The Best Hostels in The Lake District of England for Backpackers and Hikers

The Lake District, also known as the Lakes or Lakeland, is a mountainous region in North West England. The Lake District is by far the UK’s most popular national park. Every year, some 15 million people pitch up to explore the region’s fells and countryside and it’s not hard to see why. Ever since the Romantic poets arrived in the 19th century, its postcard panorama of craggy hilltops, mountain tarns and glittering lakes has been stirring the imaginations of visitors. It’s awash with outdoor opportunities, from lake cruises to mountain walks, but many people visit for the region’s literary connections: among the many writers who found inspiration here are William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and, of course, Beatrix Potter, a lifelong lover of the Lakes, whose 150th birthday was celebrated across the national park in 2016. From the top of Scafell Pike it's easy to see how Cumbria's lakes captivated William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Visit the Lake District National Park for sights like no other. Take it all in on a traditional steamboat chugging through tranquil lakes, or scale the highest mountains England has to offer and enjoy a jaw-dropping view. If tranquility isn't enough for you, then why not race through the Lake District on a mountain bike or enjoy the scenery from the middle of one of England's fastest growing music festivals, Kendal Calling. You may as well sample some of the town's famous Kendal Mint Cake while you're there too. There's plenty to do here, and these hostels provide an excellent base for exploring the area.