Any suggestions for hostel accommodation in Beijing?
I'm looking for a cheap hostel with lots of atmosphere close to T1annamun square. I stayed at Leo's backpackers last time and was very unimpressed.

Also last time I went to the Simatai section of the Great wall which was amazing, no people and great views. I would like to take my friend to a similar area without having to repeat my same experience. Can anyone suggest another part of the wall that has been largely untouched and is not so crowded?
I don't mind traveling a little further (as long as it can be done in a day)
Cheers!

Try Mutianyu section. Some long walks (or were) can be made from there.

Try looking in ctrip.com for a hotel. You can book online and not have to pay upfront.

ctrip.com is a decent website.....

...trekked the Jinshanling to Simitai Great Wall (10km) - took approx 3.5 hours (take your time kind of trek!)....not many people when I was there (compared to the touristic BADALING wall)