There are lots of hostels and bunkhouses run by independent businesses and charities.
Independent Hostels UK (IHUK) is a network, a community that brings these hostels together and provides a place where you can find and book them.
Independent hostels are unique, no two are the same. Lots are very involved in their local community and 20% are run by small charities or community interest companies.
There are over 340 independent hostels on this website, but that is not all of them. Because some hostels are so independent they don’t want to be part of any network.
And that’s OK, because an independent hostel is a place not a trademark.
The IHUK Network Reception at Greenman Backpackers in Chepstow IHUK is the largest network of hostels and bunkhouses in the UK. With accommodation in over 340 locations, the IHUK network is larger then the Youth Hostel Association and Hosteling Scotland added together.
IHUK Community
Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. An ideal base for exploring the Northumberland National Park, the Cheviot Hills, local castles and fine sandy beaches. For walkers there’s St Cuthbert’s Way and for cyclists, Wooler cycle hub routes, Pennine Cycleway and the Sandstone Way. There are bridleways perfect for mountain biking and lots of bouldering and climbing.
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In the peaceful village of Rookhope, in Weardale, Barrington Bunkhouse sleeps 13 people in comfy bunks around a central relaxing area. It has a small kitchenette and is ideal for family groups. Dogs by arrangement. A warm welcome awaits.
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Bachelors Hall is set in a beautiful secluded valley in the centre of Dartmoor National Park surrounded by tors, moorland and rivers. Walking, hiking, mountain biking ,climbing, water sports and wildlife are all on the doorstep to enjoy. Or perhaps just relax and soak up the calm atmosphere and beautiful views.
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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.
Hidden away in Harwood Forest, near Rothbury, owned by Forestry England, Chartners Farm is definitely off the grid. It’s a 5 mile drive along forest tracks. Electricity is generated by a wind turbine & solar panels, a huge log burner heats the radiators and keeps the place cosy. The perfect spot to escape the rat race, relax, & recharge or get out into the countryside for walking or biking. Fully equipped for a self-catered break with LPG cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, radio CD and board games etc.
Lockerbrook Farm Outdoor Centre, operated by The Woodcraft Folk, is situated in glorious isolation high above Ladybower Reservoir with stunning views across the Upper Derwent Valley. The converted hill farm has 2 accommodation units; the Bunk Barn sleeps 38 in 7 rooms & the Cottage Annexe sleeps 6 in 3 rooms. Catering & outdoor activities available.
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Book a bed, a room, a chalet room, a wing or the whole hostel. Ninebanks 4* Hostel, in stunning rural Northumberland, has en-suite bedrooms, a sitting room with log-burner and a spacious dining room. In the wild North Pennines close to Hadrian’s Wall and on Isaac’s Tea Trai.
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Whether you are a road cyclist, mountain biker or walker you will find plenty of fantastic routes on the doorstep. E bike hire for those who want an easy ride.
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Alston Youth Hostel is within the historic town of Alston nestled in the North Pennines on the eastern side of Cumbria.
Situated directly on the Pennine Way and Isaac’s Tea Trail and also about halfway on the very popular Coast to Coast (C2C) cycle route with great indoor cycle storage. The perfect stop-over for walkers and cyclists. You’ll receive a warm welcome, Exclusive hire also available!
Sheen Bunkhouse is in a quiet corner of the Peak District, close to the beautiful Dove and Manifold valleys. It has a well equipped self-catering kitchen, lounge, two bunkrooms and separate toilets & showers. The Manifold Track, Tissington Trail and High Peak Trail give easy access to beautiful countryside, ideal for families and cyclists. Dovedale and the moors offer stunning walking. Buxton, Leek and Bakewell are within 12 miles and Alton Towers is 20 minutes away by car.
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Glenprosen is the most intimate of the Angus Glens on the southernmost edge of the Cairngorms National Park. Two Munros; the Mayar and Driesh link Glenprosen to the Cairngorms plateau. Prosen Hostel is also close to the upgraded East Cairngorms footpath network. Converted to the latest and greenest specification, the 4* hostel offers cosy, quality accommodation for 18. With 4 rooms, sleeping 4, 4 and 6 in bunks and a family room sleeping 4. You can also hire the nearby village hall.
