While many visitors to the UK will make a beeline straight for London and Edinburgh, there’s a city on the train line between them that is well worth a stop. Known as the friendliest city in England, Newcastle upon Tyne is an absolute delight.
While you may have been excited/dismayed by how it looks on Geordie Shore, there’s a whole lot more to the city than its wild nightlife. With an exciting food and drink scene, gorgeous beaches just a short car (or metro) journey away, and the gateway to Northumberland National Park, you might just fall in love with Newcastle.
While you’re probably changing your train tickets for a stopover in Newcastle (or who knows, perhaps a whole weekend), there’s something you should figure out first – and that’s where to stay. Though it’s one of the cheaper cities in the UK, it can still be quite pricey booking an overnight stay here. Thankfully, that’s where hostels come in.
We’ve compiled a list of the best hostels in Newcastle upon Tyne. Not only will booking one of these great properties save you money, but they’ll ensure you have a great time in Toon (yes, that’s what they call it up here). So, let’s find a hostel that suits your budget, personality, and travel style!
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Newcastle
- Overall Best Hostel in Newcastle – Albatross Hostel
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Newcastle – YHA Newcastle Central
- Best Cheap Hostel in Newcastle – Fenham Hostel Express
- Best Hostel for Couples in Newcastle – Sleeperdorm
- Best Party Hostel in Newcastle – Heroes Hotel
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Best Hostels in Newcastle
Finding out where to stay in Newcastle can be a bit of a struggle. Especially when there are hostels in different neighbourhoods of the city. However, getting one that matches your travel style is even trickier, but still a vital part of your trip. Let us help you by showing you ten of the best budget accommodations in Newcastle so that your backpacking England trip will be a full success!
Albatross Hostel – Overall Best Hostel in Newcastle
While we said the location wasn’t massively important, being halfway between Central Station and Grey’s Monument is definitely a plus. You’ve got much of Newcastle’s best shopping and nightlife right on your doorstep! Not only that, but two metro stations connecting to the coast and the airport are within easy reach. There’s a fully equipped kitchen, so pick up some fresh produce from the Grainger Market (also within a stone’s throw) and cook up a storm with the other travellers you’ve met before hitting the Bigg Market for a night out you’ll probably not remember!
YHA Newcastle Central – Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Newcastle
With spacious rooms and plenty to do on-site, the only danger with staying here is that you might not get out into the city to explore. The bottom floor is a perfect place to take in a game of football on the big screen (if you don’t have tickets to St. James’ Park, dubbed the Cathedral on the Hill by locals) and enjoy a couple of beers. Pot some balls as you sink your pints, as there are pool tables in the bar too. Once you do eventually leave, you’ve got the Theatre Royal pretty much at the end of the street, while one of the city’s best clubs – World Headquarters, is even closer.
Fenham Hostel Express – Best Cheap Hostel in Newcastle
It’s a bit of a trek from the city centre, but if you’re looking to keep your trip as cheap as possible, take a look at the Fenham Hostel Express. This hostel is in a student area, and while there are lots of places to eat and drink nearby, it’s one of the few parts of Newcastle where you’ll struggle to find a pub or bar. Drivers will be pleased to know that there’s on-street parking which costs nothing. Other freebies include breakfast, tea and coffee. While this is place is undoubtedly kind on the pocket, you might miss the city centre atmosphere, and solo travellers won’t want to walk back from town at night. There might well be better options!
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View on Osprey View on REISleeperdorm – Best Hostel for Couples in Newcastle
Modern Sleeperdorm might just have the coolest and crispest design just a short walk from Newcastle city centre. With some room rates, you’ll have a full English breakfast included – perfect fuel for navigating around the city centre and all the way down to the Quayside. After a busy day exploring all the top things to do in Newcastle, come back to chill out in the shared lounge or on the outdoor terrace. Be warned that you will probably need a coat for the outdoor terrace, even in summer. Don’t be fooled by the shirtless football fans you see on TV no matter the time of year!
Heroes Hotel – Best Party Hostel in Newcastle
Before we get deeper into Heroes, we should be clear that it’s not a party hostel. However, it’s right by the Bigg Market, so all you need to do is walk across the street, and you’ll find Newcastle’s famous trebles bars. This is a particularly good option if you’re on a stag do! Of course, there are some private rooms too, so you won’t necessarily be disturbed. However, central Newcastle can be quite rowdy on any day of the week, so if you want a good night’s sleep, we’d suggest reading on!
91 Aparthotel Jesmond Road – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Newcastle
Newcastle’s trendiest suburb Jesmond is a bit of a weird place. It’s where you’ll find premier league footballers, university lecturers, and students all rubbing shoulders. Its boho vibe is popular with visitors, who can enjoy boutique shops and a walk through the pretty dene. This is an excellent area for a digital nomad, as there is a whole load of cafes on your doorstep. Even better is the fact that there’s a laptop-friendly workspace and fast Wi-Fi in this cute and inexpensive aparthotel. Since this is near to Northumbria Uni, this is also a great stopover for parents visiting their grown-up kids.
Oyo Dene Hotel – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Newcastle
Another Jesmond offering is the OYO Dene Hotel. Stay here for two nights to sample the on-site Caspian Turkish restaurant, and the best-loved family-run Italian in Newcastle around the corner – Francesca’s. This is a great place for couples and families, thanks to the spacious private rooms. It’s also great for solo travellers who need a break from the hostel lifestyle – single rooms are on offer too. All rooms in this budget hotel boast a private bathroom, and you’ll be able to make tea and coffee in your room. That’s not the only freebie – you’re welcome to breakfast and parking too!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Great Hostels in Newcastle
Budget Hostel
One of Newcastle’s most famous exports is the TV series Byker Grove. While this may not be on the Grove itself, at least it’s in Byker. True to its name, it offers one of the cheapest stays in Newcastle. However, it’s a metro or taxi ride from the city centre. One good thing is that within walking distance you have Ouseburn – a hub of independent bars, pubs, and restaurants. This is a good option if you’re coming up for a Newcastle United game, as the nearby metro station can take you directly to the club stadium.
easyHotel Newcastle
You’re in safe hands at the easyHotel. Run by the same people who have the budget airline, they know a thing or two about travelling on a budget. What’s surprising about such a cheap hotel is its prime location just steps from Newcastle’s iconic Quayside. You get air conditioning and a private bathroom here, but much like easyJet’s flights, extras come at a cost (including Wi-Fi). While that’s not ideal if you’re a digital nomad, those hoping for a place to use as a base while enjoying the city shouldn’t have any problems with staying here.
New Northumbria Hotel
Last but not least is another awesome budget hotel in Jesmond. It’s right in the heart of everything that’s happening – Osborne Road is lined with shops and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll into town (or if you’re feeling lazy, it’s a couple of stops on the metro) after enjoying an award-winning cooked breakfast. This is included in some room rates. While there are lots of options when it comes to places to eat nearby, you don’t even need to leave your hotel as there are two wonderful restaurants on site. Once you’re sated, head back up to to your comfy extra-large double bed. Popular with couples and family visiting students!
What to Pack for your Newcastle Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Why You Should Visit Newcastle
There are so many reasons to go to Newcastle that it’s important to find the perfect place to stay for your trip. After all, you may use it as a base when you go to visit Hadrian’s Wall, check out the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site Durham Cathedral, or take a walk on the body of the world’s largest woman – Northumberlandia (it’s not weird as it sounds, honest).
We get that after seeing ten top properties, you may still be scratching your head on which to choose for your stay. If that’s the case, just go for our top recommended hostel in Newcastle. That’s Albatross Hostel. It’s got a fabulous location in the centre of town, and it offers good value for money. What more could you want?!
FAQ about Hostels in Newcastle
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Newcastle.
How much does a hostel cost in Newcastle?
Average hostels in Newcastle costs $20, while private rooms ranges from $50-$100.
What are the best hostels in Newcastle for couples?
Sleeperdorm is a cool modern hostel that is ideal for couples. The best perk is the soundproofed private rooms with views over the city.
What are the best hostels in Newcastle near the airport?
The nearest airport, Newcastle International Airport, is just 20 mins drive from the city center. Here is my top hostels within the area:
– Albatross Hostel
– Sleeperdorm
– YHA Newcastle Central
Travel Safety Tips for Newcastle
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They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Newcastle
Whether you want to head to St. James Park to take in the amazing atmosphere of a Newcastle United game, see the cutting edge modern art at the Quayside’s modern art gallery, or enjoy delicious fish and chips at the seaside town of Tynemouth, you’ll want to come back again and again to Newcastle. And who could blame you?! It’s one of the friendliest cities there is, so even if you don’t fall in love with the city itself (unlikely), you certainly will with the locals.
While you get excited for your trip to Geordieland, you might put thoughts of where you’re staying to one side. However, make sure not to do that for too long as accommodation gets booked up pretty quick. It’s best to make a quick decision on your favourite Newcastle hostel and bag your bed ASAP. Remember, it’s your hostel that will set the tone of your trip, so try and get one best suited to your travel style.
Have you been to Newcastle upon Tyne? How was your trip? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below – especially if you feel we’ve missed off any great budget accommodations!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in the UK for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places in the UK covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Newcastle before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Europe to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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