A combination of the wallet-friendly, super comfortable accommodation at Ocean Backpackers and the fantastic choice of activities for all ages in and around Ilfracombe make for the perfect mini-break or holiday.
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New Clarity Hostel Booking
Clarity Hostel Booking!
We’re thrilled to introduce our NEW booking system, designed for hostels.
Say hello to a smarter, easier way to book and manage stays.
Accomplishing the Berwyn Mountains
Heart-thumping hikes through epic landscapes or serene strolls down winding pathways; whichever type of walker you are, the Berwyn mountains will have a walk for you.
Clun Mill Youth Hostel and Dalby Forest Youth Hostel get a new lease of life
Following purchase from the YHA by the owner of Youlgreave Youth Hostel. these two hostels are now looking for friendly wardens to allow them to be opened up to individual hostellers once more.
Tha Last Clarion House
On the side of Pendle Hill, in the heart of Pendle Witch country, lies a historic remainder of the roots of socialism. What’s more if you happen to be passing by on a Sunday afternoon they will serve you with a cup of tea.
Would you like to operate the amazing MalhamTarn House as a hostel?
Returned to the National Trust after 75 years as a field centre, Malham Tarn House is now looking for a new lease of life that will provide public benefit and operate as a viable business, and the Trust says “We would definitely consider it for Hostel use”
When is a hostel not a Youth Hostel?
When thinking of sleeping in bunks, shared kitchens and the camaraderie of telling travelling tales around a fire, for most people, the word Youth Hostel springs to mind.
A Night at the Philharmonic with Embassie Hostel Liverpool
It was comforting knowing that the hostel was only a ten-minute walk away from where we were sat. In fact, in a wider sense, it is motivating to know that there is reasonably priced accommodation so close to the Philharmonic Hall, with its wide range of acts, from classical, to folk, to jazz, to comedy
Exploring the Shetland Islands by bus
Using public transport on our Shetland adventure, was a great way to meet people and get off the tourist routes. It also made the ferry crossing great value, and we discovered the secret to cheap car parking at Aberdeen Ferry Terminal.
Parliamentary Reception, 23rd April 2024
On 23rd April 2024 Sarah Dines hosted a parliamentary reception on behalf of Independent Hostels UK. Here are copies of the speeches made at the event, the accompanying report containing up-to-the-minute data from the industry, and photos and videos of the event posted on social media.
An illuminating insight…
We couldn’t be more pleased with this article from Ethical Consumer. An in-depth view of the unique network of independent hostels and bunkhouses in the UK.
A February Weekend at Wild Wool Barn
Wild Wool Barn, part of the Independent Hostels network, is such a cosy little spot and is perfect for couples or families who just want to get away from it all. Read on to find out all about my weekend staying at Wild Wool Barn in the Lake District.
Adventuring in beautiful North Wales
A long weekend, promising weather forecast and an itch for a little exploration – an ideal excuse to fill the car full of gear and take off on a hostelling adventure. Read on to learn about Lily and Dom’s weekend of exploring North Wales…
A cycle adventure around Hebridean Islands
8 Scottish islands, 6 ferries and 4 friends all add up to an epic cycling adventure. We cycled across Barra, Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, Grimsay, North Uist, Skye, mainland Scotland and Mull.
A sunny weekend in Hull
As soon as we met Glen, I knew that we were in a friendly city. Glen is the manager of Hull Trinity Backpackers, and he started off our holiday with a friendly greeting and a personal tour of all of the best places to visit in the city.
You can stay in a hostel all the way along the Hadrian’s Wall Walk!
Did you know?
Staying in hostels is the best way to experience walking Hadrian’s Wall.
You can book individual beds at hostels along the entire trail, making it more convenient than ever for small groups to plan their journey.
The Future is Bright for Hostelling.
Hostelling is in better health than it’s ever been. There are more hostels now than at the height of the youth hostel movement, in the 1950’s . And while the YHA closes more hostels, the independent sector is blooming.
Many magnificent Munros!!!!
Whilst staying at Aite Cruinnichidh hostel, our intrepid blogger, Virginia, bagged 5 munros in 2 days. Read on to see how she did it.
Hostels with Log Burning Fires
Our hostels are home to cosy, crackling fireplaces that invite you to snuggle up and unwind. On chilly, rainy days, there’s nothing quite like curling up in front of the warm glow, letting the soothing sound of the fire melt away the cold and create a little pocket of magic just for you.
Welcome the New Year in a Hostel
🎆Bring in the New Year somewhere new!🎆
Try an Independent Hostel …
Spend a magical Christmas in a hostel
🎄 Hostels are the perfect place to spend a no-stress magical Christmas with your family!
