Welcome to your absolutely necessary guide for discovering the best hostels in UK! You wonβt get far without this guide. Well, you could but it might take you substantially longer than necessary.
Save time and stick with us, the Hostelgeeks.
Weβve done the hard work for you by doing the research, spending time in the hostels and collating the very best all into this one article.
Are these really the top hostels in the UK?
Without a doubt, you can trust the Hostelgeeks! We have been called βthe Gold Standard of Hostelsβ. π€
We are Hostelgeeks and we discover the worldβs greatest hostels, including the best hostels in UK, Ireland, and Europe.
At the end of this article youβll spot a big hostel map which is really helpful for your planning. Maps are super useful!
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List of Countries and Cities in UK with Great Hostels
Letβs waste no more time and jump right in to this great UK hostel collection.
Read: 21 Best Hostels in Europe
All of the destinations in the UK which we include in this guide are below (in no particular order):
- Backpacking tips for United Kingdom
- Map with all hostels
- How to book hostels in United Kingdom
- FAQ
- Flights to United Kingdom
- Promo codes and Discounts
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
Good to know: youβll notice that a lot of the destinations have just one hostel recommendation.
This is because we couldnβt find another hostel worth mentioning that we would want to recommend to our friends and family.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
π°οΈ Best Hostel in London: | Hostel One Notting Hill |
β½ Best Hostels in Liverpool: | Selina Liverpool |
π« Best Hostel in Cambridge: | YHA Cambridge Hostel |
ππ»ββοΈ Best Hostel in Newquay: | Newquay International Backpackers |
π° Best Hostel in York: | The Fort Boutique Hostel |
πBest Hostel in Edinburgh: | Castle Rock Hostel |
π’ Best Hostel in Belfast: | Vagabonds |
π· Best Hostels in Swansea: | Cwtsh Hostel |
Best Hostels in England
Letβs kick off with probably the most well known country in the United Kingdom. This is of course home to the capital city of London, Brighton and Manchester, just to name a few.
Hostels in England are affordable and well located, especially in the bigger cities.
One of the popular hostel chains in the UK is YHA, which stands for Youth Hostels Association. They provide youth hostel accommodation in England and Wales.
Find out more in our guide to the 12 best hostel chains in Europe.
Best Hostels in London
Ah yes, London, the Big Smoke, the capital of England! Not only do you have a 5 star hostel on offer here, but also a great party hostel and several other options.
London is pretty big, but getting around is easy. Youβre never more than a hop, skip and a jump away from the nearest London Underground station to explore the city to your heartβs content.
Check out these hostels:
Read our complete guide to best hostels in London which includes a big list of YHA London hostels.
1. Hostel One Notting Hill
You can expect social, social and more social vibes at Hostel One Notting Hill!
There a few things to expect:
- Free evening dinners
- 5 floors, no elevator
- Daytime activities
- Age limit of 18-36 years
The dorms are pretty simple, but they come in cosy sizes of 4, 6 and 8-beds. Private rooms are also available.
Overall, we love this hostel because of the large common areas and fantastic friendly atmosphere. Being located in Notting Hill is a great spot and an area of the city well worth exploring.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Wombatβs City Hostel London
Best hostels in London for solo travellers? Easily Wombatβs City Hostel London!
Start off with a free welcome drink and keep the good vibes flowing with a game of pool, a few more drinks at the bar and by joining a free landmarks tour!
Round off the day with a quiz night or karaoke at the onsite womBAR.
Dorm rooms are simple and clean, including a female only option and a cosy 4-bed mixed dorm. Twin and double privates come with their own private bathroom.
Wombats is located in Whitechapel very close to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Generator Hostel London
Surely some of you are in search of a great party hostel in London, right? Here we bring you Generator Hostel London.
Thereβs a list of reasons why Generator is the place to have a party-fuelled time.
For one thing, their lively and atmospheric bar perfectly compliments the nightly events and entertainment.
Secondly, you donβt need to worry about a hangover because Wombatβs offers dining facilities for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. That means you neednβt go far for that coffee and carbs fix!
The bar is actually open until 2am every night serving classic cocktails and a feast of fun games.
We highly recommend heading to the cafe & lounge area when you just feel like relaxing with your mates.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Brighton
Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside, oh I do like to be beside the sea!
