Budget accommodation in Grasmere is really hard to find, but we think we've cracked it. Hiking and climbing holiday enthusiasts, ramblers, history buffs, nature lovers, poets and artists will all find something to love about this youth hostel in Cumbria.
There's lots to do – activity breaks here could include watersports, climbing, orienteering and cycling. Just two minutes' walk from the town of Grasmere and with lots of great hikes nearby, YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe makes for a convenient base for an all-action activity holiday.
From the cultural goldmine of Wordsworth's Dove Cottage to stunning walking routes right from the doorstep, YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe is perfect for exploring Lake District attractions. This beautiful Victorian mansion has views of the nearby fells so it’s an inspiring choice for geography students or activity groups.
The pretty village of Grasmere is home to a world-famous gingerbread shop (a must-visit for groups). Adrenaline-junkies will find mountain biking nearby, and the hostel has excellent facilities for looking after your cycling gear. You could go wild swimming in Grasmere Lake or Rydal Water – or just study it as part of a biology field trip.
Most of our bedrooms are dormitory style rooms with bunk beds. We always try to allocate bedrooms close together and will never ask your group to share bedrooms with anyone not in your group.
Upgrades are available for sole use of an area, floor or the entire place.
The hostel offers all the facilities you need for a comfortable group stay including free WiFi. There’s a TV, two lounges for socialising, a meeting room, a play area and a licensed bar for relaxing in the evenings.
With tasty breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals, groups are sure to find something delicious to eat at YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe (see sample menu).
Meal plans range from bed and breakfast up to full-board catering. Vegetarian options are available and we aim to cater for any special dietary requests.
Parking is available at the hostel.
Looking to fill some free time? Our bolt-on activities can easily be added to your stay.
YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe holds a Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge (105538).
This accreditation means that this hostel has externally audited risk assessments, verified insurance provision, quality checked safety logs and delivery observed by national reviewers.
Reception opening hours: From 07:30 - 10:00 and 17:00 - 22:00.
Food and drink: Breakfast is served to guests daily from 07:30 – 09:00. Meals are also available from 17:00 – 20:00.
Licensed bar: This hostel has a licensed bar offering a range of alcohol and soft drinks. It is not possible for guests to bring their own alcohol.
Self-catering: Guests have access to a small self-catering kitchen including a cooker, kettle, microwave and toaster. Additional worktop space and a fridge are also available in the dining room.
Parking: The property has a small car park 200m from the hostel with limited free spaces for guests and patrons. This car park is controlled by an ANPR parking system. Upon arrival, motorists are required to validate their presence by entering their car's registration number at reception. There is a designated drop-off point closer to the entrance. Additional parking is available close by in the village.
WiFi: Free WiFi is available in social spaces.
Dogs: Pets are not permitted at YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe, except in our Camping & Cabins accommodation. Assistance dogs are welcome - please notify us at the time of booking.
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Saturday 26th September 2026 Distance: 5.7 miles (9.2km) Duration: 5 hours Led by: Mind Over Mountains Health and wellbeing The walk is organised and led by a professional wellbeing team, including...
Saturday 3rd October 2026 Distance: 5.5 miles (8.8km) Duration: 6 hours Led by: Rose Gare-Simmons Skills and confidence The aim of this workshop is to provide a fun and sociable learning environment...
Saturday 19th September 2026 Distance: 3.3 miles (5.3km) Duration: 2 hours Led by: Trek Therapy Discovery and connection Join a short morning or afternoon walk around Grasmere guided by William...
Sunday 4th October 2026 Distance: 6.5 miles (10.3km) Duration: 4 hours Led by: Mosaic Outdoors with Professor Corinne Fowler Discovery and connection Join us for a special guided public walk around...
A great taster of what the local area has to offer. The walk heads through pleasant woodland and open fields to the charming village of Grasmere, and returns with a stroll along the banks of the River...
A great Lake District circuit with stunning views and a fine ridge walk over Gibson Knott to Greenup Edge and High Raise, returning via Easedale Tarn.
A lovely walk providing spectacular views of the lakes and surrounding fells throughout. Includes historic Rydal Hall, fascinating Rydal Cave and a stroll alongside Grasmere lake.
Go Ape Adventures at Grizedale Forest is the ultimate outdoor activity for adventurous families and adults. Take part in the Treetop Challenge, Zip Trekking Adventure or Treetop Adventure Plus. There...
Visit the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop, with its closely guarded recipe still being kept a secret to this day. Enjoy the wonderful aroma of freshly baked gingerbread and sample the delights inside...
Visit the barely-changed home of famous Romantic poet William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy. You'll find plenty to inspire you in the museum too.
Climb and scramble to your hearts content and enjoy the spectacular views from this beautiful part of the country.
Jump on your bike and enjoy the rolling landscape. Seasoned pro or just fancy a ride, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Designed to resemble a Lakeland hill, the grass-covered centre houses a cinema, play areas, pottery painting and regional shops that reflect the area, its craft people and producers. Why's it called...
Hire a boat, sit back and while away the hours in some of the most stunning scenery the Lake District has to offer. For taking a dip on the wild side, the Lake District is a wild swimmer's paradise...
The hostel is in a central location, halfway between Grizedale Forest and Whinlatter so there's plenty of scope for a good ride with a fully equipped bike shed with work stands, pump and bike washing...
Volunteering with YHA is a fantastic way to have fun, learn new skills, boost your CV and travel to different places. We have a variety of different opportunities to choose from and volunteering roles to suit everyone.
The tasks are varied and in return you will meet some great people, who both work and stay in our hostels, as well as enjoying your time off discovering the local area and attractions.
Find out more and apply to volunteer.
Manager recommends: Perfect for group breaks – our staff can create an action-packed programme of activities including abseiling, kayaking, aquaseiling and canyoning. Great for walking holidays surrounded by beautiful scenery, there's something for every walker from the low level riverside walks or Helm Crag and Easedale Tarn for the more adventurous.
Free parking on premises
WiFi
Restaurant
Garden/grounds
WiFi
Lake view
Garden/grounds
Free parking on premises
WiFi
Free parking on premises
Mountain view
Cycle store
