Former YHA and Private Youth Hostels : in IHUK

Harlow International Hostel

Harlow International Hostel is in the centre of a landscaped park and is one of the oldest buildings in Harlow. The town of Harlow is your ideal base for exploring London, Cambridge and the best of South East England. The journey time to central London is only 35 minutes from the hostel door and it is the closest hostel to Stansted Airport. National Cycle Route 1 passes the front door. Meals can be provided for groups. There's a children's zoo, orienteering course and outdoor pursuits centre in the park.

Bretton Hostel

Perched at 1200 feet above sea level, Bretton Hostel (formerly Bretton YHA) sits in three acres of meadows and small copses on Bretton Edge, near historic Eyam in the heart of the Peak District National Park. The hostel is surrounded by fields, with glorious far reaching views over the gritstone edges and moors of the Dark Peak to the north and the limestone plateaus of the White Peak to the south. The sense of space and tranquillity is immense, making it a perfect place for winding down in, or as a base for the fabulous outdoor activities the Peak District has to offer.

The Long Barn

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.

Sheen Bunkhouse

Sheen Bunkhouse is in a quiet corner of the Peak District, close to the beautiful Dove and Manifold valleys. It offers a large TV lounge, well equipped self-catering facilities and two bunkrooms with wash basins. The Manifold Track, Tissington Trail and High Peak Trail give easy access to beautiful countryside, ideal for families and cyclists. Dovedale, the Upper Dove Valley and the remote moors around Flash and Longnor offer stunning walking. Buxton (8miles), Leek (10 miles) and Bakewell (12 miles) & Alton Towers (20 mins by car) are all easily accessed

Bridges Long Mynd Youth Hostel

Tucked away in the tranquil Shropshire hills, close to Long Mynd & Stiperstones, Bridges Hostel is an ideal spot for walkers with the Shropshire Way passing close by. It is also handy for the End to End cycle route and good mountain biking routes. The hostel has a good kitchen, lounge with wood fire, a drying room, a shop and a large garden. Meals are available, camping is allowed and there is a pub nearby.

The Barrel Store

Located in the heart of Cirencester, the newly converted Barrel Store provides stylish self-catering accommodation for up to 43 guests in 14 rooms. The rooms are designed to be simple but stylish and almost all are en-suite. Within easy reach of many well-known Cotswold attractions and accessible to transport links, the Barrel Store is perfect as a base from which to explore this fantastic area. Exclusive hire available, get in touch for details.

Helmsdale Hostel

Set in the scenic coastal village of Helmsdale, the hostel offers spacious en suite accommodation including a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable lounge area with log burning stove. On the NC500 and Lands End John O'Groats route, the hostel is popular with 'end to enders' and walkers exploring the Far North Marilyn Hills. It is also a perfect stop on the way top Orkney. Dogs welcome on request. Groups welcome, discount for sole use. (Currently closed - reopening June 2018)

Loch Ness Backpackers Lodge

This 18th century Highland farm house provides warm & friendly hostel accommodation. Ideally situated within walking distance of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, on the Great Glen Way and with pubs, restaurants and supermarket close by. Residents only bar offers over 70 Scottish beers and 25 Scotch whiskies. Horse riding, fishing, watersports and mountain biking can all be arranged locally. Free parking and free WiFi. Bike storage available except in Jul/Aug.

Kirk Yetholm Friends of Nature House

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.

Alston Youth Hostel

On the very eastern edge of Cumbria, nestled in the North Pennines and within the historic town of Alston, is Alston Youth Hostel. Not only is the hostel about halfway on the very popular Coast to Coast (C2C) cycle route but it is also located directly on the Pennine Way! You'll receive a warm welcome (as warm as our large drying room!!) and hopefully see the resident red squirrels!

Greenhead Hostel

Situated in the village of Greenhead on Hadrian's Wall, the hostel is ideal for walking the Pennine Way or The Wall or for exploring the nearby Roman heritage sites. It boasts a newly refurbished self-catering kitchen (big enough for large groups). The flexible accommodation can be booked by the bed, the room or for sole use. The hostel is run by Greenhead Hotel (over the road).

