In 2006, the Shropshire Star reported the opening of a YHA bunkhouse in All Stretton as part of a major Youth Hostel Association investment. In reality, the project was led by Frankie and Mike Goode, who continue to welcome guests to this hostel on the Long Mynd today.
Category: Press
Run Dudmaston Bunkhouse – A Unique Opportunity in Rural Shropshire
The National Trust is looking for an enterprising individual or organisation to operate this well-equipped bunkhouse in a beautiful estate setting.
Smarter School Trips: How Hostels Offer High-Value Residentials Without the High Price
A growing movement is helping schools save families hundreds of pounds on residentials—without sacrificing adventure or learning.
Wellbeing Without the Woo-Woo : Why You Don’t Need a Pricey Retreat to Feel Good
Let’s talk about wellness retreats. You know the ones—set in picture-perfect locations and priced like a small car. There’s nothing bad about taking time for yourself in a beautiful location, but the truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to feel good.
A Family Christmas Without the Hosting Hassle — or the Price Tag
Looking for a stress-free family Christmas without the hosting hassle or the hefty price tag? Independent Hostels offer affordable group accommodation across the UK. With private rooms, shared spaces, and plenty of room for everyone to celebrate together. Skip the chaos at home and enjoy festive food, games, and quality time in a beautiful setting, all at a fraction of the cost of a holiday cottage or hotel.
Two Holidays for the Price of One: Why Ethical Travellers Are Rethinking the Summer Getaway
Discover how families can enjoy two UK holidays for the price of one abroad with Independent Hostels. Affordable, and eco-friendly, our network of 300+ hostels makes ethical summer holidays easy!
A New Chapter For UK Travel – How Hostels Are Redefining Connection and Adventure
Discover why independent hostels are the go-to choice in 2025 for travellers seeking connection, community, and adventure.
Countrystride Podcast
Learn about the highs and lows of running a hostel, about the satisfaction that comes from facilitating new friendships, and about why hostels are so good for today’s society.
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.
Hostelling Ethos – Ethical Holidays
Discovery how Hostels are the most ethical holiday option!
“Hostels sit at the core of the sharing economy. They play an important part in connecting people to each other and connecting communities to nature.” ~ IHUK Managing Director Sam Dalley
National Outdoor Expo 2025!
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!
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.
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.
YHA Bridges
When Mick of Boulton Buses was looking for an investment opportunity, his interest was captured by YHA Bridges. Here was a property which would make a contribution to society. Now, after 95 years of service, including 40 years under Mick’s ownership, the hostel leaves the YHA network, but remains open and welcoming to all.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
