About

Safestay is a group of hostels in the UK, all based in gorgeous buildings with Elephant and Castle as their very first. Located in John Smith House, the hostel used to be the Central Labour Party headquarters in the 18th century. The hostel offers a continental breakfast for an additional £4.00 a day (£3.50 if you prebook) which consists of a buffet of ham, cheese, croissants and cereals, plus there’s a snack machine if you get peckish. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.

Location

Safestay picks some of the best locations in England. Being near the Elephant and Castle tube and overground meant it was only a 7 minute walk to London’s transport. It’s also on a lit main road so it’s easy to find and ideally situated if you are coming back at night alone with traffic passing by. The hostel gives you a free city map so you can navigate your way around.

Rooms

Safestay Elephant and Castle has a mix of room types across a few floors with a lift taking you to each floor. You’ll find 8 bed dorm rooms some with ensuites and others with shared bathrooms. There are also 4 and 6 bed dorms, all mixed. They also have private rooms either ensuite or with a shared bathroom. If you opt for a private room expect coffee and tea-making facilities (you may even get a chocolate or two). As well as a funky purple towel.

Safety

As a guest you get given a swipe card which has access to your room, as well as entrance to each floor and also the lift. You have to swipe your card to enter the building as well. Reception is open 24 hours so there is always someone there if you need anything. Plus they have lockers and CCTV too.

 Why is it Solo-Female Friendly?

As well as being very clean, it is also really safe with the key card access. The staff are friendly and are available 24 hours a day. Having a bar and lounge means that it is easy to meet others during your stay.

Why We Love It

The building is simply fab with pink and purple decor that is Safestay’s branding. There are so many places to either chill out or meet others, including the bar area. You can do your laundry there, iron your clothes and buy any toiletries that you may have forgotten. It’s really affordable for London, and if you take a private room, you get free hot chocolate and a biscuit. Perfect.

How to Book

Prices start from £20 per night for a bed in an 8-bed dormitory. Check here for availability for Safestay Elephant & Castle. 

* All solo female friendly accommodation have been recommended by women who have stayed there. We only choose the best and safest properties to include within this section.