We're celebrating the YHA's Festival of Walking (and the joy of exploring on two feet any time of the year) with some of the very best affordable hostels for walkers around the country, many of which offer self-catering, glamping and private rooms, as well as traditional dorm beds. It's basically a roll-call of Britain's most stunning locations – prepare to be impressed with our selection of top UK hostels for walkers!
YHA Black Sail
You can't get a much more remote hostel than this spot in Cumbria, six miles from the nearest car park. Enjoy a cup of tea at the always-open lounge, then a spot of star gazing!
YHA Pwll Deri
This seaside hostel perches on a cliff above the Pembrokeshire Coast, where there are great beaches to explore, plus some of the best surfing spots in the UK!
The Rocks at Plas Curig
A classy independent hostel in the heart of Snowdonia National Park with an on-site cafe and a terrace for al fresco evenings, plus two pubs within walking distance.
YHA Grinton Lodge
Breath-taking views at this wonderful former gentleman's shooting lodge in North Yorkshire, where you can stay in the main building or a wooden camping pod.
YHA Boscastle
A small Cornish seaside hostel in a great location, with beaches, walks, and numerous outdoor activities nearby. A visit to the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic is a must!
YHA St Davids
This farmhouse hostel is handy for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and has a self-catering kitchen and several room choices. Note: the nearest shop is three miles away!
YHA Tanners Hatch
Only accessible by walking or cycling, this hostel in the Surrey Hills is surrounded by footpaths and bridleways – no wonder it's one of our top hostels for walkers!
YHA Skiddaw Bunkhouse
In a stupendous location, reached on foot along a Cumbrian mountain path, this is England's highest and most remote hostel – off-grid heaven!
Aviemore Youth Hostel
Great for wildlife lovers,
this Highlands hostel offers stunning views of the Cairngorms from the lounge windows. Keep an eye out
for red squirrels at play!
YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass
Set at the base of Snowdon, this hostel is popular with walkers and climbers alike, and offers a cafe, bar and social areas to relax in after an active day.
YHA Tintagel
Perched on a cliff, this Cornish hostel enjoys fabulous views of the coast. Available for private hire at certain times of the year, it's a great venue for a party!
YHA The Sill at Hadrian's Wall
This high-spec hostel at Northumberland National Park's landscape discovery centre has a bar, self-catering kitchen and WiFi. They serve breakfast and dinner, too!
YHA South Downs
Located on the South Downs Way and reachable by train, this is the ideal eco- and walking-friendly hostel, complete with a comfy lounge, bar and cafe.
YHA Boggle Hole
This family-friendly hostel in North Yorkshire has many activities to keep the kids happy, from rock-pooling and fossil-hunting on the beach to treasure trails!
YHA Holmbury St Mary
Set in 4,000 acres of scenic Surrey countryside, yet London is just an hour away, there's a bar, large dining room, bike hire and glamping options, plus lots to do nearby.
YHA Borrowdale
A hostel located in the midst of beautiful Lake District scenery, it's popular with families, walkers and climbers. Why not book a stay in a wooden pod with your own deck area?
If you're into hiking (or just a gentle stroll), why not take a look at our Top UK Places to Stay for Walkers blog post, including dog-friendly hotels, stylish self-catering accommodation and boutique B&Bs? Or, check out our cottages for walkers guide.
