Best Hostels in London: top picks

London is a backpackers’ hot-spot with an impressive array of affordable hostels. Travelers on a budget can still enjoy comfort when knowing the right spots: today’s top hostels in central London feature clean, modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, and friendly social spaces. Our guide covers the best cheap hostels in London center with prime locations, great reviews and links to book and enjoy the top picks from the best hostels in London. These hostels can be booked via https://www.hostelworld.com/fr/

1. Wombat’s City Hostel London

Wombat’s City Hostel is an award-winning hostel housed in a beautifully refurbished building that was once a sailors’ hostel. Located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, it’s right next to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, placing you within walking distance of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This hostel is popular for its lively and social atmosphere – activities are organized most nights (from walking tours to karaoke) to help guests meet each other. Rooms are clean and spacious, with large lockers for your belongings, and there’s a fully equipped kitchen (complete with a free food section for guests) so you can cook and save even more money.

• Price per Night: Approximately £25 for a dorm bed.
• Location: East London (Tower Hamlets) – a short walk from Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and City Hall.
• Perks & Amenities: On-site “Wombar” pub, nightly social events, fully equipped kitchen, and 24-hour reception. A social but secure hostel experience.

2. The Walrus Hostel

If you want a genuine London atmosphere, The Walrus Hostel delivers with its traditional English pub downstairs and quirky vintage décor. This hostel is set on Westminster Bridge Road in central London, just steps from Waterloo Station and within walking distance of Big Ben and the London Eye. The Walrus is known for its warm, sociable vibe – travelers and locals mingle in the pub and in the cozy common room. A simple breakfast is included for free, and there’s also a communal kitchen.

• Price per Night: Dorm beds start around £25 per night, depending on the season.
• Location: Westminster (Central London) – adjacent to Waterloo Station, walking distance to major landmarks.
• Perks & Amenities: On-site pub, free breakfast, guest kitchen, social common area, and friendly atmosphere. It’s a great alternative to the party hostels in the Best Hostels in Sevilla: Top picks list.

3. Barmy Badger Backpackers

Barmy Badger Backpackers is a cozy, family-run hostel in the Kensington/Earl’s Court area. It’s in a pleasant, upscale neighborhood, just a five-minute walk to the Tube. Barmy Badger has a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for getting a good night’s sleep. Dorm beds have memory foam mattresses, personal lights, and USB outlets. There’s free breakfast, all-day tea and coffee, and even free printing. Guests love the outdoor patio and the two friendly pet dogs who roam the property.

• Price per Night: Around £25–£28 for a dorm bed.
• Location: West London (Kensington/Earl’s Court) – 5 minutes from the Tube, walkable to museums and parks.
• Perks & Amenities: Free breakfast, free tea/coffee, BBQ patio, memory foam beds, friendly dogs. A quiet choice for those who want to avoid the party scene yet still enjoy social interaction like the Best Hostels in Sevilla: Top picks offer.

4. Generator London

Generator London is a trendy, large-scale hostel near King’s Cross Station. It’s a former police station turned into a hip spot with an industrial-chic design. It has a massive common lounge, in-house bar and restaurant, and is super social. It doesn’t have a guest kitchen, but meals and drinks are available on-site. Ideal for those who want convenience and a lively atmosphere.

• Price per Night: Approximately £18–£20 for a dorm bed.
• Location: Central London (King’s Cross/Bloomsbury) – walking distance to British Museum, and right by major Tube/train links.
• Perks & Amenities: Bar & café, event nights, pool table, comfy common rooms. It’s one of the best hostels in London if you want an energetic, social vibe reminiscent of the Best Hostels in Sevilla: Top picks.

5. Onefam Notting Hill (by Hostel One)

Onefam Notting Hill is perfect for solo travelers thanks to its free nightly dinners and organized social activities. Located in the beautiful Notting Hill area, the hostel combines charm with energy. Staff cook dinner each evening, followed by group activities. The hostel has multiple lounges, a garden terrace, and a fun, communal vibe. The décor is minimal, but the experience is anything but.

• Price per Night: Typically £20–£30 for a dorm bed.
• Location: West London (Notting Hill) – near Portobello Road Market and Hyde Park, with good Tube access.
• Perks & Amenities: Free dinner every night, group events, outdoor terrace, and multiple social lounges. The social experience is a major highlight, akin to the energy you find in the Best Hostels in Sevilla: Top picks.