YHA Wasdale Hall

As you approach this Cumbrian hostel, you'd be forgiven for wondering if you're in the right place: a grand-looking partially-timbered manor house set in scenic grounds just a stone's throw from Wast Water, England's deepest lake. Fret not, you haven't taken a wrong turn. The impressive pad is YHA Wasdale Hall, a National Trust-owned property. Run as a hostel since 1969, it's surrounded by glorious Lake District National Park scenery – in fact, the location is so enviable, it earned the title of 'Britain’s Favourite View'.

Built by a wealthy Yorkshire Banker and Merchant in 1829, the hostel retains original features like coricing, panelled walls and an ornate fireplace – ideal for cold evenings after a day scaling nearby Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain. The eye-catching black and white Tudor-style façade gives way to cosy and characterful interiors and a range of quality accommodation sleeping up to 42 across eight bedrooms. Options include a wallet-friendly stay in a shared dorm with bunk beds, and private rooms for four to six people with a mix of bunks and doubles plus a sink. Whichever you opt for, each guest has storage cupboards that can be secured and a reading light. Communal shower and toilet facilities are close to each room – there are six bathrooms in total. Bedding is supplied but towels aren't – however, they can be rented or bought from reception. If you're organising a get-together, school trip or celebration, why not hire the whole place? Dogs are more than welcome to join the gathering, too.

Throughout your stay, enjoy access to a lounge, a library that's laden with bookshelves, a games room, a self-catering kitchen and a licensed bar. There's also a restaurant serving breakfast and evening meals, if that suits you better after an adventurous day exploring The Lake District National Park. There are self-guided walks aplenty nearby (just download a free map from the hostel), climbing to be done at Napes Needle Great Gable, and swimming on the doorstep in Wast Water. For something less arduous, head to Muncaster Castle – said to be haunted, it's also home to a hawk and owl centre. The coast is easily reachable as well, where you'll find spots like Ravenglass and Seascale.