Our wonderful small island is home to a surprising number of dark sky areas, where light pollution is kept under control and where, when conditions are right, visitors can feast their eyes on the wonders of a star filled night sky.
These same dark sky areas are also dotted with many independent hostels, bunkhouses and camping barns offering, flexible, low cost, self catering accommodation to star gazers.
Hostel and Bunkhouses in Dark Sky Parks
Friends of Nature House, Waukford, Kirk Yetholm, Kelso,Roxburghshire, TD5 8PG
Kirk Yetholm Friends of Nature House is perfectly located at the start/end of the Pennine Way. It is also close to St. Cuthbert's Way, the Borderloop Cycle Route and Sustrans Route 84. It's a great base too for local day hikes, ideal for individuals, families and small groups. Recently upgraded, the house offers a comfortable, friendly and peaceful retreat. Evening meals and breakfast are available in the adjacent hotel.
Claerwen Valley, Rhayader, Powys. LD6 5HF
Nestling in the Elan Valley in Mid Wales, Cwm Clyd Bunkhouse offers comfortable accommodation in an idyllically remote location. Sleeping 21 across 2 units, which can be booked separately or together, it is ideal for lovers of the great outdoors. Families, groups of walkers, cyclists and fishermen are all welcomed. After a busy day the star spangled sky of the Elan Valley Dark Sky Park is your evening entertainment. Dogs welcome with sole use bookings.
Bron-y-Gader Centre, Llanbedr-y-Cennin, Conwy, LL32 8UT
Perched at 290m (950ft) in the foothills of Snowdonia with direct access to the Carneddau mountains, Bron-y-Gader Bunkhouse offers comfortable & great value accommodation for up to 37.
Although remote and isolated it is just 8 miles to Conwy and 2 miles to the nearest pub. The many attractions and high adrenaline activities in Snowdonia are just a short drive away.
Chartners, Harwood Forest, Ewesley, Morpeth NE61 4LJ
Hidden away in Harwood Forest, owned by Forestry England, between Rothbury and Morpeth, Chartners Farm is definitely off the grid. It’s a 5 mile drive along forest tracks from the nearest road. All electricity is generated by a wind turbine & solar panels, while a huge log burner heats the radiators and keeps the place cosy. The perfect spot to escape the rat race, relax, unwind & recharge or get out into the countryside for energetic walking or biking. Fully equipped for a self-catered break.
Lawrenny Millennium Hostel, Lawrenny, Pembrokeshire, SA68 0PW
Once a Victorian village school, the Lawrenny Hostel is superbly placed for exploring South Pembrokeshire. Warm, clean and comfortable, with modern facilities, the accommodation is ideal for individuals or groups, training courses or events. The adjoining village hall is also available to rent and there is a community shop, pub and an award-winning tearoom nearby.
Hollam, Dulverton, Somerset, TA22 9JH
A mile outside the town of Dulverton on Exmoor, Northcombe Camping Barns nestle in the Barle river valley with good canoeing, walking and bridleways. A perfect base for groups on Exmoor. The barns sleep 16 and 28 in partitioned dormitories. Smaller groups can be catered for. Heated by wood-burning stoves with a well equipped kitchen, you just need to bring your own pillows, sleeping bags or duvets.
Ballater Hostel, Bridge Square, Ballater, AB35 5QJ
Ballater Hostel lies in the centre of Ballater, near Balmoral, on the east side of the Cairngorms National Park. Traditional dorms & private rooms, along with a large open plan kitchen/dining/communal area make a great space to relax . Drying room and cycle storage available. Either book the whole hostel, a room or just a bed with no minimum stay. Excellent facilities, comfortable beds and a warm and friendly welcome awaits you - the kettle is always on!
32 Tegid Street, Bala, LL23 7EL
For outdoor adventures within the Snowdonia National Park, Bala Backpackers offers great value 'hostel-style' accommodation, including; 30+ comfy SINGLE BEDS in bedrooms of 3,4 or 5, 3 private TWIN ROOMS and 3 new EN SUITES. Located in a quiet, sunny, chapel square, in the bustling market town of Bala with its five-mile-long lake and white-water river for raft rides.
