YHA Streatley on Thames

The kitchen was well kept, and I used it to make dinner. There are several showers and bathrooms on every floor, and breakfast is available too. Since I was the only one up early, the gentleman working was very attentive and made me a cafetiere of coffee. There was plenty to eat, and it wasn’t expensive. I stayed one night in May. The room was spacious, clean and affordable, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and showed me where everything was. It was a perfect YHA for a Ridgeway walker, and just the right place to stay.

I had a room to myself while travelling for work, and the other guests were kind and considerate. The host was fabulous, breakfast was lovely, and the location was beautiful. Good value too. I’d definitely think about coming back for a holiday.

The hostel was quiet when I visited, and I was a little uneasy staying there with so few people around. The managers were nearby, though, and I was given an emergency number, which helped. The staff were friendly and professional. It’s about a mile from the train station, along a straight route through the village, and the area itself was quiet. My room didn’t have an ensuite. There were shared toilets and showers close by, and I understand some rooms have their own showers. There are enough communal showers for a full house. I liked that the kitchen was only one flight of stairs away, handy after a long walk when you’ve already taken off your coat and shoes. I’ve stayed in hostels where the kitchen was at the other end of the building. There’s a self-catering kitchen, plus the option of a cooked breakfast. I was only there briefly, so I brought my own breakfast and ate at the pub next door or went to the Fish and Chip shop in Goring. The furniture and general setup could do with an update, and the hostel needs a thorough clean and dusting. There was a lot of dust on the skirting boards, windowsills and bunk bed rungs, which set off my allergies. I’d only booked two nights, but if I’d stayed longer I would’ve brought wipes to clean the room myself. Some places do collect more dust than others, so I don’t mean that as a criticism of the managers, who were extremely friendly and helpful. I’d consider staying at this hostel again if I’m in the area.

This was a quiet getaway, with local walks for both regular hikers and people who only go now and then. Just be ready for the hill! The hostel’s old-fashioned charm gave me a nostalgic feeling, though it could use some modernising. I’m a YHA member and used the 20% winter deal for a mini break at YHA Streatley-on-Thames. I booked a private room and chose the cooked breakfast on a couple of mornings. The stay was pleasant enough.