The Old Swan Barracks Backpackers

It was a great time, and I’d love to come back. The hostel was clean throughout, in a handy central spot, and every staff member I met was warm and welcoming. The one thing I didn’t love was having to leave a deposit for the room key and the breakfast dishes.

The common room is huge, with a little bar and enough furniture for a few groups to sit separately. The location is excellent, facilities are what I’d expect from budget accommodation, and the place was clean, tidy, and mostly in good repair. I thought it was very good value.

For the price, it’s hard to complain too much. The beds were wide and comfy enough, showers had strong pressure, and the location, air con, and 24-hour desk were all handy. The air con could get really cold, though. The kitchen and other facilities were pretty dirty, the walls were thin, and the WiFi was terrible. We had to make our own beds after arriving at 2:30am, in the dark. You can’t bring your own alcohol because of their licence, and there weren’t any recycling bins.

A lively, friendly place with private rooms and dorms, and the showers were better than ones I’ve had in any hotel. The staff are well trained, service is quick, and the rules are good. The way they run this place is something else. Great value for any budget, and worth every penny. A top hostel for young travellers, with a bar included.