Friars Wynd Hotel

The carpets were filthy, the Wi-Fi wasn't working at all, and there was no outside deadbolt on the entrance door, so someone from the street could get up to our room door. The biggest issue, though, was the bedding: I always check for bed bugs, and the sheets showed evidence of them. The place looked like a dump, with overgrown grass, and nothing like the photos. We contacted them because nobody was there, and were told no one could help, they didn't even manage the property, and they couldn't offer another room. We had to drive to Glascow and find somewhere else for the night, which was cheaper and much nicer. They initially said they'd refund us and told us to contact booking.com, but later declined the refund. This was the worst accommodation experience I've ever had. If I could give zero stars, I would. I'd urge anyone thinking of booking to reconsider. I'd stay in Glascow and visit Stirling for the day instead. Avoid this "hotel" at all costs.

The lounge was our favourite spot, we played loads of board games there. We stayed in apartment Harris, which was lovely, with clean rooms. It's in a really nice, quiet area.

We could see the National Wallace Monument from the window, which was a lovely way to end the stay. The Iona apartment was spacious, clean, and had everything we needed, including comfortable beds, a little kitchen, and complimentary tunnocks tea and coffee. Staff gave clear instructions for using things outside normal hours. The downside was the street noise. The windows are very thin, and the noise was loud and constant until 3 am on the Friday we stayed. I had an awful night's sleep, so I'd strongly recommend bringing earplugs.

The location is great, on a pedestrian street with plenty of pubs and restaurants nearby. I booked late after a delay and arrived just ten minutes later. They called with directions to free overnight parking behind the hotel, available from 17:30 to 08:45. The double room was cosy and heated, the shower was hot, and there was tea and coffee with a couple of sweet treats.