YHA Coniston Holly How is just north of town, so if you're hiking the Cumbria Way south, it comes at a very opportune time of fatigue. If you're hiking north, you have to wind through town a bit. Holly How is the most central of the two Coniston YHA hostels -- the other is more than a mile out of town (would not recommend if you're doing the Cumbria Way walk). The hostel is just off the main A road into town, but is well-marked.
It's a gorgeous, old white mansion with a large front lawn where you may see kids playing soccer. The dining room is huge and opens up to the front porch, which is very inviting (you can see it when you walk up). Limited parking is available.
Dorms are clean and not too cramped, but nearly devoid of outlets if you're looking to charge a cell phone or something. There aren't quite enough showers/toilets for all of the rooms (there is some waiting involved, but it isn't long). The dining room is huge and has gorgeous tall window/doors that open up to the south and a view of Coniston water. A continental breakfast can be purchased at the front desk along with some packaged goods/postcards.
The hostel was pretty quiet when we were there midweek in September and because of its size, the staff is working hard cooking or checking people in, so this is not a party hostel. It's quiet at night, as its off the main road into and out of town. There are no nearby amenities, so pick up supplies when you are in town (a limited number are available behind the counter when you check in).
-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
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