Dreaming of a holiday that is good for the environment and doesn’t break the bank? Independent Hostels and bunkhouse across the UK are doing their best for the environment in a number of different ways. Learn about their journeys to net zero carbon and a more sustainable future here. If one catches your eye, why not enquire about a stay, and embark on your own eco-friendly adventure.
Why are hostels, bunkhouses and lodges the eco-friendly choice?
By their nature, holidays in hostels, bunkhouses and lodges have a low C02 footprint. This is because:
– The shared aspects of the accommodation mean more people are making use of the same resources, which makes the accommodation more sustainable. There are shared lounges, kitchens and gardens, and some guests choose to stay in shared dormitory-style sleeping rooms, although private rooms are also available. This reduces the energy that is put into furnishing and heating the whole hostel.
-The self-catering facilities allow you to source your food locally, a great way to celebrate the region you are visiting.
-The outdoorsy nature of independent hostels means the types of activities you will be enjoying while staying at a hostel tend to be low carbon. Rather than days out that produce a lot of waste such as shopping or eating out. At independent hostels, you are encouraged to enjoy environmentally friendly activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
Which eco-friendly hostels, bunkhouses, and lodges go above and beyond?
-A quarter of the hostels and bunkhouses in the Independent Hostels UK network have a green ethos and a quarter of these have signed up to the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Such as Cohort Hostel who has been awarded the Gold Green Tourism award three times!
-Some hostels provide a Green Discount for people who arrive on foot or by public transport. This is a great way to encourage walkers, cyclists, and the use of public transport. All Stretton Bunkhouse provide a £1 per person per night Green discount, Puttenham Eco Camping Barn provide a £3 Green discount and the Elenydd Wilderness Hostels provide Green Vouchers for a half-price stay at either of the hostel (Tyncornel Hostel and Dolgoch Hostel ). Just arrive on foot or by bike to get these discounts.
-Many of the hostels in our network create their own renewable energy on site or use 100% renewable energy providers. For example, Houghton North Farm is now heated by a wood pellet bio-mass boiler and the electricity is supplied by their wind turbine.
-Some hostels provide bike rentals as a eco-friendly transportation method for the duration of your holiday.
-Many hostels have renovated their properties in recent years to become more efficient. For example, Elterwater Hostel has installed double glazing and thermal lined curtains to retain heat in their hostel.
-Eco-hostels know the importance of reusing, this is why the hostels in our network often communicate together to share a surplus of items such as chairs or beds. Nothing in good condition gets thrown away in an eco-hostel!
-Hostels provide metal cutlery and ceramic plates in their self-catering kitchens. No need for single use plastics here!
Eco hostels and bunkhouses
Stay a Ninebanks Youth Hostel in the North Pennines and be assured of an ECO friendly holiday. All the ECO measures taken by your lovely hosts mean you can enjoy you stay with a clear conscience.
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Part of the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village on the Isle of Lewis, the Gearrannan Hostel has been refurbished to sleep 13 including a 3 bed family room. Warm and cosy it has a well equipped kitchen & two modern shower rooms. The bunkhouse (groups only) sleeps 14 in bunks. The perfect base for many local attractions from surfing to country walks, archaeology to cycling. There are also 3 holiday cottages.
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.
Escape to the heart of the Lake District, leaving the crowds behind. Rookhow is a secluded haven of tranquility, with 12 acres of private ancient woodland nestled between Coniston and Lake Windermere. Stay in the cosy self-catering barn with its log fires and snug sitting room and make use of the campfire, outdoor seating area and yurt in the woods. Hire the historic Quaker Meeting House for extra group space.
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.
Ardnamurchan Bunkhouse is in Glenborrodale on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, one of the UK’s last unspoiled coastal wildernesses.
This recently renovated eco-bunkhouse sleeps 16 people in eight bedrooms, with a well-equipped kitchen, flexible dining tables, free Wi-Fi and parking.
