London's best hostels offer you extraordinary stays in converted police stations, Victorian courthouses, and maritime lodges. You'll find unique experiences at Generator Hostel's double-decker bar, Clink78's converted prison cells, and Wombat's spice-stocked kitchen. From St Christopher's capsule beds to Astor Hyde Park's elegant Victorian charm, these accommodations blend British history with modern comfort and vibrant social scenes. Each location promises its own remarkable story and adventure.
Key Points
- Generator Hostel London offers unique accommodations in a converted police station with 751 rooms and social amenities like a bus-bar.
- YHA London St. Pancras provides excellent accessibility with its location three minutes from St. Pancras International station.
- St Christopher's Village London Bridge features innovative Japanese-style capsule beds with USB ports and includes free continental breakfast.
- Wombat's City Hostel London combines historic architecture with modern comforts, offering communal kitchens and regular social events.
- SoHostel's central Soho location near Piccadilly Circus offers budget-friendly accommodation with a rooftop bar and complimentary breakfast.
Generator Hostel London: A Design-Forward Stay in Kings Cross
Wondering where to find the perfect blend of style and convenience in London's bustling heart? Generator Hostel, housed in a former police station near King's Cross, offers an irresistible mix of industrial-chic design and prime location.
You'll find yourself just five minutes from major transport hubs, with easy access to both Heathrow and London City airports.
The hostel's unique character shines through its reclaimed timber, exposed brick, and quirky features like an authentic London Routemaster bus doubling as part of the bar.
You'll love unwinding in the zinc-ceilinged café, complete with wooden pods and a hand-painted piano. With 751 rooms available, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to rest your head.
Whether you're swimming laps in the pool, challenging friends to shuffleboard, or belting out tunes during karaoke nights, there's never a dull moment.
Plus, with modern en-suite bathrooms and 24-hour security, comfort and peace of mind come standard.
Travelers on a tight budget will appreciate the affordable rates while enjoying the social atmosphere and central location.
YHA London St. Pancras: Central Location Meets Comfort
Three minutes from St. Pancras International, you'll find this well-connected hostel that's perfect for solo travelers and families looking to explore London's highlights.
You're just steps away from multiple tube stations, with Oxford Street and Camden's vibrant scene within easy reach.
Perfectly positioned near key Tube stations, offering quick access to London's shopping paradise and Camden's eclectic markets.
You'll rest your head in 4-to-6-bed dorms, where individual bunk lighting and fresh linens make your stay comfortable.
While the Wi-Fi's limited to certain floors, you'll appreciate thoughtful touches like the modern TV lounge with cozy beanbags and a welcoming café-bar.
The 24/7 reception team's ready to help with your luggage, and there's even an accessible room with specialized facilities.
Though there's no parking on-site, you won't need a car with London's excellent transport links right at your doorstep.
With 152 comfortable rooms available, you'll never struggle to find accommodation at this popular YHA location.
For students seeking long-term stays, the hostel's location in Zone 1 London puts you close to major universities and housing offices.
Wombat's City Hostel London: The East End's Social Hub
A historic gem in London's vibrant East End, Wombat's City Hostel breathes new life into an 1865 mariners' lodge while keeping its soul intact.
You'll find thoughtful touches everywhere, from reclaimed shipwood furniture to exposed brick walls adorned with pops of canary yellow and raspberry.
You're perfectly positioned to explore London's cultural treasures, with Tower Bridge just 14 minutes away and the atmospheric Wilton's Music Hall practically at your doorstep.
The hostel offers 120 modern rooms that can accommodate anywhere from two to ten guests, ensuring options for both solo travelers and larger groups.
After a day of sightseeing, you can cook up a storm in the well-equipped kitchen, using complimentary spices and pasta, or head down to the Wombar for happy hour specials and spirited games of beer pong.
Modern amenities like en-suite rooms and free Wi-Fi guarantee you'll stay connected and comfortable throughout your East End adventure.
Like many of Florence's best hostels, the property maintains an ideal balance between social atmosphere and peaceful relaxation spaces.
St Christopher's Village London Bridge: Party Vibes Near Borough Market
Located just steps from London Bridge, St Christopher's Village brings modern pod-style accommodation to the heart of Borough's buzzing food scene.
Experience capsule comfort and foodie heaven at St Christopher's Village, where London's historic Borough Market meets modern pod living.
You'll find Japanese-inspired capsule beds equipped with USB ports and mood lighting, perfect for the tech-savvy traveler who values privacy without the private room price tag.
For those seeking extra luxury, they offer a special private room with views of the Shard.
- Wake up to free continental breakfast (if you book direct)
- Party at Belushi's bar with 25% off drinks for guests
- Snooze in futuristic pods with individual curtains
- Roll out of bed to Borough Market's food stalls
- Catch the tube from London Bridge station (2 mins away)
The social vibe here is electric, with regular pub crawls, karaoke nights, and live music events keeping the energy high.
While the bar rocks until 1 AM, you're also perfectly positioned to explore London's iconic sights or learn about the local food scene.
Astor Hyde Park: Victorian Elegance Meets Backpacker Spirit
Nestled in London's prestigious South Kensington district, Astor Hyde Park perfectly blends Victorian grandeur with modern backpacker comfort.
You'll find yourself just a minute's stroll from Hyde Park's sprawling greenery and within easy reach of London's finest museums.
The hostel caters exclusively to travelers aged 18-40, offering accommodations from cozy 4-bed dorms to more social 12-bed options, with rates starting at a wallet-friendly $23.
