Sandras Backpackers

An older-style backpackers, for the budget-conscious. Great service - James, the owner and host, was very friendly and helpful. Helped us find a taxi, VERY late at night, for the following morning, and helped us with other transport issues. A mine of info about the town and region, & in general great to talk to. Very cheap washing and drying service in-house. Good stuff!

I had a great stay here and it was brilliant. I would definitely come stay again.

Do NOT book with Sandra’s Backpackers. They are NOT helpful nor accommodating. It is almost impossible to cancel a reservation with them especially if you’ve booked thru ***********. Best NOT to use *********** and use *******.com for better service.

I called and make a long term booking, where I was told that the booking would be cancelled if I didn't show up unless I called ahead. I called ahead in order to inform them I wasn't able to check in that day and everything seemed fine. I then had my train cancel on me the next day, where I then called again, and was informed that my booking was cancelled no matter what if I didn't show up even if I called ahead. They then said there was another customer and hung up on me. I waited 20 minutes to call back just to confirm that I had called before and ask why that wasn't taken into account? I was not allowed to speak over the minor shouting coming from the person on the phone. I tried to call one more time, asking to have a conversation, where I was told, "if you show up here I will headbutt you". So I would not recommend going to this place, as the staff seem to have problems communicating with customers.

Sandra Backpackers in Thurso primarily aimed to backpackers looking for a hostel. En-suite rooms are also offered, but they clearly have hostel character. Demands on a hotel are not fullfilled and correspond to the low price - our mistake!

I stayed for 2 nights in a private room with en-suite on the ground floor. Had to call the hostel on arrival and was met by the host, who showed me around everything and pointed out some eating options around the town. The kitchen upstairs was well setup and the included breakfast was great, Towels available. Popular fish and chips place across the road. Bus to John O'Groats leaves from the top of the road a minute's walk away. Train station was 5-10 minutes walk from the hostel. Tesco supermarket also close by. Wi-Fi only worked when upstairs, was the only downside.

Would stay again

The stay was good keep up the good work. Was a nice stay near railway station and shops.

It was a nice room and friendly people.