Brighton is famous for its bohemian atmosphere, LGBTQ+ population and iconic seaside. It happens to be home to some pretty cool hostels, too:
Read our complete guide to best hostels in Brighton.
1. Hostel YHA Brighton
Hostel YHA Brighton is a superb example of what to expect at the famous YHA hostels.
Itβs a big place, with 180 beds and 3 floors to wander around!
Excellent: Female solo travellers can enjoy female only dorms with a private ensuite.
Because of its size, weβd recommend couples and travelling friends to opt for this hostel.
Thereβs a shared kitchen, cafe and bar and breakfast available for a small charge if you prefer to fill up before heading out into the Big Smoke.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Seadragon Backpackers
If the first choice seemed a little overwhelming, weβve balanced it out by including Seadragon Backpackers which is a much smaller and cosy hostel.
Stay here and youβll be just 30 seconds from the beach!
All of the dorms are limited to 4 beds, and there is a double and twin private if you prefer to balance out social with solitude.
A free daily breakfast of eggs, cereals and bread will definitely start your day right.
The cosy lounge is an ideal spot for relaxing with friends, watching a bit of TV and drinking copious amounts of free tea and coffee.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Manchester
Shock horror: There are only 2 hostels in the city of Manchester! Yet never fear, because they happen to be pretty damn awesome.
Our disclaimer: Even though there are only two hostels, we still think theyβre great which is why we include them here.
Manchester offers a compelling mix of yum food, a world-famous music scene and modern culture. The diversity and energetic atmosphere makes for a great backpacker destination!
Letβs go:
Read our complete guide to best hostels in Manchester.
1. Selina NQ1 Manchester
Itβs pretty cool that out of two potential hostels one of them happens to be Selina NQ1 Manchester.
Get ready for privacy-led bunks, a spacious and comfortable hostel bar and awesome location slap bang in the Northern Quarter.
The outdoor seating area is beautifully designed and the onsite cafe is a good place to order some filling breakfast when you wake up.
Oh and pets are welcome in private rooms!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. YHA Manchester
Vibrant interior, big bright spaces and located right in the middle of the Northern Quarter, YHA Manchester comes in a close second.
Once again, this hostel is on the larger size which boasts a whopping 152 beds spread over 37 rooms. That means pretty much every traveller type is catered for!
Each dorm bed here is fitted with USB ports and a reading light which are always appreciated when you fancy hanging out on your bed.
If youβre all about the social vibes, head to the hostel bar and check out the games room which is equipped with a pool table.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Liverpool
If youβve heard of The Beatles then youβve heard of Liverpool, and vice versa. This is one of the best cities in the world for architecture, sport and modern art.
Where to stay? Weβve handpicked our favourites:
Read our complete guide to best hostels in Liverpool.
1. Selina Liverpool
Selina Liverpool is our obvious first choice, and we have solid reasons why.
Grab a coffee and join us in the secret beer garden whilst we look at the highlights:
- Yoga lessons
- Live music
- Selina CoWork
- Socia events & pool table
Choose between shared dorms with 4, 6, 8 and 10-beds, or treat yourself to a double, deluxe or family-sized private room.
The design of this hostel is pretty luxurious as far as hostels in the UK go. Thanks Selina for not letting us down!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. The Liverpool Pod
Pod bed accommodation located on the main road of Liverpool? Tick.
The Liverpool Pod is all about the rooms. There are only three rooms here: 4-bed female dorm, 6-bed mixed dorm and a deluxe double private.
Each pod comes with a privacy curtain, light for reading and a charging socket for your gadgets. Oh and we almost forgot⦠each room has a private ensuite!
Other perks include a free breakfast, cosy living room and good free WiFi.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Bath: HI β YHA Bath β Bathwick Hill Hostel
Commonly known for its Roman built baths and fantastic Roman remains, Bath is the largest city in the county of Somerset.
The one and only hostel weβd recommend here is YHA Bath.
Set within a beautiful Italianate mansion in private grounds, YHA Bath is a short walk from the city centre.
Some of the social spaces include a bar, licensed restaurant, lounge and self-catering kitchen.
Super cool: There are female only and male only dorms here!
