Lake District Backpackers Lodge is a good base to visit the Windermere/Ambleside area of the Lake District. Although the hostel's atmosphere can vary, the beds are comfortable so you can be sure to get a good night's sleep after all your outdoor activities.
The Location
The Lake District Backpackers Lodge is very well located for a visit to the Lake District. A few minutes away from the Windermere train station and the Tourism Information centre, the hostel is within walking distance of the towns of Windermere and Bowmere, a large grocery store, and a bank. It is also close to many walking and scenic trails, and a bus or boat ride away from nearby towns like Ambleside. The adorable neighborhood is peaceful, quiet, and feels quite safe even for solo female travelers. Be sure to look at the little map on the hostel's website before arriving, because it can be tricky to find your way there the first time.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The hostel offers a variety of rooms, including six-bed female dorms, four-bed mixed dorms, and a few private rooms. The beds are comfortable, the linens are included, and some rooms also have a sink. The bathrooms are small but clean. There are no lockers in the rooms, but some are available in the common room.
Common Spaces
A kitchen and adjacent TV room are on the second floor, allowing guests to hang out and meet one another. The kitchen is reasonably well-equipped and offers a small self-serve breakfast. Travelers can browse a number of leaflets and walking trails in the large TV room, play board games, watch television, or use the expensive internet station. The hostel's atmosphere largely depends on the number and type of guests in it at one time -- it can go from being quiet and empty to fun and packed with people.
Summary
This hostel is well-located and has great potential. However, the owners do not seem very involved in it. Especially in low seasons, be prepared to check yourself in and not see a soul during your entire stay. Be sure to reserve ahead of time to get the code to the front door, as it is probable that no staff will be on-site to welcome you. Luckily, the Tourist Information centre is located a few minutes away and the friendly staff there can answer all your questions.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
February 2009
Location/Contact
3.3 Average from 9 Ratings
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