The UK may be one of the most underrated places in the world. Yes, it can be a bit rainy and cold BUT it is so f*cking beautiful. From the incredible historical buildings (in which some hostels are homed!) and lush landscapes that will BLOW YOUR MIND.
I 100% underestimated the UK’s beauty before I decided to chuck my backpack on and go explore it. The UK is one of the most versatile places to travel and I loved every inch of it.
Naturally, London sits high on the bucket list of any international globetrotter but should you get outside the nation’s capital you’ll find a whole heap of wonder waiting for you. From quaint, cobble-stone towns to seaside towns along the coast – you gonnaaa love it!
Unfortunately though, outside of the major cities, the UK’s hostel game can be pretty poor. No need to stress though – I’m here to help ya! I’ve got the ULTIMATE guide to the best hostels in the UK just a few scrolls away.
From London to Liverpool, from Lewes to Leeds this complete guide to the best hostels in the UK has been created with you in mind. The UK is ready and waiting for you. Let’s not waste any more time and jump right in!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in the UK
- Best Overall Hostel in the UK – Seadragon Backpackers (Brighton)
- Best Hostel in the UK for Solo Travellers – Castle Rock (Edinburgh)
- Best Cheap Hostel in the UK – Astor York (York)
- Best Party Hostel in the UK – The Full Moon Backpackers (Bristol)
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in the UK – Wombats City Hostel (London)
The 5 Best Hostels in the UK
Need help deciding where to stay in the UK for your upcoming trip? These are without a doubt the BEST hostels in the UK. Whether you’re heading north, south or central… I’ve got ya covered with the creme de la creme of hostels in the UK.
Let’s dive into the ULTIMATE hostels in the UK to transform your backpacking trip from decent to f*cking legendary.
1. Seadragon Backpackers (Brighton) – Best Overall Hostel in the UK
- Dorm (mixed): From $36
- Private Room: From $80
- Address: 36 Waterloo Street, Brighton, England
The search for the BEST hostel in the UK is over, I’ve found the creme de la creme and it was hidden down in none other than the seaside town of Brighton. Seadragon Backpackers has topped my charts for the best hostel in the UK. The hostel is a cosy, quirky haven just a hop, skip and jump away from Brighton’s buzzing beach and iconic pier.
The hostel’s eclectic decor and laid-back vibes make it feel like a home away from home. The communal spaces are perfect for chilling out and meeting like-minded backpackers in Brighton. The hostel is in the heart of the action – just a short walk from the seafront and all the funky cafes, pubs, and shops in Brighton.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Close to the beach
- Bangin location
- FREE breakfast
- Social vibes
- Great bang for your buck
The rooms are super comfy and clean, giving you the perfect spot to recharge after a day of exploring. Not to mention the FREE breakfast! I’m an absolute sucker for a free breakfast. Plus, the staff are legends, always ready to dish out local tips for some of the best things to do in Brighton.
Seadragon Backpackers is also known for its budget-friendly prices, meaning you can enjoy Brighton’s charm without blowing your budget. Can you see why I love it so much??
2. Castle Rock (Edinburgh) – Best Hostel in the UK for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Address: 15 Johnston Terrrace, Edinburgh, Scotland
Castle Rock is the overall best hostel in Scotland if you are heading to Edinburgh. You should definitely hit up the Scottish capital city while you’re in the UK, this city is something else! Perched just steps away from Edinburgh Castle, this hostel has a prime location in the heart of the Old Town, making it easy to explore everything from the Royal Mile to the city’s coolest pubs and cafes.
The hostel itself is housed in a stunning historic building that oozes with character; its quirky, castle-inspired decor is very cool. Solo travellers will love the welcoming vibe – the hostel has tons of communal spaces like a huge lounge with comfy couches, a movie room, and even a grand piano!
The hostels also run events like pub crawls, family dinners, and city walking tours which are perfect for solo travellers in the UK to mix and mingle with fellow travellers 🙂
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great location
- Big lounge with a jukebox, pool table and a piano!
- Cinema room
- Social vibes
Castle Rock Hostel has everything you could need and more. Their room rates will never break the bank, even over New Year’s (the best time to be in Edinburgh). They get booked up way in advance over that holiday BTW. You’re welcome to cook for yourself in the communal kitchen and freshen up with a hot shower and complimentary laundry facilities.
