Lake District hostel celebrates 10th birthday in style

The Elterwater Independent Hostel, found in the Langdale Valley near Ambleside, hosted guests, including MP Tim Farron and Sam Dalley, director of Independent Hostels UK.

Owners Christine and Alan Thomas invited the guests to join them in thanking the team that has helped put them on the map since they took over the hostel when the YHA no longer wanted it.

Christine said: "Myself and Alan had been looking for a holiday home in the Lakes but ended up buying a hostel instead! 

“We had always loved Elterwater - I once stayed at the hostel with a school friend, and Alan and I stayed in many cottages in the area over the years.”

MP Tim Farron speaks to the guests (Image: Pete Savin)

Treated to canapes from The Yan at Grasmere, the two owners paid tribute to the staff, including manager Nick Owen and assistant Charlie Spiller who stayed on having worked for the YHA.

Pete Savin, Andy Hunt and Lisa Jones are also long-serving members of the team.

“We’re passionate about hostelling and the access to nature and the outdoors that hostels provide," Christine added.

"I love the atmosphere and the camaraderie that is created in this room when guests from different generations and walks of life get together with a shared love of the Lakes and the outdoors.”

Never off duty: Alan pours the drinks to get the party started (Image: Pete Savin)

Sam Dalley said that Elterwater was a 'jewel in the crown' of the Independent Hostels, whilst Tim Farron explained how 'proud' he was of what the team has achieved.

Mr Farron said: "The high standard of accommodation, and the welcome here, are epic.

"We are so privileged to live here, but I feel a sense of responsibility for stewarding this beautiful area for others, and what’s the point of a national park if it’s not open to everybody?

"[Christine and Alan] make this national park work by providing accommodation that everyone can afford.”