The best youth hostels United Kingdom

This youth hostel offers superb views over Loch Broom and the Beein Dearg mountain range and is conveniently located next to local shops, pubs and restaurants, and just 300 metres from the bus station and harbour, with ferry departures to Lewis. The establishment has all the necessary equipment: large equipped communal kitchen, lounge-bar, laundry room, drying room, bicycle room, wi-fi access, secure lockers. Remember to order a picnic basket so you can go on a day-long excursion without worrying about anything.

You'd better be ready to party at this hostel, popular with young people and surfers in particular. While the lack of a kitchen may be a nuisance for some, the location above Belushi's bar (part of the same establishment) and the substantial discounts that go with it are a plus for anyone coming to Newquay to have fun and meet people. It also doubles as a common room, and its balcony overlooking the beach is a marvel in fine weather. The rooms and dormitories are basic but comfortable.

In one of the oldest houses in the city centre, three attractive suites, cinema, large and richly arranged offer a journey over time. The table is sumptuous and the hosts are warm. Wood panelling, antique furniture and stained glass windows. It is even possible to take part in interesting visits to places during your stay. Bathroom and Wi-Fi in each room.

Cohort Hostel is the destination of choice for budget travellers who don't want to sacrifice comfort or atmosphere. What's more, this hostel is within walking distance of St Ives station, which is handy if you're traveling without a car. There are private double or twin rooms and dormitories for 4 to 8 people, with curtained beds for added privacy. There's a fully equipped kitchen, a bar-lounge, laundry facilities and a courtyard on site. Communal areas are modern and particularly friendly.

In the heart of Kemptown, Happy Brighton offers both private rooms and dormitory beds, some of which are in pods for greater privacy (a little more expensive). The communal areas are pleasant and well appointed, with a large long room housing the kitchen, dining room and living room. Alex, one of the founders, is originally from Brighton and literally in love with the city. His aim in creating Happy Brighton was to share the experiences of travelers from all over the world in a friendly atmosphere.

This picturesque hostel overlooks Kirkwall harbour and is just a short walk from the town centre and the beautiful cathedral. The hostel is friendly and well appointed, even offering budget single rooms and two refurbished fishermen's cottages. Most of the rooms have a view of the harbour or at least the water. Each resident benefits from three kitchens, three bathrooms and the common room. Parking is free on the street, and motorcycles or bicycles can be parked in a courtyard.

The small hostel in Dervaig is simple but well equipped, with a four-bed dormitory and a six-bed dormitory. Both have their own shower and toilet and there is a shared kitchen and dining room. The value for money is attractive when you book an entire dormitory. It has all the usual amenities: lockers and outside storage (for bicycles or sports equipment), a fully equipped kitchen, a living room. It also has sports facilities, including a grass football pitch.

Craignure Bunkhouse Hostel is a small, modern and well-appointed hostel, with an appreciable interest in the environment, as it is eco-designed. The four dormitories have six or four beds and there is a pleasant common room with a stove and wood fire, where it is possible to eat in groups. The living room is pleasant, with a large library, board games and comfortable sofas. The establishment has the advantage of being open all year round.

This charming little establishment is characterized by optimal comfort, cleanliness and excellent value for money. The offer is multiple, with a main space composed of two dormitories, a living-dining room, a kitchen, as well as showers and toilets. It is a very friendly choice that could look like a large shared flat. Extensions outside accommodate two to four people and include a small kitchen area for added privacy. Theresa, the person in charge, is a lovely woman in a good mood.

This spacious, friendly youth hostel is housed in an impressive white-washed building. Both dormitories and private rooms are comfortable and the facilities are new and convenient. There is no lack of common areas and, of course, there is a shared kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. You will also have access to lockers with padlocks, a laundry room, a secure bicycle room and two comfortable lounges. The reception sells some basic provisions. Close to a bus stop, the hostel is easily accessible without a car.

This youth hostel is undoubtedly one of the best in the group. It is not necessarily the most modern, but the atmosphere is excellent and the two employees are adorable. In a former distillery building, 30 beds are available, in private dormitories or rooms, and both the kitchen and lounge are ideal common rooms to share with whisky or hiking fans. This is the cheapest option on the island and one of the most authentic.

In the heart of the city centre, overlooking the sea, this hostel does not operate on a classic system based on large dormitories, but rather on small rooms with two to six occupants. This is an ideal offer for backpackers and small budgets, but also for families and groups, who can stay together at a low price. The facilities are modern and practical, with a communal kitchen and lounge, complimentary tea and coffee, and a secure bicycle shed. There's even a barbecue for the summer. The staff is there to advise you during your stay.

