Hi Michael,
Troutbeck is one of our favourite sites.It is almost midway between Penrith and Keswick.Not near any shops,but a small stock of essentials are sold in reception,and papers may be ordered.The toilet blocks ( 2 ) are immaculate and the shower cubicles are the biggest I have ever seen.The views from the site are lovely,with the colours on the mountains constantly changing depending on the weather.
The Lakes are always busy at any time of the year,and will be when you are there.Parking in all the towns is at a premium,and you will always have to pay parking charges.There is so much much to see and do,I am sure that it will not be your last visit.