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Sleeping 24 in 4 private rooms with 2 single/1 double bed, a 12 bed alpine dorm with mattresses on the floor and a self-contained 4 bed maisonette, Lower Penderleath Farm is perfect for groups of friends or family looking for low cost self catering accommodation in this very popular part of the country.
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Denton House is a purpose built hostel in Keswick in the Lake District. Surrounded by stunning scenery, great cycling and wonderful walking, Derwentwater is just a short stroll away. The hostel is warm, comfortable and well equipped for self-catering. Book by the bed, the room or book sole use of the whole place (sleeps 66).
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Nestled in the peace of the Ennerdale Valley, overlooking Ennerdale Water. The Wild Wool Barn provides luxury bunkhouse accommodation for 6 (plus 6 camping). Traditional wood-burning stove, electric heating, cooker and shower marry tradition with luxury. With no mobile signal or WiFi The Wild Wool Barn is a true chance to get away and explore the rarely visited Western Lakes. Perfect for camping at Ennerdale Bridge
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This community-run bunkhouse in Scottish Borders, was delighted to welcome Spud man and his amazing family. A member of the IHUK network since opening in 2020, Newcastleton Bunkhouse sleeps up to 14 in 3 en-suite rooms, so is ideal for familys. There is a self-catering kitchen and dining room where people can meet and share stories. It really popular with cyclists, walkers and family groups.
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This iconic Lake District Hostel is still providing a warm welcome in the Langdales in the great tradition of the YHA. Now an Independent Hostel for over 10 years, run by a friendly team with some excellent cooks. For many people, the Lakes is about lakes and mountains, but it has so much more. It has World Heritage status bestowed for its cultural and industrial heritage. As you wander around, admiring the lakes, mountains and heritage, wouldn't it be nice to know you had a friendly warm hostel waiting for you at the end of the day.
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This large Victorian property has been specially adapted to provide self-catering accommodation for groups of up to 33. The 8 dormitories vary in size from 1 to 10 beds, complete with duvets & linen. The Centre is centrally heated & has a common room, large kitchen, drying room, hot showers and outdoor seating. Located in Betws-y-Coed, the Woodlands Centre is an ideal base for outdoor activities in Snowdonia.
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Situated in the village of Tarbert on the Isle of Harris, the Backpackers Stop is a comfortable hostel for travellers. Close to the ferry, bus, shops, cafés, bars and restaurants. The Backpackers Stop is a handy base for exploring Harris, as well as whilst walking or cycling the islands. Ideal when arriving by ferry.Self-catering kitchen, lounge & shared dorms. Linen, duvets & towels provided. USB sockets, free WiFi. Tea & coffee available all day. Basic self service breakfast provided. Keycode entry.
The Bunker Portland provides clean and friendly accommodation near Weymouth for outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the South Coast.
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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, WiFi and car permit (to access this private valley) are provided. 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.
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Close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and a short drive from Kendal, Dacres Stable Camping Barn is on the eastern edge of the Lake District National Park.
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The fabulous Cwtsh Hostel in central Swansea has their Independent Hostel sign up and were so excited.
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Beautifully refurbished with a modern friendly vibe Bazpackers offers travellers & adventurers a choice of small dorms, private twin/doubles or a self catering family apartment. All linen & towels are provided. There is a shared kitchen, lounge and a garden with BBQ, seating and stunning views.
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Snowdon Lodge has an ideal location for climbing, walking, Zip line, sailing, steam trains beaches and castles. Right where Snowdonia reaches the sea, at the heart of North Wales’s outdoor activities. You can enjoy the mountains, visit the worlds longest Zip line at bounce below or the beaches and castles of North Wales. Find out more about these activities on Snowdon Lodge’s website, where you can also learn about the Lodge's unique connection with Lawrence of Arabia.
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This comfortable little bunkhouse sleeping up to 12 people is available for your own private use. Situated within a its own stone courtyard close to the edge of Lathkill Dale, its ideal for nature lovers. Lathkill Dale nature reserve is surrounded by the nature-rich area of the White Peak in the Peak District National Park. Mandale Farm is a mile from the village of Over Haddon and a couple of miles from the village of Monyash. Both villages have excellent pubs and the historic market town of Bakewell is only 3 miles away.