Orchard House, Mohope, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 8DQ
Much of the area is remote, wild countryside with little development to light up the night sky.
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Craig Y Nos Castle, Brecon Road, Penycae, Powys, SA9 1GL
Craig Y Nos Castle sits in the Brecon Beacons. The Nurses Block can be booked on a daily or a room basis. It can also be booked sole use as group accommodation. Offering B&B or self-catering, the choice is yours. The castle provides hearty meals, cosy evenings by the wood burning stoves and a free history tour. Superior B&B rooms are available in the castle.
Pyllau Gloewon Farm, Tal-y-Bont, Conwy, Gwynedd, LL32 8YX
Conwy Valley Backpackers is situated on a peaceful organic farm in the heart of the beautiful Conwy Valley, with excellent access to Snowdonia. Centrally heated with a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, log fires and hot showers. Secure bike/canoe storage. Grazing for horses and tourist information are available. Local activities range from fishing and hiking to white water rafting and mountain biking. Surf Snowdonia is within walking distance and Zip World is a short drive away.
The Old Home Farm Yard, Stackpole, nr Pembroke, Pembrokeshire, SA71 5DQ
The 117-bed, Stackpole Centre is the perfect venue for large families/groups, schools, special interest breaks and outdoor activities.
Close to wild woodlands and stunning beaches. It comprises four large group houses, 2 of which are dog friendly. Book by the house or book the whole centre for your sole use.
Middle Ninfa Farm, Llanellen, Abergavenny, NP7 9LE
Middle Ninfa Farm, on the edge of Blaenavon World Heritage Site in the Brecon Beacons, offers bunkhouse/cottage accommodation, camping on eleven ‘remote’ pitches and occasional hands-on training in coracle making & willow sculpture. Sympathetically renovated to retain the rustic charm with fine views over the Usk Valley, the 400 year old bunkhouse provides self-catering accommodation for 6 people. BYO food, sleeping bags, & pillowcases.
Snowdonia Mountain Hostel, Tai Newyddion, Nant Ffrancon, Bangor LL57 3DQ
In the heart of the Ogwen Valley and surrounded by the Welsh 3000s, this hostel is the perfect base for walkers, climbers and cyclists with the best routes straight from the door. Snowdon is a 30 minute drive away. For adventure seekers Zip World is within walking distance and the Anglesey beaches are a short drive. Newly refurbished, Snowdonia Mountain Hostel has comfy beds with linen & a superb kitchen diner. Sorry no stag or hen parties.
Hacche Mill, South Molton, EX36 3NA
Perfect for an adventurous or relaxing break. The Rock and Rapid Adventure Centre offers activities such as climbing (climbing wall on site for lessons or use by experienced climbers) coasteering, raft building and canoeing. The bunkhouse can be rented out for sole use, or an activity package can be put together for your group. This can vary from a few activities to a full programme, including food. Just 20 mins from the North Devon coastline. Hen and stags welcome as are family and school groups.
Craiglan, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AW
The Vagabond Bunkhouse/Hostel is in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. This unique bunkhouse has been specifically designed for individuals, families or groups. Very well appointed, it has ready made up beds, free hot drinks, seriously hot showers, a well equipped kitchen & a bar. Catering is available & there is a Pizza restaurant on site (notice required). Outside there’s a climbing wall, a power wash & heated dog kennels!
Golan, Garndolbenmaen, Gwynedd, LL51 9AQ
Formerly known as Cwm Pennant Hostel, Brynkir Coach House offers welcoming & relaxed accommodation for groups of 6-66.
Set within stunning grounds in the Snowdonia National Park with fantastic views of the Cwm Pennant valley & Moel Hebog. Home-made ready meals & packed lunches are available.
Gibbs Hill Farm, Bardon Mill, Nr Hexham, Northumberland, NE47 7AP
Gibbs Hill Farm Hostel is on a working hill farm near Once Brewed and Hadrian’s Wall and close to the Pennine Way. Designed to reduce energy consumption it is centrally heated throughout. Comprising 3 bunkrooms, 2 shower rooms, 2 toilets, a well equipped kitchen, a comfortable communal area and a large deck where you can enjoy the evening sun. Ideal for families who can book a whole room with private facilities. Study groups welcome. Self catering only.
