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Summary of reviewsJames John Hamilton House and Backpacker Hostel in Fishguard, Wales, earns high praise among travelers for its strategic and charming location. Situated conveniently for those embarking on the Fishguard ferry to Ireland, it allows easy exploration of the town's nearby cafes, shops, and pubs. The hostel, housed in a unique converted school building, offers accommodations with a cozy, character-filled ambiance. Guests appreciate the ease of access to local attractions and the Pembrokeshire coast path.
Breakfast at James John Hamilton House is another standout feature, with guests enjoying a DIY breakfast setup that caters to diverse preferences. The well-equipped kitchen allows for leisurely meal preparation, enhancing the continental-style experience. Unique touches like Lapsang Souchong tea and Steve's homemade soup and soda bread add charm and delicious variety to the satisfying breakfast offerings.
The rooms at the hostel are described as comfortably inviting and meticulously maintained. Whether opting for spacious double rooms or smaller private quarters, guests find beautifully renovated spaces with plenty of room to relax. The super comfy beds and soft pillows ensure restful sleep, complemented by modern ensuite bathrooms. A clean and pristine environment enhances the overall comfort, with tidy communal areas contributing to the welcoming atmosphere.
The exceptional hospitality of Steve, the host, sets James John Hamilton House apart. His friendliness and accommodating nature frequently leave guests impressed, with instances of going above and beyond, such as offering transportation assistance and accommodating late arrivals. This genuine care and attentiveness create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the hostel.
Comfortable sleeping arrangements are equally praised, with guests frequently mentioning the restful sleep experienced on substantial, cozy beds. Futon beds also receive positive remarks for their comfort. Additionally, the hostel is recognized for its pet-friendly policies, welcoming dogs without charge and treating them alongside their owners with exceptional hospitality.
Overall, James John Hamilton House and Backpacker Hostel provides a delightful stay, marked by excellent facilities, genuine warmth, and a charming atmosphere, making it a memorable choice for travelers visiting Fishguard. Show more
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Dog Friendly Hostel
This property welcomes pets, which is a primary requirement. As a hostel, it may offer a more budget-friendly option for travelers with dogs. Its location in Fishguard makes it convenient for exploring the area.
Dog Play Area Dogs Stay Free
Do you accept dogs in all rooms? No, some rooms only: 1 room
Is there an extra charge? Free! There is no extra charge. Dogs stay for free.
Should the dog owner notify you before checking in? Yes
What is the maximum number of dogs per room? Up to 2 dogs are allowed in each room.
Is there a maximum weight of dogs accepted? Yes, 15 Kg
Are there any leash-free play areas? Yes
Should the dog be kenneled at all times in the room? No
Should the dog be kenneled/kept in a pet carrier at all times in public areas? Yes
Should the dog remain leashed at all times in the room? No
Should the dog remain leashed at all times in public areas? Yes
Are the dogs allowed on the furniture? No
Are the dogs allowed on beds? No
What are the basic requirements to accept a dog?
Must not be aggressive
Must be clean
Must not have fleas
Must use designated areas
Owners must clean pet waste immediately
Owners are responsible for any damage caused by the dog
Must not bathe in the bathtub
Must not be left unattended in the room
Is there a refundable deposit to guard against damages? No
Do you provide any of these?
Food and water bowls
Except for dogs, do you also accept other pets? No
Do you have a written and comprehensive pet policy available on request? Νο
Answers last updated by James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel
Hostel where Extra Health & Safety Measures Have Been Taken
Arrival
Do visitors need a health certificate (i.e. a test) prior to arrival? No
Do you perform temperature checks upon guests' arrivals? No
Do you ensure contactless check-in/check-out? Yes, by touchscreen interface (self check-in kiosk)
Do the hotel's main entrance doors open automatically? No
Can guests access their room entrance directly from outside the hotel without entering the lobby? No
Cleaning
Are the rooms left vacant for a minimum period of time after a guest checks out? Yes, for 8 hours.
