It's all dependant on *which* hostel and what time of year.

I'm 40-somthing, and a few years ago while working on a grad degree, stayed in the London youth hostel across from the British Library while doing research there....which for less than 20 pounds a night was the cheapest accomindations I could find... And much better than the the 2 star nightmare I booked on PL, miles away, for more money.

Sure, I was sharing a 4 person dorm with one other person. But he was another student who was quiet, considerate, and generally good folk. The kitchen downstairs was handy, and the free breakfast while typical dorm food, was better than most American motel's "continental breakfast" (bagels, stale dounuts, coffee & juice).