You'll appreciate the 24-hour reception, fully equipped kitchen, and daily social events that'll help you connect with fellow adventurers. The hostel's popular charity breakfast for £3.50 helps support good causes while keeping you fueled for the day.
While the Victorian architecture adds a touch of elegance, practical amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi and launderette services keep you connected and comfortable.
Female travelers particularly love the dedicated dorms and excellent security measures.
Clink78: Historic Courthouse Turned Modern Haven
Inside a 200-year-old Victorian courthouse, where The Clash once stood trial and Charles Dickens worked as a clerk, Clink78 stands as one of London's most distinctive hostel experiences.
From criminal courts to cozy quarters, this former Victorian courthouse brings history to life as London's quirkiest hostel.
You'll sleep in converted prison cells with authentic iron doors or opt for modern dorms while surrounded by preserved Art Deco architecture and original courtroom features. Started by two Irish sisters from Dublin, this innovative hostel concept has revolutionized the way travelers experience London. The hostel's central location puts you minutes away from diverse food markets and international cuisine.
- Sleep in actual prison cells turned private rooms, complete with barred windows
- Enjoy £5 cocktails at the Clash Bar, decorated with the band's iconic lyrics in neon
- Watch movies in the former magistrate's dock, now a cozy TV lounge
- Start your day with free breakfast in a space adorned with original court-office panels
- Join "warden" staff for hostel events that playfully nod to the building's judicial past
SoHostel: Budget-Friendly Heart of Soho
While London's Soho district pulses with energy and excitement, SoHostel offers a wallet-friendly sanctuary right in the neighborhood's vibrant core.
You'll find yourself just steps from Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, with the city's best theaters, restaurants, and nightlife at your doorstep.
The hostel's accommodations range from budget-friendly dorms to private en-suites, each equipped with personal lockers and vibrant decor. Guests can take advantage of free Wi-Fi access throughout the entire property.
You can kick back at the seasonal rooftop bar, freshen up in the Hollywood-style pamper room, or mingle with fellow travelers during happy hour.
The complimentary breakfast buffet and 24-hour front desk service guarantee you're well-fed and supported throughout your stay.
With Oxford Street and Covent Garden within walking distance, you'll have London's greatest hits right at your fingertips.
The hostel's security features include keycard access and round-the-clock staff monitoring to ensure a safe stay for all guests.
Park Villa Boutique Hostel: East London's Hidden Gem
Moving east from Soho's bustling streets, Park Villa Boutique Hostel stands as a stunning example of Georgian grandeur in London's eastern district.
Park Villa Boutique offers an elegant escape from central London, showcasing timeless Georgian architecture in the city's atmospheric East End.
You'll find this architectural gem, complete with its original coach house, expertly preserved while offering modern comforts that'll make you forget you're staying at a hostel. Consistently ranked as the best hostel by major booking platforms like HostelWorld and TripAdvisor, it's clear why visitors keep coming back.
- Housed in an authentic Georgian Regency villa
- Original coach house converted into additional guest spaces
- Period features beautifully maintained throughout
- Architectural details from the Regency era still intact
- Blend of historical charm and contemporary amenities
The villa's elegant facade sets it apart from typical hostels, making you feel like you're stepping into a slice of London's rich history.
While other travelers fight for space in crowded city-center accommodations, you'll be unwinding in style at this hidden East London treasure.
Safestay London Elephant & Castle: Stylish South London Base
Situated in the heart of South London's vibrant Elephant & Castle district, Safestay offers travelers a sophisticated urban retreat that perfectly balances style with affordability.
You'll find yourself just a two-minute stroll from the Underground station, where both Northern and Bakerloo lines can whisk you across London in minutes.
What makes this location truly special is its proximity to some of London's most iconic attractions.
You're within walking distance of the majestic Houses of Parliament, the towering London Eye, and the bustling Borough Market.
The hostel's outdoor garden area provides a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Whether you're craving cultural experiences along the South Bank or planning to catch a flight from London City Airport, you'll appreciate the hostel's strategic position.
Plus, with Heathrow just a 45-minute drive away, you're well-connected to international destinations.
The Birds Hostel Shoreditch: Hip Urban Retreat
Tucked away in the leafy streets of Leytonstone, The Birds Hostel Shoreditch defies typical East London expectations with its perfect blend of urban comfort and local charm.
You'll find yourself just 30 minutes from Oxford Circus on the Central line, while enjoying competitive rates and modern amenities. Personal belongings stay secure with lockers for rent at just £2 per day.
- 6- and 9-bed mixed dorms with crisp white linens
- Female-only dorm option for added privacy
- On-site craft beer pub with 20% resident discount
- Complimentary continental breakfast daily
- Hitchcock-inspired decor with free Spotify integration
The hostel's pub serves up both vegan and traditional fare, making it a hit with food bloggers.
Food lovers flock to this hip hostel pub, where creative vegan dishes share menu space with hearty British classics.
With 24/7 CCTV surveillance and key-card access, you can rest easy while enjoying regular live performances and trivia nights in this East London gem.
The Last Word
London's hostels offer you far more than just a budget-friendly bed. Whether you're crashing at Generator's designer digs after a Kings Cross pub crawl, or swapping travel tales in Wombat's cozy common room, you'll find your perfect match. Just ask Sarah, a solo traveler from Canada, who ended up extending her three-day stay at Astor Hyde Park to three weeks after falling in love with her hostel's community vibe and Victorian charm.