; hours vary.
Yha Borrowdale Location
Longthwaite, Borrowdale, Rosthwaite,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Honister Slate Mine
3.26 km
Landmark
Rosthwaite Stepping Stones
1.25 km
Landmark
Lake District National Park
2.36 km
Landmark
The Bowder Stone
2.07 km
Landmark
Castle Crag
2.11 km
Landmark
Great Crag
1.31 km
Landmark
Lodore Falls Beauty Salon
1.25 km
Landmark
Millican Dalton Cave
1.75 km
Landmark
Castle Crag Hill Fort
1.69 km
Landmark
Standing Stones
1.71 km
Landmark
Derwent Water
6.56 km
Landmark
Watendlath Tarn
2.57 km
Landmark
Holy Trinity
3.18 km
Landmark
Plumbago Mines
3 km
Landmark
Holy Trinity Church
3.16 km
Landmark
Grange Methodist Chapel
3.17 km
Landmark
Dale Head copper mine dressing floors and associated buildings 400m north of Dale Head
3.41 km
Landmark
Dale Head
3.48 km
Landmark
B5289 Road
3.24 km
Landmark
Loss
3.3 km
Landmark
Long Work Lead Mine
3.38 km
Landmark
Chandravadan Parekh's Monument
3.43 km
Landmark
High Spy West
3.5 km
Landmark
Copper Plate Copper Mine
3.55 km
Landmark
Reecastle Crag Hillfort
3.67 km
Landmark
High Tove
3.88 km
Landmark
Surprise View
4.8 km
Landmark
Glaramara Stone Axe Factory
3.82 km
Landmark
Near Tongue Gill Copper Mine
3.84 km
Landmark
Castlenook Lead Mine
3.85 km
Nearby
Borrowdale C of E Primary School
460 m
Restaurants
Restaurant at Hazel Bank Country House
950 m
Hazel Bank Country House Keswick
Explore Rosthwaite
Local Activities and Dining
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Rosthwaite Stepping Stones
15 minutes' walk
Natural stepping stones across a river perfect for families. Scenic views and a great spot for photos.
Lake District National Park
25 minutes' walk
A UNESCO World Heritage site boasting stunning landscapes, ideal for hiking and nature observation.
The Bowder Stone
25 minutes' walk
A massive glacial boulder offering a unique climbing experience and incredible panoramic views from the top.
Castle Crag
25 minutes' walk
A prominent hill with a historic fort offering spectacular vistas that attract photography and hiking enthusiasts.
Hiking at Great Crag
15 minutes' walk
Thrilling hiking routes to challenge outdoor enthusiasts with breathtaking scenery along the way.
Yoga at Lodore Falls
12 minutes' drive
Relaxation sessions amidst nature, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the area.
Cycling along Derwent Water
20 minutes' drive
Rent bikes at nearby shops to explore scenic trails around the beautiful lake and enjoy the fresh air.
Restaurant at Hazel Bank Country House
12 minutes' walk
Local British cuisine with a fine dining experience. Signature dish: seasonal lamb with a picturesque garden view.
The Borrowdale Hotel
15 minutes' walk
A cozy spot serving traditional dishes and local ales, known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty pies.
Theatre by the Lake
20 minutes' drive
Host to a variety of performances including plays and musicals. Family-friendly programs featured regularly.
Keswick Brewing Company
20 minutes' drive
Local brewery offering tours with tastings. Perfect spot for sampling craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
Getting around the city
City Centre
Rosthwaite 6 min · 500 m
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 119 min · 78.7 km
Blackpool International (BLK) 216 min · 143.5 km
Bus
Bus stop 14 min · 9.3 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 11.95 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
25
Guest ratings and detailed reviews
Feedback about Yha Borrowdale from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
8.1/10
Comfort
8.0/10
Facilities
8.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Picturesque location
Superb breakfast
Cosy environment
Excellent staff
Cons
Freezing room
Narrow road
Unclean kitchen
Uncomfortable beds
Guest reviews
based on 344 reviews
8.2/10
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FAQs
About Yha Borrowdale
What are the check-in and check-out times at Yha Borrowdale?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
What dining options are available at Yha Borrowdale?
Guests can enjoy cooked breakfast options as well as Cumbrian ales and fresh meals at the on-site restaurant.
Are there any nearby attractions to Yha Borrowdale?
Nearby attractions include Derwent Water (approximately 4 km), Lodore Falls (3 km), and Whinlatter Forestry Centre (10 km).
What recreational amenities does Yha Borrowdale offer?
The hostel features a games room, table tennis, and billiards for entertainment.
Which types of beds are available in the rooms at Yha Borrowdale?
The majority of rooms are equipped with bunk beds.
What internet services are available at Yha Borrowdale?
Internet access is available throughout the property.
What are some notable features of Yha Borrowdale's location?
The hostel is located by a river in the Borrowdale Valley and boasts fine mountain views.
What activities can guests enjoy near Yha Borrowdale?
Guests can partake in hiking, cycling, and enjoy the local swimming spot for sunbathing.
What languages are spoken by the staff at Yha Borrowdale?
The staff at the hostel are fluent in English.
Is there a grocery shopping service available at Yha Borrowdale?
Yes, a grocery shopping service is offered for guests' convenience.