If you’re looking for that perfect shot for your Instagram grid, then you’re in luck because our hostels are in the most beautiful places in the UK. Get snap happy with your holiday pics at these stunning landmarks. (Please remember never to compromise your safety for a good selfie…)
Roman Baths, Bath
There is no doubt that Bath is one of the most Instragrammable cities in England, with stunning architecture and steeped in history, it has it all. It’s a great weekend destination for tasty food, shopping and culture. Walk on the original Roman pavements and see the ruins then visit the Roman Baths for its picture-perfect backdrop of perfectly preserved remains of the ancient world — the Baths still flow with natural hot water.
Stay at YHA Bath, an Italianate grade II listed mansion in a street in Bath that is lined with historic grade A buildings. Our authentic Victorian mansion is built in yellow Bath stone and has many beautiful period features and reflects Bath’s famous Jane Austen heritage. Look out for romantic balconies, carved stone pillars, an atmospheric wrought iron staircase and all the Roman-inspired detail and creamy plaster of the Georgian look.
Conwy Castle, Wales
This 13th-century beautiful castle is the main attraction in town. Built by King Edward I and his architect Master James of St George between 1283 and 1287, it’s now been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval fortress towers over the town and in the distance emerge the rugged mountains of Snowdonia whilst below is the harbour and narrow streets of Conwy. At night, it lights up, making it even more glorious and photogenic.
Stay at YHA Conwy, which is a 10-minute walk from the centre of town. It’s a modern youth hostel on a hill just outside the historic walls and enjoys panoramic views of Conwy’s medieval castle, the mountains and the valley. Our manager recommends walking along the Conwy town wall towards the harbour to get an incredible perspective of the town.
Coniston Water, Lake District
Coniston Water is a picturesque area of water in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Remains of agricultural settlements from the Bronze Age have been found near the shores and in the 13th and 14th centuries Coniston Water was in important source of fish for the monks of Furness Abbey. The lake is a magical place, scattered with little wooden boats and you can imagine why it inspired the famous novel Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome.
Stay at YHA Hawkshead which is situated midway between Windermere and Coniston Water, in the grade II listed Regency-style building where you can relax on the veranda, overlooking the expansive gardens and tranquil Esthwaite Water. Or you could camp in the Victorian kitchen garden, surrounded by woodland with a stream running alongside the site. The hostel also offers eight camping pods, a bell tent and tipis. Spoilt for choice!
Durdle Door Lulworth Cove, Dorset
Part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, the famous natural limestone arch that is Durdle Door is surrounded by sparkling turquoise water. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in the UK. You can walk the South West Coast Path from there which offers even more spectacular views and photo opportunities across the Jurassic Coast. The best time to go is early morning to capture the sunrise and avoid the crowds.
Stay at YHA Lulworth Cove, a mile away from Durdle Door and have the whole hostel to yourself as it’s available for YHA Exclusive Hire. Slightly further around the coast is YHA Swanage, a large, sea-facing Victorian villa in a hilltop location. The rooms have spectacular panoramic views of Swanage town and bay and it’s just a five-minute walk to the beach. The town is a classic British seaside resort and a brilliant getaway.
Stay at YHA Lulworth Cove, YHA Swanage
New Forest National Park
The New Forest is enchanting because it’s home to some of the prettiest scenery in the UK. The ancient woods, the roaming ponies, the yellow gorse all combine to make this impressive National Park a very Instagram worthy spot. Throw in some thatched cottages and the coast being close by then this also makes it a top-notch holiday location.
Stay at YHA New Forest  because it is set within beautiful grounds on the edges of the Hampshire village of Burley. Its peaceful position is close to the thatched cottages, tea rooms and cider farms which typify the area, and the coast is just a short journey away. Airstream, camping pods, land pods, bell tents and traditional camping are all available here too.
The Shambles, York
York is without doubt one of the most interesting and beautiful cities in England. With the remarkable York Minster, the Roman walls and the motte and bailey medieval Norman castle there is plenty to see and do. There is one street that is the place to get your photo taken and that’s The Shambles. It looks like it’s straight out of a Harry Potter film with its cobbled street and timber-framed buildings dating back from the 14th century. Some properties still have exterior wooden shelves, reminders of when cuts of meat were served from the open windows. Photo opportunities aplenty.
Stay at YHA York. It’s just a 15-minute-walk along the river to the city centre. Although you may be in an historic town the hostel has all the modern amenities you need, with wi-fi, free parking, en-suite private rooms available, a bar serving local ales and a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream machine. What more could you want?
Discover even more about YHA summer holidays
