Welcome to Borrowdale
The Borrowdale valley is one of the most idyllic places in the UK. A very scenic area of the Lake District National Park, the Borrowdale valley is to the south of the town of Keswick, and parallel to the River Derwent. There is a lot to do when camping in Borrowdale including walking, cycling and water sports in addition to many interesting places to visit. The popular village of Grange, with its well-known bridge and riverside café, is one of several picturesque villages. The popular fells can all be easily accessed, with Scafell and Great End at the end of the valley.
Borrowdale is the ideal location for anyone with their sights set on a stress-free, activity holiday.
Why guests love YHA campsites
- Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Castle Crag on the doorstep
- Perfect for activity holidays
- Dog friendly camping facilities
- Meals available
Map of hostels with camping in Borrowdale
YHA hostels with camping in Borrowdale
YHA Borrowdale
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WiFi
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Meeting room(s)
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Large garden/grounds
Things to do in Borrowdale
Borrowdale Fell Race
The Borrowdale Fell Race is an endurance challenge consisting of 17 miles across tough terrain including 6500 feet of ascent (27km, 2000m). The event will start and finish at the Scafell Hotel...
Borrowdale Rainforest
Did you know that there’s a rainforest in England? Borrowdale Rainforest, or Borrowdale Oakwoods as it’s also known, is one of the largest areas of temperate rainforest in England. This National...
Bowder Stone
The Bowder Stone is one of the most recognisable rocks in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. Located in the Borrowdale Valley, not far from the market town of Keswick, this large rock has a...
Castle Crag
Castle Crag is a hill in the Lake District National Park. It is situated in the north-western fells and is one of the smallest Wainwrights in the Lakes. From the summit of Castle Crag, you’ll get some...
Climbing in Borrowdale
Shepherd's crag is a unique climbing ground! The buttresses provide good pitches for both beginner and tiger. The rock is generally excellent. Classic routes abound in Borrowdale and include Little...
Coombe Gill Mill
Coombe Gill Mill, or the old Borrowdale water mill as it is sometimes known, is a Grade II listed building in Borrowdale in the Lake District. Built in the early 18th century, it was originally a...
Crow park
Crow Park is a large green area in Keswick in the Lake District that’s completely free to visit. Situated on the shores of Derwentwater, it’s the perfect spot for children to run around and let off...
Cycling in Borrowdale
Cycling around Derwentwater is a great day in the saddle. Admire the ever changing and breathtaking views across Derwentwater and stop off at the cafe at Grange and Keswick to keep you going.
Grange in Borrowdale
Grange in Borrowdale, or just Grange as it’s also known, is a gorgeous village in the Lake District National Park, near the market town of Keswick. It’s known for its striking bridge with two arches...
Great Crag and Watendlath self-guided walking route
A great walk with amazing views, moorland and tarns.
Keswick Mouse Trail
The Keswick Mouse Trail is a fun walking trail where you can explore Keswick as you look for Gerald the mouse and his mischievous friends who have escaped from the Keswick Cheese Deli. There are over...
Lodore Falls
Lodore Falls is a spectacular waterfall in the Lake District. The water starts in the beck from Watendlath Tarn, then cascades over huge rocks and boulders down into the valley. The drop is over 100...
Mountain biking in Borrowdale
The 19 kilometre red grade Altura trail has two loops which includes 15 kilometres of challenging single track sections and popular features like berms, jumps, rock features, skinnies, cork screws and...
Rosthwaite
Rosthwaite is a small but perfectly formed village situated in the heart of the Borrowdale valley in the Lake District. It is one of the most scenic places in the Lakes and is surrounded by incredible...
Running in Borrowdale
The Borrowdale valley has a great reputation with fell runners. And thanks to the races the hostel organises, YHA Borrowdale is now attracting plenty of people with a passion for dashing.
Thornthwaite Gallery & Tea Room
Thornthwaite Gallery is an independent art gallery located in the village of Thornthwaite, just outside the market town of Keswick, in the Lake District in Cumbria. The gallery is set in a beautiful...
Watersports around Borrowdale
Fast and furious dragon boat racing is a must for groups and for something totally different, don't miss the experience of sailing or rowing a Viking Longboat.
Also available in Borrowdale
Camping pods
Stay in our quirky wooden camping pods and enjoy all the great things about sleeping under the stars while you're fully protected from the outdoor elements. All our camping pods come with futon beds and bedding, so you don't have to worry about bringing your camping gear.
Land pods
Enjoy the camping experience with some upgrades. Staying in a Landpod is like camping with a few added extras: all bedding is included, plus duvets, LED lighting and a cosy seating area. Perfect for getting closer to nature
View some of our popular Lake District blog posts
Best autumnal walks in the Lake District
If you’re like us, you’re lacing up your walking boots as soon as the first hints of autumn appear in the air. And the Lake District landscape has never looked more inviting. A walk in the Lakes...
Our favourite day walks in the Lake District
It can take a lifetime of commitment to cover every fell in the Lakes, and not all of us are blessed with the time. So for those saving their epic multi-day expeditions for a later...
Five autism-friendly activities in the Lake District for 2026
As more signs of spring finally begin to emerge, it is time to think ahead to better weather and plan some days out and weekends away. And if you haven’t visited the Lake District National Park and...