YHA Oxford Street

The sharp YHA Oxford Street hostel is a well-kept traveler's secret—an affordable outpost of the reliable Hosteling International group tucked away behind the shops of Oxford Street and the vibrant nightlife of Soho.

This is prime real estate, Cheapos, so if you’re fine with simplicity and sharing a bathroom, you can sleep a block from Oxford Street, amid an array of boutiques, cafés and trendy nightlife options—all for a song. Many of its 36 rooms are private, and dorms sleep no more than four people. Rooms are funky, with brightly colored walls, metal twin bunks and lime green bedspreads. Each bunk has a reading light, outlet (adapters can be rented or purchased at reception) and locker (bring or buy your own padlock at the front desk). Each bedroom also comes with a small sink. Tip: Snag a room at the back of the hostel on a high floor to spy the top of the London Eye. (Note, however, that rooms above the third floor are not accessible by an elevator.)

The bathrooms, all shared, are quite spacious and come outfitted super modern shower stalls. Towels are not provided but are available to rent or buy.

The YHA Oxford Street offers a large, excellently equipped kitchen with brightly colored cupboards and chrome surfaces. There is also a small café where guests can stock up on snacks and drinks. Overall, there is a light-hearted, youthful vibe at the YHA Oxford Street, from the stairway murals of London sights and objects (including the Jam and “Joseph and the Technicolour Raincoat”) to the spacious TV lounge with cushy yellow bean bag chairs. The hostel also offers a range of fun activities, including a nightly pub crawl and free London walking tours.

Wi-Fi is available throughout, and there are Internet stations in the TV lounge, both for an additional charge. Although, those with HI Memberships can get Wi-Fi for free, and it is also free in communal areas. Breakfast costs an additional fee.