Causeway Coast Independent Hostel is located in Portstewart, just a short walk from the beach and a 5-minute stroll from the town centre, making it ideal for exploring this charming coastal town. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and its location is considered excellent. The hostel offers a range of rooms, including those with en suite facilities, and features communal areas where guests can relax and socialise. The shared kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals, and there are plenty of opportunities for exploring the surrounding area, including the Giant's Causeway and Royal Portrush Golf Club.
9.4 78 reviews
Northern Ireland
02/08 – 03/08
A$165/nightfor 1 night
Railway Sleeper Hostel
1 2
hostel , Castlerock
The Railway Sleeper Hostel is located in Castlerock, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, 2.1km from Downhill Strand Beach and 26km from the Giant's Causeway. This family-friendly lodging offers 40 square metres of space, comprising one bedroom, one bathroom, and a shared kitchen and lounge, sleeping up to six guests and including free WiFi.
8.4 620 reviews
Northern Ireland
08/07 – 06/08
A$55/nighttotal: A$1595 (29 )
Botanic Avenue Hostel Less Than A Mile From The City Centre
1 1
hostel , Belfast
Botanic Avenue Hostel is located just under a mile from Belfast city centre, close to Queen's University and a short walk from the Botanic Gardens, making it a great base for exploring the city. It has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness and overall experience. The hostel offers single rooms with shared bathroom facilities and a shared kitchen. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a TV and a kitchen in their room, as well as a shared lounge area.
8.0 109 reviews
Northern Ireland
05/08 – 07/08
A$232/nighttotal: A$464 (2 )
Bushmills Hostel
1 3
hostel , Bushmills
Bushmills Youth Hostel is located a fifteen-minute walk from the Old Bushmills Distillery and less than 3km from Portballintrae and Runkerry Beaches, offering convenient access to the Causeway Coast's key attractions. This budget-friendly lodging provides guests with free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a shared kitchen equipped with a microwave and refrigerator, alongside a welcoming lobby featuring a fireplace.
8.1 404 reviews
Northern Ireland
25/06 – 26/06
A$102/nightfor 1 night
Aunt Rachel's Barn Hostel
1 1
hostel , Bushmills
Aunt Rachel's Barn Hostel is located in Bushmills, just a short drive from the Giant's Causeway and the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, making it an ideal base for exploring this stunning natural wonder. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience. The hostel has one bedroom and one bathroom, providing comfortable accommodation for up to four guests in a 24 square metre space. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, private parking, and a peaceful setting, perfect for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle.
Northern Ireland
10/09 – 13/09
A$247/nighttotal: A$741 (3 )
The Roost
1 3
hostel , Londonderry
The Roost offers budget accommodation located 300m from Ferryquay Gate, just outside Londonderry's historic city walls, providing easy access to the city centre. This Londonderry hostel features internet and a kitchen, and is within walking distance of local pubs, restaurants, shops, the Foyleside Shopping Centre, and the Derry Girls mural.
8.6 6932 reviews
Northern Ireland
14/07 – 15/07
A$142/nightfor 1 night
Global Village
1 3
hostel , Belfast
Global Village hostel is located in Belfast's lively Queen's Quarter, just a short walk from the Botanic Gardens, Ulster Museum, and Queen's University. It's highly rated by guests, who praise its friendly atmosphere and clean, comfortable rooms. The hostel is housed in a beautifully converted 19th-century building, blending modern amenities with original charm. Global Village offers a range of facilities, including a beer garden, BBQ area, and common spaces, as well as a free breakfast, laundry facilities, and 24-hour hot water.
9.7 189 reviews
Northern Ireland
27/06 – 28/06
A$133/nightfor 1 night
Hutt Hostel
1 2
hostel , Mourne Mountains
Hutt Hostel is located in the centre of Newcastle, just a short drive from the stunning Mourne Mountains. It has received excellent reviews from previous guests. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including a self-contained family apartment. Guests can enjoy a comfortable lounge with a log-burning stove, a games room, and a large laundry and drying room.
8.1 517 reviews
Northern Ireland
21/06 – 22/06
A$857/nightfor 1 night
Queen's University Belfast - Elms Bt9
5 5
hostel , Belfast
Queens University Belfast - Elms Village - Hostel is conveniently located in Belfast City Centre, just a 15-minute walk from Queen's University, Lisburn Road, and Belfast Botanic Gardens. The hostel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hostel offers a single bedroom and bathroom in an 8-square-metre space. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a kitchen, parking, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi.
8.9 898 reviews
Northern Ireland
26/06 – 27/06
A$93/nightfor 1 night
White Park Bay Youth Hostel
1 2
hostel , Ballintoy
White Park Bay Youth Hostel is located in the village of Ballintoy, just 2.2 miles from the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, offering a peaceful escape close to the stunning North Coast. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers. The hostel has a single bedroom with a private bathroom and a shared kitchen, covering 12 square metres. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, private parking, a garden and a terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the dramatic coastline.
9.6 1645 reviews
Northern Ireland
24/07 – 28/07
A$316/nighttotal: A$1264 (4 )
Botanical Backpackers
1 4
hostel , Belfast
Botanical Backpackers is located in Belfast's Queen's Quarter, just a short walk from the Botanical Gardens, Ulster Museum, and Queen's University, making it a great base for exploring the city. The hostel has received excellent reviews from previous guests, praising its friendly atmosphere and comfortable accommodation. The hostel features a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy living room, and a small garden, providing ample space for socialising and relaxing. Guests can enjoy a free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, board games, a record player, guitars, and a book collection.
