Situated in the southwest of the UK, on the banks of the River Avon, Bristol – locally known as Brizzle – is well known for being a creative hub, steeped in a load of maritime history and packing a massive punch of nightlife. It’s a super fun and interesting place to visit!
The university town is also known for its contemporary art – ever heard of Banksy? He’s from here!
What are you visiting Bristol for? Are you raving or behaving? Do you wanna see the art galleries and museums, or do you wanna stay up till sunrise in one (or many) of the city’s basement clubs?
Well, no matter what you wanna get up to in this cool city, we got you. We’ve made a list of the best hostels in Bristol (arranged by category, of course) so you can find the one that suits you most.
With a few of the best budget hotels thrown in too, let’s see what’s on offer!
Quick answer: The Best Hostels in Bristol
- Best Cheap Hostel in Bristol – YHA Bristol
What to Expect from Hostels in Bristol
A favourite among party-goers, weekenders and students, Bristol is a thriving city that offers so much more than just its charming farmer’s accent and amazing harbourside views. Bustling Bristol is filled with cheap and comfortable hostels, as well as many other budget accommodation types.
If you’re looking for a hostel in Bristol, you are most likely concerned about price. Contemporary and smart, there are so many cosy options that have dorms as well as private rooms. Depending on your group, purpose (in Bristol, not in life), and amount you are willing to spend, there will be a plush bed perfect for you.
For those travelling solo, a dorm would be ideal as you can get to know the other guests. However, couples would be much more comfortable in a private room without curious eyes – and with your own ensuite!
The closer to the heart of the city, the more you can expect to pay for a bed.
- Dorm rooms start from USD $35
- Private rooms start from USD $52
Most Bristol hostels are located nearby to all the amenities you need including shops, public transport options, and even nightclubs! Party the night away and stumble into your dorm – respectively – for a peaceful rest.
Providing an affordable city escape, hostels allow you to explore all the best bits of Bristol with a safe place to return to.
Best Hostels in Bristol
Here we go, folks! Our favourite hostels in Bristol are all epic places to rest after exploring this INCREDIBLE city and all it’s amazing things to do.
YHA Bristol – Best Cheap Hostel in Bristol
This branch of YHA in Bristol is a great shout for anybody looking to save a few coins on their travels around the UK. Not only is it budget, but it’s also pretty high quality and features a vibey atmosphere. There’s a cafe and bar, and it’s located near to the harbourside.
The dorms at this hostel in Bristol are clean and a bit on the small side, but you’re definitely gonna get a good night’s sleep – it ain’t a party place.
After you have spent a day wandering the city, you can return for a hot cuppa and cosy evening.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central location
- Close to public transport
- Fun trendy style
If you are working while you travel, you can spend a few hours relaxing in the cafe on your laptop before heading out into the hustle and bustle.
In a sophisticated and cosmopolitan location, this budget hostel doesn’t compromise on comfort.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIRock N Bowl Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Bristol
When it comes to partying, Bristol is a banging destination. This Bristol backpackers hostel ticks all the boxes, it is even located right above an actual bar and bowling alley! Bring your earplugs if you’re looking to sleep early..
Without a doubt the best spot for the partiers, there’s also loads of beers on offer, as well as cocktails, plus you can embarrass yourself at karaoke – sign me up!
Featuring cool contemporary artworks, spacious common areas and access to the bowling alleys, you can fill your time with activities when you aren’t out exploring the city.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central location
- Close to public transport
- Dorm and private rooms
A cheap and cheerful option for those on a budget, both the dorm and private rooms have cosy amenities to ensure a comfortable sleep.
In just a short walk you can reach Cabot Circus Shopping Centre, The Centre, the harbourside and St Nicholas Market. It is a prime location for those wanting to see the whole city!
The Full Moon Backpackers – Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Bristol
If you’ve been to a full moon party in Thailand then you can hark back to the good times at this spot. They whip you up into a fun frenzy and then send you off into the night. Ok not literally, but that’s the kinda vibe here.
Located in the hipster district of Stokes Croft, a stay here means meeting a bunch of other fun, young travellers who wanna have a good time. It is ideal for solo travellers looking for their crew – everyone chats to everyone.
The hostel features cool aesthetics, proper friendly staff and an all-important bar.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central location
- Walking distance to shopping centre
- Fun vibrant atmosphere
Offering both dorm and private rooms, it may be our favourite hostel in Bristol for loners, but it’s also great for couples. The private rooms are super cosy and plush with cloud-like beds.
Just a moment’s walk from Cabot Circus and The Centre, you can stop by all the best pubs and bars in town before settling in to your Bristol bed.
Kyle Blue Bristol Harbour – Best Hostel for Couples in Bristol
Looking for a cool place to stay with your partner in Bristol? This hostel is unlike any other, because its a frickin’ boat! The moored 30-bed barge brings something a little different to your city getaway. It is perfectly located in the heart of town, on the buzzing harbourside, just a short walk to restaurants, cafes and bars.
There are both private and shared rooms – you could even rent out the whole boat if you fancied! Have a secluded space to relax with your loved one after a day of sightseeing, or lounge in the common areas overlooking the water with the other guests.
Ideal for a one-night escape or extended stay, Kyle Blue will quickly feel like home.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Well, its a damn boat!
