YHA Poppit Sands - Hostel

We really enjoyed our stay here. Stayed for two nights, we didn't make much use of the kitchen but it was very well equipped. Rooms were comfortable and we had a great view across the estuary. The parking situation has the potential to be a bit of a pain, and perhaps needs making clearer at booking on the yha website. They have a sheet to include your room number, departure date and reg in case manoeuvres need to be made as cars are inevitably blocked in unless only a couple of cars are present. We could happily park at the bottom of the hill but it's a 1/2 mile walk up a very steep hill back to the hostel and could be tricky with small kids. That being said, without the climb up the hill you wouldn't get the lovely seclusion and beautiful views this hostel offers. The staff were very friendly. Lovely bakery cafe by the bay at the bottom of the hill which we took advantage of for breakfast. Some nice pubs in the next village and a great chippy.

Upon entry, the B-road up to the hostel was slightly steep, and a rather narrow lane, so if you're a relatively new driver, like myself - I probably wouldn't recommend this hostel, unless you're confident behind the wheel. The parking is also small, other reviews will tell you the same - but I was optimistic and didn't quite take this in, The car park was very small & certainly not accommodating for cars of guests arriving at the hostel. So if you plan on taking a huge car for your family, again would not recommend. If you intend on hiking perhaps and leaving the car behind, maybe this would be more up to your speed. Upon entry, we had a delay in checking in, as the bins were being emptied - we were later told by the hosts that they hadn't been emptied in weeks, which was of a concern, as it implied to myself that there was very little system and routine at this hostel. Having parked up after a bit of a wiggle round & guidance from a host, we went to check in. The receptionist, Claire was extremely lovely & was very keen to help; the only reason this review isn't rated at the lowest, was due to the amazing views and attitudes of Claire & Pete. However, she struggled to find our booking and had suggested that there hadn't been a handover between herself and the manager who was not there at the time; which meant I had to show her my email (which was a struggle, as this place has zero service - i'm with Vodafone & zero Wi-Fi). Ultimately I ended up signing the form myself and then was given a tour around the building. Now, the kitchen in the photos, appears to be a modern, clean and well looking kitchen, but when we arrived - there was a bunch of home made signs and taped up plug sockets & sinks, due to electricity issues in the kitchen. We were to only use one extension lead, meaning we would have to shuffle around the kitchen appliances if we wished to use them. On our walk round, Claire showed us a form where we were encouraged to write down our car reg, phone number and room number - so that if we were to get blocked in, we could phone the person's car, for them to move it. This was of concern to be, because of major GDPR issues. With this information alone, recorded on a public piece of paper; anyone could get your details, again not making this place feel like a professional, safe space. Other issues included, issues related with no hot water, spiders in the bedrooms, view of some bushes, insect traps in the hallways, thin walls etc.

Absolutely beautiful place to stay, great amenities in the kitchen, very clean throughout, comfy beds & views to die for. Only downside where the steps down to it & back up to the car, wouldn’t suit wheelchair user or anyone bad on their legs.

It was my wife’s birthday and she loves to be next to the sea so we stayed here a couple of nights. Very friendly and helpful lady running the hostel. Beautiful views and other guests very hospitable. Very close to the coast path or you can just sit and relax both inside and outside on the many chairs and benches provided. Will definitely return again.

We enjoyed a splendid four night stay at Poppit Sands, apart from one day the weather was great allowing us to do two long walks. The hostel is great, beautiful situation, well equipped kitchen and comfortable rooms.

This hostel is at the top of a hill but definitely worth the extra leg work for the view of the beach below. Absolutely breathtaking sunset too. Rooms are clean and very basic, as you expect. There is a good well- equipped self catering kitchen there, which I didn't realise until arrival. Had a decent nights sleep as it was very quiet. Staff friendly and helpful. Would definitely visit again. Poppit Sands is underrated - it is a beautiful beach.