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A mile from Castleton in the Peak District, Pindale Farm offers a range of accommodation: B&B in the farmhouse. Six self-catering/self-contained rooms sleeping 8 or 10 people in the Barn. A self-catering unit sleeping 8 people in The Engine House. Plus an AA 3 Pennant campsite. Perfect for D of E expeditions and many outdoor activities. Instruction is available.
In rural Herefordshire, close to the Welsh border, Dunfield House provides accommodation for groups of up to 101 with sole use of the house, stables, parkland & swimming pool. Both accommodations can be hired separately or as sole use. The Stables sleep 23 and has a self catering kitchen. The Main House provides fully catered accommodation for 73. A great choice for school, youth, music or church groups, training courses & family get-togethers.
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Llandudno Hostel is a Victorian 4* boutique, award-winning hostel where individuals, families & groups (including schools) are welcome all year. Set in the heart of the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno, it’s your perfect base for shopping & exploring many local attractions, including blue flag beaches, dry slope skiing, Zip World, Surf Snowdonia, bronze age copper mine, traditional pier, museums & fishing trips.
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Enjoy the quiet rural location on the covered decking of this barn in the Wye Forrest. The barn has a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, dining room and lounge and is on a working farm.
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Out on the eastern edge , in an often-overlooked corner is the Staffordshire stretch of The Peak District. Easily accessible from Leek and perched high up on the steep-sided Manifold valley, the 3 barns at Butterton are a great place to base yourself and explore this charming area.
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With 4 miles of stunning beach just 20 metres from the front door, Borth Youth Hostel is perfect for a beach holiday. This Edwardian house has 11 bedrooms and is a great base for visits to the Centre for Alternative Technology, Aberystwyth or the beautiful Dyfi Biosphere. Snowdonia National Park is just a short drive away making Borth perfect for mountain biking, golfing & surfing. The Ceredigion Coast Path passes the door. With two classrooms Borth YH is ideal for school trips. There’s free WiFi, a games & TV room, bike storage & drying room. Breakfast, packed lunch & licensed bar.
Badrallach Bothy and Campsite offer a fine base for walking and climbing. Fish in the rivers, hill lochs and sea or simply enjoy the flora and fauna. Hot showers, spotless accommodation, an unbelievable price and total peace make the Bothy and Campsite a firm favourite.
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You know you are close to the haven of Bretton Hostel when you see the Independent Hostels network sign on their gate. This hostel provides a peaceful space with far-reaching views across the Dark Peak and excellent walks & cycle rides from the door.
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In Snowdonia National Park, just over a mile from the small town of Bethesda, Ogwen Valley Bunkhouse provides spacious, eco friendly accommodation for individuals, couples, families and groups. The large open plan communal area has a well equipped kitchen, a large dining table and plenty of comfy chairs. With underfloor heating, comfortable beds and a drying room guests invariably return. On Snowdonia Slate Trail & Lon Las Cymru .
Stay for a few nights at Deepdale Rooms and Camping and discover your passion for nature in the beautiful coastal village of Burnham Deepdale. Whether it be the wonderful walking opportunities in the surrounding area, the flat country lanes for cycling or the wild beauty of the salt marshes, you will certainly find something to delight you here.
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Ashclyst Farm Hostel is a charming National Trust farmhouse surrounded by land currently in the process of rewilding, with Ashclyst Forest a short walk from the Hostel. Your hosts Martyn & Lorraine are tenants of the Killerton Estate.Their spacious farmhouse is available for extended weekend breaks. Guests have the use of five private bedrooms, the farmhouse kitchen, dining rooms and lounge. There is a walled courtyard, secure cycle storage and drying room.
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Stonehenge Hostel offers great-value accommodation in the stunning Wiltshire countryside, just minutes away from the World Heritage site of Stone Henge! Ideal self catering accommodation for groups of all sizes, families and individuals.