The Tudor Barn offers unique group accommodation on an environmentally friendly working farm in rural Suffolk. Sleeping 23 (singles/doubles/4 posters & truckles) in 4 private rooms + the huge space of the Tudor Barn where you can also feast & relax. The perfect base for group celebrations, reunions or activity breaks. Bikes and Tudor costumes are included. Larger parties can also stay at the Old Brooder Bunkhouse on the same site (also in this guide).
The Backpackers Lodge, the oldest croft house in Mallaig, offers a homely base from which to explore the Inner Hebrides, the famous white sands of Morar and the remote peninsula of Knoydart. Mallaig is a working fishing village with all the excitement of the boats landing. You can see the seals playing in the harbour and take whale and dolphin watching trips. The hostel provides excellent budget accommodation with central heating, a well equipped kitchen/common room and free WiFi. Hot water and heating provided by renewable energy.
Puttenham Eco Camping Barn is a wonderful old listed building which has been sympathetically restored to be environmentally friendly. They have rainwater harvesting, solar electricity and solar hot water. The restoration carried out enables you to see traditional and sustainable construction methods.If you arrive at Puttenham Barn Bunkhouse on foot, by bike or on public transport you can claim a fab 'green discount' of £3 per person per night.
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It's a hat trick!! A magnificent three Gold tourism awards for Cohort Hostel. The third (at this rate we daren't say final) award is from South West Tourism. Sincere congratulations once again to everyone involved with this leading hostel.
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If you enjoy spectacular views and watching wildlife in modern comfortable self-catering accommodation then you’ll love Argyll Backpackers! Located on the banks of Loch Fyne, just minutes from Cycle Route 78 in the hamlet of Inverneil, it’s perfect for island hopping to Arran and Islay. Stock up on supplies from Tarbert or Ardrishaig / Lochgilphead.
Bretton Hostel, between Eyam & Hathersage in the heart of the Peak District, feels remote on Bretton Edge. It is a peaceful space with far-reaching views across the Peak. Excellent walks & cycle rides from the door. Perfect for winding down, as a base for outdoor activities & gatherings. Bedding provided, equipped kitchen, living/dining room, WiFi, secure cycle store, studio.
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.
We don't often shout about our Eco credentials, we have just always tried to live lightly and have as little impact on our beautiful natural environment as possible.
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In the high Cumbrian village of Shap this accommodation specialises in delicious meals sourced from local produce. New Ing Lodge provides comfortable private rooms and has its own bar and lounge with log burner.
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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.
Just a short hop from Oban the amazing Isle of Lismore welcomes families and individuals in self catering accommodation on an organic croft. This is a unique, fertile and accessible Scottish island, where you can buy home grown local veg and help on the crofts tree planting schemes.
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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.
Àite Cruinnichidh, 15 miles northeast of Fort William, occupies a unique sheltered spot adjacent to the Monessie Gorge where you can explore remote glens, mountain passes and lochs. The hostel has a fully equipped kitchen/dining room, sitting room, excellent showers, sauna & garden. All bedding is provided. Guests enjoy socialising and the natural environment around the hostel.
Between Grange Over Sands and Kendal on the northern shore of Morecambe Bay, within the beautiful Whitbarrow Nature Reserve in the southern Lake District. Built for cyclists and walkers with drying room, laundry, kitchen, diner, lounges, cycle storage, workshop and bike wash. Perfect for groups, families and individuals. Just 500m from the Morecambe Bay Cycle Way, the Lakes & Dales Loop and NCN 700 & 70. E-bike hire is available on site.
Comrie Croft has been a long term eco hostel. In their own words, “All of our power and heat is generated onsite from renewable sources (wood for the heating, solar for the electricity), and at least 93% of our "waste" is reused or recycled, we have achieved a gold award in the Green Tourism Business Scheme and are members of the world's leading eco tourism businesses as part of the Long Run Initiative."
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Close to the idyllic fishing village of Ullapool in a peaceful rural setting with lots of wildlife. A perfect base for climbers & walkers with 22 Munros and many other hills in the area.
Next to Lael Forest Gardens which is renowned for its wildlife. The bunkhouse is ideally located for touring the North West Highlands with easy access to the areas of Torridon and up to Assynt.
