Best Hostels in Soho: Where to Stay in the Heart of London

Soho. Just the name has a bit of a sparkle to it, doesn’t it? Smack in the middle of London’s West End, this buzzing, neon-lit neighborhood is where music, fashion, nightlife, and creativity come together in a glorious, slightly chaotic dance.

But let’s be honest—staying in central London can be pricey. That’s where hostels in Soho come to the rescue. Yes, we’re talking affordable beds, fun vibes, and walking distance to pretty much everything. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, backpacker, or digital nomad with a low-key addiction to oat lattes, Soho’s hostels give you a stylish base without the 5-star price tag.

In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best hostels in Soho, what makes the area so special, and how to navigate London in style. Let’s dive in.

Why Stay in Soho?

If London had a heartbeat, it would be Soho. It’s creative, loud, inclusive, and always up for a good time. Here’s what makes Soho a top spot for budget-conscious travelers:

• You’re steps away from the West End’s best shows.
  
• Chinatown is around the corner—bring on the dumplings!
  
• Covent Garden, Oxford Street, and Leicester Square are all a quick walk.
  
• The nightlife? Iconic. From LGBTQ+ bars to late-night jazz, there’s always something happening.
  

But most importantly: hostels in Soho put you right in the action without draining your travel funds.

Top Hostels in Soho

You want cheap, yes—but you also want clean, safe, and maybe a bit of style. Good news: Soho’s got a few hidden gems that tick all the boxes.

1. Astor Oxford Street

Just a short walk from Soho, this hostel blends a social atmosphere with great convenience. It has a communal kitchen, cozy lounge areas, and everything you need for a comfortable stay. It’s perfect for solo travelers and groups alike.

What You’ll Love:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Optional breakfast
• Shared spaces for mingling
• Smoke-free property
• Super central for shopping and theatre nights

2. Piccadilly Hostel

Smack in the middle of London’s buzzing entertainment zone, this hostel gives you unbeatable access to nightlife, restaurants, and famous landmarks. It’s a great option if you’re planning to walk everywhere and want a lively base.

Top Perks:

• Steps from Piccadilly Circus
• Compact and efficient rooms
• Great for short stays
• A walkable distance to Soho bars and theatres

3. Generator London

A larger, modern hostel located just outside Soho in Bloomsbury. It’s great for travelers who want hostel prices with hotel-style amenities. Ideal for digital nomads or backpackers looking for a more vibrant, urban stay.

Key Features:

• On-site bar and café
• Self-service laundry
• Social events and tours
• Child-friendly and accessible
• Good transport links nearby

4. YHA London Oxford Street

Tucked just behind Oxford Street, this YHA property offers a peaceful retreat in the middle of the bustle. It’s well-maintained, safe, and perfect for solo female travelers or those looking for a quiet, clean stay with easy access to Soho.

Highlights:

• Rooftop views
• Communal kitchen
• Security lockers
• Shared and private rooms
• Ideal for both introverts and adventurers

5. Gresham Hotel

More of a budget hotel than a traditional hostel, this property is located right in the heart of Soho. It’s great for travelers who want private rooms but don’t mind simple furnishings and basic amenities.

Noteworthy Amenities:

• Restaurant on site
• Free Wi-Fi
• Family-friendly environment
• Smoke-free

6. Soho Apartments F4

This apartment-style option gives you the flexibility of cooking and lounging like you’re at home. It’s a fantastic choice for small groups, couples, or digital nomads who want privacy and independence while still staying central.

What It Offers:

• One-bedroom apartment
• Kitchen, heating, and living area
• Accommodates up to four guests
• Short stroll to Soho’s cafés and clubs

7. Smart Studio – D’Arblay Street

This compact, cleverly designed studio apartment offers the perfect stay for solo travelers or couples who want the convenience of a hostel but the privacy of a hotel. It’s located right in the middle of Soho—seriously, you can hear the buzz.