Cholderton Stonehenge Youth Hostel

Situated on a delightful family owned farm, this 4* youth hostel provides family/child friendly accommodation for groups or individuals. The hostel is located 8 miles from historic Salisbury with its cathedral, and only 5 miles from Stonehenge. Cooked breakfasts are available from the Ewe Tree Café and packed lunches & evening meals can be pre-booked. Guests get free admission to Charlie's rare breeds farm and large indoor play barn, just next door. Or why not explore the tree top trail, zip wire and woodland walk in the grounds.

Kirkby Stephen Hostel

Former Methodist Church with a range of accommodation for individuals, families and groups amongst beautiful authentic features; stained glass, arches and panels. There's a large dining room & kitchen and a quiet lounge in the gallery. Kirkby Stephen is a market town in the upper Eden valley, On Wainwright's Coast to Coast path with easy access to the Pennine Journey, the Walney to Wear Cycle Route, the Howgill Hills, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lakes.

Prosen Hostel

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.

Old School Hostel Formerly Yha Trefin

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.

Morags Lodge Loch Ness

A multi-award winning 4* hostel with a range of rooms to meet all needs and budgets in the bustling village of Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness. Your perfect base to explore the Loch Ness area and an ideal stop off on the Great Glen Way. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and set in wooded grounds the hostel boasts 24 hour self-catering facilities, excellent home-made cheap meal options, a rustic bar, free WiFi, bike hire and ample car parking.

Wee Row Hostel

Located in the heart of New Lanark World Heritage Site and just one hour’s drive from either Glasgow or Edinburgh ‘Wee Row’ is the perfect base for your holiday. The award winning New Lanark Visitor Centre is on the doorstep; step back in time and rediscover life in this working mill village. The hostel sleeps 62 in 18 private rooms (all en suite) and has terrific views over the River Clyde and surrounding countryside. Facilities include bike storage, laundry and drying room. Breakfasts and evening meals are available at the New Lanark Mill Hotel.

Shining Cliff Hostel

With its own crags, streams, lakes and over 100-acres of mature woodland, the hidden Shining Cliff Hostel has nature on its doorstep. The hostel offers a full range of activities; on-site there's bushcraft, abseiling, ecology and environmental art, or travel a little further afield for climbing, caving & canoeing. Access is a ten minute walk, down a very rough track, from the nearest parking area. Paths lead through the woods to the A6 at Ambergate (20 mins' walk) which has a food shop, pubs, buses and trains to Derby. Sole use only.

Wooler Youth Hostel

Wooler Youth Hostel & Shepherd's Huts are on the edge of the town and offer 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, some of the best bouldering in the UK.

Old Red Lion

The medieval walled town of Castle Acre is on the Peddars Way, ancient track/long distance path. This former pub, continues to serve travellers who seek refreshment and repose. Stay in private rooms or dorms (bedding/linen supplied). There are quiet communal areas and 2 large areas suitable for group activities.

Kendal Hostel

Kendal Hostel is a family run hostel set in, a Georgian townhouse in the historic market town of Kendal, right in front of the well known Brewery Arts Centre and only a stone's throw from the town centre. 13 bedrooms sleep up to 68 guests which are welcome to use the Kitchen, Lounge, Dining Room, Bike Shed and FREE Wi-Fi.

Demesne Farm Bunkhouse

This bunkhouse is on a working hill farm in the centre of Bellingham and near to Northumberland National Park. Situated on the Pennine Way, Route 68, and the Reivers & Sandstone Way cycle routes, it is an ideal base for exploring Northumberland, Hadrian's Wall, Kielder Water and many climbing crags. The bunkhouse is very well appointed with quality bunks, a well equipped kitchen, a farmhouse table to seat 15 and a large comfortable communal area.

