If you’re one of those people who believe that hostels are a recipe for disaster, it’s time to update your thinking. Hostels are one of the most appealing choices for budget-conscious travellers. While luxury hotels with fancy amenities can be enticing, hostels can often offer an even more enchanting experience.
Why would you want to spend your entire life savings on a solitary room, when for just £15-20, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant community with numerous perks? From skateparks to yoga studios! Take a look at these 5 distinctive, cooler-than-cool hostels that will surpass any hotel stay, any day.
1. Pantyrathro International Hostel, Carmarthen
Pantyrathro International Hostel is located in a beautiful rural setting near the town of Carmarthen, which is considered the oldest town in Wales. The hostel offers affordable accommodation for travellers, backpackers, and groups in a super cool environment. Facilities include a self-catering kitchen, dining area, TV lounge, showers, free WiFi, and free parking. The two Mexican bars offer pool, darts, TV, weekly drink specials and food (eat-in or take-out) and a yoga room.
2. High Street Hostel, Edinburgh
The High Street Hostel is located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, just a stone’s throw away from the famous Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. The hostel is housed in a beautiful 470-year-old building, which adds to its charm and character. One of the unique features of the High Street Hostel is its cosy and intimate atmosphere and eclectic interior design, which is perfect for travellers who are looking for a friendly and social place to stay. The hostel also offers a variety of activities and events, such as movie nights, pub crawls and walking tours, which are a great way to meet other travellers and explore the city.
3. Camp Hillcrest, Gloucestershire
Camp Hillcrest Bunkhouse has so much to offer walkers, outdoor enthusiasts and the young at heart. Sleeping 16 across 3 rooms the bunkhouse can be booked by the bed, the room or for your group’s sole use. There’s a well-equipped kitchen & communal lounge with a log burner. For your entertainment in the evenings there’s a pool table and a fab cinema screen. Outside in the 2 acres of grounds, you’ll be amazed at the range of facilities on offer, as well as the stunning views. Enjoy the giant wood-fired hot tub, the covered skate park, the high rope course, the fire pit and the pizza oven, not to mention the menagerie of animals that delight their young visitors. It really is a little paradise.
4. Glenfinnan Sleeping Car, Glenfinnan
The Glenfinnan Sleeping Car is a unique accommodation located near Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. As the name suggests, it is a converted railway carriage that has been turned into a cool and comfortable place to spend the night. The sleeping car is located at the Glenfinnan Station Museum and is part of the West Highland Line, which is considered to be one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. The sleeping car offers a truly unique experience for guests, as they can stay in one of the original 1950s carriages that have been lovingly restored and furnished with vintage decor and furniture.