Sleeping on a budget in Scotland

Just off Princes Street in the heart of the capital and a stone’s throw away from Waverley train station, this hostel is in a perfect location to get in amongst the life of Edinburgh. Above the Guildford Arms that serves a great pint. Inside there is a Nordic/Highland hipster-style of design. The space is well managed, with some very tall three-tier bunk beds in most rooms, and a mix of dorms and private group options if you’re looking to keep costs down on that group chat trip.

The beautiful red sandstone building stands out from the rest at Anstruther’s harbour. Formerly a library it’s now been lovingly converted into a hostel. Many original features have been kept with stripped back flooring, a grand staircase, sash windows, cast-iron radiators and a decorative mosaic floor as you enter. Offering a range of private rooms, family rooms and mixed four-to-eight-man dorms. Warm and friendly common areas with board games to keep everyone entertained. Very affordable prices, don’t miss the chance to stay in this unique set-up.

Originally built in 1877 and used formerly as a drill hall, court room, cinema and bingo hall, this building now serves its purpose as self-catering accommodation. Now split into two floors you have the option to book a room or book the building for up to 10 people. The Tweed Valley is famous for its world-class mountain biking and Innerleithen is a perfect place to base yourself to head out and explore. The lodge is set up to accommodate active outdoor guests with bike storage, drying room and laundry.

Loch Ossian is an enchanting place and there isn’t really any other hostel like it! There’s no public road in, so it’s a 20-mile bike ride or walk to get there. Or take the train to Corrour Station, which is the highest and most remote stop in Scotland. When you disembark, act out the obligatory Ewan McGregor “it’s shite being Scottish” scene from Trainspotting. Once you’ve got that out the way, make your way to the hostel, which is about a mile from there. There are two rooms with 20 beds in total, split between male and female. It’s small and basic, with composting toilets outside, but that just adds to the experience. One of the best bits about this hostel is wild swimming in the loch, which is right outside the door, incredibly cold in the winter, a bit better in the summer. This little gem is not to be missed. Advance booking is highly advisable, and so is getting your breakfast at Corrour Station Hotel, it’s amazing.