Hostels for individuals, families and groups

Scottish Independent Hostels is a network of member hostels, but no membership is required by guests.  Our member hostels all provide good value, quality accommodation with a high level of individuality.

A hostel in every part of Scotland

Our hostels range from a cosy 6-bed hut in a pine forest to converted railway carriages, lighthouses,  crofters' cottages and  city centre town houses; there is such a variety of unique hostels to visit, every one with its own individual character.  Our hostel members tend to locate in the most magical places and offer a depth of local knowledge for their guests because they are passionate about their area of Scotland and hostelling.  Many hostels offer unique extras from hot tubs, guides, home grown vegetables to the option to gather your own eggs for breakfast.  In these times of austerity, it is worth remembering that hostelling is not only very affordable, but also offers the warmth of shared experiences that is priceless.

Hostels are for everyone; individuals families and groups

Each year more and more people, young and old, from all parts of the globe, stay at our hostels and report on how warmly they were welcomed and how so much was done to make their stay a good one.  Visitors comment on the individuality of the hostels and that our hostels offer tremendous value for money. Many come through recommendation or are making a return visit.  Individuals, families and groups can all experience and enjoy the unique hospitality which fosters the shared stories and camaraderie which make hostelling such fun.  Hostelling is very attractive for anyone who loves the outdoors with the majority of hostels offering drying rooms and storage for outdoor equipment and other useful facilities.  Many hostels provide private rooms, family rooms and ensuite as well as the traditional bunks.  Some hostels are a great venue for exclusive use, including educational trips, group visits, reunions, weddings, special celebrations and stag and hen parties. 

Quality Assured Accommodation

All our hostel members are quality assured by Visit Scotland as providing a certain level of hostel, backpacker, bothy, group or activity accommodation and their relevant badge is displayed on their directory listing.  Many hostels also opt to join additional schemes including green tourism and welcome schemes as well as fulfilling the criteria for disabled access.  SIH also has its own Customer Charter which all hostel members adhere to.

SIH Hostels all offer a relaxed and friendly atmosphere; well equipped self-catering kitchens, hot showers and warm clean beds. Many hostels offer all-day access and are open all year, always check opening times before arrival.  Unlike the Scottish Youth Hostel Association, SIH hostels do not require guests to join up to a membership, although many hostels are also part of the SYHA network.