Eat and Drink at the Hostel

At Elterwater Hostel, good food and friendly company are all part of the experience. Whether you’re setting off for a big day in the fells or winding down after a long walk, our kitchen serves hearty, home-cooked meals that make you feel right at home.

Breakfast, Fresh and Local

Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee and sizzling breakfast at the hostel. Served daily between 7:30 and 9:00am, there’s no need to plan ahead, just come along when you’re ready and order from our menu. From a simple bacon sandwich to a Full Cumbrian Breakfast, everything is cooked fresh and made with the best local ingredients to set you up perfectly for the day ahead.

Packed Lunches for the Trail

If you’re heading out exploring, we can pack you a delicious lunch to go — sandwiches, fruit, and a few tasty snacks to keep you fuelled for the journey.

Evening Meals, Relax and Refuel

After a day in the great outdoors, join us for a relaxed, homely supper served between 6pm and 8pm. Our menu changes regularly, but you’ll always find something comforting and satisfying from Cumberland sausage with mash, veg, and onion gravy, to homemade pizzas, sharing meat boards, or lighter favourites like Quiche or Soup of the Day.

Everything is freshly cooked in-house using locally sourced ingredients, and we’re happy to cater for all dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Save Room for Dessert

Of course, no visit would be complete without a helping of our infamous Sticky Toffee Pudding, warm, rich, and utterly delicious. Or, if you prefer something lighter, fresh fruit salad or Lakes Ice Cream.

Celebrations and Group Meals

Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday meal, or a special occasion with friends, we love bringing people together around good food. From Christmas dinners to Burns Night suppers, we’re always happy to cook up something memorable for your group, and would be delighted to talk through options with you. .

Something to Drink

Good food deserves a good drink, and we’ve got plenty to choose from.

We’re proud to stock a selection of local beers, celebrating the best of Cumbrian brewing. You’ll often find favourites from Coniston Brewing Company, Lakes Brew Co., and other nearby brewers perfect for relaxing after a day on the fells. Whether you prefer a crisp pale ale, a smooth bitter, or something a little darker, there’s always something worth trying.

If wine’s more your style, we have a carefully chosen range of reds, whites, and rosés to suit every meal and mood, along with a few sparkling options for those special occasions.

We also serve soft drinks, juices, teas, and freshly brewed coffee, so whatever you fancy from a morning cuppa to a post-dinner pint you can always find the right drink to go with your meal.