YHA Bath is an attractive, quiet, and very private hilltop hostel. It's an interesting contrast to the vibrant city of Bath. Though it is entirely possible to walk up and down the hill, it is inconvenient to return mid-day and a long walk at any time (there is a bus, and free parking). The hostel is great for those who want security and peace. It is set back in the woods, rooms have locked doors and lockers, and you need a code to enter the hostel at night. The single-sex dorms are clean, with cozy modern furniture, big windows, and sinks. Toilets and showers are shared and are co-ed.
If you arrive early or depart late, they will hold your bags for free. Internet is available, but expensive - better to use a cafe. There is a bar with decent drinks that closes at 11pm, and a cafe serving cheap breakfasts, "picnic lunches", and dinners. The guest kitchen is large and very clean (as is the rest of the hostel), with plenty of storage, counter space, and appliances. While there is no grocery nearby, some packaged foods are available in reception. Attached to the kitchen are a large eating area with lots of tables, a large and sterile lounge with a TV, and a cozier lounge with a nice porch. The entire hostel is non-smoking, but there are picnic tables and a porch outside. Laundry facilities are available.
The staff is professional, and can help you book your next stay at another YHA hostel, but is not outwardly friendly. Prior HI membership is not necessary, as you can purchase it cheap when you check in.
Guests of this secluded hostel are not nearly as friendly as in most independent (non-HI) hostels. It is possible to start conversations, but you must make an effort. Most seem to spend the day in Bath and the evenings in their rooms. The lounge with sofas is the best place to meet other guests, including solo travelers of all ages, groups, and families. These are serious travelers with big plans, not just kids looking for a party.
Directions: From Bath Spa RR Station or Bus Station: Walk up Manvers Street (which turns into Pierrepont Street) toward the Parade Gardens. Turn right on North Parade Road and cross the bridge. After the cricket grounds, turn left on Pultney Road. At the roundabout, make a steep right turn up Bathwick Hill. The hostel is not very well marked - look out for a bus shelter on the right side, and just after this an arrow on the right points left to "Youth Hostel." Turn left at the small green sign for "YHA" across from Claverton Lodge, and follow the signs up the hill (15-20 minute walk up a steep hill) or take the number 18 bus from the bus station.
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