Hostelworld has developed a list of hostels in England, Scotland and Ireland with private family rooms which make the perfect base for a family break.
YHA Golant, Cornwall, England
Set in an estate with a further 14 acres of woodland to explore, YHA Golant is ideally suited to children. Overlooking the Fowey Estuary, it’s just four miles from the sea and an excellent base for discovering the Cornish coastline. The Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project are both nearby, as is Dobwalls Family Adventure Park for those with children who prefer a more adrenaline filled holiday. The hostel offers cots for the very young, a games room and restaurant meaning parents can relax, safe in the knowledge that the kids are fully catered for.
UPDATE [27/05/2018] – this hostel is no longer available
Smiddy Bunkhouse & Blacksmiths Backpackers Lodge, Fort William, Scotland
Located just 4 miles from Ben Nevis the area around this hostel is very peaceful whilst offering fantastic adventure opportunities for the whole family. The on-site residential mountain and river guide can organise rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing and even skiing in winter. The small and cosy lodge sleeps between 12 and 14 people with rooms of 4 or 6 people making it perfect for families. Also available is a fully equipped guest kitchen, washing machine/dryer and a mini-supermarket.
Privates from £10 pp/per night … book now
Avalon House, Dublin, Ireland
This hostel, based in a beautiful listed building, makes the ideal base for a family trip to Dublin. Complete with fussball and pool tables, a library, playstation and its own cinema, parents can rest assured that the children will have plenty to keep them occupied! For those who want to explore the highlights of Dublin, walking tours depart every morning.
Privates from £31.05 pp/per night … book now
Sleepzone, The Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Awarded the Best Hostel in Ireland 2006, by Hostelworld.com users, Sleepzone is situated in the spa town of Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare. Its location boasts close proximity to some of Ireland’s most famous areas of natural beauty, including the world-renowned Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands and The Burren region – 400sq miles of unique limestone terrain. This fantastic new hostel offers 22 rooms – including four and five-bed family rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Also at the hostel is a fully licensed bar with cosy lounge, spacious self-catering kitchen and laundry facilities. The beautiful landscaped gardens make SleepZone, The Burren the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Privates from £11.64 pp/per night … book now
Goofys, Newquay, England
Goofy’s offers guests a choice of private rooms fully equipped with ensuite bathrooms meaning that families, especially those with young children can take advantage of facilities usually reserved for hotels. With a buffet breakfast included, big kids with a healthy appetite can start the day in the best way possible! Situated between Fistral Bay and Newquay Golf Course and with the Atlantic just a stone’s throw away – what more could you ask for in family accommodation?
UPDATE [27/05/2018] – this hostel is no longer available
YHA Ambleside, Lake District, England
In the heart of the beautiful Lake District and with stunning views from its lounge YHA Ambleside is in one of the most picturesque places the UK has to offer. Ambleside offers far more than just its gorgeous location. It is based in a busy village on the shores of Lake Windemere meaning that guests can enjoy many watersports along with walking and climbing. Rooms range from 2-8 beds with the four and five bed rooms perfect for families.
Rooms from £19.65 pp/per night … book now
YHA Bath, Bath
A beautiful Italianate mansion in its own gardens, YHA Bath offers a comfortable base for exploring the elegant city and offers all the facilities you would expect of such a prestigious location. After a day discovering all that Bath has to offer, relax and enjoy a drink and meal at the hostels own café and bar, Café Di Fiesole. The hostel offers comfortable four bed rooms with ensuite bathrooms making it a great base for exploring one of England’s most historical towns
Privates from £17.49 pp/per night … book now
Central Backpackers, Oxford, England
Central Backpackers brings a new level of comfort and security to the hostel experience. With a huge range of free services and facilities, everything you need is provided to make your trip safe, comfortable and enjoyable. Located in the centre of Oxford’s Historical University city, Central Backpackers is less than a 5 minute walk from the bus and train stations, Oxford’s Castle/Prison complex and museums, yet still offers quiet and peaceful accommodation to ensure a good night’s sleep for the whole family. This modern, bright and spacious hostel offers free breakfast, broadband and tennis racquet hire as well as a rooftop terrace and swipe card entry system for added security.
Privates from £19 pp/per night … book now
London House Hotel, London, England
Newly renovated, the London House Hotel is perfect for families and one of the most popular budget accommodation offerings in central London. It is located on a quiet street yet enjoys all the benefits of being just a short step from some of London’s best attractions. All rooms are en-suite with air-conditioning and plasma screen TV. Family rooms come in triples (one double and one single bed) and quads (one double, two singles) while the continental breakfast is included in the price. For a family trip to one of Europe’s great cities, the London House Hostel can’t be beaten.