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Escape to Snowdonia at Lodge Dinorwig. With a 14 bed bunk room and all catering provided it's the perfect base for your adventures exploring the beauty of North Wales. From cosy sofas to large tables, this Hostel is a great place to plan and get ready for those adrenaline-fueled activities in Eryri (Snowdonia) while soaking in the stunning vistas of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and Llanberis.
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Darsham Country Centre is a unique addition to the Independent Hostels network. Making good use of the old station building this great-value accommodation is situated on the Ipswich to Lowestoft railway line. Ideal for exploring the beauty of the Suffolk countryside on the Suffolk Line Walk and visiting the Suffolk Heritage Coast with sandy beaches and nature reserves.
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Rookhow Bunkbarn, housed in the former stables of the historic 300-year-old Quaker Meeting House, was completely refurbished in 2023/24. This fab hostel now boast a new kitchen, new toilets and showers, double glazed heritage windows, underfloor heating powered by an air source heat pump and some new furniture and fittings. It’s still the same simple friendly vibe- just a bit smartened up, less damp and more sustainable.
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Yes, it can! It may be pretty quirky, but it's homely, clean, has a fantastic location, and is just a roll out of bed away from another vintage Mk1 Carriage - the Glenfinnan Station Dining Car. A separate business, the Dining Car provides excellent breakfasts and lunches for our Sleeping Car guests, and we fully appreciate it being there. It also provides pre-prepared dishes which can be heated up in the Sleeping Car oven. It feels good to support fellow community members' small businesses!
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The hostel is so close to the water you can tumble straight out of bed and into Loch Ness for a refreshing swim.
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The Tudor Barn offers atmospheric group accommodation on an environmentally friendly working farm in rural Suffolk. Sleeping 25+ (singles/doubles/4 posters) in 4 private rooms plus the huge space of the Tudor Barn where you also feast & relax. The perfect base for group celebrations, reunions or activity breaks. Bikes & Tudor costumes are included. Larger parties can also hire the Old Brooder Bunkhouse (sleeping 22) 100m down the track (also in this guide).
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We support the air ambulance by hiring towels and donating the rental money to them. We give our old towels and duvets to Animal Rescue and lend our large games to the RSPCA for Field Days. Jan is a member of Kendal Bid and gives her time freely to the local Coach Initiative. We donate beds to Security staff at Kendal Torchlight to help it survive. We donate all unclaimed lost property to Scope our local charity shop as well as donating through Feegle. We share all unwanted food with the community, much to Mollie the dogs disgust!
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In the heart of historic Hull this hostel is aimed at the individual traveller, groups, cyclists and families. Perfect for visiting Hull’s museums & attractions, such as The Deep, Marina, theatres and Bonus Arena. Sport fans friendly too. Family en-suite, singles and dorms. Self-catering kitchenettte and coffee lounge. Ideal for visiting Yorkshire Coast, historic Beverley and York. Daily ferries to the Netherlands put Europe on the doorstep.
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Caerhafod Lodge is an ideal base for exploring the north Pembrokeshire coast. Welcoming individuals, families and groups.
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Toad Hall provides self-catering accommodation above the owner's family home. There are 4 private bedrooms with fully made up beds. No bunks and no shared dormitories. The shared self-catering kitchen, large games room with seating around an open fire (occasionally lit), and workshop for bike repair/storage make this a welcome part of the Independent Hostels network.
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Mid Wales Bunkhouse and Camping is in a quiet area which is splendidly wild. Be it summer or winter it can be explored by bike, on foot, on horseback or by canoe, with each season offering its own insights.
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With a range of rooms available for either 1 person or a group of up to 18 people, Wayfarers Hostel makes the ideal base for the Lake District, Coast2Coast and LEJOG/JOGLE cycle routes.
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The island of Ulva has a tiny population, plenty of space and stunning sea views. It lies just off the west coast of Mull, reached by foot passenger ferry, so is really easy to reach. Ulva Hostel, originally a shooting lodge, has private rooms, or you can book a bed in a shared room. There are also 2 family sized yurts and a camping area in the grounds.