This Victorian neo-Gothic mansion in Dorset’s AONB has easy access to the Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis as well as the Wessex and Monarch’s Way long distance footpaths. Guests can use the vegetarian self-catering kitchen to prepare their own meals or vegetarian meals can be pre-booked. There is also camping in the grounds. Run by a charity that promotes sustainable living. Fruit and vegetables are grown in the organic garden and Jersey cows provide the dairy products.
Nestled between the Cambrian Mountains and Cardigan Bay, Naturesbase is 9 acres of flower rich meadows and woodland, 10 minutes drive from the Welsh coast. Accommodation is in a beautiful large lodge sleeping up to 36 and a shepherds hut. Ideal for families, friends, retreats and activity groups wanting to enjoy the open countryside and the joy of nature.
Set in the scenic coastal village of Helmsdale, all six rooms at the Lodge are en-suite. There is a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable lounge area with log burning stove. On the NC500 and Land's End to John O’Groats routes, the Lodge is popular with ‘end to enders’ and walkers exploring the far north Marilyn Hills. Perfect stopover en route to Orkney. Pets welcome on request. Groups welcome.
Deepdale have a Gold Green Tourism award and regularly organise Green events like local Beach cleans. So come along and enjoy the huge skies, coastline and countryside.
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Yarde Orchard provides accommodation and refreshments to those using the Tarka Trail with good access to the great North Devon beaches and Dartmoor. The bunkhouse has an en suite double room with its own entrance, a bunk room sleeping four and a campsite. You can enjoy home cooked meals and the relaxed café atmosphere on the terrace.
Situated on the magical island of Cumbrae, just off the western shore of mainland Scotland, FSC Millport is just 1.5 hours from Glasgow. Recently refurbished to a high standard it sleeps 39 across 64 rooms. All types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, families & larger groups. Self-catering is only possible for sole use bookings.
Set in the stunning North Pennines AONB, England’s last wilderness. This modern conversion of a historic mine building provides warm accommodation with excellent hot showers for lovers of the great outdoors. Isaac’s Tea Trail and the C2C pass right by. There are self catering facilities and meals can be provided for groups. The campsite has tiered pitches and views across the Nent valley. Electric hook-ups, secure cycle storage and plenty of parking.
Stay at Fordhall Farm Straw Bale Bunkhouse on the edge of Market Drayton in Shropshire and immerse yourself in nature and the wonderful landscape.
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Family run, Swanage Auberge is a refuge for climbers, cyclists, walkers & divers at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. In the centre of Swanage, a stone’s throw from the South West Coast Path, there is excellent walking, mountain biking, diving and rock climbing close by. There is a fully equipped self-catering kitchen and a packed lunch service if required. Parking for 2 vehicles is available on a first come first served basis & free on-street parking is close by.
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.
The Viking centre is very proud of their Silver Green Tourism Award and now they are going for gold!
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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.
So how does that affect your stay? Well, some of the hot water comes from solar, the building is well insulated and mostly double glazed, laundry is done in house and mostly line dried and we encourage you to sort your recyclables into the bins provided (and more!) We are currently overwelmed with apples and guests are greeted with homegrown organic apples from the orchard
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Around Haye Farm Sleeping Barn are hay meadows, and hiding amongst the grasses are traditional meadow flowers, providing food for pollinators and a biodiverse habitat for many other creatures.
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These exemplary qualities are accompanied by a wide range of facilities and amenities.
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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.
Arrive by bike, train or bus and call at the house for your refund. All Stretton Bunkhouse provides comfortable accommodation near Church Stretton, surrounded by the beautiful South Shropshire Hills.
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The Bristol Wing will be closed to independent travelers and tourists until March or July 2022.
This iconic police headquarters, recently transformed into a chic accommodation for city breaks is now providing accommodation and counselling for people at risk during the Corona virus.
Check back here for details.
We're really pleased to hear we've been featured in The Green Traveller. A book about conscious, low carbon adventures and eco travel in the UK, Europe and beyond.
