Astor Kensington Hostel  

In Bayswater, a budget backpackers' hostel just steps from Kensington Gardens and about a 12-minute walk to Hyde Park. You’re also close to Kensington High Street and Kensington Palace, with easy tube and bus links to Oxford Circus, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden.

Housed in a Victorian building with a guesthouse vibe, the property offers around 96 individually decorated guestrooms and roughly 100 beds. Rooms feature rainfall showerheads, fans and blackout drapes, with daily housekeeping and 24-hour reception. This is an age-restricted backpacker hostel catering to younger travellers (adults only).

Complimentary Wi‑Fi, luggage storage and secure lockers keep you connected and organised. Social spaces include a communal living room, a tranquil kitchen and dining area, plus a library and vending machine. On-site services: bike rentals, tour assistance for excursions, laundry, safe-deposit boxes, multilingual staff and a 24-hour front desk. Short strolls to the parks mean quick park-side mornings and easy sightseeing.

Breakfast is included, and the communal kitchen and dining room are perfect for swapping travel tips over a morning brew. Expect a low-cost, social dining vibe rather than full-service restaurants on site.