Surrounded by woods on the edge of Aviemore, this large hostel is fully equipped and has large spaces, with 85 beds in dormitories or private rooms (single, double, quadruple). The laundry room, individual lockers, bicycle room and parking make life easier. The kitchen, the dining room and the two lounges are huge. There is even a billiard table next to the beautiful map of the Cairngorms massif. The property is ideal for exploring the area at a low cost, while taking advantage of the village's pubs and restaurants.

Set in an 18th century cottage, this youth hostel is a no-nonsense address with six dormitories and a few private rooms - double, twin, family for 4 and for 5 - as well as two lounges and a kitchen. It is situated in a quiet area in the hamlet of Lewiston. A small bar offers a wide selection of Scottish craft beers (over 50) and some 25 scotch whiskies, in addition to gins, sodas and various snacks.

Morag's Lodge is a hostel with unbeatable comfort, with well-appointed dormitories and private rooms perfect for couples, groups and families. Enjoy the shared kitchen, common areas and garden. There's even an on-site bar - with a wide range of homemade beers and a great selection of whiskies - and the possibility of renting bicycles. Breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals are offered at very attractive prices. The evening menu changes daily and always has 4 options.

Every summer, SYHA takes over the student residences at the University of Perth. That's why the youth hostel does not open any more during the year. The organization offers beds in shared rooms, private rooms with bathrooms and even small apartments on the edge of the city. You will also have access to a self-catering kitchen and common areas, as well as sports facilities, including a climbing gym, from Perth College UHI. The complex is very modern and well appointed, only 2.5 km from the centre.

Set in a large house on the heights of Fort William, this very friendly hostel is only a few minutes walk from downtown and its amenities. More aimed at young people in search of encounters than at families, the atmosphere is very childlike and brews a clientele of backpackers and sportsmen. There is a communal kitchen and a small living room, equipped with a fireplace, to rest at the end of the day. In the summer, you can even cook outside, thanks to the barbecue provided. Pubs and restaurants are within walking distance.

Just a stone's throw from the Smoo Caves, this SYHA hostel may not look like a military barracks, but it has all the classic facilities on offer, with dormitories, private rooms, a kitchen and a living-dining room. A total of 30 beds are available. The establishment also has its own bar, which will allow you to enjoy local beers or whiskies in the evening, in the living room, under the heat of the coal stove.

The Rum Bunkhouse is a newly built hostel (opening October 2014) and is fully equipped with modern conveniences. You can stay in dormitories, but also in double rooms, rooms for 4 and rooms for 6 people. There is a fully equipped kitchen on site where you can prepare your own meals. The large living room is comfortable and accessible to all. It is also possible to camp on site or to choose one of the two mini-campsites (access to the sanitary facilities at the campsite). It is also managed by the Isle of Rum Community Trust, and is located next to the nature reserve.

Large house at the foot of the "Miners' Track", which leads to the top of Snowdon and was already used by hikers from all over the world at the beginning of the century. In spite of its 84 beds, it is better to reserve. Choice of dormitories or private rooms. It's very simple but clean and comfortable. Relaxed atmosphere in this hostel where you can enjoy the friendly common areas: lounge with pleasant armchairs and sofas or terrace with tables to settle down for a snack and a drink.

This small, family-run hostel is a budget-friendly, budget-friendly basic accommodation in Castlebay, the main village of Barra. Dormitories or private rooms are available, as well as a shared kitchen and living room with stove. It is also possible to book private accommodation in an adjoining lodge. There are some beautiful views over the bay and the castle. The lodge is only a few minutes walk from the ferry terminal, tourist information office, shops, pubs and restaurants. Good map: kayaks can be rented on site.

This youth hostel is almost worth a visit on its own. Housed in a castle over eight hundred years old, it's certainly one of the YHA's most surprising. Halfway between the Wye Valley and Dean Forest, it's ideally placed for exploring the surrounding area, and its undeniable cachet will appeal to history buffs. All the usual features of the chain are here: dormitories, private rooms, kitchen, lounges and communal areas. It's equally suited to families and solo travelers.

A very Ladies' nights atmosphere for this youth hostel, which has the advantage of being one of the few in London to be reserved exclusively for women. Conveniently located in Cambridge Heath, this hostel is dedicated to the reassurance and well-being of the ladies: activities are organized, staff are on hand to help and advise, communal areas are conducive to socializing... This is definitely a good address for solo female travelers.

The northernmost hostel in the UK offers dormitories with 11 or 6 beds. This white house also has a certain charm. Above all, it is very convenient for a cheap stay. The common areas are ideal for socialising, dining, eating breakfast and preparing meals, with a fully equipped kitchen, lounge and dining room. The site is also camping, with the possibility of pitching a tent.