Here at Wayfarers we try to be as eco as possible by offering electric car charging, secure bike storage and tools for fixing up your bike, lots of local info about getting around on public transport and we recycle!
Our copy is on our way and will be a welcome addition to our library :)
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High Wallabarrow is a traditional hill farm in the Duddon Valley, the Lake District’s quiet corner. The well equipped camping barn, an old farmhouse, sleeps 10 upstairs. Downstairs there’s a large living area with woodburning stove and fully equipped kitchen. Mattresses provided BYO sleeping bags/pillows. Toilet just outside and shower nearby. 15 mins’ walk to pub, 10 mins to climbing crag. Not suitable for rowdy groups.
Situated amongst the trees and old gardens this old country house provides warm and comfortable accommodation for groups and individuals. Family rooms and dormitorys available, kitchens, lounges and wildlife gardens.
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Slack House Farm is a working, organic dairy farm overlooking Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall. On the NCN 72 cycle trail and bordering the dark-skies of Kielder and the Northumberland National Park. Half a km from Hadrian’s Wall National Trail. The bunk-barn is adjacent to the farm’s cheese dairy. It is heated and has self-catering facilities and an outdoor cooking/barbecue cabin. Provisions available from the adjacent farm-shop
Morags Lodge are working hard to take care of the environment. Well wouldn't you if you had the last of an endangered specious living in the lake next door.
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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.
The High Street Hostel is one of Europe’s best regarded and most atmospheric hostels. It is hugely popular with world travellers. Located just off the historic Royal Mile in a 470 year old building, it is your perfect base for exploring all the city’s many attractions and of course its wonderful nightlife.
Providing excellence in location, ambience and facilities, the hostel is highly recommended by more than ten of the world’s top backpacker travel guides. Come along and see for yourself!
FSC Slapton Ley is located on the South Devon coast next to Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve that includes the 4km long Slapton Sands beach.
All types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, families and larger groups.
The South West Coast Path and NCN 28 are close by.
FSC Start Bay is a field studies centre overlooking the South Devon coast. It offers 4* accommodation to groups of 20-40. Facilities include a well equipped self catering kitchen and a large dining room and adjoining sitting room with interactive whiteboard, both of which can easily seat a group of 40. Enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline from the BBQ area, fire pit and low ropes course. Perfect for schools, clubs and gatherings of friends and families. The centre gives a wonderful sense of remoteness, yet has the village of Slapton nearby with its shop and pubs.
Staying overnight on Skomer provides the perfect chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You'll be one of a maximum of 16-overnight guests staying in the 3-star Hostel accommodation, nestled at the very heart of the island. With so few people, there's always a quiet place or amazing wildlife encounter just round the corner. Beautiful, peaceful, and entirely unforgettable.
Group accommodation peacefully surrounded by our working farm with much loved ancient wildflower meadows and beautiful barns, walled garden, hedged countryside and historic landscape.
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Skiddaw House is an off-grid game keeper's lodge situated one and half thousand feet up, on the side of Skiddaw Mountain in the Lake District. Sue, the manager, is passionate about running Skiddaw House in an environmentally sympathetic way
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With its own crags, streams, lakes & 600-acres of mature woodland, Shining Cliff Hostel has nature on its doorstep.
Access is half a mile from the nearest parking area along a woodland footpath. Paths lead through the woods to the A6 at Ambergate (20 mins’ walk) which has a food shop, pub, buses and trains to Derby.
The hostel is ideal for a wide range of groups wishing to enjoy time away in a peaceful woodland setting.
Discover the extensive timeline of the history of this preserved building, from the early medaevil church of St. Nicholas. Now holder of a Green Tourisum silver award.
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Snowdonia’s glaciated valleys, cascading rivers & wooded hillsides provide a rugged backdrop for this historic Georgian country house.
The estate includes woodland, a bodiversity garden, football pitch, campfire, streams and ponds. All types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, families and larger groups.
Outdoor activities can be provided & Zip World Fforest is nearby.
Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse has 4kw of solar panels providing electricity, 30 tubes of thermal collectors providing hot water and central heating by air source heat pump.
You can't get much greener then that, and did I mention that the water is straight from a fresh mountain stream.
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Whether as a stop-over for those walking the South Downs Way or a venue for families and friends reunions, the Lodge offers simple but comfortable accommodation.
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Inveraray Hostel is close to the wild and beautiful Loch Fyne. It has a welcoming atmosphere, private rooms, a wildlife friendly garden and an Electric Vehicle charging point.
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In the Ennerdale Valley, one of the most beautiful, least spoilt and quietest in the Lake District, Low GIllerthwaite Field Centre sits at the foot of Pillar and Red Pike. Well equipped for groups it is the perfect base for fell walking, rock climbing, bird & wildlife watching, mountain biking, orienteering & canoeing. The centre generates its own hydro-electricity. Vehicle access is by forest track and a BT payphone is on site as most mobiles do not work here.
The bio-mass boiler at Springhill Farm makes their comfy bunkhouse accommodation a great winter retreat.
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If you are looking for an affordable holiday that ticks all the sustainable boxes, look no further than Station Cottage in the village of Colwall in the Malvern Hills AONB. This small eco hostel is open to guests arriving by public transport , bike or on foot. Situated in a nature reserve opposite Colwall train station it's in the perfect location for you eco holiday.
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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.
Outstanding brand new, architect designed bunkhouse situated outside Kirriemuir, at the gateway to the Angus Glens. The bunkhouse offers excellent opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to experience and enjoy the proximity to the Cairngorms National Park . This eco bunkhouse, with solar panels and air source heat pumps, provides top quality accommodation for up to 24.
FSC Preston Montford is situated in the heart of Shropshire on the banks of the River Severn. Set in a 12-hectare estate it has orienteering courses, a small 5-a-side football area and a sensory garden. It is easily accessible from the motorway network, yet private and secluded. The centre has 131 beds across 3 blocks. All types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, families and larger groups. Self-catering is possible for sole use.
Royal Mile Backpackers is a small and cosy hostel with its own special character! Perfectly located on the Royal Mile, the most famous street in Edinburgh, Royal Mile Backpackers is the ideal place to stay for the independent traveller.
The comfortable beds and cosy common areas will make you feel at home and the friendly staff are always on hand to help you make the most of your time in Edinburgh.
Setting an example with its close links to the nearby Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), Corris offers locally sourced food and materials, composting, green purchasing and an all-pervading bohemian vibe.
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Located between the coast of Morecambe Bay and the Lake District National Park, FSC Castle Head is an impressive Georgian house which sits in 20 hectares of private grounds.
A fantastic base for exploring the Lake District, the centre sleeps up to 157 across 33 rooms.
All types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, families & larger groups.
FSC Juniper Hall is a superb country house dating back from the 17th century situated in an unspoilt area of the chalk North Downs at the edge of Box Hill, Surrey. Many amazing rivers, woodlands & chalk grassland can be found on the doorstep. Easily accessible from London and the M25, yet peaceful and secluded. All types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, groups of adults, families & larger groups.
Green Tourisum Silver Award Winner, Habitat Hostel uses a heat exchange system, running through the neighbouring river, to keep the hostel toastie warm.
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Ross of Mull Bunkrooms are located less than a mile from the ferry link to Iona at Fionnphort. Ideal for exploring the superb wildlife, rich history & shell-sand beaches of the Ross of Mull, so loved by outdoor enthusiasts. Perfect for day trips to Staffa, the Treshnish Isles & Iona. There are two 4 bed bunk rooms, a well-equipped kitchen, woodburner and stunning views.
Carrs Farm Bunkhouse is a converted 17th century barn with stunning views over Weardale. It provides comfortable bunk bed accommodation for groups of up to 21 people in three rooms. There is a fully equipped self catering kitchen, games/lounge area and outdoor seating with BBQ.
Situated on a working farm at the heart of the North Pennines. Guided walks and outdoor activities are available for groups and schools.