Borth Youth Hostel

With 4 miles of stunning beach just 20 metres from the front door, Borth Youth Hostel is the perfect location for a beach holiday. This Edwardian house has 9 bedrooms with sea views 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 both mountain biking & surfing. With two classrooms, Borth YHA is idea for school trips too. The hostel has free WiFi, a games and TV room, bike storage and drying room. Meals and a licensed bar are available.

Lledr House

Lledr House nestles in Snowdonia National Park. Once a 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, cheap, comfortable accommodation. Betws-y-Coed, Llyn Elsi and Tree Tops high rope course close by.

Dolgoch Hostel

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.

Wern Watkin Bunkhouse

Wern Watkin Bunkhouse (also known as YHA Llangattock) sits high up on Mynnedd Llangattock in the Brecon Beacons National Park. There is direct access on foot to the mountainside and a flat mountain road to a National Cycle Route. The Llangattock Cave complex is within easy walking distance and the scenic Wye and Usk river valleys are just a short drive away. Instruction in a range of outdoor activities can be arranged.

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Holiday Park

Kyle of Tongue Hostel is a stone lodge, magnificently situated on the romantic shores of the Kyle of Tongue on the north coast of Scotland. It has supreme panoramic views of Castle Varich, Ben Hope and the queen of Scottish mountains - Ben Loyal. Beautifully furnished, like a boutique hotel, but with all the friendliness of a hostel. There are comfortable private bedrooms, roomy shared dormitories and relaxing communal areas. Camping also available.

Blytheswood Hostel

In secluded, native woodland on the eastern edge of Dartmoor, the cabin has been a hostel since the 1930s. Friendly and peaceful, with a homely living room, wood burner, self-catering kitchen, picnic tables, BBQ and fire pit. Walk straight from the door to Heltor and Blackingstone Rock or along the river to Fingle Bridge and Castle Drogo. Cross stepping stones to Dunsford village. Moretonhampstead and Chagford are nearby. On the LEJOG cycling route.

Ninebanks Youth Hostel

Book a bed, a room, or the whole hostel! Ninebanks 4* hostel, an 18th century cottage, has en suite bedrooms, a sitting room with log-burner, a spacious dining room and a stunning rural location. There are now two new self-catering high quality chalets; 1 double & 1 family/double, fully self-contained and separate from the hostel. Dogs welcome with prior notice on sole use or in the chalets.

Court Hill Centre

Just 2 miles south of Wantage, and only a few steps from the historic Ridgeway National Trail, Court Hill Centre enjoys breathtaking views over the Vale of the White Horse. Reclaimed barns surround a pretty courtyard garden. Offering accommodation to families, groups and individuals, the centre offers evening meals, breakfasts and picnic lunches. There is a beautiful high-roofed dining room which retains the atmosphere of the old barn. A meeting/class-room camping and self-catering available.

Corris Hostel

Perfect for group and family gatherings, Corris hostel is a renowned haven from the stresses of the outside world; with its homely atmosphere, friendly staff and cosy wood fires. Outside there are landscaped hill gardens with barbecue and campfire areas. Situated in the Dyfi Biosphere and southern Snowdonia National Park, the hostel is close to Cadair Idris and Centre for Alternative Technology. A walkers and cyclists paradise in addition to many other attractions.

Spruce Cottage Bunkhouse By Forest View

A former forestry worker's cottage in the centre of Byrness on the Pennine way and on the edge of Northumberland National Park. Ideal for exploring Northumberland, Kielder Forest and the Scottish Borders. It is perfect for groups, individuals and families accomoodated in full sized single beds (not bunks) plus a Z bed Both the large living and dining (seats 10) rooms have open fires. The kitchen is well equipped. The multi award winning Forest View Inn is opposite with real ale & food if booked in advance.

Tyncornel Hostel previously YHA Tyncornel Bunkhouse

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.

Birsay Outdoor Centre

Birsay Hostel in the northwest corner of the Orkney mainland offers comfortable accommodation for up to 26 in 5 bedrooms. An ideal venue for outdoor education trips, weddings, clubs or family gatherings. It has a well equipped kitchen, dining area, drying room, disabled access and all bed linen is provided. There is a campsite in the extensive grounds. Close to spectacular coast, RSPB reserves and the remains of early Christian, Neolithic and Norse settlements. UNESCO heritage sites.