Standard single, twin and quadruple private rooms are ideal for solo travellers, couples and groups.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Birmingham: Selina Birmingham
Located in the West Midlands region, Birmingham is an ideal place to visit if youβre looking to enjoy great food and excellent nightlife set alongside a beautiful canal network.
Selina Birmingham will certainly help boost your experience of the city.
The trendy design matches the hip district of Jewellery Quarter in the city centre.
Inside the four walls you can enjoy a big yoga space, cosy living room, dining room and modern rooms which are a mix of shared and private.
Itβs possible to have a breakfast here, though it will cost extra. Reception is open 24/7 and there is a maximum stay period of 14 days.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Bristol: YHA Bristol
The YHA Bristol is located next to the well-known Arnolfini Gallery. Furthermore, The hostel is nestled in a heritage structure and offers a dining area and meeting space.
Both private bedrooms and spacious dorms are available.Β Additionally, there is a guest lounge with a TV, Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry facilities.
The closest attractions are Queen Square (200 m), Castle Park (850 m), and Bristol Zoo Gardens (2.3 km).
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Cambridge: YHA Cambridge
The YHA Cambridge Hostel, which underwent renovation in 2014, offers dorm rooms with communal bathrooms. There are restrooms on-site in some rooms. Most of the rooms include bunk beds.
There is a kitchen available, which also serves fresh coffee and bottled beverages.
The Grand Arcade Shopping Centre is 15 minutes walk. Both the Clifton Leisure Complex and the University Botanic Garden are five minutes away. The closest top attraction is The Fitzwilliam Museum, 1.2 km away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Keswick: YHA Keswick (North Yorkshire / Lake District)
The YHA Keswick is located in the centre of the bustling Keswick centre, surrounded by stunning countryside, and only a 10-minute walk from Lake Derwentwater.
It has a kitchen for self-catering as well as a restaurant. The majority of rooms contain bunk beds.
All of Keswickβs distinctive stores and cafes are accessible on foot in 15 minutes. Travellers may take a hike up Skiddaw Mountain, which is 10 minute drive away, or explore the Fitz parks, which are only 5 minutes away!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Newcastle upon Tyne: Albatross Hostel
The Albatross Hostel, located in the centre of Newcastle, provides free Wi-Fi, a free home safe, and a laundry service. There is no curfew for entering the property. Each room has individual room heating and access to a self-catering kitchen and communal bathroom.
Free toast, tea, and coffee are offered to visitors, and a pool table is available for use. Also, there is a computer in the common TV lounge.
Restaurants, bars, and clubs are all within a 2-minute stroll of the hostel.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Newquay
1. Newquay International Backpackers
Located in the centre of Newquay and conveniently close to fantastic surfing beaches! Newquay International Backpackers offer secure surfboard storage, wetsuit storage, warm showers, and free breakfast from 8 to 10 am.
They have single, double, twin, 3-bed, 4-bed, 7-bed, and 10-bed dormitories. All of their rooms have their own wash basins.
Additionally, they have front and rear garden areas where you can unwind or surf on their free Wi-Fi!
Compare prices and read reviews at:Β Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. St Christopherβs Inn Newquay
St. Christopherβs Inn Newquay is sitting atop a cliff overlooking Towan Bay. It has a sunny patio, a bar, a restaurant, and a surf school.
The hostel has both private rooms and dorm-style accommodations. The majority of rooms have en suite bathrooms and stunning coastal views. Bed linens are provided.
Nearby attractions are Newquay Blue Reef Aquarium (150m), Towan Beach (50m), and Harbour Beach (150m).
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Nottingham: Igloo Hybrid
The eco-friendly Igloo Hybrid offers free Wi-Fi, a communal self-catering kitchen, and a living room with a library and TV. Additionally, there is a lush garden where you can have peace!
Every room at the hostel has a desk, and some include a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Additionally included are memory foam beds, a full-length mirror, double-glazed windows, and chairs. There is linen in every apartment. Each dorm room comes with a lockable storage space.
Old Market Square is 1 minute away, and the train station is a 6 minutes walk.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Oxford: Central Backpackers
Central Backpackers is located in the heart of the city and is recently renovated with a self-catered, fully furnished kitchen that includes complimentary tea and coffee.
