If you didn't know this was a hostel, you'd think it was a grand country hotel: vast, Victorian and set in private grounds with its own arboretum. Big dorms with sash windows overlook the fells and there's a cavernous kitchen and lounge (with original ornate fireplace). The cafe serves breakfast, packed lunches and a two-course 'supper club'.
Note that it's a couple of miles from Great Langdale, but the 516 bus runs right past.