The 15 best hostels in the UK
How to find the best hostels in the UK for your trip
Welcome to the UK – home of afternoon tea, overt politeness and the longest serving monarch in the world. But there’s a lot more to the United Kingdom than Buckingham Palace and ‘pleases’ and ‘thank yous’. There’s no end of diverse places and experiences waiting for you between these shores. It may be small, but this just means that you could be hiking in the Scottish Highlands one day and partying in the bright lights of London the next. You might think that the UK isn’t the most budget-friendly destination, and well, you’d be somewhat correct. But, stay in any of these fantastic hostels to massively cut the costs of your UK trip, whilst making friends with countless other backpackers along the way – win win! Whether you’re a solo traveller, one half of a wanderlust-fuelled couple or a Brit wanting to explore a bit more of your own back yard, we have the best hostels in the UK for you here!
Jump straight to:
- Best hostels in the UK for solo travellers
- Best hostels in the UK for couples
- Best party hostels in the UK
- Best hostels in the UK with private rooms
- Best city centre hostels in the UK
- Best of the rest UK hostels
Best hostels in the UK for solo travellers
Thanks to its small size, safety and extensive transport links it couldn’t be easier to travel the UK on your own – although we all know you’re never really alone when you stay in hostels. The UK has hundreds of them; stay in one of these and you might even meet a travel buddy for life.
Wombat’s City Hostel, London
Wombat’s is a consistently busy hostel that’s a great place to mingle with fellow backpackers – in fact, it was our most popular hostel in London for 2018! Ease off any solo-travelling nerves as soon as you arrive with a free welcome drink, and if you feel like carrying on there’s bound to be someone in the common room up for checking out the famous nightlife in nearby Shoreditch. Wombat’s’ great location is also within walking distance of some of London’s most exciting sights including Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Hostel highlights:
- Cosy hangout area
- Buzzing bar
- Private shower/toilet facilities
🏠 Address: 7 Dock Street, London, E1 8LL 🏘 Neighbourhood: Whitechapel (East London) 🚍 Nearest station: Tower Hill underground station
Book your stay at Wombat's City Hostel now
YHA, Brighton
This charming seaside hostel knows that even solo travellers need a bit of privacy sometimes, which is why they offer single occupancy private rooms for you to recharge in. Don’t worry though, there’s still plenty of opportunities to meet other travellers for a beer in their chill-out bar or over a pizza from their on-site restaurant. Their prime location is perfect for exploring the best of Brighton, from its quirky city centre to iconic seafront. Hostel highlights:
- En-suite facilities in every room
- Beach location
- On-site pizza restaurant
🏠 Address: Old Steine, Brighton, BH1 1NH 🚍 Nearest station: Brighton train station
Book your stay at YHA Brighton now
Hatters Hostel, Liverpool
You might arrive to Hatters Hostel as a solo traveller, but after experiencing one of their famous Liverpool pub crawls you’ll have plenty of new friends – and stories to tell! The hostel puts on social events 6 nights a week and their friendly, fun staff will make you feel part of the family. You’ll love Liverpool’s mad nightlife, but on the evenings you don’t feel like making the 5 minute walk to the city centre we’re sure you’ll find something going on in the hostel bar, games room or BBQ area. Hostel highlights:
- Free food nights
- Amazing location
- Legendary pub crawls
🏠 Address: 56-60 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5SD 🏘 Neighbourhood: City centre 🚍 Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Book your stay at Hatters Hostel Liverpool now
Best hostels in the UK for couples
The UK can hold its own against the likes of France and Italy as a romantic destination – no, seriously! From the idyllic natural landscapes of Ireland to the cobbled streets of Edinburgh or the swanky restaurants of London, there are plenty of places in the UK that will inspire your inner Casanova. And the romance doesn’t have to stop just because you’re in a hostel – these ones are tried, tested and loved by couples.
Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage, London
Set in a grand, historic mansion, Palmers Lodge is certainly not your average hostel. Couples love it because after spending a night playing beer pong in the pub downstairs, they can bypass the dorms and head for their own double bedroom with en suite. Those looking for a quintessentially English experience will appreciate its original Victorian architecture and exposed brickwork – very Jane Eyre! Hostel highlights:
- Games room
- Deluxe private rooms
- On top of a traditional English pub!
🏠 Address: 40 College Crescent, London, NW3 5LB 🏘 Neighbourhood: Hampstead (North London) 🚍 Nearest station: Swiss Cottage underground station
Book your stay at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage now
Skyewalker Hostel, Isle of Skye
What’s more romantic than sleeping in a private hut under the stars? Skyewalker Hostel offers exactly that; it’s a rural escape in the Scottish Highlands that’s a total dream for couples seeking a little isolation. Explore lush green landscapes, learn Scottish folk music and even go whale and dolphin watching at the local beach. Hostel highlights:
- Glass dome for stargazing
- Unspoiled natural beauty
- Summer BBQ area
🏠 Address: IV47 8SL 🚍 Nearest station: There is a bus stop outside the hostel but plan your journey in advance as public transport is sporadic!
