Sandras Backpackers

Disappointing
Traveller Type: Solo Traveler
  : Good location thats it
  : Very unclean. Bathroom had no hand wash, shower had mould growing both on ceiling, between tiles, on walls. Bedroom areas smelled of mould as well. Kitchen wasnt bad of facilities but also had smell of mould. Bed had one sheet and thin duvet. There was a stain on one of the sheets, which wasnt ideal. No personal lockers to put items or secure storage areas. Not enough charging ports for guests.

Poor
Traveller Type: Solo Traveler
  : I have recievd a string of automated reminders asking for a review so i will try and keep this balanced. I had only lookde at the star rating on initial booking, which to me seemed to make a good case for stopping. At the time of booking, the accomodation the rest of my group was staying at was fully booked. This is a hostel/ backpackers. So I expect basic accommodation. I have used backpackers on numerous occasions both here and abroad when travelling, but Ido insist on off street parking when using my motorbike ,something that the listing implied was available. On arrival I was greeted by the owner/manager who was friendly enough who stated " It will be alright over there on the road as long as its gone by 8 when the traffic wardens start" Knowing it was a hostel i booked a twin room for myself knowing it costs extra but then also knowing i wouldnt be sharing. On entering the building there was a small of cannabis, I'm not knocking those who like a smoke, but its not something I enjoy. The room I was taken to was in fact a triple, looked a little tired which I can live with, but glancing around seeing the state of the mattress on one of the beds, and the ruffled appearence of the others. I was not overly impressed, so put together with the lack of parking ( and the fact it was implied it was available) I decided not to stay. In fairness. The kitchen arrangements seemed above some places ive stayed in taht cereal milk etc was provided. The owner had been in a rush to leave for a family commitment(something I cant knock) I did ring, but the person who answered the phone struggled with my accent, so I messaged enquiring as to a refund due to the inaccuracy of the listing. Now I have been told it wont be forthcoming, and to be honest I thought that may be the case. reading through the reviews, the owner is aware. and his stock reply is if you want better book a hotel and pay more. This week I stayed in two that were better and paid less

Very Good
Traveller Type: Solo Traveler
  : I just wanted a basic accomodation ahead of my onward journey to the Orkneys and that is exactly what I got.
  : Things I didn't like were beyond the proprietor's control, t.vs did not work due to damage, I could not have a shower in the morning before leaving because another occupant was on the toilet, nowhere to park my car and other users smoking out the kitchen/dining area with burnt cooking oil and spices, I could smell it on my clothes the next day.

Very Good
Traveller Type: Solo Traveler
  : Had to be in Thurso at that time and I was having difficulty finding accommodation-Sandra's Backpackers was my last hope. I had a double ensuite room and was more than satisfied. My room was in same part of building as kitchen. Self serve breakfast. Great selection of cereals. Bread , milk and jam etc in fridge. Tea and coffee inc. coffee pods. Eggs were also in fridge. Large kitchen with several large tables. Kitchen available all day except between 11pm and 7am. Kettles , cookers , microwaves and toasters available. Good chat to be had in kitchen. James, staff, at end of phone if needed. Suggested that he update photo on booking site to match its new frontage. Less than 10 mins to train station and buses nearby.
  : Would have been useful to be able to find a clean dishtowel rather than have to leave dishes on draining board.

Good
Traveller Type:
  : Helpful manager
  : This is a hostel not hotel and felt a bit budget compared to marketing

Very Good
Traveller Type: Family with Young Children
  : The kitchen facilities were good and well stocked. The location was great, being close to eateries, train station and bus stop. Staff was responsive, friendly and helpful.
  : Room facilities were basic, a floor mat in the bathroom would have been good. Also, didn't get any WIFI in the room. Wi-Fi was available only in the kitchen area.

Very Good
Traveller Type:
  : Good breakfast, nice kitchen and dining room. Central location, however quiet place.
  : Rather small rooms with noisy floor.