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Edens Yard takes inspiration from the Camino; even the most self-sufficient traveller needs a recharge and TLC.Need a basecamp for your Cornish adventure? No problem: we are a short leafy lane from the Eden Project and buses that will take you to St Austell’s onward travel hub.Head out with friends, chill out with family. Come find our hostel in the strange landscape and clay trails of mid Cornwall.
The Green Man offers reasonable priced rooms, self catering kitchen, bar and communal lounge in a fabulously renovated historic building with the oldest part dating back to 1290!
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One of the most welcoming hostels, this Independent Hostel was once YHA Kirkby Stephen and before that a Methodist Church. It provides a range of accommodation for individuals, families and groups with authentic stained glass, arches and panels. There’s a large dining room & kitchen and a quiet lounge in the gallery.
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Welcoming to individuals and perfect for groups & families. Corris hostel is a haven from the stresses of the outside world; with its homely & inspiring atmosphere, caring staff & cosy wood fires. Enjoy the gardens with BBQ & campfire areas. In the Dyfi Biosphere & Snowdonia National Park & close to Cadair Idris and Centre for Alternative Technology, it’s a walkers & cyclists paradise. On the Mach Loop with a CAMRA pub close by.
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Dolphins Backpackers provides affordable accommodation just ten minutes from the South West Coast Path in the centre of the scenic coastal village of Tintagel. It is just five minutes’ walk from the castle, famous for King Arthur’s legends, myth and folklore.The hostel sleeps up to 10 in a barn bunkhouse dorm room. There is a welcoming atmosphere in the shared kitchen, the communal areas and the large covered garden.
With prices from £12 per person per night, this fully heated fully equipped bunkhouse provides great value accommodation in a popular location.
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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 setting.
Set it in secluded grounds bound by river and stream Bala Bunkhouse is the ideal setting to get away with family and friends having a large patio area to enjoy and splendid views of the Berwyn Hills.
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The Cambrian Coast brings together coast and mountains with several hostels that provide shelter for those walking the Wales Coast path and a base for sea kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, canyoning and rock climbing.
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Llansteffan is a beautiful village at the tip of the Towi River & Carmarthen Bay. The sandy beaches below the castle offer sun bathing and relaxation. The virtually traffic free country lanes are ideal for cycling. The Wales Coastal Path is on the doorstep and the city of Carmarthen is close by. The hostel provides private rooms, family rooms and en suite rooms.
Bunkhouse accommodation on a family farm in the village of Llangian. Just one mile from Abersoch which is famed for watersports, the bunkhouse is an ideal base for walking the Llyn Coast Path, surfing, cycling, golf, fishing, running & sailing. Spinning & knitting courses using the farm's own wool are available. The three modern bunkrooms are ideal for individuals or groups with a fully equipped kitchen/lounge, disabled facilities, secure storage & parking.
Plas Isa's owners are seasoned travellers who aim to make a home from home for travellers and outdoor enthusiasts in North Wales. With comfy beds and great communal spaces, Plas Isa is a perfect part of the Independent Hostels Network.
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Very excited to unveil the latest addition to our hostel…a brand-new independent hostel sign!!
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BALA-Backpackers waits to welcome you for a short break. Radiate out in all directions West to the Glorious coast, East to the Border mountains and the highest waterfalls in Wales, and North to Snowdon.
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Imagine a holiday in the sun-kissed Brecon Beacons landscape. Enjoying the meandering footpaths, that carry you straight from the doorstep to a myriad of relaxing destinations.
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Outstanding, new, architect-designed bunkhouse situated outside Kirriemuir, at the gateway to the Angus Glens. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to experience and enjoy the proximity to the Cairngorms National Park. This eco bunkhouse, with solar panels & air source heat pumps, provides top-quality accommodation for up to 24. The bunkhouse sleeps 20 in one large dorm plus there’s a self-contained flat which sleeps 4 in 2 twin/king-sized double rooms.
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Situated between Waunfawr and Betws Garmon, Pentre Bach Bunkhouse provides alpine style, dog friendly accommodation and a campsite. The ground floor of the bunkhouse has a dining/cooking area while upstairs there are alpine sleeping platforms with mattresses for 16. Showers, toilets and washing/drying facilities, shared with the campsite, are just across the yard.
