One of YHA’s great selling points is the beautiful locations of its hostels. Some are remote, others in buzzing urban centres – but we like to think they’re all in reach. A huge number of our lodgings sit close to train stations or bus stops, meaning that getting to your summer destination doesn’t have to rely on use of a private vehicle. We’ve highlighted a handful of top options here.
YHA Berwick
Quirky Northumberland conversion
There is something special about Berwick-upon-Tweed: a town two and a half miles from the Scottish border, shaped by its geography on the mouth of the River Tweed, and full of historical sites. The hostel is set in a converted granary, just a few minutes from the train station, and makes a great base for the dramatic Northumberland Coast.
Stay at YHA Berwick
YHA Sheringham
Norfolk seaside charm
YHA Sheringham is only a 10-minute walk from the beach, and a mere five minutes from the train station and town centre. The ancient settlement of Sheringham sits on the North Norfolk coast and has the appealing motto of “the sea enriches, and the pine adorns”. Explore the gorgeous beaches and woodlands of the coast from this spacious hostel.
Stay at YHA Sheringham
YHA Swanage
Family destination by the beach
In the year of the staycation, YHA Swanage will no doubt prove very popular. This sizeable Victorian villa is just a five-minute walk from an award-winning beach on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast and under 10 minutes from the train station. The hostel is recently refurbished, and has plenty of family sleeping options.
Stay at YHA Swanage
YHA South Downs
Quintessential Sussex experience
YHA South Downs, located in an atmospheric old flint farmhouse, sits among the classic rolling downland of Sussex. It’s just a few miles outside of the historical town of Lewes – and a mere stroll from Southease train station. You’ll also find camping pods, bell tents, Landpods and campsite facilities available.
Stay at YHA South Downs
YHA Cheddar
Escape to the heart of the Mendips
The famous Cheddar Gorge is within walking distance of this converted Victorian house and annexe – set in the little town of Cheddar itself, which is served by Bus 668. The hostel is also an ideal location for an activity break in the Mendips, with plenty of cycle and walking routes passing nearby. Activities can be organised through the hostel with partners Mendip Outdoor Pursuits.
Stay at YHA Cheddar
YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass
Mountain adventures on the doorstep
This hostel is set in one of Britain’s most important climbing locations. In its former life as a hotel, it hosted some of the most famous names in Everest history, including George Mallory, who practised on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)’s Y Lliwedd face for the 1924 expedition. Walk out the door, and the mountains are right there. Various bus routes run right past the hostel.
Stay at YHA Snowdon Pen-Y-Pass
YHA Bristol
Stay in the heart of the city
Located in the city centre, YHA Bristol is perfect for a city break. Bustling Bristol is a great city for exploring on foot, by bike or on public transport from canalside wandering to beautiful views from Clifton Suspension bridge, to cycle routes and galleries — all within easy reach of the hostel. There are lots of great restaurants and bars in the city centre too, including the harbour area, and the street art filled neighbourhoods of Stokes Croft and Montpelier if you want to explore more independent eateries.
Stay at YHA Bristol
YHA Cambridge
Smart spot for a city break
YHA Cambridge is just a three-minute walk from the train station, and a convenient base for making the most of this compact historical city. There’s plenty to tempt you – try delving into the indie food and shopping scene around Mill Road, exploring the free-but-brilliant Cambridge University Museums, or punting along the Cam.
Stay at YHA Cambridge
YHA Manchester
Perfect for a city break
Situated a short stroll from the city centre, YHA Manchester is ideal for a short break in one of the UK’s most bustling cities. The hostel is in Castlefield, and nearby you can wander along the canal and discover Roman ruins and the Science and Industry Museum. Other nearby attractions include The Lowry and Salford Watersports Centre. With 24 hour access, you can also take full advantage of the city’s nightlife including The Northern Quarter and Ancoats areas.
Stay in YHA Manchester
Next: read our tips on how to go outdoor swimming.
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