Wow there were 77 of us here for the weekend over the new year period and even though we had some very lively children the staff did not get tired of smiling and being nice to everyone, well done. That said as they are aware the building does need a lot of refurb which is such a shame but buildings like this soak money up without anyone realising, but well done to all the staff, everyone thoroughly enjoyed themsleves.

Warm, clean, very friendly & helpful staff. Reasonably priced (£5) cooked breakfast. Strong smell of paint when we got to our room but it soon went. Take a plug bank if you can-charging those gadgets up on one plug is problematic.

I spent a night here during half term with my children. The hostel looked lovely from the outside having been painted since our last visit. Room very spacious with beautiful view over Esthwaite Water and staff were friendly. They keep it as clean as they can but I agree with other reviews that it really does need a refurb inside to have same standard as the other hostels we visited. The self catering kitchen had many hobs out of order and space is limited for storing food for a hostel of that size.

Can't believe some of the reviews here - need a car, run down building etc. It's a Youth Hostel not the Hilton and in a fabulous old building in extensive grounds in a spectacular location. It's only a short walk or couple of minutes bike ride to the village and if you need a car for that you probably shouldn't be Youth Hosteling. Staff were very friendly and helpful, the meals good and great value and the rooms/bathrooms of normal YHA standard. The only real negative was the grubby seats in the Games Room. Thank you to all the staff - front desk and kitchen - for a great stay.