Book your stay at Skyewalker Hostel now
St Christopher’s Village, London
This multi-award winning hostel gives couples the best of both worlds. Whether you choose to spend your evening partying in their nightclub Belushi’s or watching a game in their underground sports bar, you’ll be able to retire to your own space at the end of it – without having to sacrifice that unbeatable hostel atmosphere! Top tip: if you book in advance, ask for the room with the view of The Shard. 😍 Hostel highlights:
- Legendary burgers
- Amazing parties
- Close to Borough Market (foodie heaven!)
🏠 Address: 165 Borough High Street, London, SE1 1HR 🚍 Nearest station: Borough/London Bridge underground stations
Book your stay at St Christopher's Village, London now
Best party hostels in the UK
If you’re here for a good time, not a long time, or just want to see if us Brits can really drink as many pints as we claim, these are the hostels for you. Get ready for some late nights, happy hours and banging tunes.
NosDa Hostel & Bar, Cardiff
NosDa means ‘good night’ in Welsh, which is what you’re guaranteed to have at this buzzing hostel on the River Taff. Not only does it have a lively bar, it’s also a music venue that sees performances from local bands several nights a week. Who says no to a free gig?! If you’re lucky enough to be in Cardiff for a rugby game (but can’t stretch to a ticket) there’s no better place to watch it than on the hostel’s big screen. The Welsh are passionate about their sport and the atmosphere at NosDa is electric. Hostel highlights:
- Live music
- Beer festivals
- Central riverside location
🏠 Address: 53-59 Despenser Street, Cardiff, CF11 6AG 🚍 Nearest station: Cardiff Central
Book your stay at NosDa Hostel & Bar now
Hostel One Camden, London
What better place to get your drink on than a traditional London pub? That’s where you’ll find Hostel One. The staff here will help you to experience London’s nightlife scene, as they lead different alcohol-fuelled outings every night of the week. Just make sure you take advantage of their daily happy hours first, as well as your free dinner – they’d rather you save that food budget for partying! Hostel highlights:
- Iconic location in Camden
- Drinking games
- Run by backpackers
🏠 Address: 2 Southampton Road, London, NW5 4HX 🏘 Neighbourhood: Camden 🚍 Nearest station: Chalk Farm/Camden Town underground stations
Book your stay at Hostel One Camden now
Euro Hostel, Glasgow
Glasgow’s nightlife is some of the best in the UK, and Euro Hostel’s bar is where a lot of backpackers and Glaswegians choose to kick off their night. After you’ve loaded up on cheap drink deals, Glasgow is your oyster – and this hostel is the shiny pearl at its centre, being only a stone’s throw from the most exciting bars and clubs. You might have a fuzzy head in the morning, but we’re sure an all you can eat breakfast buffet for £5 will help. Hostel highlights:
- Amazing location
- Live sports shown
- Chill-out rooms
🏠 Address: 318 Clyde Street, Glasgow, G1 4NR 🏘 Neighbourhood: Central 🚍 Nearest station: Glasgow Central
Book your stay at Euro Hostel Glasgow now
Best hostels in the UK with private rooms
We get it; sometimes when you’ve been on the road a long time all you crave is a bit of quality time with number one. That’s where these hostels come in handy – they all have excellent private bedrooms that our guests love.
Generator Hostel, London 
Seasoned European travellers will know all about Generator Hostels. This one is the original and offers several comfy private rooms. Our guests describe it as a ‘well-organised hostel with good and professional staff’ and say they love ‘meeting people from around the globe’ in its ‘lively, atmospheric bar’. It’s in the perfect location for anyone who’s bucket list includes catching a West End show (and having their own cosy room to return to afterwards). Hostel highlights:
- Delicious food
- 2 for 1 happy hour
- Free walking tours
🏠 Address: 37 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SA 🏘 Neighbourhood: West End 🚍 Nearest station: King’s Cross St Pancras
Book your stay at Generator Hostel London now
Edinburgh Backpackers, Edinburgh
This hostel may be smack bang in the centre of Edinburgh, but you won’t need to worry about getting a great night’s sleep in your newly renovated private bedroom. Don’t be tempted to spend too much time in there though as you’ve got a lot of Edinburgh to see – starting with the free city tour offered by the hostel. You’ll still have plenty of opportunities to socialise with other travellers, like over a game of pool or darts in the busy common room. Hostel highlights:
- Incredible location
- Knowledgeable staff
- Games room
🏠 Address: 65 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1BU 🏘 Neighbourhood: City centre 🚍 Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverly
Book your stay at Edinburgh Backpackers now
Wombat’s City Hostel, London
Wombat’s is no one trick pony – they also have some fantastic private rooms. And if you’re a traveller who likes their creature comforts, you’ll be impressed to hear that they’re two-time winners of our cleanest hostel worldwide award! We’re guessing you’ll also want to spend a few extra pounds on their all-you-can-eat continental breakfast? Yep, we thought so. Hostel highlights:
- Cosy hangout area
- Buzzing bar
- Welcome drink
🏠 Address: 7 Dock Street, London, E1 8LL 🏘 Neighbourhood: Whitechapel (East London) 🚍 Nearest station: Tower Hill underground station
Book your stay at Wombat's City Hostel now
Best city centre hostels in the UK
Hostels for the backpacker who values convenience and hasn’t got time for blisters. Perhaps you’re making a brief visit and want to be in the heart of the city, or just want to save on hefty taxi fares, these hostels are so centrally located you’ll be able to do most of your sightseeing by looking out the window.
