Derwentwater Youth Hostel, Cumbria
Barrow House, Borrowdale, Keswick, Cumbria
The location, views and scenery are just out of this world
A fantastic, historic building right on the shore of Derwentwater. And the views.... well you can't get much better than this. Many say this is the most picturesque lake in Britain, and has a waterfall in the grounds which powers the hostels hydro-generator. The lake itself will keep you occupied for days - children can paddle while the more adventurous take part in a wide variety of watersports. Or catch the launch nearby and stop off at any of the six jetties to explore the shoreline. There is also a selection of spectacular walks to suit all levels.
For sleeping arrangements there is on offer comfortable bunk bed accommodation consisting of 9 rooms with 4-8 beds in each, a room for 10 and even a very grand 22 bed room, good for groups of families staying together. Washrooms/showers are shared facilities. All guests have access to the self catering kitchen. This is most definitely a memorable venue for family get-togethers and celebrations. There is a games room with pool & table football and a separate table tennis room. Plenty of room inside and out for children to play and make friends whilst the adults enjoy a drink on the Terrace. An orienteering course is available in the grounds.
Plenty to do in the area from taking the toddlers to play and explore the lake shore to more adventurous activities locally for the older ones - climbing, gorge scrambling and abseiling in Borrowdale, mountain bike courses and Go Ape at Whinlatter Forest, water sports on the lake. You must take the family for a walk up Cat Bells - plenty of other memorable low and high level walks. The boat trip on Derwentwater is highly recommended - you can combine it with a walk around the Lake. Inspirational scenery everywhere!
Other local attractions include Honister Slate Mine and Via Ferrata, Cumberland Pencil Museum, Osprey viewpoint at Bassenthwaite, Mire House - grounds are great for Families, Theatre by the Lake, Puzzling Place. Further afield there's the Brockhole Vistor Centre at Windermere, and Ravenglass & Eskdale (40 miles away but a gem of a miniature railway) a lovely day out for all the Family.
During the 6 weeks of the school summer holidays Derwentwater are running Youth Hostel Association's Summer Camps for Kids - which have the exclusive use of the Hostel. For this reason families will be unable to stay end of July/August. The Camp Holidays are for children age 10-17.