Experience the peace of the remote Tywi valley in an era before electricity at this 17th century farmhouse. Dolgoch is a traditional simple hostel owned by the Elenydd Wilderness Trust. It has hot showers, log burner, self-catering kitchen, dormitories & private rooms. The Lôn Las Cymru and the Cambrian Way pass nearby and there are many mountain tracks to explore. Ideal for bird-watchers and lovers of the solitude of the scenic Cambrian Mountains.
FSC Malham Tarn, offers quality accommodation in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Sleeping up to 105 across 29 bedrooms and 3 buildings, all types of bookings are welcome including singles, couples, groups of adults, families and larger groups. Due to Covid-19, rooms are currently offered on a B&B basis at very reasonable rates. Outside you will find a courtyard, veranda and picnic benches, a lawn and walled garden.
Anglesey Outdoors is an ideal base for groups, individuals or families. It is just a mile from Porthdafarch Beach & the coastal path and only 2km from Sustrans Cycle Route 8. It has four self contained areas each with their own self-catering & bathroom facilities. These can be hired individually or together. Full catering an option and there’s an on-site bar/bistro. Glamping options also available.
Luxury bunkbarn, camping barn and B&B on an organic farm in beautiful Glaisdale Dale. Stunning views of the North York Moors and just 1 mile from the Coast to Coast route. Converted in 2011, the bunkbarn is warm & well appointed with one dorm of mostly single beds. The camping barn provides simple, single-night shelter for walkers and cyclists.
Welcome to the world famous Knoydart Foundation Bunkhouse on the stunning remote peninsula of Knoydart on the west coast of Scotland reachable only by boat or a long hike. Community run, the Bunkhouse uses hydro electricity & promotes responsible tourism. Set amid wild, remote terrain overlooking a mesmerising beach. Ten mins’ walk to pub, PO, shop & ferry at Inverie. 3 bedrooms & comfy communal areas. Ranger service & deer stalking available. Stunning dark skies, so bring a torch!
On the tranquil shores of Little Loch Broom overlooking one of Scotland’s finest mountain ranges, Badrallach Bothy and Campsite offer a fine base for walking or relaxing. Fish in the nearby lochs or simply enjoy the flora and fauna. Hot showers, spotless accommodation, an unbelievable price and the feeling of remoteness make the Bothy and Campsite a firm favourite. There is also a holiday cottage for hire.
Prosen Hostel is an 18 bed bunkhouse in Glen Prosen on the edge of the Cairngorm National Park.
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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.
Perched right on the banks of Loch Ness, the Lochside Hostel has fantastic views up and down the loch and can give you direct access to the water’s edge. Why not go for a dip in Scotland’s largest water body? Take a walk to watch for wildlife? Or even hunt the elusive Nessie?
The Great Glen walking route passes the front door, and the End to End cycle route is nearby. Drumnadrochit is just 12 miles away by boat.
Allendale Bunkhouse sits on the Market Square overlooking the hustle and bustle of this small country town, the fells & River East Allen beyond. It is an oasis for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, families, groups of friends and youth & school groups alike. Book the whole bunkhouse for up to 25 people. Allendale is well served with tea rooms, the Forge art gallery & café, a quirky gift shop, a pharmacy, and three wonderful country pubs, all serving food and dog friendly.
Air source heating, solar panels and a green frame of mind have earned Palace Farm the GTBS Gold Award
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Elterwater is one of the Lake District’s gems, A cluster of houses, an Independent Hostel and a pub in the Langdale Valley. The hostel provides a warm welcome for individuals and groups.
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The newly refurbished Hebden Bridge Hostel, run by national arts organisation IOU, offers contemporary, comfortable & affordable accomodation at the heart of this vibrant independent town. Group accommodation, dorms and private rooms are available, all with ensuite facilities. Perfect for solo travellers, families or groups, everyone is welcome.
A small, friendly eco-hostel in the centre of Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor National Park. Popular with cyclists, hikers, bikers, wild swimmers, artists and photographers, A beautifully converted stone stable, with solar-heated showers, kitchen, courtyard, BBQ and secure bike shed. High open moorland, rocky tors, ancient burial sites, stone circles, woods and clear rivers close by. Moretonhampstead has shops, cafés, art galleries and pubs. On the Cicerone LEJOG, Dartmoor Way and CTC routes.
