England’s extensive network of hostels attracts backpackers young and old. Whether you’re on your first solo travels or a seasoned explorer, a hostel signals a clean, affordable base to return to at the end of each day - often with good food and good company too.
Today’s hostels have moved a long way from the basic bunks of geography school trips. From hip Youth Hostel Association (YHA) hangouts to quirky independent establishments, the emergence of ‘poshtels’, or posh hostels, has given the humble hostel a makeover.
Along the Great West Way, you’ll find this most apparent in cities like Bath and Bristol. WiFi is of course now standard (how else are you going to Instagram the stylish industrial-chic interior?), but other nice new perks include cool cafe bars hosting live music and comedy, murals by local street artists on the walls and well-stocked games rooms.
If you’re travelling alone, or as part of a group, staying in hostels is an easy way to make new friends. Most have comfortable chill-out areas where you can kick back with a beer at the end of a busy day of sightseeing and swap tips on things to see and do.
You can also pick up maps, hire bikes and get insider travel tips from the local staff. If you’re staying at a hostel as part of a hiking or biking trip on a long distance trail, like the Cotswold Way or The Ridgeway, it can also be helpful to discuss the practicalities of your onward adventure (and maybe getting ideas for the next one).
And if you’re ever looking for a conversation starter, you can never go wrong in England by glancing skywards, casually observing the clouds, and launching into an animated discussion on the current weather conditions…
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