YHA South Downs

Easy access to the South Downs, Brighton and Lewes. Located next to a busy road (and railway) so can be noisy especially if staying in a tent. Hostel had everything we needed and staff were helpful. Despite being a relatively new hostel it was tatty inside - redecoration and some new communal furniture needed!

Simply great stay and would love to have stayed longer. Very clean throughout and met expectations. Breakfasts were lovely and set in a relaxed atmosphere. Staff made all visitors welcome. Really hope folks again but by train instead as the station is virtually on the doorstep.

After our bad experience at the Truleigh Hill YHA, we were truly delighted with the exceptional standard and quality we found at the South Downs YHA in Southease. The facilities are immaculate, boasting a modern touch. Notably, our room was equipped with luxurious underfloor heating, in contrast to our previous experience whereas at the TruleighHill YHA, the radiatorat our room was either broken or turned off by the staff as we couldn'tget the radiatorworking. The staff at the South Downs YHA are incredibly courteous, efficient, and ever willing to assist. Our breakfast experience was seamless and delightful. Instead of jotting down our breakfast order on a piece of paper at Truleigh Hill YHA, we were treated to a live cooking display where we simply voiced our preferences and enjoyed our breakfast immediately. The communal kitchen is spacious, pristine and well-maintained. Every aspect of the South Downs YHA is simply impeccable. Moreover, its prime location is just a short stroll to the Southease train station, connecting Seaford and Brighton, with Lewis Station, a gateway to London Victoria, only one stop away.

While I found most of the staff pleasant and friendly one person seemed to be more focused on her phone then us. the room seemed to be very basic and small extremely hot and only contained a uncomfortable bed and a small table with no drawers it was very compact and nowhere to sleep the shower was very basic and I struggled to get it to turn on. 4/10 would not comeback

Disappointing! Having read many good reviews we had high hopes for this YHA. Unfortunately we got a room (long barn 1) with a chimney skylight and no windows so the only way to have any ventilation was to leave the skylight open (not sure it actually closes fully!) but that meant we got little sleep because of the noisy road. There was also lots of noise from the banging of doors by other guests. I wonder if the hinges need changing? We felt quite exhausted after our one night and frustrated as we hoped to feel refreshed before a long onward journey. We use YHAs a lot but won’t be returning or recommending.

In an excellent location, just a very short walk from Southease Rail Station (which is 5 mins from Lewes on the rail line to Newhaven). On the South Downs Way. Old ancient Farmhouse converted, with other more modern buildings (in same style) adjoining. It's Youth Hostel, so self-catering kitchen available to use, 2 lounges (TV & quiet), Cafe with bar and breakfasts/meals available. Outside you can camp or rent a Pod or pre-pitched tent. Excellent value (i.e around £30 for a bunk bed in shared room), private rooms also available. Only downside, was that the Room Long Barn 3 designated that night as Women's Dorm was full, so 6 ladies in three bunk-beds in a room too small, with just a washbasin (ample and adequate toilets/showers across the corridor) and no chairs and very little room for belongings. Both the windows on restrictors, so unable to get enough fresh air in the room, very weather, so baking hot! As hostel was full, no chance of another room!

Beautiful location with lovely views from the garden. Very convenient for Newhaven ferry and for walking on the South Downs. Welcome at check in was not great. Two staff members ignored us whilst taking their time to finish their conversation first. Lack of attention to detail. Light fittings had dozens of dead flies. Not cleaned for months. One ceiling light in our private room did not work. Also one of the bedside lamps didn't work. Bath screen allowed the shower to leak all over the floor and corridor carpet. Bathroom floor was dirty. Kitchen had a faulty cooker. Several spiders in the bathroom and bedroom. We had dinner at restaurant and food was excellent. Such a shame that 3 staff members were chatting with each other and loudly berating previous clients while we were eating. Not a nice atmosphere, unfortunately.

I booked this for my son's 16th birthday. He and 4 of his friends stayed in the Bell Test and had the time of their lives. He said staff we really nice and the food (breakfasts) were delicious. He and his friends used the kitchen to cook their evening meals aka Pot Noodles and spent their days exploring the South Downs, hiking and playing football. They loved the environment and enjoyed every moment. Thank you to the YHA South Downs Team for proving a clean, safe and well organised environment.

Lovely cheerful staff, really clean in atmospheric surroundings. I was working nearby, most / many of the guests are walking the South Downs Way. Lots of parking. Good facilities, self catering kitchen/s plus there is a cafe on site - open all day. Wifi not great TBH - but apart from that - highly recommend !