YHA Blog
Having decided to walk the Thames Path National Trail from the source to the Thames Barrier, I am dropped off by my better half just north of the village of Kemble – the alleged/most popular source of the mighty River Isis. A few fields away there is a stone marker...
There’s a strong sense of the past at YHA Dartmoor, which is very much in character with its surroundings. Nestled in a dip reached by two small roads, surrounded by forest and moorland, it’s a small haven. Or so it feels after spending a windy day on the moors,...
There’s a cool vibe at ‘Trey Bay’, maybe to do with the hostel being at a dead end facing the sea, and you need to settle into this environment to appreciate the place. The big windows of the café bar and picnic benches in the garden are perfect for contemplating...
YHA Tintagel – what a spot. Approaching in my Volkswagen campervan, I became increasingly concerned as the small road petered out into a slate-y track and it looked like I might be doing a Thelma and Louise stunt off Glebe Cliff. Thankfully I arrived safely at YHA...
I’m from Dorset, home of the great novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, so I just had to make a pilgrimage to St Juliot’s Church with its Hardy connections. Tucked away down a tiny lane, its Whistler window is an unexpected treat. Boscastle is a short drive from here....
After leaving YHA Bath, it’s quite a cycle to YHA Cholderton Stonehenge, across the rolling Wiltshire Downs. Arriving relieved, an hour ahead of check-in at 5 pm, we were allowed in to use the facilities. I took a mug of tea through to the sunny conservatory, while...
I have to admit, Bathwick Hill beat me – cycling up it, that is. I saw a few hardy locals, probably 30 years younger than me, managing it, but it just keeps going. YHA Bath is up there on the left, tucked away up its own steep drive. As you round the corner, an...
After setting off from YHA South Downs, it’s about 9 miles walking along the South Downs Way before you reach Brighton Racecourse. The last 1.5 miles is through town, on the way down to the seafront. YHA Brighton is on the Old Steine, facing the Gardens and Royal...
It’s just over 14 miles walking west from YHA Eastbourne to YHA South Downs, along a lovely stretch of the South Downs Way, with far-reaching views and the sound of skylarks to keep you company; very liberating. As you crest the last hill, it’s good to pause and...
Arriving in Eastbourne by train one January afternoon, I stroll down towards the seafront to visit the Towner Art Gallery (free entry), which has a collection of work by local artist Eric Ravilious (1903–42). The hostel is a half-hour walk (1.6 miles) from the...
