On 10th October each year, World Mental Health Day shines light on the most significant societal challenges affecting people’s mental wellbeing. The theme for 2024 is prioritising mental health in the workplace. Remember, in order to flourish you need to be at your best mentally, so if you’re suffering from burnout and need a break from the pressures at work, we suggest stepping back and taking yourself on a mindful escape.
If you crave peacefulness and want to build a deeper connection with nature, take a wellbeing escape to these six serene hostels, where tranquillity awaits. Our suggestions have been carefully categorised into activities, craft and relaxation, allowing you to choose based on personal interests.
YHA Malham
Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, YHA Malham is situated in a quiet and beautiful village blessed with classic limestone scenery. Once regarded as one of England’s great wonders, Malham is home to a magnificent crescent-shaped cove which can be seen for miles. Picture delightful stone cottages and a calming stream, as Malham’s landscape is perfect to sit back, relax and unwind – perfect for your wellbeing.
Activity
Take a trip to the legendary Janet’s Foss waterfall, home of the mythical Queen of the Fairies, less than a mile from YHA Malham. With breathtaking turquoise and crystal-clear waters, Janet’s Foss is enchanting for a quick dip or gentle swim. Wild swimming is known to increase the production of serotonin and decrease feelings of stress, ultimately calming the mind and body.
Craft
Capture ever-lasting memories with photography. Snap a picture of the vibrant limestone cliffs and your camera will be overflowing with photos displaying the serene beauty of Malham. Photography acts as an outlet for self-expression and plays a positive role in improving your mental health.
Relaxation
Put your feet up in the hostel’s well-equipped social spaces, where at the end of the day you can enjoy a cup of tea or glass of wine in our licensed bar. Reflect on the day’s adventures and take in your peaceful surroundings. Why not strike up a conversation with another guest? Learning from other people is an underrated and rewarding aspect of travel and forming new connections wards off feelings of loneliness and improves your sense of happiness.
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YHA Boggle Hole
Tucked away in a secluded, old smuggler’s cove, YHA Boggle Hole is a secret hideaway near Whitby. Just a short walk away from the rugged North Yorkshire coast, this getaway is perfect for nature enthusiasts and sea lovers. The area is full of myths and legends: boggles were mischievous goblins who had healing powers and lived in caves. Step back in time and explore this unique area’s history and natural beauty.
Activity
Experience the sand between your toes, breeze in your hair and the sounds of waves lapping on the shore. Being close to the coast has a variety of benefits such as reducing anxiety, and breathing in sea air improves sleep. Walk along the stunning coast to Robin Hood’s Bay and wander through the windy cobbled streets and explore the old fishing village.
Craft
Bring the vivid coastal views to life with a colouring activity. Include the bright blue sky, golden sands and rocky cliff faces. You don’t need to be Vincent Van Gogh, just put pencil or brush to paper and see where the session takes you. Colouring helps calm the brain and allows your body to relax.
Relaxation
Stroll down to the beach and find plenty of rock pools waiting to be explored. Peer into the pools to see the small sea creatures, crabs, fish and interesting plant life. Rock pooling encourages you to take the time to step carefully, examine the fascinating sea life and explore what’s beneath the surface.
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YHA Truleigh Hill
Located in the stunning South Downs National Park, YHA Truleigh Hill has extensive grounds with a campfire, pond and nature area. With a hilly landscape of greens and golds often used for cycling and hiking, the area offers solitude and a chance to admire our serene countryside. Limited Wi-Fi means you can focus on the surrounding beauty and unplug from any worries or anxieties.
Activity
Let the wind blow through your hair as you cycle around the beautiful South Downs. You’ll feel a million miles away from civilisation, so it’s the perfect opportunity to find your inner peace. Breathe in the fresh air and admire the chalk ridges and rivers. Exercise causes your brain to release ‘feel good’ chemicals like endorphins that help improve your mood.