Dalehead Farm, Dalehead, Slaidburn, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 4TS
Do you love gazing up at the star filled night skies? But are unsure what exactly you are looking at. Help is at hand. Dale House Barn, tucked away in The Forest of Bowland ANOB in Lancashire, can organise star gazing evenings with an astronomer.
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Old School, Corris, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 9TQ
Perfect for schools, education groups, family celebrations and groups of all kinds, Corris hostel is a haven from the stresses of the outside world with its caring staff & cosy wood fires. Enjoy the gardens with BBQ & campfire areas. Situated in Snowdonia National Park close to Cadair Idris, the Centre for Alternative Technology and just 3 miles from the new Dyfi Bike Park, a mecca for trail bikers. A real paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. CAMRA pub close by.
Brecon Road (A40), Bwlch, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7RQ
Ideal base for exploring the Brecon Beacons National Park. Situated in the village of Bwlch alongside the Beacons Way long distance footpath. Expect a warm and comfortable stay in a dog friendly bunkhouse with spacious bedrooms, lounge/dining areas, self-catering kitchen, BBQ, hot showers, drying room and off-road parking. Accommodation for up to 20 people over 6 bedrooms. Private bedrooms or sole use available for individuals, couples & groups of all sizes.
Chitcombe Farm, Huish Champflower, Taunton, Somerset, TA4 2EL
A small family farm in West Somerset on the edge of Exmoor, Chitcombe Farm provides inexpensive, basic, warm & dry accommodation. Perfect after a day hiking on Exmoor, or event training.
The Hay Barn, is a dormitory style open plan barn whilst The Cart Shed is an open plan chalet. Both have well equipped kitchens, bathroom with showers, seating areas and central heating. BYO pillows and sleeping bag.
Court Farm, Llanthony, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 7NN
This old stone barn continues the tradition of 900 years when Llanthony Priory next door provided accommodation. Surrounded by the Black Mountains in the Brecon Beacons National Park, it is your ideal base for all mountain activities. There is a fully equipped kitchen, hot showers, heating throughout and a wood burning stove. Small or large groups are welcome with sole use and a minimum charge. Two pubs nearby offer real ale and bar food.
Felen Rhyd Fach, Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, LL41 4HY
Maentwrog bunkhouse is a newly converted cowshed on a working farm. It has a fully equipped kitchen, underfloor heating, TV/DVD, BBQ area, laundry facilities, power washer and bike lockup. Local activities include hill walking (Moelwyn and Cnicht 10 mins away), white water rafting, Coed y Brenin cycling centre, Blaenau Ffestiniog down hill cycle track, RopeWorks & canyoning. Ffestiniog railway and beautiful beaches are within 15-20 mins’ drive. The Welsh Coastal Path passes the end of the lane.
Arinagour, Isle of Coll, Argyll, PA78 6SY
Come and see the unpolluted skies over the Isle of Coll
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Platts Farm Bunkhouse, Aber Road, Llanfairfechan, Conwy, LL33 0HL
Platt’s Farm Campsite and 3* Bunkhouse is situated in a range of Victorian farm buildings, in the charming village of Llanfairfechan. Close to the A55, the Bunkhouse lies at the start/end of the 14 Welsh 3000 Peaks walks in the Snowdonia National Park, within a 10 min walk of the Wales Coastal Path and on the NCN 5 Cycle Route. Shops, pubs and cafés are within 5 mins’ walk. Just 15 mins from Zipworld, Bethesda & 20 mins from Surf Snowdonia.
Mabie Forest, Dumfries, DG2 8HB
Marthrown is set in the heart of Mabie Forest, 6 miles south of Dumfries. It has a sauna, a wood burning spring water hot tub, a large BBQ, garden areas, a challenge course and plenty of room for groups. There are a variety of mountain bike routes including the 7Stanes mountain bike trails nearby. Catered meals available for groups. As well as the bunkhouse, there are also Mongolian yurts, an American style tipi and the jewel in the crown is the Iron Age Roundhouse for parties or weddings.
