Aberdeen Youth Hostel

The motion-activated lights in the top-floor bathroom kept going out while I was using the bathroom and showering, which wasn’t ideal. There aren’t any hairdryers either, and no lockers for guests, which is unheard of in a hostel. I was lucky one of the staff members helped me and the hostel was empty enough for me to get a private room, so I didn’t have to worry about my things being stolen.

A clean, lovely hostel that’s well run, with simple but adequate rooms. I’m not sure why people complain about the distance to the city; it’s a lovely walk to Union St, and the X17 stops right at the door. If you’re arriving by train, here’s a tip: walk around the corner to the main bus depot and catch the X17. It drops you at the front of the hostel, then it’s just a quick hop across the road to the entrance.

I’ve enjoyed staying here over many years and give it top marks. It’s a well-managed hostel near central Aberdeen, set in a large granite mansion with plenty of history and character, among similarly imposing buildings in the elegant West End. There’s a good choice of places to stay, from private rooms with ensuites to small dorms with shared bathrooms. The kitchen is large and well equipped, and there are comfortable lounge and dining areas.

The staff made me feel welcome and were really helpful. The hostel is immaculate, with large rooms, beautiful ensuite bathrooms, and everything you need for cooking and washing. It’s in a lovely part of Aberdeen, with plenty of amenities nearby and a bus stop just outside. I’d definitely recommend it; it’s better than some hotels I’ve stayed in.