They have lots of different accommodations, including female-only dorms. Each bed has its own lamp, shelf, a power outlet, linen, and USB connections. Also, there is a lounge area with a TV and many DVDs.
The closest attractions are The Story Museum and Oxford Castle.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Plymouth: Plymouth Backpackers (Plymouth Youth Hostel)
The accommodations at Plymouth Backpackers are spotless, welcoming, comfortable, and ideally situated.
In addition to free Wi-Fi throughout the property, this establishment has a communal kitchen and lounge. Moreover, the place does not allow smoking throughout the entire property. They offer 11 bedrooms, including single, twin, family, and bigger rooms for sharing by larger parties. Each morning, options for breakfast include a buffet and continental.
The Cathedral Church of St Mary and St Boniface, Plymouth Hoe, and Plymouth Pavilions are all well-known attractions close to Plymouth Backpackers.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Windermere: YHA Windermere
The YHA Windermere overlooks Englandβs largest natural lake and allows guests to stay in a picturesque rural location just two miles from Windermere.
You can pick from shared or private rooms, landpods or tents! It provides home-cooked meals and self-catering kitchen facilities. Most of the rooms include bunk beds, and there is a TV lounge with cosy armchairs as well as free Wi-Fi.
The closest attractions are Treetop Trek and Claife Heights.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in York
The city is known for its beautiful architecture, cobbled streets, and the ruins of its medieval walls, as well as its many attractions including the York Minster, the National Railway Museum, and the Jorvik Viking Centre.
Other top attractions include the York Castle Museum, the Shambles, and the York Dungeon.
1. The Fort Boutique Hostel
The Fort York is a boutique hotel located in the centre of York, just off Stonegate. It has a range of individual themed rooms, family rooms with eight beds, bathroom facilities, and free Wi-Fi.
There is a TV, cleaning service; complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate; towels, linens, and duvets, and free luggage storage.
The closest attractions are York Guildhall and Kings Square (200 m).
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Astor York
Within a 15-minute walk of Yorkβs historic district lies the Astor York Hostel. This hostel offers Wi-Fi access throughout the facility, and all rooms are en-suite.
There are two sizable dining rooms and a huge lounge where visitors can unwind. For entertainment, their bar organises parties!
Holgate Dock Public Open Space (150 m) and Holgate Community Garden (350m) are the closest attractions.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Scotland
Scotland is a magical travel destination! For the adventurous, explore the rugged terrain of the Highlands and take part in thrilling activities such as white water rafting, mountain biking and hill walking.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, why not enjoy a dram of whisky and a hearty meal at one of Scotlandβs many traditional pubs? And for the truly curious, explore the mysterious side of Scotland with a visit to one of its many haunted castles or mythical creatures like Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster!
So, come and explore the wonders of Scotland β itβs sure to leave you with a lasting impression! For a more in-depth guide, you can have a look at the best hostels in Scotland.
Best Hostels in Edinburgh
Start your trip with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, a breathtaking medieval fortress perched atop an extinct volcano. After exploring the castle, take a stroll down the Royal Mile, the cobbled street lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs, before exploring the cityβs vibrant nightlife.
If you want to explore the outdoors, head to Arthurβs Seat for incredible views of the city and the surrounding area. Or, if youβre feeling brave, why not try abseiling at the nearby cliffs?
Here youβll find the best hostels in Edinburghβ:
Read out the complete guide to best hostels in Edinburgh.
1. Castle Rock Hostel
A huge kitchen, many lounges, and themed rooms that are clean, roomy, and inviting are all features of this tastefully furnished hostel. This is Castle Rock Hostel.
A comfortable sitting area with a piano and huge sofas near the fireplace, a cinema room with a big screen, and an internet cafΓ© with Wi-Fi are all available.
You have to be older than 18 to stay there.
The closest attractions from Castle Rock Hostel are Johnston Terrace Garden (40m), Camera Obscura (100m), and World of Illusions (100m).
Looking for even more backpacker options? Check our selection of 5 coolest backpacker hostels in Edinburgh.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. CoDE Co-Living β The Loft
The CoDE Pod Hostels β THE LoFT is a modern design hostel in the New Town of Edinburgh. It is modern in the sense of design and technology as well. A fresh young design hostel meets tech-nerds
Every guest that booked the hostel gets a code to enter the hostel, so there is no hassle with keys. You will even receive your own code before you arrive via email if you fully paid your stay.