Skiddaw House

The highest hostel in Britain! Escape the crowds at this remote mountain hostel. No roads, no other buildings, and no phone signal; just uninterrupted views of beautiful mountain wilderness. But there's no need to compromise on comfort, with wood burning stoves, hot showers, a well-stocked bar and your bed made up for you. We're half way up Skiddaw but an easy walk or mountain bike ride from Keswick or Threlkeld.

The Lochside Hostel

Perched right on the banks of Loch Ness, the Lochside Hostel has amazing 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. Recently opened by MacBackpackers, an award winning tour company who also own 3 hostels in Edinburgh, a great stay awaits!

Ingleton Yha Greta Tower

On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, surrounded by magnificent countryside with caves, waterfalls and mountains, Ingleton is dominated by Ingleborough, the best known of Yorkshire's Three Peaks (this is a great base for The Challenge). Known for its walking routes and waterfall trail, there is plenty here for walkers, climbers, mountain bikers and cavers. Licensed and serving tasty meals there is also a self-catering kitchen. Perfect for families and school trips.

Inveraray Hostel

The historic town of Inveraray, on the western shore of Loch Fyne, is a superb location for exploring Scotland's Southern Highlands and Islands. Inverarary Hostel, a purpose built wooden building, is perfect for independent holidaymakers who enjoy socialising with other guests from many different backgrounds. The hostel offers basic, comfortable accommodation in private rooms & dorms, an excellent self- catering kitchen, dining and sitting areas.

Derwentwater Independent Hostel

Family run and friendly, Derwentwater Independent Hostel is a Georgian mansion in 17 acres of grounds with stunning mountain views. Just 2 miles from Keswick, close to the Coast to Coast route and the delights of Borrowdale it makes a great base for individuals, families, groups and conferences. The hostel has plenty of space in and out for you to use and relax. Home made food is available.

Thorney How

Thorney How offers clean, comfortable accommodation in Grasmere. Family-run and welcoming it provides en suite, B&B and self-catering accommodation. Close to the Coast to Coast path, local village and lake it is your perfect Lake District base. A bar, restaurant and spacious grounds complete the experience.

Great Glen Hostel

Located between mountains and lochs 20 miles north of Fort William and 10 miles south of Loch Ness, the Great Glen Hostel is your ideal base. Perfect for touring the Highlands, bagging Munros or paddling rivers and lochs. It's only a short walk to the Great Glen Way. The hostel provides comfortable, well appointed accommodation in twin, family and dormitory rooms and has a shop where you can buy your essentials.

Alnwick Youth Hostel

This family friendly 4* hostel has en suite rooms, cosy lounge, games room and a spacious dining room. Located in the centre of town it is ideal for Alnwick Castle, of Downton Abbey and Harry Potter fame and Alnwick Garden. The coast, with castles at Dunstanburgh and Bamburgh, Farne Isles, magical Holy Island and glorious sandy beaches is just a 15 drive. While inland there's the Cheviot Hills & Hadrian's Wall.

Saddle Mountain Hostel

Saddle Mountain Hostel is a small and friendly 4* hostel in Invergarry, between Loch Ness and Fort William and at the junction with the road to Skye. The delightful hostel sleeps 24 people in 5 rooms. It has a large kitchen, dining room and lounge, free WiFi, a purpose-built drying room and bike storage. A Great location for Munro bagging, walking, cycling, scenic tours, water sports, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Edmundbyers YHA at Low House Haven

Edmunbyers hostel lies in moorland, close to the Northumberland/County Durham boundary, with fine views and just two miles from Derwent Reservoir, for sailing and fishing. Ideal for walking holidays, it's also on the Coast to Coast cycle route and is close to Hadrians Wall and the Beamish outdoor museum. Cosy and comfortable with optional home cooked evening meals and breakfasts.

