World renowned mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington is leading an ‘expedition’ to raise funds to revamp his favourite Youth Hostel - the iconic YHA Black Sail.

The famous explorer is heading the campaign to pay for much-needed refurbishment works at both the legendary former shepherd’s bothy and its sister hostel, YHA Ennerdale, four miles down the valley.

Sir Chris, who lives in the Lake District and is a YHA Vice President as well as a keen admirer of the Black Sail property, which is the most remote hostel in England and sits two-and-a-half miles from the nearest road.

“Of all the Youth Hostels I have seen, and there are many in fantastic situations, I think Black Sail is the pearl in the YHA crown without a shadow of doubt,” he said.

Nearly £150,000 of the £250,000 required funding has been secured through various grants, and it is hoped that the appeal will go a large way towards bridging the shortfall of £100,000 after last year’s hostel appeal – for YHA Boscastle - topped £110,000.

“I’m sure that looking up to the north face of Gable and down the valley from YHA Black Sail will get more and more wonderful as the Wild Ennerdale project takes place,” added Sir Chris.

“That’s why it is imperative that Black Sail and the larger sister hostel, YHA Ennerdale, are maintained in excellent order so that future generations can stay in the very heart this stunning valley.”

Donating is easy! Anyone interested in helping Sir Chris scale the fundraising heights can contact Helen Johnson on 01629 592602, email helenjohnson@yha.org.uk, call the Freephone donation hotline on 0800 652 4885 or donate online by clicking here.

Chris Bonington Ennerdale view