Is there an option for no in-room housekeeping during a guest's stay? Yes
Do you allow fresh air to enter the rooms by leaving the windows open between departures and arrivals? Yes
Does the cleaning crew wear appropriate personal protective equipment? Yes
Do you sanitize the common areas? Yes, multiple times per day
Are guests' luggage and belongings disinfected upon arrival? No
Are luggage trolleys sanitized after each use? Yes
Do you sanitize guests' keys/cards? Yes
Do you provide thorough cleaning of the rooms? Yes
Are all employees trained and monitored to follow a cleaning protocol? Yes
Do you use disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities that kill the COVID-19 virus? Yes
Do you use electrostatic sprayers with hospital-grade disinfectant to sanitize surfaces? No
Do you disinfect high touch areas in guest rooms including light switches and door handles? Yes
Limitations
Are elevator rides limited? There are no elevators
Is furniture in public areas arranged to allow more space for distancing? Yes
Are guest rooms allowed to be accessed until check-in after they were cleaned? No
Does the hotel operate at a limited capacity? Yes, up to 3% of the rooms can be occupied
Does the hotel accept domestic bookings only? Yes
Do you allow people who don't stay or work at the hotel to enter its premises? No
Do you allow people who don't stay at the hotel to enter the rooms? No
Have you altered check-in / check-out hours to allow more time between departures and arrivals? Yes, New hours: Check-in: 04:00 - Check-out: 10:30
Accessories
Do you provide medical kits (masks, gloves and sanitizer) to the staff? Yes
Do you provide medical kits (masks, gloves and sanitizer) to the guests? Yes
Do you provide disinfecting wipes in each room? Yes
Are there hand sanitizing stations throughout the hotel? Yes
Is there a sanitizing sprayer for shoes outside each room? Yes
Do you have any signage in lobbies to remind guests to maintain social distancing protocols? Yes
Do you use physical distancing markers? No
Do you use delivery robots to get stuff to guests' rooms? No
Is there an individual air-conditioning/heating unit in each room (no central air-conditioning/heating system)? No
If there are central air-conditioning/heating/ventilation systems, is air recirculation prevented? No
Are rugs removed from guest rooms? No
Are unnecessary items removed from guest rooms, such as decorative pillows, bed scarves/throws , paper notepads and pens? Yes
Are air purification and sanitization devices installed? No
Are linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with the official guidelines? Yes
Is dirty linen bagged in the guest room to eliminate excess contact while being transported to the laundry facility? Yes
Food & Beverage Service
Do you offer pre-made boxed meals to guests? No
Do you offer single-serve options instead of buffets for breakfast? Yes
Do you offer contactless delivery for in-room dining? No
Protocols & Certifications
Do you follow any of these protocols or have you obtained any of these certifications?
Airbnb cleaning certification
Has there been a person appointed to supervise the correct implementation of the measures? Yes
Do you check temperature for all onsite staff on a scheduled basis? No
Do your staff practice social distancing guidelines? Yes
Are there dedicated isolation zones on property? No
Do you have clear guidelines on how to handle suspected or confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19)? Yes Details: Call 101
Is there a doctor available either on-site or on-call? No
Are there any services currently unavailable due to health and safety issues (e.g. valet parking, airport transfer, spa, gym, indoor pool, conference rooms, coffee points, etc.)? no
Has the hotel closed during the pandemic? Yes Reopening Date: Unknown
Answers last updated by James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel
King RoomThis room has access to a shared kitchen and lounge.
Standard Twin RoomThis room has access to a shared kitchen and lounge.
No pets allowed in this room.
Family RoomThis room has access to a shared kitchen and lounge.
One pet allowed in this room
Four-Bedroom HouseBoasting a private entrance, this holiday home features 1 living room, 4 separate bedrooms and 4 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware in the fully equipped kitchen. The holiday home also comes with a barbecue. This holiday home has a washing machine, a tea and coffee maker, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a patio. The unit has 9 beds.
Budget Twin Room with Shared BathroomThe budget twin room has a shared bathroom on a different floor.
Small Double RoomThe double room provides a carpeted floor, as well as a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower. The unit offers 1 futon.
