If you think of all things quintessentially English, chances are, you’re thinking of Oxford. Globally famous as the home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities, Oxford’s history and culture are as vibrant as they are ancient.
Whether it’s wandering past the spires of the colleges, soaking up that quiet intellectual air, or just fancying a nosy around the places where the country’s most famous minds once roamed, Oxford’s got it all. And let’s not forget the pubs, the independent bookshops, and that lovely, slightly absurd British knack for making everything feel important while also, somehow, not taking itself too seriously. Properly British, if you ask me.
But here’s the thing—Oxford is one of the most sought-after spots in the UK, so staying here doesn’t come cheap. If you want to try and do it like the students do, and by that I mean as cheap as possible, you gotta get crafty. I’ve written the ultimate guide to the best hostels in Oxford to help you out. The hostel scene here isn’t exactly thriving, so I’ve even thrown some budget stays in for good measure to make sure you get by on that backpacker budget of yours.
After all, the more you save on your digs, the more you can spend on the essentials—like those sweet, sweet pints.
Let’s get into it.
Photo: @taya.travels
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The Best Hostel in Oxford
Here it is, the best (and only) hostel in Oxford. Despite being the only of its kind, it’s a gem. Let’s check it out.
Central Backpackers
- Dorm (mixed): From $37
- Private Room: From $178
- Address: 13 Park End Street, Oxford, England
Central Backpackers is a traveller’s dream, with a rooftop terrace, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a 24-hour lounge that’s perfect for making new mates or kicking back solo. Whether you’re diving into a PlayStation session, binging movies, or testing your skills with a stack of board games, there’s always something to keep you entertained.
In terms of location, Central Backpackers couldn’t get any more central. Cafes, restaurants, and shops are all within walking distance, and iconic landmarks like Oxford Castle, the Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum and Radcliffe Camera are practically on your doorstep.
Getting in and out couldn’t be easier, either. The hostel is just a five-minute walk from both the train and bus stations, with seamless connections to nearby airports and regular services to London and beyond. No travel headaches here, just smoooooth sailing.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Laundry Facilities
- Rooftop Terrace
- Board Games and PlayStation
For solo female travellers, Central Backpackers offers female-only dorms, plus there’s laundry available for a small fee. Security is on point, with door code access at the main entrance, swipe card entry to the rooms, and individual lockers for your valuables—just bring your own padlock and you’re sorted.
Heads up, though—Central Backpackers is tucked inside a historic building over 100 years old. That means no lifts, so if you’re rocking heavy bags, be ready for a bit of a workout on the stairs.
More Epic Budget Stays in Oxford
What better spot to spark some productivity than right in the heart of the legendary Oxford University campus? While you’re at it, don’t skip the essentials—Jesus College, St Anne’s College, Christ Church College, and Trinity College. A proper trip to Oxford calls for a college crawl. It’s not just sightseeing; it’s tradition.
Still looking for the right Oxford youth hostel for you? Unfortunately you’re outta luck! The hostel scene in Oxford is pretty thin but don’t sweat it, I’ve rounded up the best budget stays in the area so you can keep within that backpacker budget of yours.
Bunk Room Near Florence Park
- Private Room: From $47
- Address: Oxford, England, United Kingdom
This cosy little gem is just a short stroll from Florence Park, a lush oasis bursting with flowers and trees—ideal for a peaceful wander or a moment of zen.
Set in a modern residential home, the comfortable rooms are just five minutes from Templars Square and Cowley Road, where you’ll find a lively mix of bars, restaurants, and easy public transport links into Oxford’s city centre. It’s an unbeatable value-for-money stay in Oxford.
The essentials are all covered, with free Wi-Fi throughout and free street parking if you’re rolling in with a car. Guests can make use of the shared facilities, including the bathroom, kitchen, dining room, toilet, and bike storage. For other travellers on a budget, this is one of the most affordable and convenient Airbnb options in Oxford.
Private Room Near Eateries and Pubs
- Private Room: From $47
- Address: Oxford, England, United Kingdom
This cosy single bedroom is a great pick for solo travellers passing through Oxford. Nestled in a family home near Headington Shopping Centre, it’s perfectly placed for easy access to local eateries and pubs. If you’re not in the mood to eat out, the shared kitchen has all the essentials for whipping up your own meals.
Getting around is a breeze with Tube stations and a bus stop just a few minutes away, making it simple to explore both the charming local area and Oxford’s lively city centre.
This no-frills, no-fuss home is clean, cosy, and has all the basics covered at a budget-friendly price. It’s comfortable, welcoming, and everything you need for a hassle-free stay.
Private Room in 18th– Century Cottage
- Private Room: From $129 (2-night stay)
- Address: Oxfordshire, England, United Kingdom
The ‘Blue Room’ is a cosy, self-contained space in a beautiful 18th-century cottage. Sitting pretty on the ground floor, it comes with its own private entrance and bathroom, giving you all the privacy you could want. The location is a winner too, with lovely parks nearby and a direct bus route to the railway station and town, making city centre explorations a total breeze.
While there’s no access to the main kitchen, the room is kitted out with tea and coffee-making essentials, a small fridge, microwave, plates, cutlery, and a kettle. Not that you’ll need to cook much with a whole host of fantastic restaurants just around the corner.
Feeling like a workout? The park across the street has free outdoor gym equipment, so you can squeeze in your daily sweat session without spending a penny. A peaceful, convenient stay with everything you need—what’s not to love?
Entire Townhouse with Beautiful Views of Oxford
- Private Room: From $309 (2-night stay)
- Address: Oxford, OX2 9GX, United Kingdom
Travelling with friends is a must! Even if it’s just for a weekend. Plus, the more friends you bring, the cheaper your accommodation will work out
This three-story townhouse is located in a quiet area of Oxford, that is only a 10-minute drive away from the city centre. If you don’t have a car, there are cycle paths and a bus stop only a two-minute walk away from the property.
Gym facilities, as well as an Olympic-sized swimming pool, are nearby at Harcourt Hill Campus and Brookes Sport. There are local pubs that serve up excellent grub and takeaways for the nights in.
Single Room Close to Oxford Centre
What better place to feel productive than surrounded by the iconic Oxford University campus? If you’re heading to Oxford but still have some work to do, these comfortable rooms are ideal. Cosy, close to Oxford’s city centre, and with fast Wi-Fi, get your tasks done before heading out for a day of sightseeing and exploring. You will have access to the shared living areas and kitchen, as well as a lush green garden if you fancy taking your laptop outside.
The hosts are more than happy to show you around and point out the best spots to visit. With great public transportation links and lots close by, this is a great place to stay for a city adventure in Oxford.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Oxford
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Oxford.
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.
Final Thoughts on Oxford’s Hostels
I love Oxford. As a fellow Brit there is something so comforting to visit a city that is as intensively “English” as Oxford is. It also lets me reminisce on my uni days, as much as I wasn’t clever enough to get into Oxford, I can guarantee I can drink just as well as its students down the local!
Whether you’re soaking up centuries of history, pretending to be an intellectual, or just enjoying a proper pint in a proper pub, Oxford has a lil bit for everyone.
You don’t have to live on beans and toast to enjoy it either. Just get yourself checked into Central Backpacker. Being the only hostel in the city, you can be sure to meet other backpackers checking out the sights and sounds. They might even be up for a classic student night out too.
After all, what’s a trip to Oxford without pretending you’re a student again? Happy travels friends 🙂
Photo: @taya.travels
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in the UK for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places in the UK covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Oxford if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Oxford before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Europe to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide
