Astor Quest Hostel

Situated a frolic away from Hyde Park, the 100-bed Astor Quest Hostel sticks out from its stodgier neighbors on Queensborough Terrace. When we entered the lobby, the blasting music reminded us more of a fraternity house than a reception area.

And that about sums up the vibe of this bare-bones hostel. With an emphasis on cheap lodgings and a social atmosphere, the Astor Quest appeals to a certain type backpacker—and it’s not the type who craves quiet.

Quick read

Pros: Good location. Fun vibe. Friendly staff and guests.

Cons: Lots of steep stairs and no elevator. Charges for extras (towels, Wi-Fi, locks...). Can get noisy.

Rooms

The Astor Quest offers everything from double rooms to four-, six-, and eight-bed. Basic is the name of the game here. None of the rooms have any amenities, although Wi-Fi is available (for a fee).

Whatever their configuration, rooms at the Astor Quest are sparse, with beige walls, plain carpeted floors and red metal bunk beds outfitted with security lockers. (Note that guests must either bring a lock or pay to rent one, but bed linens are provided.)

The Astor Quest also offers two double rooms. These have the same basic style as the dorms but afford more privacy and twin beds as opposed to bunks.

Bathrooms

Double rooms and four-bed dorms share hallway bathrooms with separate shower and toilet rooms. Six- and eight-bed dorms have basic private bathrooms.

All bathrooms are adequate, but we should note that they aren’t the nicest. They are old, and because they are shared by many, they show wear (and aren’t the cleanest we’ve seem). They do the trick, but don’t be surprised if you see a little mildew.

Hostel

Let's just say this place is not for the young at heart—it's for the young, and the young alone. As a matter of fact, the management has a strict policy about keeping its guests younger than 35 years old. And, to be honest, we can't really picture anyone north of age 28 finding this place appealing. But if you're a backpacker with a penchant toward fast friend making, then this place will be a dream come true.

The Astor Quest Hostel offers a communal kitchen outfitted with a fridge, oven and microwave. The adjacent (and ample) communal dining area outfitted with long communal tables and benches. A simple breakfast of cereal and toast (with pots of Nutella!) is included in the room rate and served here each morning.

The upstairs lounge area is outfitted with a TV, DVD player and a few sofas. It's not the cushiest of spaces, but it’s a good spot to commune with fellow travelers or use one of the computers (for a fee).

The atmosphere at the Astor Quest is upbeat and social. A staff of friendly folks is on hand to help with questions and plot out pub crawls and other fun events (check out the events board).

Breakfast is included in the nightly rate, but that is the only thing you’ll find included here. The Astor Quest charges for everything, from Internet (both computer stations and Wi-Fi are available), to towels, to a deposit for your key. Note that the hostel does not have an elevator (and does have a lot of stairs).

Location

The Astor Quest is set in a fantastic central location, with Hyde Park on its doorstep and the Kensington Palace just a short walk away. The Marble Arch and Bond and Oxford Streets all all easily accessible by bus.