Blog

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

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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Latest YHA hostel sales present a golden opportunity

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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48 hours in Tintagel – a two day itinerary

Tintagel is a small village located on the north coast of Cornwall, England. According to Arthurian legend, Tintagel Castle is believed to be the place where King Arthur was conceived. The ruins of Tintagel Castle, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the sea, add to the mystique.

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Skomer Island – Your chance to stay on an enchanted island.

If you have a bucket list, then staying on Skomer Island off the Pembrokeshire Coast for a couple of nights should be on it. If you don’t have a bucket list, you need to start one and put staying on Skomer at the top. You are assured of a never to-be-forgotten experience. The rare chance to spend nights on a deserted island in the company of 16 fellow guests, a handful of staff/volunteers and hundreds of thousands of birds.

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Feet with walking boots with cliffs and sea in the background

Accessible Accommodation around the UK

Travel should be a breeze for everyone!
That’s why many hostels go above and beyond, offering accessibility features to ensure every guest has a fantastic holiday.
From ground floor accessible rooms to specialized hoists, we’re dedicated to making your stay unforgettable! 🛌✨

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You would be a Muppet to not visit Moffat

Moffat is a charming village located in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. It is a hidden gem that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. If you have not yet visited Moffat, you are missing out on a truly unique experience.

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Front door of Moffat Independent Hostel

The Northumberland Coast Path

🌿Explore a new part of the country this summer and visit the breath-taking landscapes and rich history of Northumberland!
🏰 From stunning coastlines to ancient castles, there’s something for everyone to discover. Plan your getaway now!

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Easter Holidays

Create lasting memories this Easter with a family stay in our welcoming hostels! Embrace the spirit of togetherness in our cosy accommodations, designed to cater to families of all sizes. From spacious family rooms to vibrant communal areas, there’s something for everyone. Book now and experience an Easter getaway filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments for the whole family

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