The hostel is described as the SYHA's 'flagship' by one leading travel book. I would hate to see the others. We only stayed a night, so did not need to make use of the kitchens or lounge space; but the hostel failed to provide the most basic requirement - a restful night's sleep. The bunk beds in our twin room were very poorly constructed and creaked and cracked at even the smallest movement. This meant we constantly woke ourselves and each other up. The beds in the other rooms were similar, since we were woken when their occupants moved too. The matresses were lumpy and uncomfortable, and the pillows were lumpy and poorly-filled. We got out as soon as we could. Not worth the money and not worthy of 5 stars. Put me off hostels and it embarrasses me that travellers from other countries might stay here.

The whole place is really clean and neat. rooms are cozy and toilets are spotless. rooms come with basin, toilets are shared. there are cupboards for your backpacks and a small table and some chairs in the dorms. there are also small bedside lights, but it'll still shine at beds across. Kitchen is extremely well-equipped, almost like those hotel restaurants' kitchen. big area with lots of pots and pans, cutlery, cups, what not. if you arrive much earlier than the check in time, you can leave your bags in the lockers that cost a little over £1 or £2 depending on the size you need and period of time.

It was my first time staying at a hostel and I think it had been a wonderful experience while I was there. It was rather quiet during the night's stay, only a handful of people staying I guess. Staff are really helpful and friendly. As we were waiting for our train ride out of Inverness, we've got nowhere else to go after checking out, so we stayed in the tv room. The staff did not show any discontentment at us occupying the room (also probably because there wasn't many people staying).

One down side to the place is that it is located quite a distance from the rail station. We had some problem locating the hostel until we got some directions from the locals. it's about 15 to 20 minutes walk (was winter when we went, hence the walking speed), and there's a Morrison's along the way. Apart from which, I think the hostel is awesome and would recommend it strongly.

We booked a 6 people room, and the took us to a 20 people room. it was dirty and smelly, even the front door didnt close well.

I've used this hostel since it first opened and was dismayed by the decline in the facilities when last there. The lounge was a dismal, almost empty TV room and the kitchen had been stripped of most good equipment - and it WAS very good previously. As you might expect, the atmosphere was also dismal, tho I will say the desk staff were friendly and efficient. Rooms OK. But it is not worth the stars. I complained to SYHA - no reponse.
Mike Merchant