One of the YHA's flagship Lake District hostels, this huge lakeside house is a fave for activity holidays (everything from kayaking to ghyll scrambling). Great facilities (kitchen, bike rental, boat jetty, bar) mean it's heavily subscribed, so book well ahead. Families can book out dorms as private rooms. It's halfway between Ambleside and Windermere on Lake Rd (A591).
Ambleside YHA
Top choice in The Lake District