Youth Hostels
The yha (http://www.yha.org.uk/fin...) has a diversity of accommodtion to offer the visitor to the lake district. from the impressive waterhead youth hostel (http://www.yha.org.uk/fin...) on the shores of lake windermere to black sail (http://www.yha.org.uk/fin...) converted shepherd's bothy only accessible on foot.
The most common accommodation option in the area is the Bed & Breakfast, many of which can be found in the villages and towns in the park, as well as at many farms. Please see the individual town/village articles for listings.
Pod-Camping
Camping pods (http://www.discovercumbri...) are an innovative alternative to tent camping. they are eco-friendly and have the advantage of lockable doors. they are designed to sleep a family of four. pods are essentially 'wooden tents'. you will need to take everything that you would for a camping holiday, minus the tent.
Camping Barns
An excellent alternative to self-catering or youth hostelling. camping barns (http://www.discovercumbri...) are normally converted farm buildings/barns and are usually individually owned by the farmer. the camping barn basically as a stone tent, facilities vary, but most have only minimal facilities.