Upper Neeston Farm, Dale Road, Herbrandston, Milford Haven, SA73 3RY
Environmentally sensitive barn conversions close to the Milford Haven Waterway in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Ideal for divers, climbers, walkers or family get-togethers. The four independent 5* lodges have fully fitted kitchens and have access to garden/patio, laundry/drying room, secure storage and ample parking.
Slack House Farm, Gilsland Brampton, Cumbria, CA8 7DB
In the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park the skies above Hadrian's wall are the best in England for enjoying the heavens.
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Dolgoch, Tregaron, Ceredigion, SY25 6NR
Being remote we're ideally placed for some of the best night skies in the UK. Perfect for the stargazer.
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Warren Farm, Warren, near Castlemartin, SA71 5HS
Beautiful big bell tents & a cosy bunkhouse, right on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Between Barafundle/Broadhaven South & Freshwater West, and the closest you can stay to the Green Bridge of Wales. Perfect for family holidays or a quick surfing or climbing trip with friends. Simple, comfortable accommodation and private pitches with kitchens, loos & wetrooms for the bell tents. Don’t delay, come glamping!
Capel Saron, Tyn Y Maes, Bethesda, Gwynedd LL57 3LX
Feast your eyes on the mesmerising star filled skies above Ogwen Valley in Snowdonia International Dark Sky Reserve and stay at Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse, for low cost, friendly, comfortable accommodation.
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Diffwys Outdoor Centre, Tregaron, Ceredigion, SY25 6NN
Diffwys Outdoor Centre offers self-catered accommodation for up to 16 people looking to enjoy the remote and tranquil area of the Cambrian Mountains. Intersected by a range of walking and cycling trails, gentle woodlands, tumbling waterfalls and secluded lakes and rivers, this stunning area is perfect for any lover of the great outdoors. With a vast range of peaceful sandy beaches, rocky bays and cliff top walks within close proximity, this undiscovered area of Wales truly has it all.
Glenbeg, Grantown-on-Spey, Moray, PH26 3NT
Glenbeg Bunkhouse & Bothy are part of the award winning Craggan Outdoors activity centre, situated just outside Grantown-on-Spey in the Cairngorms National Park. The well equipped bunkhouse sleeps 27 in 3 bedrooms, while the cosy bothy sleeps 6 in one bunkroom. Outdoor activities are available if required. Aviemore, River Spey, Speyside Way & Dava Way are all close by
Greystones, Lanehead, Tarset, Hexham, NE48 1NT
In the heart of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and close to the Pennine Way. These striking timber eco-buildings integrate into their natural surroundings making the most of this remarkable location and providing the perfect base for outdoor adventures.
The bunkhouse and bothies provide stylish, versatile & comfortable self- catering accommodation which can be used for events, conferences & parties.
Rhyd Ddu, Snowdonia, Wales LL54 6TL
The Rhyd Ddu Bunkhouse provides group accommodation at the foot of Snowdon and the Nantlle Ridge. Sleeping 30 in 6 bedrooms, it has a fully equipped kitchen and a large communal dining room with a big screen - great for movie nights! Glorious views, central heating, fast WiFi, parking, secure bike storage, drying room and a large garden. Bring your own sleeping bag, pillow case and towel. A pub, café, and steam train station are all within 2 minutes’ walk
Ffordd-yr-Afon, Trefin, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA62 5AU
Escape to this wonderful rugged corner of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Old School Hostel is in Trefin, a pretty village which has a pub and a café, just a quarter of a mile from the world famous coast path. Circular walks from the door take you to stunning wild beaches & harbours. The cathedral city of St. Davids and the popular Whitesands Bay are 20 minutes by car.
