7 Awesome Hostel Jobs In London – Find The Best London Work Exchange

Looking for an awesome London work exchange? These 7 hostel jobs in London are great options to make your trip to this famous destination more affordable.

Helping out for free accommodation is the best way to be able to keep costs low, especially since London is known for being pretty expensive.

How To Find The Best Hostel Jobs In London

Finding the best London work exchange can be approached in various ways, depending on what you’re comfortable with.

Experienced travelers may feel comfortable reaching out to hostels in London directly to see if they have any opportunities.

Unfortunately, this does take more time and effort, kind of like finding a needle in a  haystack. If you’re a newer traveler or just don’t want to waste time, it is better to use a work exchange platform.

There are a few different sites, like the largest in the world – Workaway. They have the most work exchange gigs, but because of its popularity, it can be harder to get responses.

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I highly recommend Worldpackers, the second-largest work exchange site globally, where you can discover all the featured hostel jobs in London that I have included in this article.

Worldpackers is particularly ideal for beginners as they provide experience insurance, offering coverage in case any unforeseen issues arise during your help exchange (read about why it’s the best alternative to Workaway here).

Additionally, Worldpackers offers numerous perks and resources to assist you throughout your work exchange journey.

If you’re wanting to sign up right away, feel free to use my code MAPTREKKING or click on my referral link for a discount.

7 Epic Hostel Jobs In London

Work exchange in London offers an incredible opportunity to delve into the city’s dynamic atmosphere, connect with fellow travelers, and hopefully make some unforgettable memories.

By volunteering your skills and time, you get to stay for free while discovering the authentic essence of London.

Work Exchange At An Eco Program

This is an honorable mention because it’s not a hostel job in London but it’s close by and looks fantastic!

It’s a new London work exchange so unfortunately no reviews.

Time commitment – 2 weeks minimum

25 hours per week

2 days off per week

Help needed: animal care, handyman, farming, gardening

MORE INFORMATION

Why Do A London Work Exchange?

There is so much to see and do, especially if you plan to work exchange in the United Kingdom. Within just the UK’s capital, there is a lot to do.

Back when I lived in the UK, I remember most people act like London is its own country. That’s the sentiment that many people have, which makes sense because London does tend to be quite different comparatively.

So why do a London work exchange? Well, you will get a different experience and you get to save quite a bit of money on accommodation.

I mean it is London, one of the most famous cities in the world. People dream of getting to visit this city, so if you have the means to do it, you should.

Are you covered? ➡️ I always reccommend trip protection, especially for work exchanging. My favorite is SafetyWing Insurance.

Plus, London is a huge transport hub so it’s a great place to land in the UK, especially if you’re flying from far away.

Getting a hostel job in London for a bit will help you to adjust when you arrive since you’ll meet other volunteers and travelers.

Who knows, you might make some new friends that want to do more work exchanging in other places as you travel in the rest of the UK.

Perks Of Doing Hostel Jobs In London

Cultural Immersion:

Engage with locals and gain a deeper understanding of London’s diverse culture.

Through work exchange, you’ll have the chance to interact with people from all walks of life and share stories.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the city’s traditions, from afternoon tea (if you don’t mind having a fancy experience) to lively pub nights.

You can also discover the true spirit of London, by trying out cool brunch spots and visiting Chinatown. 

Related: How to immerse yourself in culture

Skill Development:

Work exchange is a two-way street, enabling you to share your skills while acquiring new ones.

Whether you assist in reception duties, contribute to marketing efforts, lend a hand in the kitchen, or engage in artistic endeavors, you’ll have the chance to enhance your abilities and gain valuable experience in a real-world setting.

Local Guidance:

Your hosts are invaluable resources, offering insider tips and local knowledge to help you navigate the city.

They can recommend hidden gems, lesser-known attractions, and off-the-beaten-path adventures that will elevate your London experience beyond the typical tourist trail.

Embrace their recommendations and unlock the secrets of London! 

8 Cool Things To Do During Your London Work Exchange

Once you’ve settled into your work exchange routine, it’s time to explore the unique corners of London. Remember, exploring London on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on incredible experiences.

You can make the most of your time in London without straining your wallet. Here are some interesting, budget-friendly activities to add to your itinerary while helping out at a hostel in London.

1. Wander Through Camden Town

Lose yourself in the vibrant neighborhood of Camden Town, known for its eclectic markets, quirky shops, and live music scene.

Meander along the Regent’s Canal, indulge in street food delights and discover hidden treasures in the maze of Camden Market.

Need some more inspiration? Get a free stay with these hostel jobs in Italy, France, Hawaii, Scotland, and Barcelona!

2. Discover Southbank

Take a leisurely stroll along the Southbank promenade, offering picturesque views of iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, the Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament.

Uncover an array of street performers, art installations, and cultural institutions, including the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

3. Explore Greenwich

Hop on a riverboat and venture to the charming district of Greenwich. Marvel at the architectural splendor of the Old Royal Naval College, stand on the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory and explore the vibrant Greenwich Market.

4. Seek Serenity In London’s parks

London boasts an abundance of beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for walking or picnics. Escape the urban bustle in Hyde Park, London’s largest royal park.

Enjoy a picnic by the Serpentine Lake, rent a pedal boat, or simply unwind in the peaceful ambiance of this green oasis.

Apart from Hyde Park, explore other green spaces like Regent’s Park, St. James’s Park, and Hampstead Heath. These tranquil oases provide a refreshing break from the bustling city and offer stunning views.

5. Free Museums And Galleries

London is renowned for its world-class museums and galleries, many offering free admission.

Explore the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, among others, to immerse yourself in art, history, and culture without spending a penny.

6. Markets For Budget Food

Indulge in delicious and affordable food by visiting London’s vibrant markets. Borough Market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, street food, and gourmet treats.

Additionally, explore Camden Market (talked about above), Brick Lane Market, and Portobello Road Market for unique culinary experiences and bargains.

7. Take Advantage Of Free Walking Tours

Several companies offer free walking tours in London, where knowledgeable guides take you through the city’s historic landmarks and hidden gems.

These tours provide fascinating insights into the city’s history, architecture, and culture while allowing you to explore the city on foot without breaking the bank.

8. Attend Free Events And Festivals

London hosts a plethora of free events and festivals throughout the year. Check online listings or local publications for concerts, exhibitions, street performances, and cultural celebrations happening during your visit.

From open-air movie screenings in summer to festive markets during the holiday season, there’s always something exciting to discover without spending a dime.

London Work Exchange Final Thoughts

I hope these hostel jobs in London have inspired you and helped you plan. Doing a London work exchange is a good idea for your wallet, but it’s great for making friends as well.

Take this opportunity to personally grow while also experiencing the massive city of London. Use code MAPTREKKING or follow the link to get $10 off your Worldpackers membership!

If you’re wanting some more options for getting free accommodation, I’d recommend reading – how to become a house sitter with no experience!

There are tons of awesome house-sitting opportunities in London – over 1,000 house sits in London on the largest and most reliable platform, TrustedHousesitters.