If you’re planning a trip to York and looking for affordable accommodation, hostels are a great option to consider. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also offer a unique and social experience for travelers.
With so many hostels in York to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best hostels in York to make your decision easier.
Why Choose a Hostel in York

If you’re planning a trip to York, you might be wondering why you should choose a hostel over a hotel or other type of accommodation. Here are a few reasons why a hostel might be the perfect choice for your stay in this historic city:
Affordable Accommodation
One of the biggest advantages of staying in a hostel is the cost. Hostels are typically much more affordable than hotels or other types of accommodation, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. In York, you can find hostels that offer dormitory-style rooms as well as private rooms, so you can choose the option that best fits your budget.
Safe
Safety is always a concern when you’re traveling, especially if you’re traveling alone. Fortunately, hostels in York are generally very safe. Most hostels have security measures in place, such as keycard access and 24-hour reception, to ensure that guests are safe and secure during their stay.
Clean
Another concern when you’re traveling is cleanliness. No one wants to stay in a dirty or unsanitary environment, and fortunately, most hostels in York are very clean. Hostels typically have cleaning staff who clean the rooms and common areas on a regular basis, so you can rest assured that you’re staying in a clean and hygienic environment.
Safestay York



If you’re looking for a hostel that is both safe and clean, Safestay York is a great option. The hostel is housed in a beautiful Georgian townhouse and is located just a short walk from York train station and the historic city center.
Safestay York offers a variety of room options, including private rooms. The private rooms are perfect for those who want a little more privacy, while still enjoying the social atmosphere of a hostel. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
One of the great things about Safestay York is the on-site bar. The bar is a great place to relax and socialize with other travelers. It’s also a great place to grab a drink before heading out to explore the city.
YHA York



If you’re looking for a hostel that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, YHA York may be the perfect choice for you. This hostel is located in a quiet residential area of Clifton and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and grounds.
YHA York offers a variety of dormitory rooms, ranging from four to eight beds. All of the rooms are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and storage space. The hostel also provides bike storage facilities, making it easy for you to explore the city on two wheels.
One of the best things about YHA York is its beautiful gardens and grounds. You can spend hours exploring the gardens, relaxing on the lawn, or playing games with your fellow travelers. The hostel also has a games room with a pool table, books, and board games, so you’ll never be bored during your stay.
YHA York is a great choice for travelers who want to stay in a peaceful and relaxing environment. If you’re looking for a hostel that offers a great location, beautiful surroundings, and excellent facilities, YHA York is definitely worth considering.
Astor York Hostel



If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable hostel in York, Astor York Hostel is a great option. This hostel is located in a Grade II listed Victorian building, just a 15-minute walk from the historic center of York.
Astor York Hostel provides private bedrooms with orthopaedic mattresses and personal reading lights. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning to ensure your comfort during your stay. The hostel also offers free Wi-Fi access throughout the whole building.
In addition to the comfortable rooms, Astor York Hostel provides a range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable. The on-site bar is a great place to relax and meet other travelers. The hostel also has a communal kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.
The staff at Astor York Hostel are friendly and knowledgeable about the local area. They can provide you with recommendations for things to do and see in York. The hostel also offers a range of tours and activities, including walking tours of the city and day trips to nearby attractions.
Overall, Astor York Hostel is a great choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay in York. With its convenient location, comfortable rooms, and friendly staff, you’re sure to have a great time during your stay at Astor York Hostel.
The Fort York



If you’re looking for a unique and comfortable stay in York, The Fort Boutique Hostel is a great choice. Located in the heart of the city, just off the medieval Stonegate, this hostel offers a mix of themed private rooms and shared dorms.
The Fort’s private rooms are perfect for couples or families, while the dorms are great for solo travelers or groups. All rooms are clean, cozy, and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
One of the best things about The Fort is its common areas. The hostel has a spacious lounge where you can relax, read a book, or socialize with other guests. You can also enjoy a drink or a meal at the on-site Kennedy’s Bar and Restaurant, which offers an extensive menu of food and drinks.
Overall, The Fort Boutique Hostel is a great option for anyone looking for a unique and comfortable stay in York. With its central location, cozy rooms, and great common areas, you’re sure to have a memorable stay.
Stableside at York Racecourse



If you’re looking for affordable and comfortable accommodation in York, Stableside at York Racecourse is a great option. This hostel is located within the peaceful landscaped grounds of York Racecourse, giving you a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
One of the best things about Stableside is its location, which offers easy access to the city center. You can take a leisurely 25-minute stroll, or a quick 10-minute bus or car journey to reach the heart of York. You can also take advantage of the free car and coach parking available on-site.
Stableside offers a range of accommodation options, including dormitories and private rooms, all of which are clean and well-maintained. The dormitories are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and storage space. The private rooms are perfect for couples or families, with comfortable beds and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
The hostel also has a spacious and modern common room, where you can relax and socialize with other guests. The common room is equipped with comfortable seating, a TV, and a variety of games and books to keep you entertained.
If you’re looking for a hostel that offers great value for money, with a convenient location and comfortable accommodation, Stableside at York Racecourse is definitely worth considering.
Booking Tips
When searching for the best hostels in York, there are a few tips that can help you save money and find the perfect accommodation for your needs.
Decide upon which time of the year you’d like to visit. The high season in York is typically from June to August, so hostel prices will be higher during this time. If you’re looking to save money, consider visiting during the low season, which is from November to February. November and December are also a good time to visit if you’d like to enjoy York’s christmas market. April can also be a good time to visit, as prices are lower than during the high season, but the weather is much better than November to February.
When considering hostels, pay attention to the star rating. 2-star hostels can be a great budget option, but keep in mind that they may have fewer amenities or a more basic level of comfort. 3-star hostels may offer more amenities and a higher level of comfort, but may also be more expensive.
Another important thing to consider is the day of the week you plan to stay. Weeknights are generally cheaper than weekends. So if possible, try to travel during the week rather than the weekend.
Also distance from the city center is important. Hostels close to York city center, are more expensive than those further out. If you’re driving, or hiring a car in York make sure to also consider whether there’s parking on sight or how much it’d cost to park nearby.
When searching for hostels, use a variety of booking sites to compare prices and availability. Booking.com is a great site to use for finding hostels, you can easily check reviews, prices and check the hostel facilities.
You could also compare hostel prices using Hostel World, which is a hostel price comparison booking site. Whereas Booking.com will also show you hotels, holiday lets, caravan sites etc Hostel World focuses on hostels. Filter by room type, facilities etc to find your ideal hostel.