Castle Rock Hostel, Edinburgh
If you’re one of the many travellers who visits Edinburgh for a taste of history then look no further than Castle Rock Hostel. This 200-year-old building is just a one minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, Old Town and the many sights and attractions of the Royal Mile. Be warned that there’s a steep hill to climb up to Castle Rock, but you’ll be rewarded with unmissable views and breath-taking sunsets over the city. Hostel highlights:
- Free tours and events
- Movie room
- Environmentally friendly
🏠 Address: 15 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2PW 🏘 Neighbourhood: City centre 🚍 Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverly
Book your stay at Castle Rock Hostel now
Sohostel, London
Vibrant, modern, colourful – three words to describe this stylish hostel and its surrounding neighbourhood of Soho in the heart of London. Prepare to (window) shop ‘til you drop with Oxford Street just minutes away or be dazzled by the bright lights of Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. You may be at the centre of London’s poshest nightlife, but your budget will stay winning with half price drinks and cocktail specials on the rooftop bar! Hostel highlights:
- Karaoke nights
- Arcade games
- Pamper room
🏠 Address: 91 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SY 🏘 Neighbourhood: Soho 🚍 Nearest station: Tottenham Court Road underground station
Book your stay at Sohostel now
The Bristol Wing, Bristol
Spending a night in the police station is every backpacker’s nightmare – apart from those who’ve stayed at The Bristol Wing. This hostel inside Bristol’s refurbished ex-police headquarters is ideal for a quirky stay in Bristol city centre. It’s received rave reviews from our guests, who love its excellent cleanliness, chilled-out vibes and fantastic food. And best of all, their profits go towards helping homeless youth in Bristol. Hostel highlights:
- Award-winning café
- Environmentally friendly
- Relaxed atmosphere
🏠 Address: 9 Bridewell Street, Bristol, BS1 2QD 🚍 Nearest station: Bristol Temple Meads
Book your stay at The Bristol Wing now
Best of the rest UK hostels
A few honourable mentions that we just couldn’t leave out…
Astor York, York
This beautiful Grade II listed hostel building is ideally located just minutes from York’s famous historic centre, so it couldn’t be easier to explore the city’s biggest draw. And trust us, there’s a lot to explore; so you’ll appreciate Astor’s picturesque garden/patio area, cosy common room and fully stocked bar to recuperate in after your busy days! They also offer breakfast, provided you make a small £1 donation to a local charity. Hostel highlights:
- Historic location
- Steam room
- £1 breakfast
🏠 Address: 124 Holgate Road, York, YO24 4BB 🏘 Neighbourhood: York’s historic centre 🚍 Nearest station: York railway station
Book your stay at Astor York now
Global Village, Belfast
Our guests absolutely love the ‘friendly and helpful’ staff at Global Village, who they say go ‘above and beyond’ to make travellers feel at home and ‘ignite friendships’ by arranging nightly pub outings. They’re just one of the reasons why this lively hostel won our award for the best in Northern Ireland! It’s located among the bustling student pubs and bars of Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter, so you’ll never go thirsty, and when you want to explore the rest of the city their expert staff can help you to book the perfect tour. Hostel highlights:
- Beer garden
- Games consoles
- Communal BBQs
🏠 Address: 87 University Street, Belfast, BT7 1HP 🏘 Neighbourhood: Queen’s Quarter 🚍 Nearest station: Botanic train station
Book your stay at Global Village now
YHA Liverpool, Liverpool
Alert – another award winner! The recently refurbished YHA Liverpool won our 2018 award for the best hostel in England, so we could hardly leave them out, could we? With a fantastic waterfront location on Liverpool’s famous Albert Dock, this hostel is close to the city centre, Tate Gallery and Beatles Story. In fact, any travellers coming to Liverpool for the latter will love this hostel’s ‘Fab Four’ themed interior! You’ll meet other backpackers in the YHA bar; the best place for a relaxed drink before you step out into the craziness of Liverpool’s nightlife scene. Hostel highlights:
- Accessible facilities
- On-site restaurant/bar
- Tour desk
🏠 Address: 25 Tabley Street, Liverpool, L1 8EE 🏘 Neighbourhood: Baltic Triangle 🚍 Nearest station: Liverpool Central
Book your stay at YHA Liverpool now
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.