London Travel Forum

Are they safe enough for a single female? I've heard lots of mixed reviews for the hostels in London.
If someone can recommend any alternatives on a budget I'd appreciate it.
(attending a series of concerts in Islington)

I've always found that the YHA hostels are the nicest and the quietest (compared to some of the other, more loud, drinking hostels). I've stayed in numerous YHA's in Scotland and they were great and clean.

If in London, I would not recommend Wake Up London hostel. It was dirty and gave me a kind of scuzzy feeling.

And I've stayed at many hostels alone. Just be aware of your surroundings and if you get a bad vibe in a place- don't stay!
But overall, I have found hostels to be friendly and warm, as a single girl. I've met a lot of other single girls travelling and so we've teamed up to hang out together.

The Youth Hostels Association (YHA) is a long-established (since the 1930s) and responsible UK group, so you might prefer to use their hotels. They are listed on hostel websites such as www.hostelworld.com, along with privately-run hostels.

All hostels advertised for visitors in central London will be 'safe enough', but some may be less salubrious than others.

I recommend Picadilly Backpacker's Hostel. It's a 2 minute walk from Picadilly Circus which is close to all main attractions. I think the price is around 20 pounds a night and there is 24 hour security and I definitely think that most people would feel safe staying here.

My sister stays often at the Holland Park YHA hostel - no problems - its fine.

I have a friend that is travelling solo at the moment (female) & she is staying at the INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HOUSE.  Right next to Regents Park on the corner of Great Portland Street.  $AU95.00 a night with b/fast but only through STA Travel.  Google ISH to see.

The YHA is a venerable organisation which has hostels in some amazing properties. It tends towards many beds in big dormitories. It has a paternal ethos where community spirit is encouraged. It is safe and responsible. Popular with school trips and families.

Other hostels in London, on the Australian model, are run as a club with a bar, 24hr access, pool tables and internet. Everything for the student back packer who wants to have the same party in as many different capitals as possible. They can be a bit sloppy and juvenile.

You pay your money and you make your choice.