About

Providing simple, comfortable, warm and homely accommodation at a great price, Elterwater Hostel is an ideal base for cycling, walking and climbing trips to the Lakes, or simply a fantastic spot to escape to for a quiet break! With a friendly atmosphere, Elterwater will be your home away from home.

With 38 beds, and a history of hostelling since 1939, Elterwater is a great choice of accommodation for groups, individuals and families alike. With bunk rooms sleeping two, four and six people, a spacious living and dining area, delicious home cooked meals and a large self-catering kitchen, the property is perfect for anybody visiting the Lakes.

There is also a cosy lounge and large dining area, perfect for relaxing and sharing stories with fellow guests, reading a book from our collection, or making use of the free WIFI.

With stunning scenery all around us, and the conveniently central nature of our location, whatever your reason for visiting the lakes, Elterwater provides an ideal base from which to experience all that Lakeland has to offer.

Other facilities include;
*Excellent drying room
*Cycle storage
*Small shop selling maps, postcards snacks and drinks
*Just a two/three minute walk from a fantastic Lakeland pub
*National Trust car park just a couple of hundred meters away - free to National Trust members
*Fully catered accommodation options available
*Friendly and knowledgeable staff willing to help you plan your time in the lakes

Elterwater Property policies & conditions;

Cancellation policy: 7 days before arrival. In case of a late cancellation you will be charged the first night of your stay. In the event of a No Show, or cancellation within 2 days before arrival you will be charge the full balance of your booking.

Check in from 17:00 to 21.30, but property is open for guests to make themselves a cup of tea or coffee and make themselves at home if they arrive before 17.00
Check out before 10:00 .

Please provide the credit card CVV code in order to confirm the booking. In case the CVV code is not provided, the booking will be cancelled.

Taxes included.
Breakfast not included.

General:

Child friendly.
Non smoking.

House Rules

Check In

17:00 - 21:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free WiFi
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Reception (limited hours)
  • Board Games
  • Wi-Fi
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Meals Available
View all facilities

Reviews

9.8Superb(227)
  • Value for Money
    9.7
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    9.7
  • Cleanliness
    9.8
  • Staff
    10.0
  • Location
    10.0
  • Facilities
    9.7
Stayed in Oct 2025
10
H
Holly
Female, 25-30, England
My sister and I had a short but lovely stay here. Location is gorgeous, we witnessed the most beautiful sunrise outside our bedroom window! The staff were very kind and even upgraded our room. We look forward to staying here again.
Stayed in Oct 2025
9.7
H
Heather
Female, 31-40, Australia
had the best time. staff were amazing and helpful in a quiet and cozy location
Stayed in Sept 2025
10
H
Hannah
Couple, 41+, Scotland
Brilliant location and lovely friendly staff. Would highly recommend.
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Location

Elterwater, Ambleside, Cumbria, Lake District, England
5.2km from city centre