Discover how families can enjoy two UK holidays for the price of one abroad with Independent Hostels. Affordable, eco-friendly, and community focused, our network of 300+ hostels makes ethical summer holidays easy!
As families across the UK start planning their summer holidays, more are looking for ways to save money and travel more responsibly. With flight costs rising, climate change concerns, and the cost-of-living squeeze, the idea of taking one big trip abroad is starting to lose its shine. But what if, by choosing Independent Hostels, you could have two holidays this year for the same spend and half the carbon footprint?
Independent Hostels UK, the nation’s largest network of independently owned hostels and bunkhouses, says travellers are increasingly turning to ethical, local getaways as part of their holiday mix. With over 300 hostels across the UK, from Cornish coasts to Scottish lochs, welcoming family accommodation with eco-friendly facilities and a strong focus on community.
“Ethical travel doesn’t have to mean compromise,” says Sam Dalley, owner of Independent Hostels UK. “By choosing Independent Hostels, families can enjoy two UK adventures that are affordable, eco-friendly, and support local communities.”
Ethical Travel Made Simple
According to ABTA’s 2024 Holiday Habits Report, 57% of UK travellers say they want to make more sustainable travel choices, but 42% worry those options are too expensive. Independent Hostels bridge that gap, they’re budget-friendly, environmentally conscious, and often community-run.
Many hostels in the network:
- Use renewable energy or eco-heating systems
- Offer recycling and food waste schemes
- Encourage car-free travel with easy access to trails and public transport
- Support local suppliers and conservation projects
South Downs Eco Lodge is an award winning eco-renovation with large grounds, woodland trails, and a wide choice of accommodation including a Campsite, Yurts, a Shepherds Hut and 9 Camping Pitches.
“Ethical travel is at the heart of what we do,” says Dalley. “Around 20% of our hostels are run by charities or community projects, with the aim of making the outdoors accessible to people who might not otherwise get the chance. By staying with them, families aren’t just enjoying great holidays, they’re supporting the charities, conservation work, and local communities that care deeply about protecting and sharing our wild spaces.”
Two Holidays, Not One
With average UK hotel prices up 18% since 2023 (source: ONS, Travel & Tourism Index, 2025), and the average family spending £4,800 on a summer holiday abroad (source: Post Office Travel Money Report 2024), the cost of UK breaks based at hostels can look surprisingly affordable.
Whether it’s hiking the Lake District, or wild swimming in Wales, Independent Hostels make adventure, and ethical travel, accessible to everyone.
Anglesey Outdoors Centre is an ideal base for everyone, groups, individuals or families to explore and enjoy Anglesey. There are opportunities for adrenaline adventures and gentle relaxation, from coasteering, sea kayaking, climbing and windsurfing to beach activities, gentle walks and bird watching.
“It’s not about giving up the summer holiday,” says Dalley. “It’s about making it go further, trading one trip abroad for two UK adventures that are low impact, stress free, and full of fun for the whole family.”
About Independent Hostels UK
Independent Hostels UK is a network of over 300 independently owned hostels, bunkhouses, and outdoor centres across the UK. The organisation has been awarded Ethical Consumers Best Buy badge and promotes affordable, ethical, and community-based travel for walkers, cyclists, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.
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