My husband thinks that it may be a great experience to stay in a hostel at least once during our early May trip in South and Central England. I did this in college and loved it but back then I didn't have much choice due to my budget. Has anyone around our age (mid-40s) or older done this? Have you found any with private bathrooms? Any recommendations for specific hostels? Thoughts?

Sandy,

No real answer I'm afraid, but at least this will bump your post.

I haven't been in a hostel for 40+ years. I understand things have changed a lot from the days of dormitories and there are now many twin rooms, but I think en-suite will be a non-runner. Friends in their 60s do use hostels on walking holidays and say they are basic but comfy.

Presumably you have found this:

http://www.yha.org.uk/

Michael

Yes, there are twin hostel rooms with private bathrooms. But it's quite likely they won't be cheaper than a budget hotel or a B&B. Some UK hostels are set in castles or otherwise have unique characteristics. I'd check the reviews at http://www.bugeurope.com .

A lot of hostels these days have age limits. example would be the hostel I'm staying at in Amsterdam and London. I think the ages are from 18-38. This isn't true for every hostel.

I have stayed in hostels. Some are quite swank. Bugeurope has their own reviews as well as traveller reviews. I try to avoid party hostels but otherwise I look for clean and convenient. A good hostel stretches your travel budget and allows you to do other things that are more extravagant and memorable than obtaining a few hours of sleep. I have no experience in South and Central England though. I'm in my 60's.

In the rare cases where there are age limits, these are usually waivable on request. But I don't think there are any age limits for hostels in southern and central England.

OK - your husband wants a "hostel experience", but also wants a private room/bath. Lots of hostels do have some private rooms - but what is it he expects from staying in one?

For the premium a hostel charges for their better accomodations, you would be able to stay in a much more comfy B&B.

He thinks we'll have more and more relaxed interaction with other travelers. (and he doesn't care about the private bath - that's my preference!)
Thanks for everyone's input!

You can also get interaction with other travelers in a B&B, especially during breakfast. And to me I learn more about an area by chatting with a B&B owner, rather than with some kids from another country.

But that's just me.

There is something very enjoyable about meeting other enthusiastic travelers at a hostel. I think if your husband wants to try it, and you can come up with an acceptable-quality hostel, why not please him? I'm sure you'll try other accommodation too. But definitely make sure you pick one with good reviews.