Eco-Peeps: The hostel runs on energy-saving lights with motion sensors. This way the place can save up to 60% of its energy use β simple and efficient!
There are no bunk beds at CoDE Pod Hostels β THE LoFTΒ but fancy, modern pods which give you the privacy youβve been waiting for when staying at a hostel. Each pod has its own socket-outlet and lighting, so you can simply close your curtains to get your rest.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. The Baxter Hostel
This custom-built hostel will astound you with its vivid and distinctive style!
You may pick between single-sex, and mixed dorm rooms, which range in size from 4 to 12 beds. The Baxter Hostel has a spotless, customised kitchen and a relaxing, opulent lounge space. Each room includes a personal locker, and the entire hostel provides free Wi-Fi.
The closest attractions are Scott Monument (250m), the City Art Centre (300m), and the National Museum of Scotland (750m).
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Glasgow
Glasgow is an exciting and vibrant city that is a great destination to visit. It offers a variety of attractions and activities, from historic buildings and museums to art galleries and modern shopping centres.
The city is also known for its lively nightlife and excellent food, which makes it a great place for a weekend break.
It is also easy to get around, as the city has an extensive public transport network.
Take a look at these hostels in Glasgow for a fun and exciting trip:
- Euro Hostel
- Glasgow Youth Hostel
- Alba Hostel β CLOSED
Read out the complete guide to best hostels in Glasgow.
1. Euro Hostel
The Euro Hostel Glasgow provides free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk in the heart of Glasgow. Additionally, there is a games room with a pool table and a TV lounge with comfy seats. They have individual and dorm rooms with affordable accommodations.
Glasgowβs renowned nightlife is within a 10-minute walk from the Euro Hostel. There is only a 5-minute walk to the Gallery of Modern Art.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Glasgow Youth Hostel
A Victorian mansion with a view of Kelvingrove Park is the home of the Glasgow Youth Hostel. The hostel offers a wide selection of cosy en-suite rooms as well as roomy communal quarters with private lockers. There is also a standalone apartment with space for up to 6 people.
All visitors may use free Wi-Fi, and further amenities include a sizable lounge with views of the park, a TV room, a games room, a laundry room, a safe bike storage area, and a baggage storage area.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Alba Hostel β CLOSED
Update: Sadly, this hostel is permanently closed.
The Alba Hostel is situated in Glasgowβs West End quiet neighbourhood. They provide comfortable, roomy quarters, a lounge/chill-out space, outdoor seats, free Wi-Fi, and no curfew or lockout policy.
Private rooms and mixed- or single-sex dormitories are both options for lodging. There are lockers in the dormitory rooms.
The Alba is a fantastic starting point for touring Glasgowβs downtown area as well as Loch Lomond and the Scottish Highlands.
Best Hostels in Fort William
Whether you want to take a silly selfie with a llama, goof around in a bouncy castle, or just relax in an oversized armchair, youβll find plenty of silly things to do at Fort William. So donβt delay, pack your bags and head off to Fort William for a silly adventure!
1. Fort William Backpackers
Fort William Backpackers is tucked away on a mountain above the city, offering spectacular views. They have twin rooms, only-female dorms and mixed bunk beds.
Daily reception hours are 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. for check-in.
They have comfortable mattresses, strong showers, a place to dry wet gear, a self-catering kitchen, which is fully stocked, an outside BBQ, and a pleasant, beautiful lounge.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Chase The Wild Goose Hostel
This lovely hostel offers breakfast, on-site parking, and stunning views of Ben Nevis. It is situated beside the Caledonian Canal in a very lovely area of Scotland. There is free Wi-Fi. The beds are bunk beds. Along with common restrooms, there are also storage lockers and towels provided. There is a common kitchen, eating area, and TV lounge.
Chase The Wild Goose Hostel is close to the Caledonian Canal. Other well-known attractions in the vicinity include Steall Waterfall, the locks at Neptuneβs Staircase, and steam train excursions on the West Highland Line.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Inverness: Bazpackers Hostel
Bazpackers Hostel provides clean, competent, pleasant service in a quiet but extremely central position in Inverness.
