London’s 10 Coolest Hostels

A hostel can be the right way for a cheap and cool stay in London

Not long ago we presented you our 20-point guide to save money in London, and one of the points was staying in a hostel. It was a great advice, sure, but a bit vague…we have now decided to follow up on that, and list the 10 coolest hostels in London, where you can sleep for only a few pounds and have fun!

When staying in London, spending lots of money is not compulsory: on the contrary, it is possible to enjoy the English capital staying in a place that has just the right mix of ideal location, comfort and fun! There are plenty of hostels all around London waiting for you, but you need to know where to look. To help you, we have listed London’s 10 coolest hostels. Have a nice trip and…mind the gap!

THE DICTIONARY, SHOREDITCH

Welcome to Shoreditch, the most hipster borough in London. Such a trendy neighbourhood has just the matching hostel! The Dictionary is a post-industrial style building, housed in a completely refurbished former factory. Brick walls, swings in the middle of rooms, a bar straight out of a movie, and staff so nice you’ll feel at home. A+!

SAFESTAY ELEPHANT AND CASTLE

Only a few minutes from some of London’s most beloved sights such as South Bank, Houses of Parliament and Borough Market, the ideal apace for a quick bite. The Safestay Hostel boasts a great value for money, with prices starting at 25€ and ratings of 90%. Be it for the Georgian style building, or the works of emerging artists hanging from on the walls, this place will add a touch of luxury to your stay in London.

PALMERS LODGE SWISS COTTAGE

It is an historical building, very chic and furnished with taste (fireplaces, rendered decorations, vintage and design objects) in the north of London, ideally connected to the most touristic areas (only 10 minutes by tube to the centre). Consider the free breakfast, the always kind staff and low prices, and you’ll have one of the best hostels in the UK.

CLINK 78 HOSTEL

This Victorian building has the most fascinating history of probably any other hostel: it was the first house of Charles Dickens (does the name Oliver Twist ring a bell?), then it became a courthouse where the punk-rock band The Clash went on trial… for shooting pigeons! But history is not the only fascinating side of this hostel: here you’ll find a real backpacker’s paradise with colourful rooms, great service and a bar with concerts, themed parties and daily events.

GENERATOR LONDON

In Bloomsbury, in a great position to explore the city (Russell Square and St. Pancras station are just around the corner), you will find this huge hostel, the ideal place to know new people and enjoy London’s nightlife. The Generator Hostel offers all you look for in a hostel: big and colourful rooms, creative furniture, and a bar where parties happen daily.

FRESH @ THE WHITE FERRY, VICTORIA

Another hostel with a great location, The White Ferry is located in a beautiful palace few minutes by foot form Victoria Station, London’s transport main hub. The rooms are always spotless, the price includes breakfast and on the ground floor you’ll find a bar to enjoy a pint or test your voice against other guests during the karaoke nights.

ATLAS HOSTELS

This hostel is located between Paddington station and Hyde Park, a great position both for public transport and for a walk in London’s most famous park. The rooms are spacious and well-lit, you’ll find paintings and pictures on the walls paying homage to pop-art and music. The value for money is great, considering all the services included in the price.

GLOBE TROTT INNS

Inside this elegant traditional building you’ll find a hostel that make sits guests happy with the many services, the low prices, and the relaxed and fun atmosphere. There is a common kitchen for your meals, a bar with pool tables to relax after exploring London.

PALMERS LODGES HILLSPRING

Elegant, safe, clean, inexpensive…the Palmers Lodges Hillspring has everything to satisfy even the more demanding backpackers. Electronic key access for your safety, carefully chosen furniture, a bar with a terrace to die for… a real must!

THE BACKPACKSHACK

If you want a real London experience this is the right place for you. The BackpackShack is a small hostel where you will feel like at home, just above a very popular pub, the Talbot. It is located in the western part of London, near 2 tube lines to get you right to the centre.