The accommodation at Houghton North Farm is now heated by a wood pellet bio-mass boiler and the electricity is supplied by a 20 kilowatt wind turbine.
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FSC Dale Fort is a Field Studies Council centre on the Pembrokeshire Coast, within walking distance of beaches & the Wales Coastal Path.
Built in 1856 it now accommodates individuals, families & extended family groups. There are 3 accommodation blocks with single, twin, family & dormitory rooms (many en suite).
Outside there are several games areas.
The Courthill Centre in rural Oxfordshire provides low cost fully catered accommodation for school groups, with sole use of the facilities, large attic dorm rooms and private bedrooms for teachers.
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Glebe Barn offers 4* homely accommodation on the extraordinary Isle of Eigg within 1 mile of the island shop & café/restaurant. Outstanding sea views and sleeping up to 22 in twin, triple, family & dorm rooms. Perfect for individuals, families or groups. Also two person mezzanine apartment.
In a wonderful location, facing south with a sunny aspect and panoramic views over the city, Castle Rock Hostel is just steps away from the city centre. The historic Royal Mile, the busy pubs, the late-late nightlife of Grassmarket and Cowgate are all only a short walk away. Then, of course, there is the famous Edinburgh Castle.
Most of the rooms have no traffic noise and there are loads of great facilities, 24-hour reception and no curfew.
With no on street parking at Edens yard, how can we best work with the ubiquitous car? Maybe this approach can help?
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The National Trust Stackpole Centre has a theatre, meeting and classroom facilities. The centre can accommodate up to 140 guests and is ideal for educational groups, corporate clients, private group hire and family holidays.
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Broadrake Bunkbarn offers direct access to the Three Peaks Challenge Walk, The Pennine Journey & The Dales High Way.
This popular accommodation for 20 has an upstairs open-plan living space with excellent self-catering & communal facilities. Perfect for extended family reunions, cyclists, cavers and dark sky enthusiasts. Indivudals, couples and small groups welcome mid-week.
This newly converted hostel is part of the FSC Blencathra Centre and is available on a sole use basis for groups of between 14 and 26.
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Mount Cook, a fantastic purpose built centrre, offers groups of 8 - 180 the perfect base for an exciting weekend or holiday in the Peak District. A whole range of outside activities can be organised on- or off site for a min of 8 people. Popular with schools, clubs, corporate team building, weddings and gatherings of friends and families. B&B, full or half board. Self catering with sole use bookings.
Laid by a Wwoofer volunteer this hedge is the boundary between our fields and the 9 acres of broad leaf woodland we planted between 1997 and 2001. The wood is diverse and lovely to walk through on the network of paths. The bluebells are already through even though it only February, so they will be early this year
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Bell Heath Centre, set amidst 20 acres of secluded woodlands, offers the perfect rural escape with excellent transport links to Birmingham. The centre sleeps up to 84 and outdoor adventures can be organised on site. This spacious centre is perfect for large family gatherings, reunions, weddings, stag/hen parties, schools, faith groups & corporate events. Facilities include a commercial kitchen, a hall (seating 100), TV lounge & games room.
Penrhiw is an organic farm with views over the Teifi Valley. The stunning Ceredigion Coast and the Cambrian Mountains are an easy drive away and the busy small town of Llandysul (1.5 miles) has all essential supplies. The farm's location is ideal for exploring, studying or simply admiring the Welsh countryside. Local activities include fishing, swimming, climbing, abseiling, canoeing, farm walks and cycling.
FSC Flatford Mill sits in Constable Country, amidst the quintessentially English countryside of Suffolk’s Dedham Vale on the banks of the River Stour. Stay in one of the historical buildings; either Willy Lotts’ House, made famous by John Constable’s ‘Haywain’ painting, Valley Farm, a medieval great hall built in the 1450’s or the Mill itself that was owned by the Constable family in the 1700’s. Everyone is welcome including singles, couples, groups and families.