Mount Hooly, College Valley, Wooler, Northumberland, NE71 6TU
Nestled in the beautiful College Valley, North Northumberland, Mounthooly Bunkhouse is a perfect stop-off on the Pennine Way and St Cuthbert’s Way. Dogs are welcome by arrangement. There is a well equipped kitchen and living area with log burner. Bedding and WiFi is supplied. Cars need a permit to access the private valley which is provided on arrival. A haven for wildlife with red squirrels, otters and a thriving population of feral goats in the valley. The perfect wild get away from it all.
Bridge House, Well Road, Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway, DG10 9JT
This friendly family run hostel has been designed with comfort and the outdoor enthusiast in mind. Situated on the edge of the pretty town of Moffat, the hostel sleeps up to 20 in a selection of quad, twin & double rooms. Opened in 2022, it has been designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, with bike/kayak storage, bike wash area, drying room and all bedding provided. A perfect stopover on the Lejog cycle route and the Southern Upland Way. Book a bed, a room or the whole place.
Vicarage Road, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, LL24 0AD
This large Victorian property has been specially adapted to provide self-catering accommodation for groups of up to 33. The eight dormitories vary in size from one to ten beds, complete with duvets and linen. The Centre is centrally heated and has a common room, games room, large kitchen, drying room and hot showers. Located in Betws-y-Coed, Woodlands Centre is an ideal base for outdoor activities in Snowdonia.
St Johns Street, Creetown, Dumfries and Galloway, DG8 7JE
Barholm Enterprise Centre houses a variety of businesses including an Arts and Crafts Co-operative and Barholm Accommodation which has en suite shared and private rooms.
Perfect for cyclists, walkers, fishermen or those who generally enjoy the outdoors. Facilities include a communal kitchenette (fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster and microwave), sitting room, on-site bike repair facilities & electric car charging.
Lion Street, Dolgellau, LL40 1DG
Who does not love staring at the stars? Snowdonia National Park is a Dark Sky Reserve - with Cregennan Lakes being recommended as a great place to stargaze. Plas Isa Hostel is a short drive away, offering comfortable low cost accommodation for star gazers.
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Park Square, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3AD
After a long day of adventures, why not rest your weary head in a former Edwardian police house, now a delightful self contained hostel?
Conveniently located in the centre of Blaenau Ffestiniog. .This self contained unit is perfect for family or friends get togethers. It’s an ideal location for adventures such as Zip World, Go Below, mountain and beach walks or mountain biking. CellB is the perfect place to recover, recuperate, and soak up the vibrant landscape.
Pont-y-Pant, Dolwyddelan, North Wales, LL25 0DQ
Lledr House nestles in Snowdonia National Park. Once YHA and now newly refurbished, guests delight in the luxury mattresses, modern bathrooms, well equipped kitchen and extended car park. Individuals, groups and families enjoy the clean, comfortable accommodation.
Betws-y-Coed, Llyn Elsi and Zip World high rope course close by.
Ffordd Gerlan, Gerlan, Bethesda, Bangor, LL57 3ST
Caban Cysgu, run by the community of Gerlan, offers purpose-built accommodation at the foot of the Carneddau. Perfect for walking in Snowdonia, it’s a great base for the ‘Fifteen 3000ft Peaks’ long-distance challenge & The Slate Trail. Just 5 mins from Zip World; the longest and fastest zip line in Europe. There are also plenty of mountain bike trails on the doorstep while road cyclists have the Sustrans route ‘Lôn Las Ogwen’ just a mile away. For climbers, Idwal is close by, while Afon Ogwen is popular with canoeists.
Greenlee Farm, Bardon Mill, Hexham, Northumberland, NE47 7AS
Tastefully converted from a stone cowshed, Loughviews Bunkroom, offers comfortable & affordable accommodation for up to 4 guests. Book by the bed or sole use. Occupying an idyllic, rural & secluded position, the bunkroom is 2.5 miles (along a private track) from the nearest road. With Hadrians Wall, the Pennine Journey and the Pennine Way close by it is perfect for walkers. While for families it's the perfect base for exploring Northumberland National Park.
