Bournemouth Hostels

Ever since the Victorians first noticed Bournemouth's sun-kissed shores and mild climate, this bustling beach town on the side of the English Channel has drawn holidaymakers. These days, they come from May to September to laze on the seven-mile-long stretch of cinnamon-tinted sand, to enjoy rambunctious parties in the beer bars and student pubs of the town centre, to launch marine safaris on the ocean and in the aquariums – the list goes on. Hostels in Bournemouth are ready and waiting for those seeking somewhere on the budget end of the scale. They've got the usual mix of dormitories and bunk rooms, making them perfect pads for a fun-loving weekend break with family, friends or the other half. They can be downright characterful escapes, too, with beers on tap and communal dining halls and kitchens.

Settle by the sea in hostels in Bournemouth

The most tempting thing about hostels in Bournemouth is often the price. You're likely to have plenty of pounds and pennies left for those beach-side feasts of fish and chips or South Coast surf lessons, if you pick one of the low-cost bunk beds in a multi-person dorm. You can even choose to rent the whole room, if you're coming as part of a group – something to think about for Bournemouth's regular stag and hen dos, perhaps. Although shared bathrooms are the norm throughout, those coming as a pair might prefer to give proceedings a little more privacy by selecting a double or twin. You'll get your own space, but still be able to join the evening get-togethers in the communal lounge or bar.

Elegant Georgian and Victorian townhouses now find themselves host to many of the top hostels in Bournemouth. That means lovers of vintage English architecture will find lots to like in the whitewashed facades and cosy interiors, with original fireplaces. Other establishments have infused the old 1800s coastal mansions with something more contemporary, which could mean a cool bar space with flat-screen TVs and pool tables, or modern furnishings with retro art pieces throughout. The policies and other amenities of hostels in Bournemouth also help to make them convenient spots to settle for a seaside break – think no curfew, luggage storage, free WiFi and in-the-know tips on where to go and what beaches to hit.

Salt-washed adventures, thanks to hostels in Bournemouth

Less than half a mile from the famous arc of golden sand and frothing waves that is Bournemouth Beach, the Prime Backpackers regularly reigns as one of the top-rated hostels in Bournemouth. Minimalist interiors and modern kitchens make it a real home-away-from-home sort of establishment, with room for dining together and even a private library for those chill-out sessions. It's also right by the famous stages of the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre and the O2 Academy, with box offices touting Christmas pantos and rocking live music shows. Boho-chic Bunkhouse Bournemouth is over the other side of town. To the west of it is the sailing Mecca of Poole Harbour, while going eastwards brings up the exhibitions and conferences of the colossal Bournemouth International Centre.