Arnside Independent Hostel

This large, family run Edwardian house hostel overlooks Morecambe Bay with great views of the Lake District mountains. The Lakes, Yorkshire Dales, Arneside Knott and Leighton Moss are all easily accessed. Enjoy spectacular summer evening sunsets in the garden with fire pits and BBQ or winter evenings relaxing by the fire in the lounge, playing board games with a local ale from the bar. Self-cater in the large kitchen or book a delicious home cooked supper in the restaurant.

Lawrenny Millennium Hostel

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.

Elmscott Hostel

Elmscott Hostel is surrounded by unspoiled coastline with sea views of Lundy Island. Great for walking, cycling, surfing and bird watching. The South West Coast Path is just a few mins' walk away. The hostel is well equipped for all your self-catering needs and has a games room and shop. In winter it is only available for sole use bookings.

Hoy Centre

Surrounded by magnificent scenery, the Hoy Centre is ideally situated for a peaceful and relaxing holiday and is also an ideal venue for outdoor education trips, weddings, workshops, clubs or family gatherings. Offering high quality, four star accommodation, the centre has a well equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge area and a spacious dining hall. All rooms are en suite with twin beds and one set of bunk beds. Hoy is an RSPB reserve comprising 3,500ha of upland heath and cliffs with a large variety of wildlife including arctic hares.

Hunstanton Backpackers & Yha

This family run, family friendly licensed hostel is ideal for schools (classroom available) & groups as sole use or for families & individuals in private rooms. Close to the beach, town centre, Sealife sanctuary, cliff walks and buses serving the Norfolk Coast. Perfect for walking, cycling, birding and fun on the beach. Food served or self-cater in the kitchen. Enjoy sea views from the garden patio.

Cote Ghyll Mill

In a beautiful and secluded valley in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park, this converted linen mill is a perfect base for exploring the moors, dales & coast. Osmotherley has pubs, a tea room & shops. Explore the stream and woodlands or take part in organised activities for children and groups. Next to Cod Beck reservoir, Cleveland Way, Coast to Coast and at start of Lyke Wake Walk. All refurbished, en-suite bedrooms.

Broadford Backpackers

Broadford is well connected for enjoying the Isle of Skye and Broadord Backpackers is a clean, cosy, child-friendly hostel with helpful staff for advice and information. There is a large kitchen for self-catering and a pleasant dining room overlooking the garden. The communal area has a TV and comfortable seating with plenty of board games and tea or coffee. Put in a lovely house cat and you've got yourself a home away from home.

Hawse End Centre

Hawse End Centre sits at the head of the magnificent Borrowdale Valley on the shores of Derwentwater with easy access to Keswick via launch or lakeside walk. The house is a large, comfortable, country mansion, ideal for large groups, while the Cottage is more suited to smaller group, families and individuals. For the more adventurous there are two yurts with stunning views and transparent domes for star gazing. Catering & outdoor activities with instruction can be booked in advance.

All Stretton Bunkhouse

All Stretton Bunkhouse offers comfortable, cosy, self-catering accommodation for individuals and groups of up to 10. It has easy access to the Long Mynd with walks and bike rides for all levels. It is within easy reach of the busy town of Church Stretton and just 10 minutes' walk from the local pub. There's a well equipped kitchen, a shower, two toilets and a tumble dryer. Sole use bookings may bring dogs.

Mounthooly Bunkhouse

Nestled in the beautiful College Valley, North Northumberland, Mounthooly Bunkhouse is a perfect stop off on the Pennine Way and St Cuthbert's Way. With bunkrooms, a well equipped kitchen and living area with log burner. Bedding 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.

Earby Friends of Nature House

Earby's newly refurbished Independent Hostel (Friends of Nature House), welcomes individuals, families and small groups to this historic, cosy cottage with picturesque garden. A perfect stop for Pennine Way walkers and great base for local day hikes, cyclists or discovering the countryside and local heritage. Featuring comfortable lounges, wood burning stove, a well equipped kitchen and dining areas that seat 18. Real ale pub and meals nearby. Adults must accompany U16s.