I was astonished to learn that the Scottish Youth Hostels Association SYHA is planning to close 7 of its 53 youth hostels. These include two in the Isle of Skye, Armadale and Kyleakin. Another five on the list are the ones at Killin (north of Stirling), Coldingham (Borders), Loch Lochy (between Inverness and Fort William), Inverey (Deeside, west of Aberdeen) and Glendevon (Ochil Hills). The reason quoted is to save money, to provide popular services elsewhere. I last stayed in youth hostels 3 years ago, at the start of my Northern Trip. Kyleakin was among them, and am sorry it has already closed for good. Perhaps the ratty central heating system (resonating in the hot water pipes) was to blame. However, youth hostels rank as budget accommodation for ALL ages (not just young people), with prices between £10 and £20 per night, excluding breakfast.
The objective appears to be to centralise hostels in places like Portree (the main town in Skye). I think it's a crying shame that nearly 30 hostels have been closed in Scotland over the past decade or two. I am aware of a trend towards more upmarket facilities. Mind you, I am not pleading for a return to the days that you had to sweep the dormitory before you could leave. There should remain a network of hostels across the UK, where people can spend an affordable night in comfort.
There are hundreds of independent hostels, not affiliated to SYHA, across Scotland, with varying standards.
My daughters class was able to stay in some sort of youth hostel last Spring when in New York City. They provide a service. Shame when useful ones are closed.
ReplyDeleteThat's a shame Guido.
ReplyDeleteI have never been inside a Youth Hostel. In fact I had no idea that adults could use the facilities too. You live and learn.
I wish I had known when we had been up in Scotland...it cost us a bomb to stay each night in an hotel. My daughter wants to come with me next time so maybe she and I can do it that way then...
Well...I never knew that...!
Jeanie
Too bad they are closing. I hope they don't end up closing them all. Sometimes that is the only way people can afford to see the world.
ReplyDeletePam
I wish the powers of B would leave things alone. I thought like many others that hostels were more for the younger end and oldies wasnt allowed. Theres one near whitby i will be having a look at. Thanks for the tip.
ReplyDeletehugs.
katie