Y Cefn, Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, LL41 4PS
Stay at Treks Bunkhouse close to Blaenau Ffestiniog and it will be waiting for you each morning. Perched at 900ft amidst the peaks of Snowdonia you will be surrounded by breathtaking beauty in every direction. There's fantastic walking and cycling from the doorstep, and the star spangled sky of the Snowdonia International Dark Sky Reserve will mesmerise you and your friends as you unwind in the evening. If you like Snowdonia and mountains you'll love Treks Bunkhouse.
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Lawrence House, Church Street, Tremadog, Nr Porthmadog, Gwynedd, Snowdonia, LL49 9PS
Snowdon Lodge, the birthplace of Lawrence of Arabia, is a sociable place for a get-together with friends and family. A perfect self-catering group base in Snowdonia. Large Victorian property set in 4 acre grounds in a pretty village. Sole use for your group. Pet friendly. Well-equipped kitchen. Spacious dining room.Cosy lounge with log burner. BBQ area. Private parking. Games room lecture/seminar room available for hire.
Llanrhian, St Davids, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA62 5BD
Situated between the famous cathedral city of St Davids and the Irish ferry port of Fishguard, the 4* Lodge overlooks the spectacular Pembrokeshire coastline. Within walking distance of the Sloop Inn at Porthgain and the internationally renowned Coastal Path. An ideal stopover for cyclists with The Celtic Trail cycle route passing the bottom of the drive. The lodge sleeps 23 in 5 separate rooms, all en suite with great showers. Dogs welcome by arrangement.
Gwastad Agnes Off Panorama Road, Barmouth, Gwynedd, LL42 1DX
Whether you’re a lone cyclist or a group of walkers you will love discovering this cosy, clean and comfortable accommodation with breathtaking views of Cader Idris and Cardigan Bay. Handy for Cycle Route 8, the Cambrian Way & Mawddach Trail. Bunkorama is an ideal place to make a stopover or spend a few days exploring the mountains, rivers and beaches of the Cambrian Coast. There is an adjacent camping pod that can be booked with or without the bunkhouse.
Huntly Lodge, Well Road, Moffat, DG10 9BT
The Well Road Centre sits in its own grounds in the charming town of Moffat. It is ideal for all types of groups, conferences, residential workshops, sports, social events and outdoor activity clubs. The Centre has two spacious meeting rooms, a large bright self-catering kitchen, dining room fully equipped for 65, games hall for indoor activities and table tennis room. Bring your own sleeping bags or linens for single duvets. Ample parking & storage.
16 The Parks, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 8BS
Base Lodge is your perfect base for exploring Exmoor, the Quantocks and North Devon. The South West Coast Path starts in Minehead and there is excellent mountain biking. Guided biking, navigational training, climbing, surfing, pony trekking and natural history walks can all be arranged. Base Lodge is clean, comfortable with self-catering and a cosy log burner.
Woodhouse Farm, St Harmon, Rhayader, LD6 5LY
Pentre Bach, Waunfawr, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL54 7AJ
We are keeping the prices the same as 2020 as we know we have all had a difficult year.
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Greencarts Farm, Humshaugh, Northumberland. NE46 4BW
Greencarts Bunkhouses & Camping are on a working farm in Northumberland National Park. Right next to Hadrian’s Wall, they are perfect for walkers or cyclists. There are two accommodation units: The Bunkhouse sleeps 10 in two rooms, while the Barn sleeps 13 in one open plan room. All bedding is provided and continental breakfast is available. There is also a large campsite.
Llanddewi Brefi, Tregaron, Ceredigion, SY25 6PH
Tyncornel is a former farmhouse set in stunning Cambrian Mountain scenery at the head of the beautiful Doethie Valley. It is one of the most remote hostels in Wales, favoured by walkers, cyclists, and bird watchers. It is on the Cambrian Way long distance footpath. The hostel has 16 places. There is a cosy common room with wood-burning stove, two dormitories with built-in bunk beds and a self-catering kitchen.
