13 Youth Hostels in London

Destinations Hostels @ The Gallery stands out as one of the best youth hostels in London for those who want to merge art with their travel experience. Located in the heart of the city, it's a stone's throw away from major galleries and trendy cafes. Each room is decorated with unique artwork, making your stay a visual journey.

The vibe here is unbeatably social, perfect for backpackers looking to make new friends. Destinations Hostels @ The Gallery hosts regular events and walking tours, encouraging guests to explore London's rich culture together. It’s an ideal spot for solo travelers and art enthusiasts alike.

Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, and a cozy lounge area. The staff are travel-lovers themselves and offer insider tips on the city's hidden gems. Destinations Hostels @ The Gallery is more than just a place to stay; it’s a vibrant community.

Onefam Waterloo is an excellent choice if you want a cozy, social, and welcoming atmosphere. The dorms and private rooms are modern and well-maintained, offering comfortable beds with privacy curtains and charging outlets. A shared kitchen and lounge make it easy to meet other travelers, while free Wi-Fi ensures you stay connected.

The location is ideal for exploring London. You’re within walking distance of the South Bank, home to the London Eye, Tate Modern, and the lively Borough Market. Public transport is close by, so you can easily reach places like Buckingham Palace or Camden Market. Night owls will love the area’s buzzing nightlife, with pubs and clubs nearby.

What makes Onefam Waterloo special is its focus on building a community. Daily events, from free walking tours to pub nights, help you meet like-minded travelers. The staff is super friendly and always ready with recommendations to make your stay memorable.

Pax Lodge Hostel offers a unique stay in one of London's greener suburbs, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring. It’s not just a hostel; it's a part of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, welcoming all travelers with its inclusive atmosphere.

With a mix of private and shared rooms, Pax Lodge Hostel caters to all types of young travelers. The garden and lounge areas provide serene spots to unwind and connect with fellow guests. Plus, its location offers easy access to Hampstead Heath and the Royal Free Hospital.

If you're looking for a calm base with a strong sense of community, Pax Lodge Hostel is the place. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter, more laid-back London experience, yet still wish to stay within reach of the city center.

HI - YHA London - London Central Hostel is a beacon for travelers seeking the quintessential London experience. This hostel's location is unbeatable, nestled close to Oxford Street and the West End, making it perfect for explorers eager to dive into London's bustling atmosphere.

Known for its clean, secure facilities, HI - YHA London - London Central Hostel is a favorite among backpackers. The communal areas are spacious, offering a great environment to meet fellow travelers from around the globe. The hostel's commitment to providing a comfortable and friendly stay makes it a top choice.

Whether you're in London for the sights, shopping, or shows, HI - YHA London - London Central Hostel serves as the perfect base. With friendly staff, excellent amenities, and a central location, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best youth hostels in London.

Located in the vibrant Islington district, Prime Backpackers Angel is a gem for those wanting to experience London’s lively nightlife and cultural scene. It’s surrounded by an array of pubs, theaters, and markets, offering a true taste of local life.

The hostel itself is a cozy, inviting space with a friendly, outgoing vibe. Prime Backpackers Angel is well-equipped with modern amenities and offers a variety of room types to suit every traveler. The common room is a hotspot for socializing and planning adventures with new friends.

For backpackers looking to dive into London’s eclectic mix of entertainment and cuisine, Prime Backpackers Angel provides the perfect urban base. Its warm atmosphere and prime location make it a standout choice for young adventurers.

For an authentic backpacking experience, London Backpackers in Hendon is hard to beat. Known for its friendly atmosphere, it's a place where stories and travel tips are exchanged freely among guests. This hostel is perfect for those on a tight budget but still looking for a rich experience.

Amenities are designed with backpackers in mind, including a large kitchen, a cozy lounge, and a variety of room options. London Backpackers also organizes events and tours, making it easy to see London's highlights and hidden spots.

If you're looking for a home away from home with a lively, international vibe, London Backpackers is your spot. It’s a great meeting point for adventurers from all corners of the globe, making it a best youth hostel in London for making lifelong friends.

Astor Oxford Street puts you right in the middle of London’s West End, making it a great choice if you want to be close to shopping, nightlife, and theatres. Oxford Street and Soho are only steps away, while Regent’s Park is within walking distance. This makes Astor Oxford Street perfect for travelers who want to explore central London without spending time on transport.

