Introduction
Hello… and welcome to the summer issue of The Journey.
We’re incredibly proud that this year marks our 95th anniversary, but an organisation like YHA is nothing without you: our members, guests, staff, volunteers and supporters. Every single time you stay with us — donate your time or money to the work we do — you’re helping us to achieve our goals as a charity. A heartfelt thank you.
In this issue, we’re celebrating some of the things that make England and Wales so ripe for hostel-based exploration. We take a look at our rivers and chalk landscapes, explore the evolution of long-distance hiking and chat with Kate Rew, the founder of the Outdoor Swimming Society.
You’ll also find an overview of the latest YHA news, a selection of great hostels located near National Nature Reserves, and regular slots such as our gear reviews, our readers’ competition, and Let’s go!, our four-page pull-out for young hostellers.
If you fancy a challenge for the months ahead, meanwhile, we’re currently recruiting people to join our running team for the 2026 TCS London Marathon. You’ll be taking on one of the world’s showpiece marathons, and helping us raise vital funds in the meantime. Could this be the year you sign up?
Huge thanks again for your support — and happy reading!
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Highlights from this issue of The Journey
Four hostels near National Nature Reserves
England and Wales collectively have close to 300 National Nature Reserves (NNRs), places that were set up to conserve our landscapes, seascapes and wildlife.
The history and benefits of hiking
Call it trekking. Call it yomping, wandering, backpacking or plain old walking. This blog delves into how walking has evolved over the centuries.
The benefits of rivers and waterways
Our rivers are a playground for us and a breeding ground for the ecosystem that depends on them. A summer day by the river is one of the most idyllic days possible — and they’re worth fighting for.
Interview with outdoor swimming advocate: Kate Rew
As the Outdoor Swimming Society pushes for a greater legal right to swim, we speak to founder Kate Rew about the popularity of outdoor swimming, what she loves about it, and why she joined YHA.
The perfect walk to do this summer in the National Forest
It can be tempting to think of the National Forest as somewhere young. YHA National Forest, an exclusive hire property at its centre, is an eco-hostel dating to 2007.