Top 10 Best Hostels in Folkestone and Hythe

Budget Travel in Folkestone and Hythe

Folkestone and Hythe sit on popular routes for walkers tackling the England Coast Path and the North Downs Way, cyclists following National Cycle Route 2 and backpackers heading to or from mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel. These travellers typically want affordable, clean and friendly accommodation rather than luxury. However, the district has very few traditional hostels, so budget travellers need to know where to look.

This guide brings together the best hostel-style and budget options, including nearby hostels, value hotels, campsites and private rooms, so you can enjoy the coast without stretching your budget.

What Budget Travellers Should Consider

Look at total costs, including breakfast, parking and transport into town. Check whether properties offer secure bike storage, luggage facilities and flexible check-in times. Location is also key: staying near Folkestone Central or Folkestone West stations makes day trips to Canterbury, Dover and London easy.

The Top 10 Hostel and Budget Options

1. Kipps Canterbury

Kipps is an independent backpacker hostel in Canterbury, a short train ride from Folkestone. It offers dormitory beds, private rooms, a shared kitchen and a sociable atmosphere. Many travellers use it as a base for exploring both Canterbury Cathedral and the Folkestone coast.

2. Travelodge Folkestone

Travelodge offers some of the lowest room rates in the area, particularly when booked in advance. For groups of friends sharing a family room, the cost per person can rival a hostel, with the added privacy of an en-suite bathroom.

3. Premier Inn Folkestone

Premier Inn provides reliable comfort and consistent standards at reasonable prices. Its advance saver rates and optional breakfast make it a sensible choice for budget-conscious travellers who value a good night's sleep.

4. The Grand Burstin Hotel

Overlooking Folkestone Harbour, the Grand Burstin frequently offers competitive rates, especially outside peak season. Its central location makes it easy to explore the Harbour Arm, Creative Quarter and beaches on foot.

5. Holiday Inn Express Folkestone Channel Tunnel

With breakfast included and a location close to the Le Shuttle terminal, this hotel offers strong value for travellers crossing to France, particularly cyclists and motorcyclists making early departures.

6. The Camping and Caravanning Club Folkestone Site

Set above the dramatic Folkestone Warren, this campsite offers pitches with stunning views across the Channel. It is ideal for walkers and campers wanting nature on the doorstep and easy access to the coastal path.

7. Little Switzerland Camping

Little Switzerland is a popular campsite near the Warren, known for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the coast. It provides an affordable, outdoor alternative for budget travellers during the warmer months.

8. Airbnb Private Rooms

Airbnb lists many private rooms in local homes across Folkestone and Hythe. These can be excellent value for solo travellers, and hosts often share insider tips about the best cafés, walks and hidden beaches.

9. Booking.com Guesthouses

Booking.com features a range of small guesthouses and budget B and Bs throughout the district. Comparing filters for price, breakfast and review scores helps travellers find hidden gems at a fraction of hotel prices.

10. University of Kent Summer Accommodation

During university holidays, the University of Kent in Canterbury offers campus accommodation to visitors and groups. It is a useful option for larger parties, school trips and travellers seeking affordable rooms within easy reach of the coast.

Trends in Budget Travel

Budget travel in Kent is evolving. Hybrid accommodation offering both private rooms and social spaces is growing nationally, and many travellers now expect strong Wi-Fi and co-working corners even in low-cost properties. Sustainable travel is another trend, with more visitors arriving by train or bike and seeking eco-friendly campsites. Folkestone's growing reputation as a creative destination may encourage new hostel-style openings in the future.

Getting Around on a Budget

Staying in budget accommodation is only part of the story; getting around affordably matters too. Stagecoach buses link Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate and Dover, with day and multi-day tickets offering good value for visitors planning several trips. The coastal path between Folkestone and Hythe is an easy and scenic walk along the Lower Leas Coastal Park and Sandgate seafront, saving both money and time spent waiting for transport.

Cyclists are well served by National Cycle Route 2, which runs along much of the seafront, and the flat terrain around Hythe and the Romney Marsh is ideal for exploring by bike. Many of the district's best attractions are free, including the Harbour Arm, the Folkestone Artworks, the beaches, the Warren and the Royal Military Canal. Picnics with produce from local markets and bakeries, combined with fish and chips by the harbour, make eating out affordable. With careful planning, a budget stay can be every bit as rewarding as a luxury break.

Tips for Saving Money

Travel midweek or outside school holidays for the lowest prices, book early for summer and Triennial years and consider staying slightly outside the centre. With a little planning, backpackers and budget travellers can enjoy Folkestone and Hythe's beaches, art and walks without breaking the bank.