Buttermere
Buttermere Court Hotel
Hotel · Buttermere — Informal rooms between two lakes, with fell walks nearby.
Places to stay / Windermere
WINDERMERE · COUNTRYSIDE HOSTEL
YHA Windermere
A countryside hostel above Lake Windermere, with shared dorm beds, private rooms and far-reaching views from its terrace. A useful budget base for walkers and families who want to stay outside the busy town centre.
Last updated: 25 October 2026
At a glance
- Private rooms and shared dorm beds
- Lake and mountain views from the terrace
- Self-catering kitchen, restaurant and bar
- Free Wi-Fi in shared social spaces
- Free on-site parking, subject to availability
- Countryside location, around two miles from town
Plan your stay
Compare the rooms and beds available for your dates. Read the accommodation description, inclusions and cancellation terms before booking.
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Location
Area
Near Troutbeck Bridge, above Lake Windermere
Address
YHA Windermere, Bridge Lane
Troutbeck, Windermere LA23 1LA
Lake views and a quieter countryside setting
YHA Windermere stands near Troutbeck Bridge, around two miles from Windermere town. Its grounds include woodland, gardens and open space, with views across the lake towards the surrounding fells.
Spend a quieter evening on the terrace or use the hostel as a base for days around Windermere and Ambleside. Allow for the journey back up to the hostel when planning your day.
Dorm beds, private rooms and outdoor stays
Compare a shared dorm bed with a private room for your party. Check the bed layout, occupancy and bathroom arrangements for the specific room before reserving.
YHA also offers camping and glamping here, including Landpods and tents. These have different facilities and booking arrangements; check what your chosen provider offers rather than assuming they are included with a hostel-room booking.
Explore YHA Windermere in photos
Self-catering, meals and shared spaces
The self-catering kitchen gives you flexibility over food costs, while the restaurant and bar provide another option after a day out. The dining spaces and lounge offer room to sit together.
Confirm current meal service, dietary requirements and breakfast inclusions before arrival. Free Wi-Fi is available in shared social spaces.
Days around Windermere and the fells
Browse our Lake Windermere guide to plan time by the water, then compare outings around Windermere and Ambleside.
Wansfell is one option for experienced walkers looking for a more energetic day. Choose a route for your ability and the weather, carry suitable maps and equipment, and allow enough daylight to return. You can also enjoy the view from the hostel without committing to a mountain walk.
Arrival, parking and access
Free on-site parking is listed. The hostel is reached by a steep, narrow lane without a pavement. Windermere station is around two miles away; arrange the final part of your journey in advance if arriving by train.
YHA’s 2024 access statement describes three ground-floor bedrooms which are not fully accessible to modern standards, and no accessible bathroom. Other booking listings describe different provision, so discuss your requirements directly with YHA before booking. Read the access statement →
Hostelworld lists check-in from 5pm to 10pm and check-out before 10am. Follow the arrangements in your confirmation.
Useful questions
Is the hostel in Windermere town centre?
No. It is in a countryside setting around two miles from town, near Troutbeck Bridge. Plan transport and the steep final approach before travelling.
Can children stay?
Yes, with an adult. Hostelworld requires the lead booker to be at least 18, and children under 12 must stay in private accommodation. Check the full room and age rules for your party.
Can I bring a dog?
Pet rules depend on the accommodation and booking type. Confirm an eligible option, restrictions and any supplement directly with YHA before reserving.
What should I check before booking?
Read the rate’s cancellation and payment terms, check towel provision and meal inclusions, and confirm any access needs directly.
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Elterwater Hostel
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Ambleside
YHA Ambleside
Hostel · Waterhead, Ambleside — Waterfront setting, shared and private rooms, and a self-catering kitchen.