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Expect a warm & comfortable stay in this dog friendly bunkhouse with spacious bedrooms, cosy lounge/dining areas, fully-equipped kitchen, outside BBQ area, hot showers, drying room and car park. Accommodation for up to 20 people in 6 bedrooms. Private bedrooms or sole use available. Individuals, couples & groups welcome.
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Bank House Farm has underfloor heating; a lovely modernised interior; their own farm meats available as well as the offer of a lift home from the pub. With panoramic views of Glaisdale and easy access to Wainwright’s Coast to Coast route, Whitby and the Esk Valley walk. Why wouldn't you follow that sign?
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On the unspoilt Isle of Lewis, Ravenspoint Hostel sits on the shores of Loch Erisort, providing comfortable accommodation in a traditional crofting community where Gaelic is still spoken on a daily basis. Whether travelling by bike, car or on foot, look out for white-tailed eagles, otters, deer and enjoy exploring the community-owned Pairc Estate on which the hostel sits alongside a small shop, tea-room, fuel service and museum.
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Ocean Backpackers is situated close to Ilfracombe's picturesque harbour. This cool, clean and friendly hostel offers excellent facilities for walkers, cyclists, surfers, divers as well as families, schools and activity groups. Facilities include a self-catering kitchen, dining area, communal lounge with free internet/WiFi, large storage basement, patio area and free car park
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Eastern Slade Barn is a luxury farmhouse conversion on a working farm on the Gower Peninsula. The Gower has glorious beaches, castles and traffic free lanes. The coast path passes through the farm. Port Eynon seaside village is a 30 min walk, while Oxwich Bay with its castle, beach & hotel serving tasty meals is just 20 mins walk. Camping available and weddings/birthdays welcome.
Hamilton Lodge and James John Hamilton House sit side by side in the coastal town of Fishguard close to the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. They provide B&B rooms, a holiday cottage and quality self-catering accommodation for groups of up to 20 people. Fishguard is a natural harbor surrounded by the sweeping sands of Cardigan Bay, regularly visited by communities of grey seals and dolphins.
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Slack House Farm is an organic dairy farm overlooking Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall. It is on the NCN 72 cycle trail and close to Hadrian’s Wall National Trail. The bunk-barn has 3 en suite bedrooms of 3,5 and 8 beds. A wood pellet-fired stove gives a warm heart to the kitchen/lounge and provides under-floor heating throughout the barn. Book a bed, a private room or sole use of the whole bunkhouse.
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Caban Cysgu, run by Gerlan community, offers purpose-built accommodation at the foot of the Carneddau. Perfect for walking in Eryri (Snowdonia), Tryfan 10 mins away and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) 25 mins drive. A great base for the ‘Welsh 3,000’. Convenient for Snowdonia & Cambrian Ways & Slate Trail. Just 5 mins from Zip World; the longest & fastest zip line in Europe. Plenty of mountain bike trails on the doorstep & road cyclists have Sustrans ‘Lôn Las Ogwen’ route a mile away. For climbers, Idwal is nearby, for canoeists Afon Ogwen is popular.
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Inchnadamph Explorers Lodge is a grand house tastefully converted to provide a variety of accommodation in the Scottish Highlands. Choose from private rooms, dorms, a self-catering cottage, shepherd huts and steading studio apartments. Located at the foot of Ben More Assynt, overlooking Loch Assynt, it is a great base to explore one of the wildest areas in the Highlands. On North Coast 500 classic road route.
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Close to the Milford Haven Waterway, these Environmentally sensitive barns provide Ideal accommodation for walkers, divers and family get-togethers.
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Comfy, farm stay self-catering in rural, but train-accessible, Suffolk. Sleeps 22 in five bedrooms, including a restored Shepherd’s Hut. Mix of oak bunks & beds. Relax in cosy sitting room; croquet, BBQ, ping-pong & badminton; explore the farm, picnic in a meadow. 20 bikes included in hire or kayak down the River Stour. Go Ape, visit castles, coast, historic towns. Larger groups can also book the Tudor Barn (also in this guide).