Studio Features:

• Kitchenette for self-catering
• Heating and modern amenities
• Ideal for short-term stays
• Just steps from Berwick Street Market

What to Expect from Hostels in Soho

Let’s be real: Soho is not the cheapest postcode in town. But hostels here give you a rare combo—affordable prices and an unbeatable location. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Prices range from £25–£70 per night depending on the room type and season.
  
• Most hostels offer free Wi-Fi, lockers, and shared kitchens.
  
• Soho hostels tend to attract a mix of solo travelers, creatives, and festival-goers.
  

Hostel Life Survival Tips:

• Bring earplugs. Soho gets loud at night. (That’s kind of its thing.)
  
• Book early. These places fill up fast, especially in summer.
  
• Don’t leave valuables in the room. Use the lockers!
  
• Be sociable. Hostel lounges are perfect for making new friends—and maybe a buddy for your next West End show.
  

Getting Around Soho

Soho is central, but getting to and from it—especially with luggage—is another story. Here’s the thing about the Tube: it’s iconic, but not always convenient. Crowds, stairs, confusing signage—it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.

Enter: Premium Chauffeur Service from chauffeurz.london

You’ve got enough to juggle. Let someone else handle the roads.

Why Use a Chauffeur in London

Let’s break it down:

🚘 It’s Comfortable

After a red-eye flight or a 10-hour bus ride, sliding into a luxury car with plush seats and air con? Yes, please.

🎯 It’s Efficient

No hauling bags across Leicester Square or navigating the Tube with Google Maps. Your chauffeur knows where to go—and how to avoid the traffic traps.

🕒 It Saves Time

Especially if you’re hitting multiple spots in a day. Think: hostel drop-off, Camden Market visit, and a West End show—all without checking a single timetable.

💼 It’s Surprisingly Affordable

Split the cost with a few friends or travel buddies and it’s not that much more than a couple of Ubers.

Why Book with chauffeurz.london?

• Professional, courteous drivers who actually know London’s layout (and backstreets).
  
• 24/7 service for those late-night gigs or early-morning flights.
  
• Modern, stylish vehicles (Mercedes, BMWs, etc.).
  
• Clean, comfortable, and always on time.
  
• Easy online booking and fixed pricing—no surge surprises.
  

Insider Tip: Book your airport transfer ahead of time. No one wants to haggle with minicabs at Heathrow.

Fun Things to Do in Soho

You don’t need to go far—Soho is the attraction. But if you’re wondering what to do between naps at your hostel and late-night pub crawls, here’s a quick list:

• Catch a West End show – From musicals to murder mysteries, it’s theatre heaven.
  
• Explore Chinatown – Bubble tea, dumplings, glowing lanterns—what’s not to love?
  
• Visit Soho Square – A leafy little escape if you need a break from the crowds.
  
• Dance at Ronnie Scott’s – Legendary jazz club and Soho institution.
  
• Shop Oxford Street – Just try not to get lost in the labyrinth that is Primark.
  

Local Legends and Quirky Facts About Soho

• Soho was once farmland. Now it’s one of the most exciting places on the planet. Quite the glow-up.
  
• The name “Soho” dates back to a hunting cry. “So-ho!” was shouted during a chase.
  
• Karl Marx lived in Soho. So did Mozart. And maybe your future self—if you fall in love and move here.
  

Soho After Dark

Staying in a Soho hostel means you’re steps away from some of London’s best nightlife:

• Bar Italia – Espresso at 2am? Why not.
  
• The French House – No music, no phones, just great conversation.
  
• G-A-Y Bar – Iconic LGBTQ+ hangout with a wild dancefloor.
  

Just remember: if you’re going out late and don’t fancy walking home, book a chauffeur in advance. Your future tired self will thank you.

Final Thoughts

Soho is where London gets a little wild, a little weird, and a whole lot of wonderful. Staying in a hostel here puts you at the center of it all—without having to sell your kidney for a hotel room.

But here’s the secret sauce: combine the budget freedom of a hostel with the comfort of a Premium Chauffeur service from chauffeurz.london. That way, you get the best of both worlds—wallet-friendly accommodation and stress-free travel around the city.

Because sure, bunk beds are fun. But you still deserve to arrive like royalty.