I'd been to the sister hostel in Inverness ( http://www.yelp.com/biz/inverness-student-hotel-inverness ) and even saw a same staff person here, so I knew what to expect. Unlike my time at the Inverness hostel, this hostel wasn't fully booked which made a world of difference. A £10 key deposit or photo ID is required. Best to leave an ID that is NOT your passport.
There were only two other girls staying in the all female dorm so plenty of space to spread out your stuff. No lockers in the room, however you can lock up your valuables for free at the reception desk. Each bed had two pillows, which was greatly appreciated.
The common room/dining room with the pool table is a great place to meet people and chill out. I even bumped into a couple German girls I met at a hostel in Fort William. It was noisy the two nights I was there which is generally not a big problem for me. But after a day of hiking (some of it in the rain), I just wanted a quiet evening. The wi-fi didn't work in the dorm rooms so I had to be in the common room to use internet. There was a TV lounge room where you could get wi-fi signal; but the one time I was there, a couple was watching a movie.
Showers for the dorm rooms were on the small side, and there was no place to change your clothes. Free coffee and tea as seen in hostels in England, Scotland, Ireland. Kitchen was properly stocked with pans, pots, cooking utensils, oil, salt, and the ever so useful "free food" section. Location was awesome, in the town center near The Co-operative Food market and bus stop.
Overall, great place to stay while hiking and exploring Pitlochry, Scotland. read more