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From hidden pools to dramatic mountain summits, Snowdonia National park is a treasure trove of beautiful places. With this list of hidden gems, we barely scratch the surface of incredible places that are just waiting to be explored. And not far from each hidden gem is an equally amazing and affordable hostel.

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Top 5 Hidden Gems in Snowdonia and Nearby Accommodation

Awesome Adventures on the Dorset Coast

Are you up for a fun filled adventure on the Dorset coast? Do you want to experience something a little different? Cumulus Outdoors will provide you with just what you’re looking for .. and more!

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Kayaking adventure at Cumulus Centre

Highland Adventure Activities from Ballater Hostel

Want to get away but have no idea where to start? Need to know what there actually is to do?  Ballater Hostel is located right in the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands. There are so many activities to suit all abilities right on its doorstep.  With 7 private rooms available, all en suite, 5 with TVs and 3 with king beds why not put Ballater Hostel on your list of places to stay on your next holiday?  Read on to find just what there is to do…

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ballater hostel

Glastonbury Carnival and the Somerset Levels

Such talent and effort goes into the running of the great Somerset Winter Carnival – and so few of us have ever even heard of it! Read on to hear about my fantastic weekend exploring rural Somerset, the Winter Carnival and the mysterious town of Glastonbury.

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The Ultimate Guide to UK Christmas Markets 2022!

Christmas isn’t truly Christmas without a visit to a Christmas Market. Where else can you fill your belly on samples alone, get jolly on copious amounts of mulled wine AND buy that perfect gift for your notoriously fussy mother-in-law!? Read on to learn about the very best Christmas markets in the UK: what makes them special, when are they on, and where to stay in the local area.

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The 2024 Great Outdoors Awards are here!

We’re happy to see a few familiar names on the shortlists. It is always a joy to see people showing the benefits of getting outside in the fresh air, the awards have highlighted some of the people who’ve been doing just that.

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TGO 2024 awards

Ashbourne Gateway – Hostel-style group accommodation for all seasons

Whatever the time of year, there is plenty to do in the charming Georgian town of Ashbourne and the surrounding area. What’s more Ashbourne Gateway provides warm, comfortable and affordable self-catering accommodation for groups of up to 27. Read on for a whistle-stop journey through a year in the life of guests at Ashbourne Gateway

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exterior of red brick methodist church

The Guardian and Ethical Consumer celebrate Independent Hostels’ eco ethos.

Independent Hostels was founded in 1993 by Sam Dalley who realised that independent hostels across the UK lacked a unified voice that larger, YHA hostels had. As many independent hostels are in isolated places, she wanted to create a platform where hostels could feel part of a wider community. Independent Hostels provide a space where holidaymakers, families, groups, schools, travellers, and outdoor enthusiasts can find affordable accommodation in incredible locations.

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UK accommodation with most instagrammable views

What truly makes you feel like you are on holiday? Is it waking up and smelling the salty sea air? Drinking your morning coffee overlooking miles upon miles of mountain ranges? Getting that perfect, instagrammable picture to make your friends and family swoon? Staying somewhere with incredible views is an absolute game-changer when it comes to travel, and here’s some great places to do it.

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Fabulous Gardens of Banffshire, Aberdeenshire and Moray

The Glasgow Garden Walks Group are a group of retirees who travel Scotland in their minivan, staying in hostels and exploring the many, beautiful gardens of Scotland. They are a force to be reckoned with, as they embark on a four day adventure around Old Banffshire, Aberdeenshire and Moray.

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5 Reasons Why You Should Try Staying In A Hostel

When planning a holiday, most people think of staying in a hotel or a bed and breakfast. However, there’s another option that’s worth considering – a hostel. Hostels offer many benefits that hotels and B&Bs don’t and can provide a unique and memorable experience. The adventure begins with where you stay – so choose somewhere interesting!

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5 places to live out your cottagecore fantasies

Cottagecore is a celebration of the simple, slower-paced life of the countryside. It’s a return to a simpler way of living, inspired by the romanticized idea of traditional rural life. The term “cottagecore” comes from the word “cottage,” which refers to a small, quaint rural dwelling, often with a thatched roof and a garden.

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4 Hostels That Are COOLER Than Hotels

If you’re one of those people who believe that hostels are a recipe for disaster, it’s time to update your thinking. Hostels are one of the most appealing choices for budget-conscious travellers. While luxury hotels with fancy amenities can be enticing, hostels can often offer an even more enchanting experience.

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