Tregoyd Mountain Riders, Lower Cwmcadarn Farm, Felindre, Three Cocks, Brecon, Powys, Wales LD3 0TB
CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
On a small hill farm in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Cadarn Bunkhouse is surrounded by views of the Black Mountains and the Wye Valley. With easy access to the mountains it is perfect for walking, mountain biking and horse riding whist the River Wye is great for canoeing. Self-catered bunkhouse, with the pub in Felindre half a mile away. Close to Hay on Wye and Brecon. Pony trekking available on-site, plus bike and canoe hire available locally.
Railway Terrace, Doll St, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 8BH
Toad Hall sits beside the River Dovey, close to Snowdonia National Park in the market town of Machynlleth. NCN Cycle Route 8 & Glyndwrs Way pass near by. The accommodation sleeps 9 in a 3-bedroomed self contained unit above the owner’s family home. The small flat garden is ideal for camping and there’s a small workshop for bike repair/storage.
Gilfach Wen, Brechfa, Carmarthenshire, SA32 7QL
Fully catered breaks for members of clubs and associations. - We will work with you to agree a personalised plan of activities and the catering specific to your stay.
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Ben Alder Road, Dalwhinnie, Highland, ?PH19 1AB
Dalwhinnie Old School Hostel is in the former village primary school, set in an acre of ground. Directly opposite the train station, it’s a perfect base to climb the many Munros in the area, as a stop over on the N7 cycle route, for mountain biking at nearby Laggan Wolftrax, or simply as a beautiful overnight stop when visiting Skye or the NC 500.
Situated in the Cairngorms National Park it is across the field from the famous Dalwhinnie Distillery.
Brecon Bunkhouse, Cwmfforest Farm, Pengenfford, Talgarth, Brecon, LD3 0EU
Brecon Bunkhouse is a spacious, comfortable, accommodation in the Brecon Beacons. It is a great value, self-catering accommodation with a big dining room and sitting room with wood-burner.
In the Black Mountains, with mountain walks from the door, an ideal base for horse riding, mountain biking and canoeing. There is a riding centre on the farm and the bunkhouse has a drying room and storage/cleaning facilities for bikes and canoes. Camping available.
Week Farm, Bridgetown, Dulverton TA22 9JP
Formerly a granary on a working farm, this eco-friendly bunkbarn is close to Winsford Hill and Wimbleball lake. Perfect for exploring Exmoor on foot, bike or canoe.
Hot water, central heating & WiFi included in price. Well equipped, open-plan kitchen/dinning with seating for all. Large drying room. Outside BBQ area and small field with campfire. BYO bedding & towels. Sleeps max 25 - sole use only. Free logs for the stove and camp fire. Enjoy Exmoor’s dark skies.
Greenhead Hotel, Greenhead, Brampton, Cumbria, CA8 7HG
Situated in the village of Greenhead on both the Pennine Way and Hadrian’s Wall, the bunkhouse is ideal for walking the Pennine Way Trail or The Wall Path or for exploring the nearby Roman heritage sites. It has a self-catering kitchen big enough for large groups. The flexible accommodation can be booked by the bed, the room or for sole use. Greenhead hostel/ bunkhouse is run by Greenhead Hotel just over the road.
2-3 Heol y Bont (Bridge St), Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 1AU
HyB self catering rooms are in Dolgellau (Lon Las, Sustrans 82), Mid Wales, at the foot of Cader Idris. Centrally located above Medi Gifts, with free parking at rear for up to four cars, there are shops, pubs and restaurants on the doorstep. HyB backs onto the Mawddach trail near the river Wnion and it is 10 minutes’ drive to Coed y Brenin mountain biking centre.
This quirky listed building has original features such as oak floors, beams and panelling and offers a good night’s sleep. No stag weekends or parties.
Ilderton, Wooler, N’umberland NE66 4JL
Ilderton Dod Barn is within Northumberland National Park which became England's first International Dark Sky Park in 2013 and we renovated the buildings with protection of this in mind.
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Ffridd Llwyn Gwerfyl, Harlech, Gwynedd, LL46 2TW
Remote & peaceful, surrounded by the rugged splendour of Snowdonia, Ffridd Bunkhouse offers budget accommodation. Harlech with its beach, pubs, cafes & castle is just 2.5 miles away. This basic accommodation is in 2 units, one sleeps 12 & the other 4/5. Both have kitchen/dining areas & some heating. Each has a separate outside WC, but the shower is shared.
