We had an amazing time at the National Outdoor Expo 2025!
A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by, joined the excitement, and entered our competition.
You made the event unforgettable!
Blog
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”
Come & Explore ‘The Offa’s Dyke National Trail’
Offa’s Dyke is a trail with phenomenal historical interest! The earth that the Offa’s Dyke Path follows, was built in the 8th Century. Little did the King, who ordered its construction, know it would form the basis for what Lonely Planet ranks as one of the world’s greatest walks.
How a remote, off-grid Peak District stone barn became a unique hostel
The vision of volunteers from the Crookstone Adventure Trust have turned an isolated stone barn in the Peak District into off-grid accommodation, now available to groups of outdoor enthusiasts, clubs, friends and families.
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.
Running Hadrian’s Wall
Maria from Uruguay suggested running Hadrian’s Wall when we were at 4000m in Nepal. It had never entered my head. Anyway, as it was a chance for a reunion and 50th birthday celebrations with some runners we’d met in Nepal, I offered to organise it.
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
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 reminder 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.
Top recommendations for North Yorkshire Holidays
North Yorkshire offers a diverse range of attractions, from stunning coastal towns and picturesque villages to historic sites and natural beauty. Here are the top picks, all reachable from the great accommodation at Cote Ghyll Mill.
What is an Independent 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.
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.
Can you see yourself with a key role promoting the UK’s largest Hostel Network? (Position now filled)
Independent Hostels Ltd is the UK’s largest network of hostels and hostel-style accommodation and has been running for over 30 years. It is a tiny company which punches above well its weight, representing hostels and hostellers across all four nations. We are looking for a part time Media and Marketing Manager. Could it be you….
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.
New 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.
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.