- Central location
- Cosy amenities
On warmer summer evenings you can star-gaze from the top deck with a cocktail and your newfound friends. Stop by all the best bars in The Centre, try the huge range of cuisines on offer, and explore the cultural hub of Bristol.
If you are looking for a place to stay that is unique, cheap and central – you won’t find better than this!
The Wing Bristol – Most Stylish Hostel in Bristol
The Wing Bristol is a great all-rounder. It has an eclectic fun style to make you feel at home, a large range of facilities, and lots of safety measures that will make solo female travellers feel comfortable.
Between its dorm rooms, twin rooms and family spaces, they can accommodate just about anyone! You don’t have to be a dirty backpacker to feel welcome here.
It is a bit of a quiet place with loads of chill places to, um, chill in. Which is perfect if you’re not the overly party-party peep. However, they will let you in at 4AM if you’ve been out raving. They hostel is pretty focused on being environmentally friendly, and the food they serve up is locally sourced (and delicious).
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central location
- Safety measures
- Social justice/charity
Now, this may not be something that sells this hostel, but there is a great message behind everything they do. They are part of the local YMCA and support young Bristol youths going through a hard time. From offering a bed for the night to 1-on-1 guidance, The Wing does its bit to support social issues in Bristol. It even opened its doors to the homeless throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
From its central location and homey vibe, to its charitable efforts, I think I might just say this is my favourite hostel in Bristol.
Best Budget Hotels In Bristol
Sometimes staying in a hostel just ain’t for you – and we totally get that. Sometimes it ain’t for us either!
If you want to stay in the city of Bristol, and still keep costs down, we would recommend casting your eyes over our list of the best budget hotels in Bristol.
Towed Town Camping
“What better way to add a little bit of fun to your Bristol escape than to stay in a zipped up campervan?! Cute, right?
This super cool and quirky spot is just a moment’s walk from Cabot Circus and all the hotspots of the town. You can spend your days exploring the city with a comfortable private camper to return to. Renovated and homely, you will have everything you need in your private space – including a bathroom!
Thnk 90s camping movie – but indoors, no need to worry about the weather. Excellent. “
The Washington
The Washington is a classic British B&B. Located inside a big ol’ row of historical terrace houses, and close to the Clifton Suspension, and Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, you’ll be able to get a whole dose of culture when you stay here.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with large windows looking out over the bustling street. A perfect base for a Bristol weekend, you can explore all the best bits of town with a friendly spot to return to. They serve up a hearty free breakfast, and the welcoming staff will be more than happy to recommend must-see spots.
If you’re going to enjoy a weekend away – why not make it a spectacular one?!
Acorns Guesthouse
Acorns Guesthouse is just outside of the city centre, close to the airport and surrounded by countryside. When you hear guesthouse you may think of simple rooms with no home comforts – think again. These bedrooms are cosy and plush, albeit small, but that only makes them cosier. With a choice between twin or double bedrooms, this is a great place to stay for a quick stopover to the airport.
Each room has a private bathroom, and you can enjoy brisk Bristol mornings exploring the gardens. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city on a budget, Acorns Guesthouse is ideal for you!
The Clifton Hotel
Clifton is the crème-de-la-crème of Bristol. It is more upmarket than the city centre, with beautiful towering townhouses and independent boutique cafes. If you’re looking for a place to spend a romantic weekend in the city, this is your spot.
The rooms are comfortable and luxe, the on-site facilities are chefs kiss, and the location couldn’t be better – just walking distance to shops, restaurants and the Bristol Museum.
If you want a little bit more culture than rave, Clifton is your vibe.
The Rodney Hotel Bristol
Nestled in the Clifton area, from this budget Bristol hotel, historic and cultural sights are in walking distance – and so are the hotspots of the city’s nightlife. The area surrounding the hotel is pretty quiet, which makes it feel like an oasis of calm.
It is a simple spot (by which we mean a little bit basic), but it’s clean and has a bunch of kind and helpful staff! There are so many nice touches that make this place even more attractive – free French press coffee in the rooms, and fresh fruit. Plus downstairs there’s stylish lil’ bar and restaurant.
If you want something a bit more classy on a budget, The Rodney Hotel is the one!
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Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Bristol Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive hostel packing list for our top packing tips!
FAQ about Hostels in Bristol
Committing to a place to stay isn’t easy, especially when there’s a budget restriction, too. These are some commonly asked questions that will help you narrow down your selection.
How much does a hostel cost in Bristol?
A dorm in Bristol can start for as low as $35 per night. Private rooms vary from different types but can start at $52 per night.
What are the best hostels in Bristol for couples?
Check out these cool hostels for couples in Bristol:
Kyle Blue Bristol Harbour
The Full Moon Backpackers
What is the best hostel in Bristol near the airport?
If you need to stay near the airport, Acorns Guesthouse, one of the best budget hotels in Bristol, is just 4 minutes from Bristol Airport. It also offers an airport shuttle.
Travel Safety Tips for Bristol
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Over to you
So… those were the best hostels in Bristol!
If you were worried that every single place would be 100% all about partying, it’s ok! There’s plenty of quiet budget hotels and cute B&Bs to choose from.
What do you like most about Bristol? Would you prefer to stay on the harbourside in a boat or in Clifton in a posh hotel? Let us know in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in UK for a wealth of info!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Bristol if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Bristol before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
