Several members of the 300-strong network of UK Independent Hostels occupy unusual buildings that used to be something else. These include lighthouse keepers’ cottages, railway carriages, schools, Methodist chapels and a courthouse. A large number have also been converted from old farm buildings and barns.
Several members of the 300-strong network of UK Independent Hostels occupy unusual buildings that used to be something else. These include lighthouse keepers’ cottages, railway carriages, schools, Methodist chapels and a courthouse. A large number have also been converted from old farm buildings and barns. They generally provide self-catering facilities and are suitable for singles, couples and groups seeking friendly, clean and inexpensive accommodation. Prices are from around £10 per person per night.
The two former railway carriages are also located in Scotland. Adjacent to Glenfinnan Railway Station, which is on the West Highland Line, near Fort William is the historic GLENFINNAN SLEEPING CAR; there’s also a dining car next door if you prefer not to self-cater. This is an ideal location for exploring the mountains of Lochaber, Rough Bounds, Moidart and Ardgour or a good stopping off point on the way to Skye. A night’s stay here is £14pp or you can book the entire carriage which sleeps ten for £120.
Several members of the UK Independent Hostels network are located in unusual buildings in town and city centres.
Unusual building also include former chapels and schools. Once a Methodist chapel, KIRKBY STEPHEN HOSTEL in Yorkshire has retained the original stained glass windows, pews, pulpit and organ in the communal living areas with the bedrooms and dormitories in a building at the rear. It’s located in the town’s main street close to restaurants and food shops while Wainwright’s coast to coast path and the W2W cycle trail pass by the town. Prices at Kirkby Stephen Hostel are from £14 . Many of the hostels were once village schools; these include BRIDGES LONG MYND YOUTH HOSTEL near Shrewsbury and OLD SCHOOL HOSTEL FORMERLY YHA TREFIN in Pembrokeshire Wales.
To help you choose the hostel that’s right for you, the Independent Hostels network produces a neat, annual handbook that will fit easily into a rucksack, or large pocket. At least one page is devoted to each hostel with a full description of facilities, price guidelines, contact details and colour photographs of the unusual buildings. Details of the hostels are also online on this website with excellent search facilities and maps plus special offers and competitions.