They have twin and double private rooms with breathtaking views, a 4-female dorm, and six and four mixed-gender shared dormitory accommodations. They also provide a sizable private self-catering unit with a private bathroom and kitchen (up to 4 persons).
The yard has a barbecue and a fireplace with beautiful views.
Inverness Castle is 200 metres away, and the city centre is only 300 m away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Isle of Skye: Skyewalker Hostel
The excellent starting point for an island tour is Skyewalker Hostel! It features a sizable garden space for relaxation and grilling, as well as a fully-stocked self-catering kitchen. Additionally, there is a cooling glass dome and regular Scottish folk music performances.
They offer double, single, bunk beds and private Jedi Huts.
A fantastic beach with frequent sightings of whales, dolphins, basking sharks and Skyeβs legendary eagles is nearby.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Isle of Arran: Lochranza Youth Hostel
Lochranza Youth Hostel is located in a charming town in the north of the Isle of Arran and is surrounded by hills on three sides.
The hostel provides visitors with various lodging options, including cosy private en-suite rooms, roomy communal dormitories, individual lockers, and bedside lighting. Also, there is free Wi-Fi.
It takes 15 minutes to go to The Goat Fell, the highest mountain on the Isle of Arran. Just a 10-minute stroll will get you to the Arran Distillery, home of Arran Single Malt whiskey.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Loch Ness: Loch Ness Lochside Hostel
Fort Augustus is the location of Loch Ness Guest House. There is free Wi-Fi access.
You will have a TV in every room here. Private bathrooms have a bath or shower, a hairdryer, and complimentary amenities. A desk, bed linens, and ironing facilities are extras.
A garden and a lounge are also present at Loch Ness Guest House.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Oban
From the stunning coastal views to the lively nightlife, explore the charming Oban. Take a boat trip out to sea, and visit the nearby islands.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Inner Hebrides, or take a ferry to the Isle of Mull. Come join in the fun!
1. Oban Backpackers
A communal lounge, non-smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi are available at Oban Backpackers.
The lodging offers visitors a common kitchen and a place to store belongings. A communal bathroom and bed linens are provided in each hostelβs accommodations.
Pulpit Hilltop is 1.2 km away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Corran House
The Victorian terraced Corran House Hostel, located in the sleepy fishing village of Oban, consists of two houses with lovely views of the harbour toward the Isle of Kerrera and the Mull highlands.
Each of Corranβs guest rooms has a TV. The majority have private bathrooms, and some even offer sea views. There is a large, well-stocked communal kitchen, a pool table and a patio area.
Oban town centre is a 10-minute away, while St Columbaβs Cathedral is less than a 5-minute walk away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique, fun-filled holiday! There are plenty of sights to see, from the Giantβs Causeway to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.
Plus, you can get up close and personal with some amazing wildlife, such as the wild Atlantic puffins and the Belfast bumblebees. And of course, no trip to Northern Ireland would be complete without trying some of their famous local dishes like the Ulster Fry and Irish Stew.
So, come and explore Northern Ireland, the land of leprechauns and pots of gold!
Psst! If youβre keen to explore the rest of the island, make sure you check out the 24 best hostels in Ireland guide.
Best Hostels in Belfast
This is a great spot for history buffs and those who just want to learn more about one of the worldβs most famous ships. You can take a tour of the shipyard and the dock, visit the Titanic Belfast Museum, and take a leisurely stroll around the grounds.
Read out the complete guide to best hostels in Belfast.
1. Vagabonds
In Belfast, 200 meters from The Belfast Empire Music Hall and 1.9 kilometres from The Waterfront Hall, youβll find Vagabonds Hostel. This five-star hostel has free Wi-Fi, a common kitchen, and a communal lounge. There is free linen provided in every apartment.
The Botanic Gardens Belfast are just 1 km from the hostel, while Ulster Museum is 700 m distant.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Global Village
Global Village is situated in the vibrant Queens University neighbourhood, close to some of the top restaurants and shops in the city. City Hall in the heart of Belfast can be reached on foot in only 15 minutes.
Each room has its own lock, and a safe luggage storage facility is offered at no additional cost.
