YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse

Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4QX
YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse exterior

Overview

Surrounded by mountains and accessible only on foot or by mountain bike, Britain’s highest hostel is perfect for fell-walkers, adventurous families and lovers of wild and remote places. Situated at 470m on the flanks of Skiddaw, and 3 miles from the nearest road, this traditional hostel on the Cumbria Way offers simple yet comfortable accommodation.

Stay here for a real escape from it all; with no mains electricity, phone signal, TV or internet to distract from the wilderness. Solar panels provide light and hot water, while wood-burning stoves provide the only heating in this Alpine-hut style bunkhouse.

Why guests love YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse

  • Britain's highest hostel
  • Off grid escape
  • Great for walking and mountain biking

Accommodation at YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse

Bed in a shared room

If you're happy to share, dorm rooms have multiple beds - ideal for budget breaks.

Private rooms

Like your own space? Private rooms offer the hostelling experience with more privacy.

Pitch-up camping

Bring your own tent and get closer to the great outdoors. You can't beat camping!

Hire the whole house

With YHA Exclusive Hire, you can take the entire house for you and your group.

Reviews

Food and drink at YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse

Hostel facilities

  • Cycle store
  • Dining room
  • Games
  • Garden/grounds
  • Highchair
  • Licensed bar
  • Mountain view
  • No mobile coverage
  • No WiFi
  • Self-catering kitchen
  • Shared lounge
  • Small garden/grounds

Hostel need to know

Reception open hours: From 17:00 - 21:30. If you arrive before check-in, you can access the common room via a keypad code - this will be emailed to you before arrival.

Self-catering: YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse is self-catering only. Guests have access to a kitchen.

Parking: The hostel is 3 miles from the nearest road and only accessible on foot or by mountain bike. Free parking is available in Threkeld, Keswick, Mosedale and Bassenthwaite.

Dogs: Pets are not permitted at YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse. Assistance dogs are welcome – please notify us at the time of booking.

Card payments: Due to being off-grid we are unable take card payments at the hostel, so please bring cash or cheques.

YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse - Access Statement

(PDF download - 65.24 KB)

Location of YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse

YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse

Map references

OS Map:
89
OS Grid Ref:
NY288291
Lat/Lng:
54.652016, -3.106266

Contact information

History

Built as a shooting lodge in the early 19th century, Skiddaw House was also used as a shepherd’s and gamekeeper’s accommodation until the 1970s. It became a youth hostel in 1987.

Meet the team

Manager recommends: There are loads of great walking, running, and mountain-biking routes, leading straight from the front door. The circular walk over Skiddaw, taking in the summits of Lonscale Fell and Bakestall is a personal favourite

Visit Britain Walkers and Cyclists Welcome logos

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