Barrow House is the local name for Derwentwater Youth Hostel
Cows grazing on National Trust land in front of Derwentwater Youth Hostel
Derwentwater Youth Hostel features decorations from the 1790's Georgian period
Room with a view directly down to the shores of Derwent Water
Ashness Jetty is only a few steps from the entrance to Derwentwater Youth Hostel
The Dining Room window has views to the woods and a 108ft private waterfall
Looking upwards to a window archway - Georgian woodwork at its best!
Ducks on Derwent Water at Barrow Bay, taking its name from Barrow House
The bedrooms at Derwentwater Youth Hostel have elegant features as a legacy of Georgian heritage
Boat launches ply Derwent Water and dock in Barrow Bay, right by the hostel
Our historic 1780s Georgian mansion has been home to many a youth hosteller since 1961. Idyllically situated on the shore of Derwent Water, nestling in the hills and crags of famous Borrowdale, we are just two miles south of Keswick, in the heart of the Lake District.
88 beds across 11 bedrooms are perfect for groups, families and individuals; action packed adventure or quiet relaxation in glorious scenery, you are always guaranteed a memorable stay.
Derwent Water is ideal for kayaking and other water sports. Borrowdale is probably the finest valley for walking and climbing in the Lake District. Keswick is the adventure capital of England. It is not surprising that there are groups and families who have been coming here for activity holidays for decades. Organise your own or use one of our highly recommended outdoor activity providers.
We have become an essential part of the school calendar for many of our regular groups. The location, building and grounds provide fantastic opportunities for a whole host of subjects. For many children the experience provides memories to last a lifetime. We find that once a school or college has discovered this gem of a hostel they are very keen to book ahead for the following year. We now have groups who have been coming here for their activity and educational trips for over twenty years.
Within our own grounds we have a 108ft private waterfall, acres of woodland and our own hydro-electricity plant. Beyond our gates, you will be spoilt for choice. There are so many visitor centres, museums, historic houses and gardens within easy reach. We can recommend mine tours, zip wires, bee gardens, puzzling places and stone circles to name but a few. From ”Go Ape!” to ”Osprey view point” to ”Rheged” - they cater for all tastes.
We have a wealth of experience in helping to organise educational and outdoor activity trips. We are always happy to help you plan your holiday. Use our local knowledge to make the most of your stay
Ring us on 017687 77246 or e-mail us at
contact@derwentwater.org now.
After fifty years of direct YHA ownership, the hostel is today managed by Kathy Morris and Dave Piercy for a charitable not-for-profit company.
Our hostel remains committed to giving young people affordable access to the open spaces of Borrowdale, combined with spirit of adventure and community which our hostel offers to all.
