Yha Ennerdale in Buttermere, England

The hostel provides a shared kitchen for self-catering and offers a garden with a bar. Guests can use the shared lounge and TV area, and there is a drying room for wet hiking gear. An honesty shop sells drinks and snacks at reasonable prices.

Rooms include dormitories with bunk beds and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The separate bunk barn, which dates back to the 15th century, can be rented for larger groups. All beds are standard YHA with comfortable mattresses and USB charging ports.

A continental breakfast is available, with full English and Irish options served hot. Evening meals are offered by the hostel kitchen, including vegetarian and vegan choices. The bar serves draught beer and cider, including a locally sourced raspberry cider.

The hostel sits at the eastern end of Ennerdale Water in the Wild Ennerdale valley, 26 km from Buttermere village. It is a stop on the Coast to Coast walking route, and the bunk barn is the oldest building in the valley. There is no mobile phone signal, but Starlink WiFi is available for guests.

A bird feeding table outside the lounge attracts red squirrels and various bird species daily. The veranda offers views of Pillar mountain and the surrounding fells. Guests can walk directly from the hostel onto marked trails leading to the lake and higher peaks.

Location: Remote valley, 26 km to Buttermere

Rooms: Shared dorms and 15th-century bunk barn

Dining: Cooked breakfast and evening meals with vegan options

Wildlife: Red squirrel sightings from the lounge

Connectivity: No phone signal, Starlink WiFi

Ideal for: Coast to Coast walkers, nature lovers