For budget backpackers and money-savvy travellers, there’s nowhere better to stay than a hostel. Not only does a stay with YHA help keep the costs down, but our hostels are in some unbeatable locations, ideal for exploring the UK.
Whether you prefer a bustling city break with pals, an outdoor adventure in one of the National Parks with the family, or a romantic beach-side break with the other half, we’ve got something to suit every kind of traveller without breaking the bank.
Keep reading for your guide to the best hostels in England and Wales for affordability, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
What type of accommodation is best for budget-conscious backpackers?
Well, we might be a little biased, but we think that you can’t beat staying in a hostel if you’re travelling on a budget. Our no-frills private rooms are often cheaper than hotels or Airbnb’s, and you can save even more by opting for a bed in a shared dorm room.
Our shared rooms are split by gender, making them perfect whether you’re a solo female traveller, adventuring with a friend, or backpacking around the UK.
We have beds available from just £15 per night and private rooms from just £30 per night.
What makes hostels so great for budget travellers and backpackers?
There’s no end to the benefits that staying in a hostel can bring for budget travellers and backpackers.
Reasons why hostels are perfect for a cheap UK break include:
- Affordability
- Incredible locations
- Free activities nearby
- On-site facilities
- Helping a registered charity
1. Affordability
Ok, so we won’t go on and on about it, but staying in a hostel is a great way to have a cheap holiday. Save money on your accommodation, and you’ll have more to spend on experiences during your travels.
2. Incredible locations
We don’t mean to brag, but our hostels really are in some of the best locations throughout England and Wales. Wake up in the heart of the city or step out of the front door onto a hiking trail in the Lake District. Fancy a sea view? No problem, we’ve got you covered!
3. Free activities nearby
Luckily for all of us, the UK is full to bursting with activities that you can enjoy for free. And better still, we’ve done all the hard work for you. Check the hostel pages on our website, where you’ll find a list of some of the best free and low-cost things to do near the hostel itself.
4. On-site facilities
You don’t just have to stay in your room when you visit YHA. You can choose to hang out in our social areas, grab a drink from the bar, or help yourself to a board game. If you’re travelling solo, staying with YHA is a great way to make some new pals, too.
Save even more on your stay by cooking up a storm in our well-equipped self-catering kitchens, complete with fridges, cookers and all the utensils you’ll need.
5. Helping a registered charity
Did you know that YHA is a charity? Every time you stay with us, you’re helping everyone, especially young people, to connect with people, nature, and heritage by providing accommodation for their travels.
Best YHA hostels based on your travel style
So let’s get down to it. Here are our picks of the best budget-friendly hostels based on your travel style.
Best for solo travellers and social vibes
Travelling on your own and hoping to meet people along the way? One of the very best things about staying in a hostel is the social atmosphere. You’re bound to find friendly, like-minded people to swap travel stories with over a pint.
Some of the best hostels for solo travellers include:
- YHA London Central – with its central London location (the clue is in the name!), you couldn’t get a better base for exploring the UK’s capital
- YHA Manchester – take advantage of the vibrant social spaces here before heading out to explore the city’s art and music scene
- YHA Bristol – the bustling bar here is a great place to make new friends, and the location is close to the city’s best attractions and eateries
Best for outdoor adventurers
If you like fresh air, exercise, and amazing scenery on your travels, then we’ve got a place for you to stay. A stay at one of our hostels in the Lake District or the Peak District comes at a fraction of the cost of renting a cottage or a hotel stay.
The best hostels for outdoor adventurers include:
- YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass – mountain refuge vibes in the heart of the Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). The path up to Snowdon’s summit is on the doorstep
- YHA Keswick – this hostel has access to some of the best hiking in the Lake District, as well as climbing and water sports
- YHA Edale Activity Centre – enjoy everything from caving to canoeing at this activity hostel in the Peak District before soaking in the stunning scenery
Best for beach bums
If you like the feeling of sand between your toes and a cold water dip, then one of our budget coastal hostels is the place for you.
The best hostels for those who love the beach include:
- YHA Treyarnon Bay – just 50m from the sea in north Cornwall, this hostel has some of the best coastal views in the UK to say nothing of the sunsets!
- YHA Boggle Hole – the quirkiest hostel in the YHA network, and a fan favourite, YHA Boggle Hole is perfect for a seaside adventure
- YHA Sheringham – the perfect base for a traditional British seaside holiday
Best for couples who love to explore
Couples will feel right at home with a cheap getaway at YHA. Some of our hostels even have double rooms available to book, so you don’t need to sleep in a bunk bed during your romantic trip away (unless you want to, of course!).
The best hostels for money-savvy couples include:
- YHA Bath – if you’re looking for Bridgerton on a budget, then head to YHA Bath. There’s plenty to do in the beautiful historic city
- YHA Whitby – this stunning Grade I listed building is right next to Whitby Abbey and just steps from the town
- YHA Castleton Losehill Hall – this beautiful gothic mansion is the perfect base for active couples who want hikes by day and cosiness by night
So, there you have it, some of the best budget-friendly accommodation in the UK. Why not try a new hostel on your next adventure?
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