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The Boarshurst Centre is situated on the north western edge of the Peak District yet with easy road and rail links to Manchester (12 miles away). With 32 beds across 2 dorms and 2 leaders’ rooms the centre provides well-appointed self-catering accommodation for youth, adult and family/friend groups who enjoy outdoor pursuits.
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Embassie Hostel has been owned and run for over 30 years by Kevin and Kevin Senior, a dynamic father son duo. It's is no surprise that they are experts on the goings on in their home city, and rightly proud to show off to their hostelers all that Liverpool has to offer! Being run by a father and son, you can tell the hostel has a friendly, familiar feel to it. A majestic terraced house in an unspoilt Georgian square, it's only 15 minutes’ walk from the centre of Liverpool.
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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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Yealand Old School provides newly refurbished, self-catering accommodation with en suite bedrooms and group dorms. A short stroll from Summerhouse Hill and Warton Crag amidst spectacular limestone scenery and nature reserves. LEJOG passes the front door on Route 6. Quiet village location with pub serving food.
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Looking welcoming with its IHUK sign Radcliffes Lodge is a purpose built boutique hostel overlooking the Marina in the vibrant harbour town of Amble. Sleeping 48 across 9 en suite rooms, with great communal areas, the lodge oozes quality & style. With the Coast & Castles cycle route & the Northumberland Coastal Path on the doorstep the Lodge is perfect for walkers, cyclists, independent travellers & groups of friends & families.
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The Dolphin Inn is situated in the centre of the historic seaside town of Dunbar. Just a short walk to the beach and the High Street and with the possibility of trying out a whole range of outdoor activities close by, the hostel is perfect for weekend breaks and family holidays. This characterful hostel sleeps 27 across 11 rooms. Dogs are welcome by arrangement.
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Inverarary Hostel is perfect for independent holidaymakers who enjoy socialising with other guests from many different backgrounds. The hostel offers simple, comfortable accommodation in private rooms & shared dorms, an excellent self-catering kitchen, communal dining area and a cosy wee lounge.
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Stay for a real escape from it all; real log fires, real ales, no roads and no wifi! There are many interesting and crowd-free routes up Skiddaw, Blencathra, Great Calva and High Pike from the hostel. Skiddaw House is 3.5 miles from the nearest road but you don’t need to carry a heavy bag up here; there’s a shop selling everything you need to cook.
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Situated in the village of Claxby in the Lincolnshire Wolds, this low cost hostel has a well equipped kitchen and good sized communal area. Ideal for groups of from 5 to 20 people.
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Capel Tanrallt is in a great location on the edge of the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) and close to the coast. We make a real effort to personally welcome our guests so that we can make you feel at home and give you all the information you need to ensure you have the best possible stay.
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Just a 5 minute walk from the wonderful fishing port of Gorey…
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Florrie's on the Wall Bunkhouse provides excellent walkers accommodation on the Hadrian Wall Long Distance Path
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Nestling in the often overlooked and stunning Brecon Beacons, Clyngwyn Bunkhouse has much to offer groups of up to 19 (more if the extras camp). Set in large grounds, with a handy cafe on site, it has something for everyone. Situated in the heart of waterfall country, there are walks to spectacular waterfalls from the grounds. The terrain is ideal for mountain biking, gorge walking, canyoning, caving, abseiling, climbing, quad biking, photography and painting.
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Surrounded by heather clad fells Carrshield Camping Barn offers simple accommodation in 3 rooms, each with a wood-burner and a wooden sleeping platform. Perfectly located it’s on the Isaac’s Tea Trail, C2C cycle route and close to a number of mountain bike routes.
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Puttenham Barn Bunkhouse, on the North Downs Way, offers simple accommodation for walkers & cyclists in the Surrey Hills AONB. A converted historic barn with a volunteer warden to welcome you. Pub food in the village. Garden, picnic benches & secure cycle shed. No cars allowed on site but there is limited street parking nearby. Railway stations: Wanborough (3.5 km) & Guildford (7 km).
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Camping undercover in a remote barn with log burning stove. No electric and no distractions, it is the perfect place to switch off from the hassles of a hectic life. BYO mattresses, lights and camping stove.
