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Kendal Hostel May House Hotel Staff
23 Nov, 2025
Summary
- A historic Kendal hostel might become staff accommodation.
- English Lakes Hotels filed plans for the building.
- 83% of Cumbria tourism businesses struggle to hire.
A popular backpacking hostel in Kendal, known for its family-run atmosphere, is under consideration for conversion into staff accommodation. The Grade II listed building, capable of hosting up to 46 guests, was placed on the market earlier this year. English Lakes Hotels, which manages two nearby hotels, has formally submitted plans to Westmorland and Furness Council for the property to be used as houses in multiple occupation (HMO).
This potential change in use for the historic hostel arises from pressing industry needs. Recent statistics released by Cumbria Tourism highlight a critical issue: recruitment difficulties. The figures reveal that a substantial 83% of hospitality and tourism businesses in the region are experiencing significant challenges in hiring new staff members.
Consequently, the proposed conversion could offer a viable solution to address the ongoing staffing shortages that plague the local tourism industry. The fate of the hostel now rests with the council's decision, which could impact both its future and the operational capacity of nearby hotels.