Craft
Have a go at the simple, yet relaxing, activity of leaf tracing. Gather a pile of fallen leaves, making sure they’re different shapes and sizes, and let your creativity flow by creating various patterns on a piece of paper. Not only is this a keepsake of your getaway, but it’s a calming project to bring you closer to nature.
Relaxation
Slow down, take a seat and listen to the natural world around you. With wildflower meadows and lush grass, the South Downs National Park is an ideal habitat for curlews, whinchats and corn buntings. Listen to their calls and allow yourself to de-stress.
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YHA Ambleside
Positioned on the shores of Lake Windermere, YHA Ambleside is more than just a hostel – it’s a place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Step outside to panoramic views of the Lake District and take in one of England’s most stunning landscapes. There’s a brilliant lakeside cafe which is perfect to relax and forget about the world in.
Activity
Give water sports like canoeing or kayaking a try at a nearby water sports centre. Make a splash as you move through the water and let the stillness of your surroundings calm your mind. Water sports are great for all abilities, whether you’re a beginner or expert. Physical activity can also help distract you from negative thought patterns.
Craft
Grab a journal to document your thoughts, sketch your beautiful backdrop, or write a thrilling short story based on your getaway. Journalling provides a safe space for you to express your emotions and organise the mind to reduce overwhelming feelings of stress. The opportunities are endless when surrounded by such stunning countryside.
Relaxation
Unwind at the end of the day and give meditation and reflection a try. Attempt rhythmic breathing with the 4-7-8 method, inhaling for four seconds, holding for seven and exhaling for eight. This will help reduce stress, encourage deeper sleep and promote inner peace. What better place to chill out and reflect on your day, than in the middle of beautiful surroundings.
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YHA Chester Trafford Hall
Explore the grandeur of this glorious Georgian house, built in 1756, which is full of rich history and positioned perfectly to investigate Chester’s many attractions. You’ll be surrounded by stylish architecture and 14 acres of organic grounds complete with nature walks and landscaped gardens to explore. We have a variety of shared spaces to make your stay even more convenient such as, a lounge, dining area, games room, drying room and kitchenette.
Activity
Make the most of YHA Chester Trafford Hall’s large grounds and have a go at yoga or Pilates in the great outdoors. Breathe in the fresh air and relax your muscles, which will help release tension and reduce stress. You don’t have to be an expert, so try watching a tutorial and focus on blocking out any distractions.
Craft
Collect and preserve your memories by creating a scrapbook of your holiday. Turn your precious moments into a keepsake to look back on for years to come. Save that attraction ticket, pick up an autumnal leaf or press a wildflower. Creating a scrapbook demands concentration and focus, which can act as an escape from everyday stress and worries.
Relaxation
Take your pick from our various social spaces, find a quiet corner and lose yourself in a good book. Allow yourself to fall into another world and forget about everyday life, as you’re surrounded by our charming hostel. If reading doesn’t tickle your fancy, why not listen to a podcast or your favourite music artist?
YHA Cheddar
Nestled in the heart of the Mendip Hills, YHA Cheddar is only a few minutes away from the iconic, limestone Cheddar Gorge. Our characterful Victorian house is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With wonderful walking and cycling routes, or easy travel to nearby cities of Bath and Bristol, there’s something for every taste and new opportunities to explore the surroundings.
Activity
Whether you want to head to the hills or stick to a gentler terrain, a refreshing hike or climb will reveal breathtaking views of the Mendips. Nearby trails promise a rewarding experience regardless of your ability. Breathe in the fresh air and get out into the countryside.
Craft
Preserve the beauty of Mendip wildflowers by creating lasting memories of your journey with flower pressing. Each flower tells a story of your visit to our unique hostel and the country’s natural beauty. Remember you can’t pick every flower, so check before you pull!
Relaxation
Unwind with an informative podcast that engages your mind whilst you relax your body, whether that’s in our cosy social spaces or outside in the countryside. Immerse yourself in the story you’re being told and concentrate on your breathing and loosening up.
Visit YHA Cheddar
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