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Discover London’s Best Hostels: Where to Stay on a Budget in the Heart of the City

  • Writer: Jill @ Pennification
    Jill @ Pennification
  • Oct 12, 2024
  • 7 min read


London is one of the most iconic cities in the world, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, modern attractions, and endless opportunities for exploration. While it’s known for being on the pricier side, especially when it comes to accommodation, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy everything the city has to offer.


Hostels are a fantastic way to experience London on a budget while meeting fellow travelers, and many of them are located near the city's top sights. Whether you're planning to stroll through Hyde Park, admire art at the British Museum, or explore the charming streets of Kensington, there’s a hostel in London that will offer you the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability. Here are my top five favorite hostels in London that you should consider for your next stay.


1. Smart Hyde Park View Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


If you're looking for a hostel with a central location, modern amenities, and easy access to London's main attractions, Smart Hyde Park View Hostel is a great choice. Situated just a short walk from Hyde Park, one of the most iconic green spaces in the city, this hostel allows you to explore Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine, and beyond with ease. Plus, being close to the Bayswater and Queensway Tube stations means getting around London couldn’t be easier.


The hostel offers a variety of dorms and private rooms, perfect for solo travelers, groups, or couples. It has a bright, clean atmosphere with modern facilities and a friendly staff who are more than happy to give you tips on what to do in the city. The common areas are ideal for relaxing or meeting fellow travelers, and the hostel offers a free continental breakfast to get your day started on the right foot.


Highlights:

  • Prime location near Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

  • Easy access to the Bayswater and Queensway Tube stations.

  • Free continental breakfast and excellent common areas for socializing.

  • Modern dorms and private rooms.



2. Cricketers Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


For travelers looking for something a bit more unique, Cricketers Hostel offers a charming stay just outside the hustle and bustle of central London. As the name suggests, this hostel has a quaint, traditional British vibe and is located near cricket grounds, giving it a distinctly local flavor. This is a great option if you want to stay in a more peaceful area while still having convenient access to central London by public transport.


The Cricketers Hostel has a cozy and homey atmosphere, with friendly staff who go out of their way to make your stay comfortable. It’s smaller and quieter than some of the city’s larger hostels, which means it’s perfect for those who want a more relaxed environment. With its clean facilities, welcoming vibe, and great location for catching a cricket match, this hostel is a hidden gem.


Highlights:

  • Unique British-themed hostel near cricket grounds.

  • Cozy, quiet atmosphere with a more intimate setting.

  • Easy access to public transport for trips into central London.

  • Friendly and helpful staff with a homely vibe.


Book Here: Cricketers Hostel


3. Astor Museum Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


For travelers who want to be in the cultural heart of London, Astor Museum Hostel is the perfect spot. Located just steps away from the British Museum, you’ll be surrounded by history, art, and some of the city’s best attractions. This hostel is ideal for culture lovers who want to explore nearby spots like Covent Garden, Soho, and the West End, all within walking distance.


Astor Museum Hostel is lively and sociable, with great communal areas and an inclusive atmosphere that makes it easy to meet other travelers. It offers both dorms and private rooms, catering to a variety of travelers, and is known for its friendly staff and clean, well-kept facilities. The hostel also organizes social events, making it a perfect choice for solo travelers who want to make new friends in London.


Highlights:

  • Incredible location just steps away from the British Museum.

  • Walking distance to Covent Garden, Soho, and the West End.

  • Sociable, friendly atmosphere with great communal spaces.

  • Clean facilities with a variety of dorms and private rooms available.



4. Astor Hyde Park Hostel


Why It’s a Top Pick:


Located in one of London’s most beautiful neighborhoods, Astor Hyde Park Hostel offers an ideal location for those who want to explore the city’s royal parks and museums. The hostel is nestled in the upscale South Kensington area, close to Hyde Park, the Natural History Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The stunning architecture of the area makes this hostel feel especially grand and quintessentially British.


Astor Hyde Park Hostel is known for its vibrant and sociable vibe, with excellent facilities for meeting other travelers. The hostel has a mix of dorms and private rooms, making it suitable for all types of travelers. It also offers organized events like pub crawls and walking tours, helping you make the most of your time in London and meet fellow explorers.


Highlights:

  • Beautiful location in South Kensington, close to Hyde Park and top museums.

  • Social atmosphere with organized events like pub crawls and walking tours.

  • Grand Victorian building with modern facilities.

  • A mix of dorms and private rooms to suit all types of travelers.




5. Astor Kensington


Why It’s a Top Pick:


For those wanting to experience London from the charming and historic Kensington area, Astor Kensington is a fantastic option. This hostel is located near some of London’s best attractions, including Kensington Palace, the Royal Albert Hall, and the scenic Hyde Park. With its location in the heart of one of the city’s most iconic districts, you’ll be able to explore the cultural and historical side of London with ease.


The hostel has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, with a focus on providing a cozy and comfortable stay. With both dorms and private rooms available, it caters to all kinds of travelers. The staff is known for being incredibly welcoming and providing great local tips on how to make the most of your time in London. Whether you’re looking to visit museums, take in some royal history, or simply enjoy a stroll through the beautiful gardens, Astor Kensington offers the perfect base.


Highlights:

  • Charming location near Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, and Hyde Park.

  • Relaxed, cozy atmosphere perfect for a laid-back stay.

  • Friendly staff with excellent local knowledge.

  • Offers both dorms and private rooms to accommodate different travel needs.


Book Here: Astor Kensington


Conclusion


London is an exciting, vibrant city with endless things to see and do, from historic landmarks to world-class museums and lively nightlife. These top hostels provide affordable, comfortable, and friendly accommodations, allowing you to make the most of your time in the city without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re looking for a central location near Hyde Park, a cultural experience next to the British Museum, or a cozy stay in the royal Kensington area, these hostels offer something for everyone. Book your stay at one of these great spots and get ready to explore London from the perfect home base!



 

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Hi! I'm Jill, a passionate business enthusiast, lifestyle and travel writer, and best-selling author. I've dedicated my career to teaching people how to travel on a budget.

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