City of Bath YMCA

You couldn't ask for a much better location than this. It's situated close to Bath's historic center in a small, halfway-hidden square. This doesn't stop late-night noisemakers on the streets from being heard, though.

The building is a bit on the old side, but the dining room and conservatory are bright, airy, and have a new feel. The beds are comfortable and sturdy, and the rooms are generally clean.

The bathroom situation is not the best--two showers for 14 people. The showers have to be turned on outside the shower door and there are no stalls for dressing/undressing. Even so, you probably won't have trouble getting a shower when you want. The bathrooms are cleaned very regularly, though and include paper towels (which some hostels seem to be lacking).

There can be a lot of people staying here, but the hostel has more of a sedate feel and is not for partiers (unless you do your partying out in the pubs and come back to the hostel to sleep). A few adults stay here as well as the younger travelers.

Some pluses are the laundry facilities (you can even iron your clothes if you feel inclined!), internet access, and an awesome (and cheap) hot breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, and beans. A cold continental breakfast of cereal, toast, and drink is included in the price of the room. Reasonably priced dinners are also served if you wish for that option. A microwave is available, and you may be able to put some things in the staff fridge. There's also someone at the desk 24 hours a day, which is quite convenient.

The staff are mostly older adults (not the younger crew often seen at hostels) and are very helpful. They'll be able to give you a little information if you need it. There's also a YMCA fitness center on site.

Get to the hostel by walking north up Manvers Street from the bus or train station. Go past Bath Abbey on your left and, keeping the river Avon on your right, continue via Orange Grove (on the left) and High Street to Walcot Street or Broad Street. There's an entrance to the YMCA from either after 300 meters, and they are almost opposite the Hilton Hotel.

Though not a sparkling, ultra-modern hostel, Bath YMCA does the job and is certainly a well-priced option in the city center. Its pluses outweigh the drawbacks and Bath YMCA should be put on the "recommended" list.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review