YHA England & Wales

Think hostels and you might think musty old buildings crammed with students, but many of YHA's UK hostels have had a serious facelift, and are now cool places to stay in stunning buildings - often steeped in history - and in perfect locations from cities to countryside. The best bit? Comfortable accommodation in memorable locations without denting your holiday budget. For not much money (beds from £15 even in London) you'll be getting either a bunk bed or a private room, communal areas with fully kitted out kitchens, an in-hostel restaurant or café and, most importantly, a fantastic overall vibe which some sterile hotel chains fail to achieve. It doesn't matter whether you're after a city weekend break or a tour of the British countryside either, because the variety of locations on offer at YHA is vast to say the least. Stay in a former gentleman's shooting lodge on the Yorkshire Dales; or a converted grain house on the waterfront right in the heart of Bristol. You might end up staying in a Castle, a Mansion, or even a camping pod; or camping under the stars at one of the YHA hostel campsites. Need a group venue for your birthday or special occasion? Try hiring out one of their historic hostels like St Briavels Castle for a group holiday you'll never forget. Yes it's finally time to forget the stagnant youth hostel of yesteryear and embrace YHA, because whether you're travelling as a couple, a family or alone – and looking for urban adventures or rural bliss, YHA is hard to beat.

Find out more about YHA's charity organisation here; or become a member to receive great offers and deals. YHA also host summer camps for children aged 10-19.