Inside, Astor Oxford Street has a cozy, social atmosphere that makes it easy to meet other backpackers. Common rooms are relaxed and ideal for chatting or planning your next adventure. The hostel also has self-catering facilities, so you can save money by cooking instead of eating out in one of the most expensive parts of the city.

The staff at Astor Oxford Street are helpful and used to welcoming international travelers. Whether you need advice on London attractions, cheap eats, or nightlife spots, they can point you in the right direction.

Just moments away from the majestic St Paul's Cathedral, YHA London St Paul's is steeped in history and charm. This hostel offers a quieter, more reflective experience of London, ideal for those who appreciate the city's rich history and architectural beauty.

The hostel is housed in a historic building, providing a unique backdrop to your stay. Facilities are top-notch, with a range of room types to suit different needs and budgets. YHA London St Paul's also offers a serene common area, perfect for planning your day over a cup of coffee.

With its central location, YHA London St Paul's is an excellent choice for those who want to explore London on foot, with the Millennium Bridge and Tate Modern nearby. It’s a sanctuary in the city, offering a blend of tranquility and easy access to London's main attractions.

Nestled close to the South Bank, The Walrus Bar & Hostel is as much a part of London's social scene as it is a place to stay. This hostel is perfect for those who want to experience London’s vibrant nightlife and cultural landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben, all within walking distance.

The attached bar is a hub of activity, offering a great selection of beers and a lively atmosphere to mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike. The Walrus Bar & Hostel prides itself on a laid-back, friendly environment, with staff who are always ready to share their London insights.

Combining comfort with a killer location, The Walrus Bar & Hostel is a favorite for young travelers looking to immerse themselves in the city’s energy. It’s a place where nights out and historical explorations start at the doorstep, making it a contender for the best youth hostel in London.

Set on the banks of the River Thames, YHA London Thameside Hostel offers a different perspective of London. It’s a bit away from the hustle and bustle, perfect for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings but still want to be close to major attractions like the Tower Bridge and the Shard.

This hostel is known for its spacious rooms and family-friendly vibe, making it a great option for young travelers and groups. The on-site café and bar offer stunning river views, creating a relaxing atmosphere to socialize and unwind.

YHA London Thameside Hostel stands out for its balance of tranquility and accessibility, providing a comfortable haven from which to explore London. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a quiet yet connected stay in the city.

Smart Hyde Park View Hostel sits just across from Hyde Park, giving you access to one of London’s biggest green spaces. From Smart Hyde Park View Hostel, you can walk to Kensington Palace, the Natural History Museum, or Notting Hill. It’s a quieter area compared to central Soho, but still very well connected by the Underground.

Dorms at Smart Hyde Park View Hostel are designed for budget travelers, offering good value for money in an otherwise expensive city. Lockers are available for extra security, and the beds come with privacy curtains in some rooms, which adds comfort for solo backpackers.

The common areas at Smart Hyde Park View Hostel are smaller but functional, making it easy to socialize with other guests without feeling lost in a crowd. The location near Hyde Park is ideal if you like a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and easy connections to other parts of the city.

For budget-conscious travelers looking for a reliable and well-located hostel, Astor Victoria Hostel is a solid pick. The rooms are simple but clean, with secure lockers and keycard access. A shared kitchen is available for those who want to save on food, and the common areas provide a relaxed space to meet others.

The location is a major highlight—situated near Victoria Station, one of London’s main transport hubs. This makes it easy to reach Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and Westminster Abbey in minutes. You’ll also find plenty of cafes and budget-friendly restaurants nearby, perfect for a quick meal.

If you prefer a chill atmosphere, Astor Victoria Hostel is a good fit. It’s quieter than party hostels but still sociable, with a friendly staff that organizes small events and offers great travel tips. Whether you’re staying for a few nights or a longer visit, it’s a practical and affordable base in London.

St Christopher's The Inn - London Bridge is a lively hostel in one of London’s most historic neighborhoods. From St Christopher's The Inn - London Bridge, you can walk to the Shard, Borough Market, and the River Thames in minutes. The area is packed with pubs, restaurants, and landmarks, making it an excellent base for exploring South London.

One of the main draws of St Christopher's The Inn - London Bridge is its social vibe. The hostel has a pub on site, which means you don’t need to go far to meet people. This is especially good for solo travelers who want to connect with others over a drink or a meal.

Beds at St Christopher's The Inn - London Bridge are modern and comfortable, with secure storage available. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the area, helping you make the most of your stay. If you want a mix of history, nightlife, and easy transport, this hostel is a strong pick.