3. Astor York (York) – Best Cheap Hostel in the UK
- Dorm (mixed): From $30
- Private Room: From $106
- Address: 124 Holgate Road, York, England
If you’re searching for a wallet-friendly spot in the UK, you’ll want to head away from the big bustling, touristy cities. Instead, head to places like York!
Astor York Hostel is a gem you’ll want to check out. Nestled in a classic Victorian building, this hostel is just a short walk from York’s top sights – such as York Minster and The Shambles. It’s perfect for budget travellers looking to stretch their dollars without sacrificing comfort.
The dorms are clean and spacious, and you can even snag a private room if you’re willing to splurge a little more! With its low prices, you’ll have more dosh to spend on travelling through the city.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Well, for starters – it’s cheap!
- Prime Location
- Huge lounge and bar to hang out in
- Pool table
- Full-equipped kitchen
The common areas are a highlight of the hostel – chill out in the huge lounge or bar, play a game of pool, or kick back in the outdoor courtyard on sunny days. The kitchen is well-equipped for whipping up delicious meals, and free tea and coffee are always on hand.
The staff are super welcoming and offer great tips on how to get the most out of your stay in York. With free Wi-Fi and handy storage options, Astor York Hostel makes travelling in the UK on a budget doable while still giving you a top-tier experience.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. The Full Moon Backpackers (Bristol) – Best Party Hostel in the UK
- Dorm (mixed): From $40
- Private Room: From $107
- Address: 1 North Street, Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3PR, Bristol, England
The parties at the Full Moon Backpackers are one of the hostel’s biggest drawcards! It’s not just a place to rest your head but it’s a hotspot for socialising and letting a little loose. With its epic on-site pub and beer garden, you’re guaranteed to find fellow travellers to mix and mingle with over a pint.
The on-site pub is seriously cool. It serves up craft beers and delicious cocktails making it the perfect pre-party spot. The weekends are when the hostel really comes alive with music performances and DJs to keep the vibes high. The music ranges from indie and rock to electronic, catering to lots of tastes.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Live music on Fri, Sat & Sun
- Quiz nights on Tuesdays
- FREE pizza on Sat & Sun
- Great location
- On-site pub and beer garden
When the weather is good, The Full Moon Backpackers pops off. Being located in the artsy area of Stokes Croft, the hostel fits right in here. If you’re in the mood to explore, you’ll just be a short walk from some of the best bars, clubs and music venues in Bristol.
The Full Moon Backpackers is housed within a quirky building, bursting with character and street art, making it feel like a natural part of Bristol’s eclectic artsy scene. Although they throw a hella party, the hostel is also super welcoming and cosy to hang out in during the day.
5. Wombats City Hostel (London) – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in the UK
- Dorm (mixed): From $64
- Private Room: From $383
- Address: 7 Dock Street, London, England
To be completely honest, the UK is a bit behind in the digital nomad hostel scene compared to many other places around the world. So, I’ve gone for a hostel in London called Wombats that is not exactly a “digital nomad hostel” BUT it is one of the best options for digital nomads.
Wombat’s Hostel in London is easily one of the best hostels in London. It’s in a prime location right in East London, super close to the Tower of London and all the cool spots. The building itself has a cool history (it used to be a sailors’ hostel), but inside, it’s modern, super clean, and perfect for travellers.
There isn’t a “coworking space” as such, but there are a ton of spaces where you could perch up and get some sh*t done.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- On-site bar and cafe
- Kitchen
- Great Wi-Fi
- Great Location
- Social Vibes
The rooms are exactly what you need after a long day of exploring – comfy beds, big lockers, individual lights, and outlets for all your gadgets. Whether you’re in a dorm or after a private room, the vibe is always chill and friendly. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Fast and free, baby (music to our digital nomad ears)!
But the best part of Wombat’s is the social vibe! The on-site bar is the heart of the hostel, with cheap drinks, happy hours, and epic events like pub quizzes make it so easy to meet other travellers. So when you clock off, there is plenty to do.
There’s also a big communal kitchen if you want to whip up your own meals, plus lots of comfy spaces to chill out in. With an ideal mix of location, comfort, and good vibes, Wombat’s Hostel is the dream base for any backpacker hitting London!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic UK Hostels
You thought that was it? Don’t worry, folks, there are SO many hostels across England, Ireland, Scotland AND Wales for you to crash at. Here are a shit load more for you from all across the UK.