Walkers, climbers & mountain bikers alike return annually to this hidden gem of a bunkhouse. BYO bedding.
Our wonderful small island is home to a surprising number of dark sky areas, where light pollution is kept under control and where, when conditions are right, visitors can feast their eyes on the wonders of a star filled night sky. Unsurprisingly these are sparsely populated areas, often rugged and remote. Fortunately they are well served with independent hostels, camping barns and bunkhouses offering great value self catering accommodation to individuals, families or groups of all sizes.
Perhaps the most well known of our Dark Sky Parks is Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, (a combination of Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water and Forest Park). This was awarded Dark Sky status by the International Dark Sky Association in December 2013. At 572 square miles (1,483 square kilometres) it is also Europe’s largest area of protected night sky. Due to its pristine skies it was awarded gold tier status by the International Dark Sky Association, making it officially the best place in England for people to go to enjoy the night skies. Here in the darker months of the year, visitors will be able to see up to 2,000 stars, the Andromeda Galaxy and the Milky Way. If you strike lucky you might also witness a meteor shower or the Northern Lights (aurora borealis). Take a look at the map and you will see you have a choice of 12 independent hostels, bunkhouses or camping barns situated in or on the very edge of Northumberland’s International Dark Sky Park.
A star filled sky in Northumberland Dark Sky Park
The UK’s first ever international Dark Sky Park was Galloway Forest Park in south west Scotland. It was designated by the International Dark Sky Association in November 2009 as only the fourth Dark Sky Park in the world and the first in the UK. Just like Northumberland it enjoys gold tier status. Close to Galloway Forest Park the small town of Moffat was proud to be named as Europe’s very first Dark Sky Town, having adopted special street lighting to keep light pollution to a minimum in order to preserve the wondrous starry skies. There is hostel accommodation on the edge of Galloway Forest Park and in Moffat.
A magnificent dark sky over Tryfan near Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse
Wales is also blessed with large areas of low light pollution. The Snowdonia National Park and The Brecon Beacons National Park are both International Dark Sky Reserves, while the Elan Valley Dark Sky Park runs between them. In 2017 the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park had 4 locations designated as Dark Sky Discovery Sites. These areas are literally peppered with hostel, bunkhouse or camping barn accommodation. There is little excuse for not crossing a star gazing weekend in Wales off your bucket list!
In Snowdonia, Cregennan Lakes are recommended as a great place to stargaze. These sister lakes are found on the flanks of Cader Idris in southern Snowdonia, possibly the moodiest mountain in the entire National Park. The easiest approach is from the east, via the minor road from Dolgellau, only a short drive from Plas Isa Hostel . While the aptly named Star Bunkhouse in the village of Bwlch in the Brecon Beacons is just down the road from Llangorse Lake, identified by the International Dark Skies Association as a prime site for viewing the night sky.
In the south of England both Exmoor National Park and the South Downs National Park have International Dark Sky Reserve status. While in the north, the North York Moors and the Forest of Bowland AONB in Lancashire both host a number of newly designated Discovery Sites.
Star gazers in the garden of Dale House Barn, Gisburn Forest (Forest of Bowland ANOB)
In the north of Scotland, the high quality of the night skies above Tomintoul and Glenlivet in the Cairngorms National Park merit the area becoming Scotland’s second International Dark Sky Park. Awarded Gold Tier status by the International Dark-Sky Association, the Tomintoul and Glenlivet – Cairngorms Dark Sky Park is not only the darkest Dark Sky Park in the UK, it is also the most northern Dark Sky Park in the world.
Aurora Borealis on the Isle of Coll, home to Coll Bunkhouse
Finally the Isle of Coll, together with the Isle of Sark have been designated as Dark Sky communities.
In our busy, frenetic and crowded world it is heartening to realise there are so many areas where sheep out number people, where flora and fauna flourish and where you can raise your eyes skywards after a day’s activity and feast your eyes on infinity and beyond!