With three of the Britain’s main train stations: Kings Cross, St. Pancras and Euston, plus six underground lines, one overground and roughly 21 different bus routes, the area is the most connected not only in London, but also the country. Here is a roundup of hostels within walking distance of Kings Cross.
For many, Kings Cross still conjures up images of the seedy, nefarious underbelly of London. But that is no longer the case. The area has undergone a dramatic facelift in recent years. The Victorian Gothic architectural majesty of St. Pancras railway station welcomes travellers from the continent with consummate elegance. There can be no finer introduction to England. Couple the connections to the rest of London with a wide array of hotels and hostels and it is easy to see why Kings Cross is such a popular place to stay on a trip to London.
Part of the extensive YHA chain, and greater HI international chain, YHA St. Pancras is by far the best located. Across the road from both the British Library and St. Pancras station, it is very popular with travellers. Cheap food at the bar and a maximum of 6 people in a dorm are also big pluses. Many choose to stay here before an early train to Paris or Brussels, but the friendly, warm atmosphere is a big attraction to families as well. Be aware: There are no kitchen facilities for guest use. Pay extra for wifi.
The most striking thing about Generator is that it has half a double-decker bus sticking out of its common room wall. But don’t worry, it was no accident. Generator is the cool hostel. A lot of thought and effort has gone into the design. It finds middle ground in attempting to please both younger backpackers and older travellers alike. Dorms of up to 10 or 12 people, but some private rooms as well. Be aware: Some rooms can get stuffy in the summer.
Clink has two hostels, both relatively close to one another. Clink261 is closer to Kings Cross however and receives better feedback from guests. Clink78 is larger and has its own bar, which is open to guests of the 261 hostel as well. All dorms at Clink261 are unisex. Be aware: Many folk have problems with the harder mattresses on the beds. Cheaper dorms have up to 18 people.
While the other hostels have a bar rolled into the reception or lounge areas, Keystone House has its own dedicated backpacker pub next door. This enhances a more family friendly atmosphere by separating the drinking from the common areas. Keystone is one of the few that has 3-bedded private rooms. Be aware: Dorms are large with 8 or 16 beds. Pay extra for wifi.
Journeys is recognisable from the beautiful, slightly spacey mural outside. Bunk-beds here are triple-tiered in some rooms, so it is not ideal for those requiring space. It is possibly the best economy option however, and targets the 18-35 backpacker groups specifically. It is also an option for longer-term stays, as some guests use it as a stepping-stone to getting more established accommodation when first arriving in London. Be aware: Not ideal for families. Some large, cramped dorms of up to 17 people.
