About YHA
Making their world a bigger place
The Youth Hostel Association was formed in 1930 as part of the 'Outdoors' movement. Our aim is to bridge the gap between town and country, helping young people to expand their experience of the world and learn to appreciate and care for the environment and culture around them.
Network of more than 200 youth hostels
There are more than 200 Youth Hostels operated by YHA across England and Wales. Each hostel provides a warm welcome, comfortable accommodation and good food.
Youth Hostels are open to everyone, not just YHA members, and charge very affordable prices, so everyone can enjoy the great outdoors. Our long term strategy is to continue to expand the Youth Hostel network, particularly supporting the needs of young people by providing excellent facilities in areas of high demand.
Building bridges between town and country
YHA is committed to building bridges between town and country in a way which is supportive and considerate of our environment. We are at heart, a countryside and environmental organisation. This is reflected in our policies and we encourage our hostels to adopt a sustainable, ethical use of the countryside and their local community.
Balancing charitable and commercial interests
The YHA charitable objective underpins the formation and operation of Breaks4Kids:
'To help all, especially young people of limited means, to a greater knowledge, love and care of the countryside, and appreciation of the cultural values of towns and cities, particularly by providing Youth Hostels or other accommodation for them in their travels, and thus to promote their health, recreation and education.'
Becoming a member of YHA
The YHA has over 230,000 members. When you become a member, not only do you enjoy a reduce rate at our hostels, but you also support our charitable activity as £3 of your membership fee is donated to the Breaks4Kids fund.