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The Old School House welcomes schools, groups, walkers and families. At the end of Wainright's coast to coast walk and on The Cleveland Way the hostel is ideal for groups to book exclusively and also ideal for schools and groups of families looking for an affordable holiday by the sea.
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We love running our family business. Being an Independant Hostel is really important to us as is being part of the Independant Hostel Guide.
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The bunkhouse is close to the Long Mynd, a heath covered plateau of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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In rural Dorset, Monlton Wyld Court is run by volunteers to promote sustainable living and holidays. Guest can stay in B&B rooms or dorms and there is a vegetarian self-catering kitchen, cosy lounges and amazing building and grounds to explore.
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Ashbourne Gateway are proud to be members of the Independent Hostel community. The hostel has been running for over 30 years and is a great place to visit and explore all the Peak District National Park has to offer.
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Larkshall (Mendip Bunkhouse) is the Cerberus Spelaeological Society’s HQ. It offers well appointed comfortable accommodation on The Mendips, perfect for caving, walking, cycling, climbing, diving at Vobster Quay and for exploring the Somerset countryside. Local attractions include Wells, Wookey Hole, Cheddar Gorge, Glastonbury & Bath. Camping available. Ample parking.
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, table tennis room and ample parking.
Find out more The History of Hostels and IHUK The concept of holidaying in hostels – youth hostels – was created by a German school teacher who saw the need for older children to have safe, affordable overnight accommodation so they could travel independently. The first youth hostel – or Jugendherberge – was established in 1912 and the principle was soon taken up in the UK.
Youth hostel regional groups quickly formed across the UK, each taking up the challenge of providing basic accommodation within reach of the UK’s industrial cites. The purpose was to allow working people to experience travel (often on foot or by bike) and to enjoy the countryside. These were the first hostels in the UK and the regional groups soon came together to form a youth hostel association. Some of these first youth hostels are members of the IHUK community today.
By the 1990’s the term YHA had become a brand, owned by one organisation. Independent businesses and charities that provided hostel accommodation were not always welcome under this umbrella and so bunkhouses and independent hostels formed outside of the YHA and SYHA. The Independent Hostel Guide, the foundation of the IHUK community, started to provide marketing for these hostels in 1993.
Skiddaw House, an independent hostel affiliated to the YHA In the early 2000’s the YHA closed down some of it rural locations, selling properties, releasing leases and expelling some simple hostels from their brand. Some of these hostels continued to provide hostel accommodation and joined the community of hostels in the IHUK network.
Greenman Backpackers in Chepstow The hostels in IHUK vary greatly: all are independently run and owned and some (around 5%) operate as franchises to the Youth Hostels Association or Hostelling Scotland.
The Independent Hostel community embraces many styles of accommodation like bunkhouses, backpackers and camping barns. What the hostels in the IHUK have in common, is that they provide low-cost self catering accommodation in a shared sociable environment.
Many IHUK hostels are run by independent travellers for fellow travellers Many of the people who run independent hostels are independent travellers or outdoor enthusiasts themselves. They create an environment they would appreciate themselves, and share the love of their location.
Bunkorama Hostel in the Snow Enjoy the welcome at IHUK Hostels One of the many enjoyable aspects about travel is meeting new and different people.
It’s a common misconception that hostels are only for those who can’t afford a hotel. How wrong that is. Hostels provide so much more than a hotel or a B&B. They provide drying rooms, cycle sheds, gardens, libraries, lounges, and an opportunity to get to know fellow guests over a cup of tea in the self-catering kitchen.
IHUK Hostels are found all over the UK From large city centre hostels to small hostels in remote locations you can find independent hostels in most places in the UK. These hostels reflect their surrounding and the interests of their owners. They offer a whole host of activities from star gazing to caving, mountain biking to wildlife watching.
Many are quirky; you can stay in a railway carriage on a country station, in a Victorian gothic mansion on the Jurassic Coast, in a nurses block at a Welsh castle, or in the middle of a wood with wheel barrows to transport your luggage.
Elterwater Hostel in the Lake District Hostels are for people of all ages, backgrounds and finances. Hostels are for everyone with a sense of adventure.
A great place to chat at Edens Yard Hostel