The Islesburgh House Hostel is located in one of the beautiful Victorian streets set back from the harbour. The staff is very friendly and the interiors have largely retained their original grandeur. Comfort is assured, with clean bathrooms and all the necessary practical facilities. There are huge common rooms: kitchen, living room, billiard room and dining room, where it is very pleasant to settle down. The value for money is particularly good, especially for private rooms, single, double and family rooms.

This small 30-bed hostel is housed in a former hunting retreat on the north shore of Loch Gairloch. True to Hostelling Scotland's philosophy of simplicity and authenticity, the hostel has practical common areas such as a shared kitchen, laundry, drying room and living room, which offers panoramic views over Gairloch, the Torridon Hills, Skye Cullins and the Outer Hebrides. Convenient: the beach is right next door.

This friendly hostel has been occupying its typical pink-walled house since 2007. Located in a building that is over 200 years old, it has retained its Victorian character and the charm that goes with it. The atmosphere is familial and good-natured, which makes it an economical and smart choice. What's more, it is very well placed in Stornoway. The dormitories have 7 or 8 beds and there is a room for 4, suitable for groups or families. There is also a kitchen for cooking and a lounge for socialising by the fire.

A lakeside youth hostel with a large kitchen, Internet access and, above all, a private beach. It is, among other things, ideally located for those who want to go on the ascent of the famous Mount Snowdon. Because be careful, even if it is in the commune of Caernarfon, it is located in the countryside, twenty minutes by car from the town centre! On site, very welcoming staff, always present if you need help or advice. The hostel is well-equipped and clean, you will find everything you need.

In a house over 200 years old, an independent youth hostel, two minutes from the castle and half an hour from the sea. You can see the sunset in the adjacent arch. It's the cheapest thing in town. The place is simple, clean and friendly: Totters is unanimously approved. On site, you will find everything you need for a pleasant stay: television, library with books and maps of the town, family room, locker if needed, locked bicycle room, access to the kitchen... Good breakfast.

Located in the bustling Cornish fishing village of Boscastle, YHA Boscastle Youth Hostel is a unique, iconic building owned by the National Trust. With private rooms and en-suite private rooms, this hostel offers quality accommodation for all types of travelers, from solo travelers to families on vacation. Facilities include a shared kitchen, garden, games rooms and free Wi-Fi in communal areas. Boscastle's surroundings offer plenty to do, including visiting the Museum of Witchcraft, home to the world's largest collection of witchcraft-related artifacts, and exploring Tintagel Castle, perched on a rocky peninsula with stunning views of the Cornish coast. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking the coastal paths and water sports nearby. The YHA Boscastle Youth Hostel is open from 8am to 10am and from 5pm to 8:30pm. It is accessible by car, but there is no on-site parking. Guests can use the nearby council parking lot, which costs £5.20 for 24 hours or is free from 5pm to 10am.

This is one of the few hostels on the coast, just a few steps from the beach. It is an efficient and cheap address for backpackers or travelers who want to meet people. The reception is friendly, the rooms are clean and modern. They are also all equipped with a private bathroom. The hostel has a common living room (satellite TV, DVD player, library...) with a fireplace and a kitchen available at any time. Fruit juice, bread and cereals are available in the morning for free. A good start to the day!

This youth hostel welcomes you in the spirit of a "university residence". Located in a former building dedicated to army sergeants, it has large, bright single or double rooms. The place is warm and comfortable, with a bar offering pub food. The bathrooms are shared, as are the kitchens. The Shackleton Lodge is for groups. It is also possible to rent independent lodges (Nordabrake Houses) on a weekly basis on the same site.

A 20 minute walk from the city centre, one of Belfast's best known hostels. The staff strive to provide a friendly atmosphere. The staff can arrange tours and visits in the city on request. Lagan Backpackers offers a homemade English breakfast in the morning and dinner in the evening for only £3. A big plus is that the hostel has its own cinema room. Dormitories with bunk beds range from 4 to 12 beds and there are also private rooms. The shared bathrooms are relatively clean.

Since 2001, Lledr House has established itself as one of the oldest youth hostels in Wales. Optimal quality and comfort, especially since the renovation of the rooms. For those interested, you will have the chance to fish (the owners hold the rights) in the garden, on the banks of the river Lledr. It is the ideal place for families or groups. The bathrooms are clean and well equipped! The kitchen is well accessible and well equipped: oven, fridge, gas, many cupboards for those who stay a few days...

Renovated old Welsh farmhouse, clean and welcoming. A large fireplace in the small common room makes the place even warmer (wood fire at will). The only disadvantage of the hostel is the 25% slope of the village road, it climbs steeply: ten minutes to go down, three quarters of an hour to come back up! Even in the car, it's impressive. If you feel like going for a drink at the excellent Ty Gwyn pub down the village, take some light as there is no light along the way to the hostel.

In the centre of the village, we are very well situated, about ten minutes walk from the Betws-y-Coed railway station. The Vagabond Bunkhouse welcomes you in a large stone house, extremely well appointed and whose reputation is growing a little more each year. There are simple but clean dormitories (bunk beds). It is a good stopover for hikers and cyclists in particular. Pub and terrace in the summer which ensures a good conviviality and a friendly atmosphere. On site local bike shop. Good breakfast.

Located on the legendary lands of myths and druids, this hostel emphasizes respect for the environment. The building, formerly a school, was renovated with imagination in 1992 and offers you a warm welcome. The place seems timeless, almost a little lost. Here, we take the time and enjoy in dormitories (18 beds, 10 beds, 6 beds, 4 beds), the most economical or those preferring more privacy, private rooms are available (double rooms). Modern kitchen at your disposal. Groups are only welcome in winter.

The hostel is a little out of the way, but it's the only one with a 5-star rating in the UK! Don't worry, it's still within easy reach, even on foot, of the Welsh capital's main attractions. What's more, you'll find friendly staff on site! Among the 320 beds available, you can choose between private or shared rooms. The communal areas (lounge, bar and dining room) are colorful, clean and pleasant. If the whole lacks a little charm, it's still a very good value for money.

The Kirkwall hostel is less than a kilometre from the city centre in a quiet street on the way to Scapa. Housed in a former World War II base, it still looks like a barracks from the outside, but the interior is well appointed, with a mix of dormitories and private rooms with 58 beds. The kitchen, dining room and living room form a block on their own and are very practical and friendly for settling down and meeting people. Free parking is available.

Located in the heart of Swansea, the Cwtsh hostel offers the best value in town. Rooms are clean, and even shared dorms offer privacy, with some dorms reserved for women. The modern decor and welcoming communal areas create an atmosphere conducive to meeting other travelers, and there are plenty of activities on offer, such as movie nights and group excursions. The friendly staff know the area like the back of their hand, so don't hesitate to ask for their advice.

On the street leading to the castle, this hostel, housed in a magnificent building, is a great base for exploring Stirling and the surrounding area. Its beautiful historic façade precedes a completely refurbished area with 30 modern and comfortable rooms. Some are dormitories, of course, but there are also private options - rooms for 2 or 4 - for added privacy and tranquility. The common areas are spacious and well equipped, like the kitchen, dining room, or living room. Dinners and hampers are also available.

At the foot of one of the entrances to the trail leading to the summit of Ben Nevis, this Hostelling Scotland hostel is an ideal base if you want to conquer the colossus without wasting time and staying at a lower cost. It offers superb panoramic mountain views, a well-equipped communal kitchen, drying room, laundry room and secure bicycle storage. Food and drinks are available all day long. After extensive renovations and a total renovation of the façade in 2018, the place has been upgraded to a top-of-the-range location and is quickly taken by storm in the summer.

Located in the heart of New Lanark's conservation area, this youth hostel is housed in restored ^18th-century working-class dwellings. The hostel offers several types of rooms - twin, double, triple and quadruple - or dormitories (18 spaces in total), a studio with kitchenette, as well as common areas: dining rooms and lounges. Each room has its own bathroom and bed linen and towels are provided on arrival. Breakfast is à la carte or all-you-can-eat buffet. The Unesco visitor center is right next door.

Look for a pink house towards the end of the harbour (exactly opposite the distillery) because there is no real sign to announce it. With only 30 beds, this small hostel fills up without too much delay in high season, especially as its location is ideal facing the sea, in the heart of Tobermory. There is a living room and kitchen on the ground floor and a small courtyard leading to the bedrooms upstairs. In addition to the dormitories, it is possible to book private rooms (double, triple, family...).

Halfway between the village of Glencoe and its beautiful valley, this Hostelling Scotland hostel has a well-publicized mountain feel, with its wainscoted exterior walls. There are 48 beds in rooms and dorms, and the facilities are classic of the chain, a bit rustic, but all there. Since 2020, the hostel has been equipped with pods, the semi-circular wooden cabins typical of glamping (an improved version of camping), set out in the hostel grounds. Each pod is equipped with a double bed, a shower and a private toilet.

Acheninver Hostel is not in Ullapool itself, but in the north on the Coigach Peninsula. It is surrounded by grandiose landscapes: the Highlands, but also the Ben Mor Coigach nature reserve. You will have the choice between beds in single dormitories, or whole rooms with 6 or 8 beds if you travel in a group. Warning: the access to the hostel is not passable, so it is better to bring good shoes and easily transportable luggage for the last 300 meters. Dishes and provisions can be purchased on site.