Hostels and bunkhouses providing self catering accommodation in the Lowlands of South Scotland including the Scottish Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, Ayrshire, the Southern Uplands and also the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is a choice of hostels in Edinburgh and Glasgow, all offering fun in city centre locations. These backpackers hostels provide events to get to know other guests including pub crawls, games nights and city tours. Within the Scottish borders there are historic towns, unruffled by the masses, great for enjoying the local history, peaceful walking and fishing.
Scottish Borders, Glasgow & Edinburgh
Barholm Enterprise Centre houses a variety of businesses including an Arts and Crafts Co-operative and Barholm Accommodation which has en suite shared and private rooms.
Perfect for cyclists, walkers, fishermen or those who generally enjoy the outdoors. Facilities include a communal kitchenette (fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster and microwave), sitting room, on-site cycle hire and bike repair facilities & electric car charging.
Cleikum Mill Lodge is a modernised character building in the heart of the Tweed Valley. The Mill sleeps 12, 8 in the Lower Mill and 4 in the Upper Mill. Book individual rooms, a floor or the whole Mill. Innerleithen, a 7Stanes trail centre, is on the NCR1 and Southern Upland Way. It has shops, pubs, restaurants and cafés a short stroll away Dog friendly if booking the whole building in advance.
Slack House Farm is a working, organic 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 bunkbarn is adjacent to the farm’s cheese dairy. It is heated and has basic self-catering facilities and an outdoor cooking/barbecue cabin. Breakfasts, farmhouse suppers, ready meals and packed lunches available.
Situated in the town of Callander at the start of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Callander Hostel is a great location for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With outstanding views over Ben Ledi this Visit Scotland 5* Hostel has comfortable beds, en suite rooms and a fully equipped self-catering kitchen. Everything you need for the perfect retreat. On the Rob Roy Way, Heart200 and NCR 7.
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.
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. You’ll be able to stock up on supplies from Tarbert or Ardrishaig / Lochgilphead, depending on your route.
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 is perfect for independent holidaymakers who enjoy socialising. The hostel offers simple, comfortable accommodation in private rooms & shared dorms, an excellent self-catering kitchen, communal dining area and a cosy wee lounge.
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.
This comfortable family friendly hostel sleeps 6. It is set on a working farm and is surrounded by spectacular Galloway countryside. The hugely spacious open plan design has oak floors, comfy beds, dining area, wood burning stove, separate kitchen with basic cooking facilities, washroom & W.C. There are also: hot showers, washing/drying facilities, bike wash and store. Breakfast and farm produce available. The ideal base for walkers and cyclists with 7Stanes and NCN Route 7 close by.
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.
CLOSED FOR REFURBISHMENT UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
On the banks of Loch Lomond on the West Highland Way, Balmaha Bunkhouse offered quality accommodation with breakfast, bedding, WiFi, tea & coffee included. Ideal for walkers and family get-togethers. A private self-catering chalet slept 4 and there was B&B (en suite) in the main house. Kayaks and Canadian canoes were available for hire on site.
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 and lots of bouldering and climbing.
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.
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.
Springhill’s Lookout & Wigwams offer great value, comfortable accommodation which can be booked as a whole or on a per bed/night basis. Ideal for groups, families or couples. Superbly located on the Northumberland Heritage Coastline there are stunning views towards the Farne Islands and Cheviot Hills while Seahouses and Bamburgh are within very easy reach.
Nestled in the beautiful College Valley, North Northumberland, Mounthooly Bunkhouse is a perfect stop-off on the Pennine Way and St Cuthbert’s Way. Dogs are welcome by arrangement. There is a well equipped kitchen and living area with log burner. Bedding and Wifi is supplied. Cars need a permit to access the private valley which is provided on arrival. A haven for wildlife with red squirrels, otters and a thriving population of feral goats in the valley. The perfect wild get away from it all.
With 16 en suite rooms, Torran Bay Hostel lies at the southern end of Loch Awe. A perfect base for your holiday.
Enjoy excellent fishing or launch your boat from Torran Farm land and spend the day on the 25 mile long loch. Other activities include hiking, cycling, bird watching or golf. Prices includes continental breakfast and all rooms have TV and DVD.
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 and the 7Stanes mountain bike trails are 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.
Birdoswald Bunkhouse is a 17th century farmhouse built into the remains of Birdoswald Roman Fort on the best preserved stretch of Hadrian’s Wall. Set within an English Heritage estate, the bunkhouse is an ideal base for wild walks with breathtaking views and discovering the area’s Roman heritage. The bunkhouse provides group accommodation for groups of between 15 and 37 people, with seven bedrooms, a large farmhouse kitchen and a dining room with views over the fort.
Situated in the village of Greenhead on both the Pennine Way and Hadrian’s Wall, the bunkhouse is ideal for walking the Pennine Way Trail or The Wall Path or for exploring the nearby Roman heritage sites. It has a self-catering kitchen big enough for large groups. The flexible accommodation can be booked by the bed, the room or for sole use. Greenhead hostel/ bunkhouse is run by Greenhead Hotel just over the road.
OPENING IN SPRING 2021. The Dolphin Dunbar Hostel is situated in the centre of the quaint 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. Having just been lovingly restored, this characterful hostel sleeps 27 across 11 rooms. Dogs are welcome by arrangement.
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.