Northern Ireland
15/08 – 30/08
A$171/nighttotal: A$2565 (15 )
Slemish Barn
1 3
hostel , Ballymena
This B&B is situated just 0.3 kilometres from Cranny Falls, 10 kilometres from Slemish Mountain and the Antrim Coast and Glens, and 12.4 kilometres from Glenarm Castle, offering a peaceful retreat in the countryside near Ballymena. Guests have consistently rated this guesthouse as very good, highlighting its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. This charming guesthouse offers six bedrooms and a common area with a kitchen featuring a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a garden, terrace, barbecue, free parking, and Wi-Fi, along with the option of a meeting room and housekeeping.
Best Northern Ireland hostels with breakfast
Among the 69 accommodations in Northern Ireland, here are the 2 best hostels with breakfast
Northern Ireland
04/07 – 11/07
A$273/nighttotal: A$1911 (7 )
Walsh's Hotel
1 2
hostel , Magherafelt
Walsh's Hotel, a 3-star establishment, is conveniently located 4km from Magherafelt town centre, offering easy access to local amenities. This guesthouse boasts free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a restaurant, bar, room service, and features including a terrace, concierge service, a lift, and massage room, plus picnic and barbeque areas.
8.9 11540 reviews
Northern Ireland
02/09 – 08/09
A$52/nighttotal: A$312 (6 )
Vagabonds Hostel
1 1
hostel , Belfast
Vagabonds Hostel is located in Belfast's Queens Quarter, just a short walk from the Belfast Empire Music Hall and close to other attractions like the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum. The hostel has received excellent user ratings and very good ratings for location and cleanliness. The hostel has a shared kitchen and lounge, offering a social atmosphere for guests. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, modern amenities, and a terrace or balcony.
Top cities
Best Northern Ireland hostels with a locker
9.8 150 reviews
Northern Ireland
12/07 – 19/07
A$76/nighttotal: A$532 (7 )
Ballyeamon Barn Tourist Hostel
1 2
hostel , Cushendall
Ballyeamon Barn Tourist Hostel is located in the Glens of Antrim, a scenic area known for its folklore, music, and dance, and is just a short drive from the charming village of Cushendall. The hostel has received excellent user ratings, highlighting its unique charm and warm hospitality. The hostel offers a range of modern amenities, including free WiFi, central heating, and a fully fitted kitchen. Guests can enjoy free storytelling and music sessions in the "Session House", connect with locals, and participate in workshops, guided walks, horse riding, yoga, and "pamper" sessions.
8.2 101 reviews
Northern Ireland
18/09 – 21/09
A$193/nighttotal: A$579 (3 )
Bushmills Hostel
1 2
hostel , Bushmills
Hostel with a good rating of 82% based on 101 reviews. This accommodation is based in Bushmills. Services and facilities include free parking.
Frequently asked questions about hostels in Northern Ireland
What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Northern Ireland?
For budget-conscious travellers, Northern Ireland offers many free or low-cost attractions. Walking the Giant's Causeway coastal path is breathtaking and free, while exploring the historic streets of Derry~Londonderry or Belfast city centre won't cost a penny. Many museums, like the Ulster Museum in Belfast, offer free admission. Affordable day trips could include exploring the Mourne Mountains or the scenic Antrim Coast. Ferries to Rathlin Island provide a reasonably priced island getaway.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Northern Ireland?
George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) and Belfast International Airport (BFS) are the main airports serving Northern Ireland, handling the vast majority of flights. There are also smaller airports, but these two are the primary hubs for international and domestic travel.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Northern Ireland?
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Northern Ireland?
Navigating the roads in Northern Ireland is generally straightforward. The road network is well-maintained, and signposting is clear, though some rural roads can be narrow. A GPS or satnav is recommended, especially for exploring more remote areas. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
What are the best hostels with parking in Northern Ireland?
How can travellers best respect local customs while in Northern Ireland?
Respectful travel involves being mindful of the region's history and diverse culture. Engage in polite conversation, be mindful of local sensitivities regarding the political situation, and always treat others with courtesy and consideration. Learning a few basic Gaelic phrases is a thoughtful gesture.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland boasts a vibrant calendar of festivals. The Féile an Phobail (West Belfast Festival) is a large community festival celebrating culture and music. Numerous smaller cultural and music festivals happen throughout the year across the country, often celebrating local traditions and heritage. St Patrick's Day is widely celebrated, though it's worth noting that it's not exclusively unique to Northern Ireland.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Northern Ireland?
For medical emergencies, dial 999. For non-emergency police matters, contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). For fire emergencies, also dial 999.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Northern Ireland?
A week allows for a good exploration of Northern Ireland. You could explore Belfast and the Antrim Coast, including the Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Alternatively, you could base yourself in the Fermanagh Lakelands, exploring the waterways and castles of the region, and then travel to the dramatic scenery of the Mourne Mountains.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Northern Ireland?
For a weekend break, focus on one area. Belfast offers a blend of history, culture and nightlife. Alternatively, the Causeway Coast provides stunning scenery easily explored in a short time. A weekend in the Sperrin Mountains would allow you to enjoy hiking and exploring the countryside.
Are there specific regions in Northern Ireland known for great weather?
Northern Ireland's weather is notoriously unpredictable. While no region guarantees sunshine, coastal areas generally experience milder temperatures than inland regions. However, be prepared for all types of weather, regardless of location, and pack accordingly.