A big collection of DVDs and board games, a Nintendo Wii, a guitar, pool and futsal tables, and BBQs and pub crawls are just a few of the many forms of entertainment offered by the hostel.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Belfast International Youth Hostel
Belfast International Youth Hostel is located 7 minutes walk from the Botanic Garden.
They feature accommodations for every price range, from a simple, inexpensive dorm bed to a double with a private shower and toilet. There is free Wi-Fi and an on-site cafΓ©. Lockers are available in dorm rooms, and linens are also provided.
The closest attractions are King William Park (150m), Crescent Park (200m), and Albert Memorial Clock (1.5 km)
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Bushmills: Finn McCoolβs Giantβs Causeway Hostel
In Ballycastle, Finn McCoolβs offers lodging with free Wi-Fi and garden views.
The house has a yard, a flat-screen TV in the living room, a fully functional kitchen, and two bathrooms, each with a hairdryer. Bed linen and towels are provided.
Ballycastle Golf Club is 1.5km away, and Ballycastle Beach is 1.3km away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Ballycastle: Whitepark Bay Hostel
Whitepark Bay Hostel features a sizable lounge with sea views, a TV room, a dining area, and a kitchen. They have 15 bedrooms with 15 bathrooms, some with sea views. Private bathrooms in each room come with either a bath or a shower. Furthermore, there is a communal kitchen on the site.
Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge is 3.6km away, and Partaneevey Car Park & Picnic Site is 5km away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Newcastle: Hutt Hostel
Hutt Hostel provides 72 beds, including βThe Padd,β a self-contained apartment with a kitchen, bathroom, toilet, and living area. Also, there is a dining/games room and a childrenβs adventure playground.
It is a few hundred yards from the seafront and takes about five minutes to reach the magnificent Mourne Mountainsβ base.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Wales
How about Wales? Surely,Β Wales is a beautiful country with a diverse landscape of mountains, coastlines, and rolling countryside.
Wales is home to some breathtaking scenery and is a great destination for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Wales is also known for its medieval castles, picturesque villages, and historic towns, making it a great destination for sightseeing and exploring.
There are plenty of activities and attractions to suit all tastes, whether youβre looking for a relaxing beach holiday or a more adventurous outdoor experience.Β
Take a look at some of the best hostels in Wales.Β
Best Hostels in Caernarfon: Ty Glyndwr
They are in the centre of the historic walled town, whose walls surround the lovely Menai Strait.
A bar, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi are available at Ty Glyndwr Bunkhouse, Bar and Cafe in Caernarfon. There is bed linen in every room, and the hostel offers a continental breakfast to its visitors.
It is 13km from Snowdon Mountain Railway and 100m from Caernarfon Castle.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Llanberis: YHA Snowdon Llanberis
YHA Snowdon Llanberis is located at the entrance to the Snowdonia National Park, deep among the stunning mountain environment of north Wales. It features a self-catering kitchen, a TV room, and a daily buffet breakfast.
Most of the spacious bunk rooms at YHA Snowdon Llanberis feature shared bathrooms.
The 1.6 km distant Snowdon Mountain Railway in Llanberis offers frequent journeys to the 3000-foot peak.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Swansea: Cwtsh Hostel
This five-star hostel in Swansea has free Wi-Fi, a communal lounge, and a kitchen. Cwtsh Hostel has a 24-hour front desk and nighttime entertainment.
You can choose from bunk beds and double rooms, all of which feature comfortable mattresses and free linen. Also, they have free Wi-Fi, dryings racks and personal lockers.
Swansea Castle is only 50m away, and Museum Park is 400m away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Betws-y-Coed: The Eagles
The Eagles Bunkhouse is located in the quiet community of Penmachno.
Each room offers duvets, pillows, bed sheets, and tea and coffee-making equipment. There is a self-catering kitchen in the bunkhouse. Keep in mind that all of the restrooms at this accommodation are shared.
Mountain cyclists may use the Penmachno route, which is about half a kilometre away, and all of the Welsh 3000-foot peaks are within 15 miles.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Backpacking tips for the UK
1. If you want to save money, schedule your trip in advance online. Buying tickets at the station on the day of travel is typically much more expensive. Choose specific times as opposed to open returns. Even though youβll be limited to the period you pick, youβll still save money.
