Blog

University Trips

Take your university club, society or team on a trip away!
Hostels are the perfect place for you. Any group will find something to suit them from booking a single bed or room or even the whole hostel.

Why a Hostel?
There’s always somewhere to store your muddy boots or keep your equipment dry.
Self catering keeps the costs down and makes you super flexible.
All our Hostels are located in the most fantastic places surrounded by countless walks and trails to explore.
Communal spaces are the ideal space to relax, study or bond with the people around you.

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Begin your Hebridean journey at Backpackers Stop

Welcome to Backpackers Stop Hostel, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts on the Isle of Harris, conveniently located in Tarbert. This well-established hostel is the perfect starting point for catching ferries to and from the mainland, ensuring you won’t miss your boat, as it’s just a stone’s throw away from the ferry terminal.

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Ferry leaving Tarbet home of Backpackers Stop Hostel

Stonehenge Hostel; a slice of paradise

My friend Lily and I spent a night at Stonehenge Hostel before attending the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge. Our plan was simple, stay at Stonehenge Hostel, relax and save our energy before the inevitable chaos and merriment that would ensue the following night!

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August Bank Holiday Availability

âť—There is still time to book your August Bank Holiday get awayâť—

Check out the August Bank Holiday Discovery page to find out which hostels still have availability!

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Family Friendly Holidays

Looking for the perfect family holiday accommodation? Look no further! Hostels offer a unique and budget-friendly experience for families of all sizes. 🏡✨
âś… Affordable rates
âś… Spacious family rooms
âś… Kid-friendly activities
âś… Self catering

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Book Your Coastal Summer Holiday Now!

Dreaming of a coastal escape this summer?
Stay in a brilliant hostel and make it a reality without breaking the bank! Build sandcastles, swim in the sea, and enjoy delicious fish and chips—all at fantastic prices. Whether you want a private room or a shared dorm with fellow adventurers, we’ve got you covered. Book now for the ultimate seaside adventure!

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Latest YHA hostel sales present a golden opportunity

In June 2023 the YHA announced that it is taking a step back from the management of a third of its properties in England and Wales.  20 of these youth hostels are now for sale, each one presenting a golden opportunity for those wanting to escape the rat race.

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the lounge at holmbury st mary youth hostel showing the banner painted

Traws Eryri Bikepacking

Embark on the Traws Eryri bikepacking route and stay in cozy hostels along the way!
It’s perfect for a big group—hire out entire hostels for a fun and memorable adventure together.

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5 surprising truths about Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse

Nestled at the foot of the awe-inspiring Ogwen Valley, with its breathtaking glacial landscapes and unparalleled natural beauty, Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse beckons holidaymakers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This eco-friendly haven, housed within a historic stone chapel dating back to 1860, offers spacious and well-appointed accommodation for up to 16 guests across three rooms. With its prime location, warm hospitality, and an array of amenities, it’s no wonder that visitors find themselves returning to this charming retreat year after year.

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Exterior view of Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse with it's solar panels and heat pump

A cycling trip up the Hebridean Way

Join Laurie, a seasoned long-distance cyclist, and his girlfriend Becky as they recount their Hebridean Way adventure. They stay at 5 Independent Hotels, spend a couple of regrettable nights in a soggy tent, contemplate the effects of tourism on communities and wildlife in the Hebrides and, ultimately, fall in love with the uniqueness and charm of of these beautiful, windswept islands.

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Hostelling isn’t dead

In light of the news about the YHA reducing their network, we are here to say confidently and categorically that hostelling is not dead! Independent Hostels is a network of over 300 independently run hostels across the UK. That’s twice the number of hostels than the YHA!

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Penrhyn Gŵyr (Gower Peninsula)

Escape to the breathtaking beauty of the Penrhyn Gŵyr (Gower Peninsula)! 🌊 From stunning sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs and charming coastal villages, every corner is a postcard-worthy adventure waiting to happen. Come discover the magic of this coastal gem!

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48 hours in Exeter, the perfect two-day itinerary 

This was my first time visiting Exeter, and I was blown away by how walkable and historic the city was. Here is what I (Bronia, social media manager at Independent Hostels) and my friend Lily (tiktok content creator at Independent Hostels) got up to at during our 48 hour stay.

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Why Book Direct ?

Many hostels and bunkhouses try to keep their prices lower on their websites than on Booking.com or Expedia, so you’re more likely to get a better deal when booking directly, which you can via the Independent Hostels website.

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New Ing Lodge where its best to book direct

Bron and Lil’s Big Scottish Roadtrip!

When Castle Rock Hostel invited Lily (Independent Hostel’s Tik Tok creator) and I (Independent Hostel’s social media manager) to stay at their hostel for a couple of nights, we did not realise what an epic road trip we were getting ourselves into. Soon, our trip transcended into 8 nights at 5 different hostels in 5 different locations around Scotland.

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