Dear YHA,
With the season of love upon us, I wanted to share some moments that make me smile from my stays with YHA.
Adventuring around the magical Lake District staying with YHA holds wonderful memories. It is no wonder that prolific authors, William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, found the pristine landscape a great inspiration for their creativity.
Getting back to basics with bell tent glamping at YHA Hawkshead was a great place to start my YHA journey of discovery. This quiet haven by Esthwaite Water is an ideal spot to explore the southern fells of the Lake District, Grizedale Forest, Potter’s Hill Top farmhouse, and the west shore of Windermere. Feeling the blaze of the firepit, toasting marshmallows, and rustling up some s’mores while looking up at the stars surrounded by nature made for a heart-warming evening at YHA Hawkshead.
I fell in love with YHA when I stayed in the retro-style Airstream at YHA Borrowdale nestled in the trees. This unique experience made me feel warm and fuzzy inside for so many reasons. The friendly hostel bar at YHA Borrowdale, the sound of the River Derwent, a dreamy night’s slumber in the double bed, waking up to a full English before a day walking with llamas and hiking up Castle Crag.
If star-gazing is your jam, unravel the roof of the quirky landpods at YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe. With the threat of rain in the night, I stayed cosy under the roof. As a keen wildlife lover, the sighting of the striking red squirrels scurrying in the trees at YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe blew me away. The nearby bustling village of Grasmere was a joy with the smell of the infamous Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere gingerbread, and a fantastic choice of eateries with locally-sourced food. Walking off the hearty grub was easy with a hike up to Rydal Caves on the slopes of Loughrigg Fell.
The beauty of Buttermere Valley took me by surprise. Staying overnight in a private room at YHA Buttermere gave me the freedom to explore the area fully, and switch off and connect with nature – the best gift you can give yourself. I spent a day strolling around Buttermere, eating locally-made ice cream, dining in the historical pubs with legendary tales. After a peaceful night in YHA Buttermere, and a continental breakfast, I left early in search of peaks. Hiking up to Haystacks with views down the Buttermere Valley to Crummock Water are priceless memories.
YHA is a social enterprise that supports young people making the outdoors and cultural experiences easily accessible. I’m more than happy to buy my annual YHA membership to help children discover adventure in the real world instead of on their phones. With this, comes a new generation with connection and life skills.
Thank you YHA for giving me incredible long-lasting experiences. And thank you for ensuring those experiences are accessible to all.
Much love,
Vanessa from Wanders Miles
Do you have any fond memories of YHA? Maybe a trip you took when you were younger? Or a getaway you went on with loved ones? We would love to hear them! Please share them with us via our social media channels. We look forwarding to hearing from you!
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