Reviewing SYHA Glasgow Youth Hostel: The Best Hostel in Glasgow?
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The SYHA Glasgow Youth Hostel is an incredible place to stay if you’re looking at hostels in Glasgow. A VisitScotland accredited accommodation, it is housed in a lovely Victorian townhouse that overlooks Kelvingrove Park. Located in Glasgow’s city center, it is near the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, as well as a number of cafes, restaurants, and bars. I found a wonderful little pub on my first night there, just on the park’s edge.
The hostel is part of SYHA Scotland, a charity that operates a network of nearly 70 youth hostels. If you’re wondering, is Scotland expensive? Then know this is a budget-friendly way to stay in Scotland. And if you’re looking for free things to do in Glasgow, I got you there too!
Researching Hostels in Glasgow
I learned about SYHA Glasgow Youth Hostel from my contact at YHA Hostels when I reached out to see if they had any hostels in Glasgow, Scotland, and that’s when I was given the recommendation. I had loved most of my stays with YHA, so I knew this would likely be a lovely time!
As I didn’t have a car during my stay, being close to the city center was important to me when deciding which of the many hostels in Glasgow was a fit for me. I didn’t want to waste my 24 hours in Scotland getting to and from places. I wanted to spend it AT places, so the location of this hostel was fabulous!
Are you wondering when’s the best time to visit Scotland? I visited in the summer and didn’t find it too busy, but I was also only in Glasgow for a day.
SYHA Glasgow Youth Hostel
I was given a private en-suite room for my stay there, and honestly, it was just like staying at a hostel. The bed was comfy, and the bathroom and shower were clean. It had a view of the Kelvingrove Park from my room. There was also a tea kettle in the room, which was a nice touch. It was a bit rainy and gloomy while I was there, so I rather enjoyed the tea. If you prefer to stay in a shared dorm, they also have them available.
WiFi is free for all guests and worked really well. I hung out in the lounge that overlooks the park after visiting the pub nearby. There’s also a television room, game room, laundry, secure bike store, and luggage storage for guests arriving early.
Their reception was open 24 hours a day, and they were very welcoming and helpful. While I was there, I went to Stirling Castle, and the receptionist was able to help me figure out how to get there. There are several tours you can go on, and discounts are available. Some of them even pick you up from the hostel!
‘Wee Breakfast’ is available, but you must pre-book!
Amenities at SYHA Glasgow
(as of March 2024)
SYHA Scotland’s Charity Work
Established in 1931, SYHA Hosteling Scotland is a self-funding charity that operates a network of nearly 70 youth and affiliate hostels. As a non-profit, they encourage guests to join SYHA Hosteling Scotland. It is free to everyone under 16 years old and students in full-time education.
Members get access to a range of benefits including dual membership of Hostelling International, providing access to more than 4,000 youth hostels in 80 countries worldwide.
Meet Hamish MacBear
A part of that wonderful work includes this adorable bear! This little fellow above is my Hamish MacBear. I took him home, but you can also take your own Hamish MacBear home.
“As SYHA’s furriest member of staff, Hamish regularly travels around the SYHA network stopping in at various youth hostels along the way to lend a hand (or paw).”
All the profits from these little bears go to the SYHA Youth Program, which helps young people in Scotland. It gives young people the chance to experience, enjoy, and understand the great outdoors and Scottish landscape. In addition to the Youth Program, they have helped young people partake in STEM camps and apprenticeships at West College Scotland. As a charity, they rely on members and guests to continue their incredible work.
Is the SYHA Glasgow Youth Hostel Worth Staying at?
On my way out, I took that rainy photo of SYHA Glasgow Youth Hostel. Unfortunately, I was there for only one night, but I would definitely return! It’s perfect if you’re looking for a hostel in Glasgow’s city center. And if you have more time to tour the country, check out this 8 day Scotland Itinerary!
With a 4.5 star rating (and my review), it’s one of the best hostels in Glasgow, Scotland. I felt super safe, it was very comfy, and a truly convenient place to stay on a budget. All this is in addition to SYHA Scotland‘s great charity work, which made me feel wonderful about staying there!
Click here for the latest prices.
Nearby Attractions: Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, The Botanic Gardens, Ashton Lane, Buchanan Street (‘The Style Mile’), Princes Square, Merchant Square, Riverside Museum, Gallery of Modern Art, and Glasgow Science Centre.
Address: 7/8 Park Terrace, Glasgow G3 6BY
Transparency: This was a complimentary stay at SYHA Glasgow, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
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