Bluebell Farm Bunkbarn is within walking distance of shops and pubs. It is ideally located for exploring Nothumberland's Heritage Coast, the Cheviot Hills and the Scottish Borders. The Bunkbarn sleeps 14, the Studio 4. Plus 2 studio apartments and 5 self-catering cottages. There is a shared modern toilet block. BYO sleeping bags/towels or hire. Studio apartments & cottages have bed linen.
Bute Backpackers is a well established 4* hostel, located on the seafront of Rothesay, Isle of Bute. It accommodates up to 45 people in 14 bedrooms (single/twin/double/family, some en suite). The main house has a sea front sun lounge with TV, free WiFi, a fully equipped self-catering kitchen & a laundry room. There are regular live music sessions & open mic nights. Plenty of free on street parking and a secure bike shed.
The Well Road Centre sits in its own grounds in the charming town of Moffat. It is ideal for all types of groups, conferences, residential workshops, sports, social events and outdoor activity clubs. The Centre has two spacious meeting rooms, a large bright self-catering kitchen, dining room fully equipped for 65, games hall for indoor activities and table tennis room. Bring your own sleeping bags or linens for single duvets. Ample parking & storage.
Glasgow city centre budget accommodation in mix of en suite private rooms, dorms and VIP suites for groups of 1-20. All rooms are en-suite with mobile cable charging stations. Free superfast WiFi. Perfect for shopping, sports events, gigs & exhibitions. Ideal for individuals & groups. Enjoy ‘All You Can Eat’ buffet breakfasts (£5pp), meal deals and drink promos in the bar.
Just 5 mins from Central Station.
A former smithy converted into a self-catering bunkhouse on a mixed working farm.1/2 mile from Chatto, 8 miles from Northumberland’s vast empty beaches and historic castles and 5 miles from the heather clad Cheviot Hills. Walking, water sports, climbing, fishing, golf and cycling are all nearby. The 2 dorms can be rented separately. There is a fully equipped kitchen, seating around the original blacksmith’s fire & hot showers.
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!
A Georgian farmstead, still a working farm, right on Hadrian’s Wall National Trail and Cycleway near the Solway Coast AONB. Stunning views over the Solway Firth marshes towards Scotland. Bunkbarn or B&B rooms available. The bunkbarn, in a converted stable block, has cooking facilities & hot showers. Towels and sleeping bags can be hired. The bunk barn is heated with a bio mass boiler. Breakfast or bacon sandwiches available with notice. Walking, cycling and family groups are most welcome.
Carlisle’s only independent hostel. Located on picturesque Abbey Street, the building is an old Georgian terrace accommodating up to 20 guests. There is a communal kitchen, lounge with TV, DVDs & book swap and a dining room. Free tea, coffee and WiFi . Prices include a basic breakfast. A great place from which to explore Carlisle, the Tuille House Museum, the Eden Valley, Hadrian’s Wall and more. The staff look forward to welcoming you as their guest to the hostel & the city.
This map of the Scottish Borders, Southern Highlands and South Scotland,including the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, shows the locations of bunkhouses, bothies and hostels in these locations.
This maps of hostel and bunkhouses in Southern Scotland shows self-catering hostel style accommodation in the Scottish Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, Ayrshire and the Southern Uplands. These hostels are all part of Independent Hostels UK, the largest bunkhouse and hostels network in the UK. Lots of tourists travel quickly through these areas or use the hostels and bunkhouses there as a base to visit Edinburgh and Glasgow. Which is a shame, as Southern Scotland has some lovely hostels. Its fertile land historically fed the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and the Scottish Borders are full of history. There are many castles in this area and legends arising from historic border disputes. Robbie Burns and Sir Walter Scott come from Southern Scotland. Sir Walter Scott built Abbotsford House here to be his home. The county of Ayrshire in Southern Scotland is the home of Robert Burns, he was born in the village of Alloway and spent much time in the town of Ayr. The River Tweed flows through the Scottish Borders and along its length are small market towns such as Melrose, with local museums telling folk tales about warring families and the Border Reivers. This area has been fought over since Roman times with many battles between the English and the Scots. Historic monuments open to the public include the ruins of four abbeys, many stately homes, haunted castles, museums, gardens and parks.
For those wanting the excitement of challenging mountain biking the 7stanes bike trails in Dumfires and Galloway provide all the thrills with bunkhouse accommodation close by. The Borderloop Cycle Route circles around Galashiels and Hawick, The Pennine Way finishes in the Scottish borders and St. Cuthbert’s Way passes through the area. The bunkhouses and hostels in this area provide great facilities for groups, families, touring, hill walking and cycling in Southern Scotland and the Scottish Borders.
To the south-west Dumfries and Galloway juts out into the sea and is well worth taking a diversion from the north–south A74 to Glasgow. With a coastline of tidal flats, sandy coves and sea cliffs, this area is ideal for family holidays, walking and bird watching. Pay a visit to the traditional Dumfries towns of Portpatrick and Kirkcudbright.
The Scottish Borders have wild uplands, green valleys and a pretty coastline. Many visitors enjoy outdoor pursuits. Fishing, walking and mountain biking are available including the 7stanes centres’ bike trails. There are great facilities for hill walking, cycling and mountain biking as well as the Tweedlove Cycling festival which takes place in May in the Tweed Valley around Peebles. The Pennine Way finishes in this area of Scottish Borders. St. Cuthbert’s Way is another popular long distance walk. Cyclists enjoy the Borderloop Cycle Route and Sustrans Route 84.