6. Art Hostel – Leeds
- Dorm (mixed): From $44
- Private Room: From $107
- Address: Saint Mary’s Lane, Mabgate, Leeds, England
Art Hostel is a one-of-a-kind hostel in Leeds. As one of the overall best hostels in the UK, Art Hostel is the country’s first social enterprise that provides affordable accommodation created by artists. How cool is that?
Leeds has a thriving arts scene and is just a hop away from historic York. Art Hostel puts you right at the heart of the action. The staff are incredibly welcoming and there is a wholesome sense of community at Art Hostel. If you’re a creative or want to explore the more artistic side of yourself during your stay in the UK, Art Hostel in Leeds is calling out for you.
7. Global Village – Belfast
- Dorm (mixed): From $37
- Address: 87 University Street, Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Global Village is certainly one of the best hostels in the UK in 2018. Located in Belfast in Northern Ireland, Global Village is the go-to hostel of choice for globetrotters heading to the home of the Titanic.
Set within a converted 19th-century building, Global Village is just oozing in character and there is a real sense of homeliness too. The facilities are top notch and a free breakfast is included in every room rate.
If you’re keen on exploring Belfast during your trip to the UK (and you should be!) secure your bed at Global Village now!
8. YHA South Downs – Lewes
- Dorm (mixed): From $33
- Private Room: From $80
- Address: Itford Farm, Beddingham, Lewes, East Sussex,, Lewes, England
YHA South Downs is a top hostel for solo travellers in the UK. The South Downs is an exceptionally beautiful landscape to explore. If you are in need of a hiking buddy or just fancy finding a hostel-fam to chill with after a day on the Downs, YHA South Downs is the perfect place for you.
Low-key and unfussy, YHA South Downs is a traditional backpackers lodge in rural England. The dorms are just the right size and the whole place is kept perfectly clean by the wonderfully attentive team of staff.
9. YHA Snowdon Llanberis – Caernarfon
- Private Room: From $40
- Address: Llwyn Celyn, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, Caernarfon, Wales
YHA Snowdown Llanberis is a fantastic hostel in Wales. Set in the town of Caernarfon, be sure to book your bed at YHA Snowdown Llanberis if you are planning on exploring Mount Snowdown and the surrounding national parklands.
Homely and warm, YHA Snowdown Llanberis is basic but bang on the money. The beds are comfortable and there are hot showers available all year round.
You’re welcome to cook in the communal kitchen if that works for you and your budget. There is an in-house restaurant if you don’t fancy cooking after climbing an actual mountain!
10. YHA Keswick – Lake District
- Private Room: From $40
- Address: Station Road, Keswick, Cumbria, Lake District, England
If you are getting off the beaten track in the UK and want to stay on budget, be sure to check in to YHA Keswick in the Lake District. As a highly recommended hostel in the UK, YHA Keswick delivers everything outdoorsy travellers could possibly need. Travellers fall in love with the charm of YHA Keswick and it is not hard to see why.
There is a family feel to the hostel and you will fit in instantly. The bar is a great place to meet with your fellow guests and perhaps compare notes on hiking routes in the Lake District.
11. Belfast International Youth Hostel – Belfast
- Dorm (mixed): From $32
- Private Room: From $60
- Address: 22-32 Donegal Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast International Youth Hostel is a great budget hostel in the UK and a top pick for broke backpackers heading to Belfast. Set in the heart of the city, Belfast YHA helps you save money throughout your stay.
With free city maps and tourist information you needn’t fork out for taxis, you can explore on foot. You can save a bob or two on the food front too. You can prepare your own meals in the hostel kitchen.
Although Belfast International Youth Hostel is an HI-YHA hostel you don’t need to be a member in order to stay.
12. The Bristol Wing – Bristol
- Dorm (mixed): From $48
- Private Room: From $136
- Address: Bridewell Street, Bristol, England
Bristol is the grungiest posh town ever, it has a vibe to it that is so f*cking cool. The music scene is epic, the street art is sick and the food scene is divine. So, it’s no surprise that The Bristol Wing hostel slots into this vibe like no other. The hostel itself is located in a restored old police headquarters but has also been home to a prison, art studios and even a circus troupe. Yep, this hostel has some history!
The hostel is in an ideal central location, perfect for exploring the city. The hostel is also close to the Bristol Bus Station, 20 minutes walk from Temple Meads Railway Station and just meters away from local bus stops. So if you want to get further afield you can get around easily.
