The Youth Hostel Association said selling off three of its Lake District hostels would help it secure its long-term prosperity.
The 14-bedroom Buttermere hostel, 10-bedroom Holly How in Coniston and six-bedroom Coniston Copper Mines are all being offered by sale by Sidney Phillips estate agents.
Bookings are still being taken at Coniston Holy How until the end of August and Buttermere until the end of September. Coniston Coppermines is exclusive hire only.
The association said the last few years had been difficult due to pandemic shutdowns, the cost of living crisis and steep inflation, which had affected it like other charities and hospitality providers.
It added: “The employer National Insurance increases, loss of Government funded programmes such as the NCS and the introduction of visa waiver charges for EU visitors over the last year have significantly increased the challenge and accelerated the need for us to streamline our operating model.
“In the light of this, we continue to take the steps necessary to secure YHA’s long term prosperity.
“We will work with affected staff to find alternative employment opportunities within the Lake District if possible.”
It launched its refreshed strategy for the entire organisation last year.
It said: “YHA always reviews its network and operations to provide a secure financial footing to enable everyone, especially young people, to connect with people, nature and heritage through hostels in amazing places for many years to come.
The Copper Mines hostel is said to be under offer and has a freehold value of £400,000.
The association’s website still promotes the accommodation, describing it as ‘beautifully located and with a cosy, informal feel”.
The Holly How is on the market for £895,000 and Buttermere for £795,000