Our eco-sensitive Bunkhouse is positioned right on the shore of the sea between Mull and the Mainland. Next door to our Bunkhouse is The Craignure Inn, a popular traditional inn offering food, drink and and a welcoming atmosphere.
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Independent Hostels Climate Action Plan
Independent Hostels recognises the importance of running a business with special consideration to our impact on the earth and our carbon footprint. That is why we have joined Tourism Declares. Together, alongside other businesses in the tourism industry, we are pledging to declare a climate emerency and we have created a unique action plan for the ways in which we will reduce carbon as a business.
Our declaration
We declare our shared commitment to unite all stakeholders in transforming tourism to deliver effective climate action.
We support the global commitment to halve emissions by 2030 and reach Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050.
We will consistently align our actions with the latest scientific recommendations, so as to ensure our approach remains consistent with a rise of no more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100.
As a signatory, we commit to:
Deliver a climate action plan within 12 month of signing.
Report publicly both progress against interim and long-term targets, as well as the actions being taken, at least annually.
Align our plan with five shared pathways (measure, decarbonise, regenerate, collaborate, finance) to ensure climate action is consistent across all of tourism.
Share information on activities connected to Tourism Declares and/or the Glasgow Declaration among contacts and networks.
Work in a collaborative and constructive spirit with other members of Tourism Declares and/or signatories of the Glasgow Declaration.
Our Climate Action Plan
Celebrating we have already achieved (day to day)
We reuse as much cardboard packaging as possible.
All paper used in our office is purchased as recycled paper and then used on both sides.
We use Ecotricity which is an energy provider that uses 100% green energy
We send email Newsletters to our readers promoting the benefits of green travel
Our “Items Wanted and Available” message board is used for up-cycling of hostel equipment.
Wherever possible, we walk to work rather than use cars.
Celebrating we have already achieved (one off)
We have joined the Green Tourism Business Scheme and achieved the GOLD award.
Our website allows readers to search for eco hostels and bunkhouses . There are hostels that go above and beyond with regards to promoting an eco-conscious lifestyle. Such as growing local produce on site and using renewable energy. This means potential customers can make an educated decision about the eco-credentials of the places they want to stay at.
We conducted research into what type of paper is the most environmentally friendly for printing our books. We will continue to use FSC paper as it requires the least energy to make.
There are symbols for Green Tourism Business Scheme awards and green ethos on the hostels printed features.
We have blogs on our website that help tourists get the most out of their holidays without compromising the environment. An example of these blogs are How to be a Good Green Hosteller
What we will strive to do (day to day)
Independent Hostels will speak to the manager of our office block to ensure our separated waste is recycled and disposed of properly.
Independent Hostels will consult Ethical Consumer before making new purchases.
What we will strive to do (one off)
We will advocate schemes such as Tourism Declares and Green Tourism to the hostels in our network. Encouraging more businesses to get involved with taking steps towards a greener future will help accelerate awareness.
At the end of the year, we will carbon offset any travel we have done. We will use The Woodland Trust to offset our carbon as this business is UK based.
We are going to complete a carbon literacy course. This will educate and inspire us as a business to continue with our carbon journey.
In 2023 we will reduce our paper usage by 29%. This will save 345kg of paper and will subsequently reduce our carbon emissions.
In 2023 we will reduce the bulk of items we transport by 29%. This will provide double the saving in carbon, as the items will not need to be transported to us from our suppliers or from us to our customers. In 2022 we transported 1190Kg of books. In 2023 we will transport 690kg of books. This reduction in weight will reduce the amount of CO2 needed for transportation.
Between April 2021 and April 20222, the business conducted travel with a total mileage of 5056 miles. (This excludes staff commutes). We pledge to reduce this between April 2022 and April 2023. We will look into using public transport or zero carbon transportation methods such as walking or cycling.
We pledge to purchase space on carbon-efficient servers (powered by renewable electricity sources) next time we make the transition to new servers.