13. Kick-Ass Hostels – Edinburgh
- Dorm (mixed): From $37
- Private Room: From $212
- Address: 2 West Port, Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
You haven’t partied until you’ve partied in Scotland! Kick-Ass Hostels is the coolest hostel in the UK for party people heading to Edinburgh. This place just gets better the more you learn about it.
Kickstart your day with a free walking tour of the city. Drop back to the hostel to liven up with a coffee at the cafe then head back out and explore. Come evening time get yourself a spot at the bar and let the good times roll!
The dorms are generous in size and every guest has access to their own security locker too.
14. The Walrus – London
- Dorm (mixed): From $30
- Private Room: From $129
- Address: 172 Westminster, Bridge Road, London, England
If you want to cut in London as a digital nomad you need to be savvy with your money. The Walrus is the coolest hostel in the UK for London-bound digital nomads. Offering free WiFi, a free breakfast and an inspiring space to work in, The Walrus is a hidden gem. There are plenty of coffee shops within walking distance of The Walrus too, for when you need a change of scenery.
Each guest has their own security locker within the dorm itself. You can sleep sound knowing your precious gear is as safe as can be.
15. Kabannas Liverpool – Liverpool
- Dorm (mixed): From $30
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: Kansas Building, Mathew Street, Liverpool, England
Kabannas Liverpool is a gem of a hostel for digital nomads heading the UK’s city of culture. There is so much inspiration to be absorbed in Liverpool, it’s an ideal destination for digital nomads. Kabannas Liverpool is modern and vibrant. Offering everything you could ask for in your dream hostel, you can’t go wrong booking a bed here.
Home comforts like laundry facilities, fully equipped kitchens and hot showers all go a long way in making this Liverpool hostel such a highly recommended one in the UK. There is a bit of a party vibe here too of an evening. Take it or leave it.
16. Blossom – Edinburgh
- Private Room: From $220
- Address: 8 Minto Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
Blossom is a top hostel in the UK with private rooms. In fact, Blossom is a B&B that just so happens to have dorm rooms available. Locally run and a real home from home, Blossom is a great find. Blossom offers a complimentary breakfast each and every morning of your stay and boy is it a great way to start the day.
If you’re exploring the UK by road Blossom would be a top pick for you too. Free parking is available onsite. If you stayed anywhere else you’d be charged an arm and a leg to park up.
17. Plymouth Backpackers – Plymouth
- Dorm (Female/Male): From $37
- Private Room: From $52
- Address: 102 Union St Plymouth, Plymouth, England
Plymouth Backpackers is the best budget hostel in the UK in 2018. Offering all kinds of freebies and a real sense of community, Plymouth Backpackers is your go-to destination in Plymouth.
You are welcome to make yourself feel right at home. You can cook in the communal kitchen, catch up on your laundry, chill out in the common room or simply catch up on some rest in your cosy dorm. The free breakfast is a great money saver, don’t miss out on that.
FYI – they offer a price match guarantee with every other hotel in Plymouth – that’s pretty impressive.
18. Happy Brighton – Brighton
- Dorm (mixed): From $56
- Private Room: From $197
- Address: 23 Broad Street, Kemp Town, Brighton, England
Happy Brighton is a fantastic youth hostel for digital nomads in the UK. This place has so much to offer. Whether you’re a digital nomad or not, Happy Brighton is a great option for the South East section of your trip. WiFi is always free and unlimited and is pretty reliable too. There are plenty of spaces to work in, including the in-house cafe.
Each bunk bed comes with its own power socket, LED reading light and blackout curtain. You can work the night away and your roommates will be none the wiser.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Hostels in the UK
Here are a few of the most common questions I get asked about the hostels in the UK:
What to Pack for your UK 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!
Getting Insured BEFORE Travelling to the UK
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 the UK.
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 the Best Hostels in the UK
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in the UK has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! There are a few to choose from, eh? Well, there are a lot of places to get to when travelling in the UK.
If you’re still all a bit confused about which hostel and which place to visit – I’m forever going to advocate for you to head to Brighton (I do love a British seaside town) and stay at Seadragon Backpackers. The vibes here are unreal and the nearby area is so gorgeous. You’ll love it!
Anyway, wherever you end up in the UK – I hope you find a hostel that suits YOU and your travelling dreams <3 If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in UK for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places to visit in the UK covered.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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