2. As you are clearly aware, the UKβs weather can be unpredictable. In the UK, there are no distinct seasons. Even in the summer, many days can have nonstop rain. However, the ideal time to visit the UK is during the summer if you want to make the most of its attractions. Youβll be able to take advantage of the wonderful British outdoors and the ideal weather! If you prefer a less crowded time, go in the fall or winter. Remember that neither the weather nor the cost of goods will be great.
3. One of Englandβs top national parks is found in Cumbria, in Northern England, around an hour from the Scottish border, in the Lake District. The lakes in the area were created by the previous ice ageβs retreating glaciers, which also carved the U-shaped valleys that are currently water-filled. Itβs ideal for sailing around beautiful lakes and mountain pass hikes. In the summer, it is quite crowded and popular.
4. In all major British cities, card payments are accepted; however, minimum card payment may apply in certain smaller towns and villages. All cities and towns have plenty of ATMs, but it can be more challenging in a small village to get cash. Most supermarkets offer outdoor ATMs that are staffed around the clock. Although all of the United Kingdom uses the same sterling money, Scotland uses different-looking notes that are difficult to use in England and Wales because they are not recognised there. You can exchange any leftover Scottish currency at a bank if there are any issues.
5. A backpacking journey across England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland is an absolutely excellent way to spend a few weeks or a few months, regardless of whether you are currently in Europe or simply preparing to travel to the UK.
6. Travellers find the United Kingdom to be highly accessible, diversified, ecological, and full of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Millions of tourists visit England each year, making it the most visited nation in the UK. Itβs not difficult to understand why, given the areaβs flourishing music culture, tranquil countryside, stunning seaside villages, and an abundance of pubs.
7. One of the most fascinating, less famous, cities to visit in the UK is Belfast. This city is rich in culture and history despite its troubled past. To find out how the enormous ship was constructed, you may go to the Titanic museum. Discover more about The Troubles that ravaged Northern Ireland in the 1970s and 1980s, or just stroll through Belfastβs picturesque streets to learn more about Belfastβs history! The Giants Causeway, which ought to be on your list of must-see locations in the UK, is close to Belfast. If you spend a few days in Belfast as your base, you can opt for many fantastic day excursions!
What about the cheapest hostels in United Kingdom?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in United Kingdom.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in United Kingdom
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
It is completely free to join!
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of United Kingdom best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Need an eSIM Card for United Kingdom?
Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.
No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.
Our Favorite Hostels in United Kingdom put on a map + sights
How about we put all hostels that we just mentioned on a map? Of course, we did this for you.
Below you find our handmade map with all hostels, our secret tips, and so much more.
Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.
We included handy links to each of the recommended hostels. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible!
All of the best United Kingdom hostels are popular; especially in high season. To make sure you end up in those stylish hostels, secure your room or bed as soon as you have your travel dates fixed.
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FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
Any questions about hostels in United Kingdom?
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Flights to United Kingdom?
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More handmade Guides for you
Besides the coolest hostels in UK, we visited more great backpacker hostels in Europe.
NEW: 21 Best Hostels in Europe
Make sure you read these guides. You will safe money and you will stay in safe, clean and fun hostels.
- 14 best hostels in France
- 24 best hostels in Ireland
- 29 best hostels in Germany
- 23 best hostels in Switzerland
- 20 best hostels in Greece
Find all our hostels in Europe here.
Other 5 Star Hostels
Besides the listed accommodation, we also put together the best hostels in the world; the 5 Star Hostels.
We stayed in a former winery in Santorini, in a former jail-now 5 Star Hostel and many more. And we share all of those unique budget accommodations with you.
We unbox the hostels and check all their pros and cons. For each destination, there can be only 1 hostel be chosen to be a 5 Star-Awarded Hostel.
This is your shortcut to your hostel-picks, saving you lots of time in your accommodation research.
And for sure, it gives you the security of a top-hostel choice without any bad surprises.
Update: We now cover as well curated 3-best hostels guide to cities with no 5 Star Hostels such as Oslo, Seoul and Sydney.
Oh and donβt forget to have a look at our hostel packing list.
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this United Kingdom guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we havenβt evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks