Although it is better known around the globe as the home of one of the most famous and oldest universities, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Oxford is not only just about dated and dusty institutions, it is brimming with charm and all things quintessentially English.
In the city you can explore medieval castles, stroll through historic university buildings, discover a plethora of incredible museums, and enjoy a high tea at a classic hotel. Fortunately, travellers can spend endless days discovering the city’s many gems without burning a hole in their pockets.
Being creative when it comes to looking for accommodations helps when staying in budget. You don’t always have to spend a lot of money in hotels. Stay in Oxford hostels, and you’ll be able to save quite a bit of cash!
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What to Expect from Hostels in Oxford
Although there is only one official hostel in Oxford, it caters to a wide range of travellers. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your significant other, this spot will tick off all your boxes, and make your stay unforgettable.
Contrary to most people’s perceptions, staying in a hostel doesn’t mean sacrificing your privacy. Hostels have private rooms, as well as dorm rooms that are either mixed, strictly for males, or female-only. Of course, dorm rooms are cheaper, since you are sharing them with other people, but privacy is limited. You have to be prepared to shell out a few more dollars if you’d like to book private rooms. But you’ll be happy to know that they are still cheaper than hotel rooms!
One thing that is unique about hostels is that they have more of a community feel. Social butterflies would be in heaven staying in hostels. They have plenty of common areas, affording you the chance to meet interesting people from all sorts of backgrounds, and from all over the world.
If you have a tight budget, looking to meet new people, and are open to new adventures, you won’t regret staying in a hostel. For the most part, hostels are just as safe as hotels – be sure to keep all your valuables in a locker.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind when booking hostels is to always consider the location. Centrally-located spots within proximity to restaurants, bars, markets, groceries, bus stops, and train stations will make getting around easy, fast, and convenient and you’ll save time too! That being said, the nearer you are to the city centre; the more money you can expect to pay.
- Private rooms – $140 to 230 per room
- Dorm rooms – $30 to $40 per bed
HOSTELWORLD is a safe and convenient platform for booking hostels. There are descriptions and photos, and each hostel is rated by previous guests – real travellers, just like you!
Best Hostels in Oxford
Central Backpacker – Best Overall Hostel in Oxford
This hostel is a traveller haven with a rooftop terrace, lounge area, and fully-furnished kitchen where you can mingle and make friends with the other guests. The lounge area is open 24 hours so you can have a go at the PlayStation, watch a movie, or take a chance on the many board games anytime you feel like it.
Ideally located, Central Backpackers is within walking distance to cafes, restaurants, and shops, it’s easy to find quiet spots to eat. Iconic landmarks such as Oxford Castle, Bodleian Library, and Radcliff Camera are nearby too.
Traveling to and from the hostel, as well as to your forward destination, is simple as it’s within a five-minute walk from the train and bus stations. You are guaranteed no hassle, thanks to multiple connections travelling to all the major nearby airports. Oxford has a myriad of bus and train services that run regularly to London and other destinations, too.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Laundry facilities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Book exchange
- Board games and PlayStation
The hostel has female-only dorm rooms, and offers laundry services for a small fee. Security is the property’s priority and for peace of mind, the front door uses door code access. Each of the rooms has swipe card entry, as well as individual lockers that you can lock with your own padlock. You need not worry about your valuables while you are out and about.
Take note – the hostel is in a historic building that is more than a hundred years old. It does not have any lifts or elevators. If you are bringing heavy bags, it’s going to be a little difficult. It is also not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodations in Oxford
Oxford may not have numerous hostels, but other budget accommodations, like Airbnb private rooms, are within the same price range as hostels and are just as comfortable and convenient.
Let’s take a look at the other options.
Bunk Room Near Florence Park
One of the best features about this tidy little spot is that it’s just a stone’s throw away from Florence Park. The park is a beautiful space full of flowers and trees, perfect for a relaxing walk.
The room is located in a modern residential home, just 5 minutes from Templars Square and Cowley Road, with its numerous bars and restaurants, as well as public transport links going to the city centre. This space offers great value for money. The Wi-Fi is free and accessible throughout, and street parking is free in case you’re bringing your car.
You can help yourself to the shared facilities such as the bathroom, dining room, kitchen, toilet, and bike storage. This is one of the most affordable Oxford Airbnbs.
Single Room Close to Oxford Centre
If you’re heading to Oxford but still have some work to do, this private room is ideal. Cosy, close to the city centre, and with fast Wi-Fi, get your tasks done before heading out for a day on sightseeing and exploring. You will have access to the shared living areas and kitchen, as well as a lush green garden if you fancy taking your laptop outside.
The hosts are more than happy to show you around and point out the best spots to visit.
With great public transportation links and lots close by, this is a great place to stay for an Oxford adventure.
Private Room Near Eateries and Pubs
This single bedroom is perfect for solo travellers visiting Oxford. Located in a family home, close to Headington Shopping Centre, it’s in easy proximity to eateries and pubs. When you don’t fancy eating out, you can prepare your own meal in the shared kitchen that is equipped with all the necessary tools.
There are Tube stations and a bus stop only a few minutes away, so you can easily get around and explore the quaint area and bustling centre.
This no-frill, no-fuss, clean home has all the basics you will need for your stay at an affordable price! Plus, its so cosy and comfortable! What more could you need?
Private Room in 18th-Century Cottage
This lovely self-contained room, lovingly dubbed the ‘Blue Room’, is the perfect accommodation for couples.
It is an extension of a beautiful 18th-century cottage, on the ground floor with a private entrance and its own bathroom. The property is near a few beautiful parks, and has a direct bus route to the railway station and town. Exploring the city centre is easy peasy.
There is no access to the main kitchen, but the room has basic tea and coffee-making facilities, as well as a small fridge, microwave, plates, cutlery, and a kettle. That’s if you even want to make your own food with so many amazing restaurants nearby.
The park across from the home has fixed gym equipment free for everyone to use if you want to get your daily sweat in.
Cottages and B&Bs in Oxford would also be the perfect option for couples.
Entire Townhouse with Beautiful Views of Oxford
Traveling with friends is a must! Even if it’s just for a weekend. Plus, the more friends you bring, the cheaper your accommodation will work out
This three-story townhouse is located in a quiet area of Oxford, that is only a 10-minute drive away from the city centre. If you don’t have a car, there is a bus stop only a two-minute walk away from the property.
Gym facilities, as well as an Olympic-sized swimming pool, are nearby at Harcourt Hill Campus and Brookes Sport. There are local pubs that serve up excellent grub, and takeaways for the nights in.
What to Pack for your Oxford 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!
Oxford Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Oxford cost?
Hostels in Oxford offer both private rooms and dorm rooms. Private rooms are understandably more costly than dorm rooms. Private rooms range from $140 to 230 per room, while dorm rooms range from $30 to $40 per bed.
What are the best hostels in Oxford for couples?
Private Room in 18th-Century Cottage is the ideal place to stay in Oxford for couples. It’s near parks, amazing restaurants, and bus routes so it’s the best spot if you’re planning a romantinc tour in the city.
What is the best hostel in Oxford near the airport?
While it’s not exactly a hostel, the closest accommodation near Oxford airport is Marlborough House – Guest House. They provide kitchenette in each room if you feel like using that fabulous cooking skills!
Travel Safety Tips for Oxford
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Oxford
Finding the right accommodation in Oxford doesn’t need to be a hassle. Each of the places we have chosen are comfortable and affordable, providing everything you need for an Oxford escape.
We highly recommend Central Backpacker. You will get the best bang for your buck with the great amenities, and you’ll have plenty of chances to meet new people from all over the world.
- 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.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Oxford if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Oxford 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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