SANDRAS BACKPACKERS, Thurso

Sandra's Backpackers offers a shared kitchen with two cookers, an air fryer, and ample cookware for guest use. A laundry service washes and dries a full bag of clothes for £5. Luggage storage and a shuttle service are available for guests catching the early ferry to Orkney.

The hostel provides dormitories and private rooms, each with a TV and free bed linen and towels. Rooms include en-suite bathrooms, and double rooms feature either a double bed or bunk beds. Guests noted that the rooms are clean and the bedding is changed daily.

The hostel sits in the centre of Thurso, a 5-minute drive from Thurso Beach and a 10-minute drive to Scrabster for the Orkney ferry. Guests can visit nearby Viking settlements and explore Caithness' dramatic cliffs and coastline. Cycling, hiking, and surfing are all available within the area.

A self-serve breakfast is included daily, with bread, cereals, spreads, vegan milk and butter options, yogurt, and fruit juices. The shared kitchen is stocked with tea, coffee, and cookies available throughout the day. Guests can cook their own meals using the two cookers, microwaves, and toasters.

Pets are welcomed at the hostel, and cycle storage is available for guests touring the North Coast 500. Free on-street parking is available from 18:00 to 08:00, with a nearby car park offering reservable spaces. The hostel has 24-hour security with fire extinguishers and smoke alarms.

Location: Centre of Thurso, 10 min from Orkney ferry

Breakfast: Self-serve with vegan options

Laundry: Full wash and dry for £5

Pets: Dogs welcome

Parking: Free on-street spaces from 18:00 to 08:00