Guest Reviews
Location
Nestled in the heart of Fishguard, the James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel boasts a prime location that attracts travelers seeking both convenience and charm. Perfectly situated for those taking the Fishguard ferry to Ireland, it offers ideal accommodations for onward journeys. Guests appreciate its proximity to local attractions, with shops, pubs, cafes, and a Co-Op all within a short walking distance. The hostel's central position makes exploring the town effortless, placing visitors near bus connections and a variety of amenities. The venue itself is housed in a unique, converted school building, adding a touch of character to the stay. Cozy and lovingly furnished, the accommodations provide comfort and a warm welcome. A friendly host enhances the experience, making guests feel right at home. With easy access to the Pembrokeshire coastpath and nearby dining options, including a great cafe, gallery, and local pubs serving quality food, this hostel ensures a satisfying stay in Fishguard, a somewhat overlooked gem in Wales.
Breakfast
At James John Hamilton House and Backpacker Hostel, the breakfast experience is a highlight for many guests, offering a delightful start to the day. The DIY breakfast setup boasts a fantastic selection of items, ensuring there is ample food and plenty of choices for everyone. From fresh fruit, cereals, and bread to eggs and toast, the variety offered suits all preferences. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, which provides the opportunity to prepare meals at their own pace, adding to the enjoyable, self-service, continental-style breakfast atmosphere. Unique touches such as the inclusion of Lapsang Souchong tea and the occasional special like Steve’s homemade soup and soda bread add an extra charm. Whether opting for a light snack of fruit, cereal, and tea or a more filling combination, guests find everything needed for a hearty breakfast readily available. The positive reviews clearly indicate that breakfast at the hostel is both deliciously diverse and thoroughly satisfying.
Rooms
Nestled in the welcoming embrace of the James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel, guests are treated to an inviting array of rooms that exude comfort and charm. Each room is meticulously maintained, showcasing a level of cleanliness and coziness that surpasses many traditional hotels. Whether guests opt for the spacious double rooms or the smaller private quarters, they are met with perfectly arranged accommodations, often described as beautifully renovated and furnished with love.
The beds are super comfy, providing the ultimate restful sleep, and the pillows are exceptionally soft, ensuring a peaceful slumber. Ensuite bathrooms stand out with their modern fixtures and hot showers, adding to a stay that guests find both relaxing and rejuvenating. The rooms are not only pristine but also designed to offer an exceptionally comfortable experience, featuring plenty of space to unwind after a day of exploration.
The combination of excellent accommodations and a warm, friendly welcome ensures a memorable stay that has guests returning for its superior hospitality.
Beds
Visitors to James John Hamilton House and Backpacker Hostel consistently praise the establishment for its inviting sleeping arrangements. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, with many guests enjoying a restful sleep akin to what they haven't experienced in years. The combination of comfortable and homely spaces, alongside excellent pillows, contributes to the overall satisfaction of the guests, who often remark on the quality of the mattresses. Despite the occasional critique regarding the softness of the mattresses being not to everyone's taste, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Futon beds are highlighted for their comfort and the feeling of solid night's rest is a common outcome. Guests appreciate the substantial, comfy beds, with some likening the experience to sleeping like logs, aided by all necessary amenities being readily provided.
Cleanliness
James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel excels in offering a clean and comfortable environment for guests. Visitors frequently commend the property for its pristine state, highlighting clean and tidy rooms, communal areas, and kitchens. Guests appreciate the homely atmosphere of the shared dining and lounge areas, which are described as both comfortable and inviting. Ensuring clean bedding and towels is another aspect that receives positive feedback, contributing to the overall sense of comfort. Despite a few instances where hygiene fell short or rooms were spotted with cobwebs, the general sentiment leans towards satisfaction with the cleanliness of the accommodations. Overall, guests find the hostel to be a welcoming and hygienic place to stay.
Staff
James John Hamilton House and Backpacker Hostel stands out for its exceptional hospitality, largely thanks to Steve, the owner and host. Guests frequently highlight Steve’s immense friendliness and accommodating nature, which leaves a lasting impression. Whether offering to pick guests up from the train station or making an effort to meet late ferry arrivals, Steve goes above and beyond in his role. His warm and generous demeanor creates a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that visitors feel right at home. The hostel is not only renowned for its charm and character but also for the genuine care and attentiveness of its host, who is always eager to assist and ensure a pleasant stay.
Dog Friendly
James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel warmly welcomes travelers and their canine companions. Guests frequently highlight the availability of pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring both owners and dogs feel right at home. The atmosphere is friendly, and the hosts are commended for treating guests and their furry partners with exceptional care. Pets stay free of charge, enhancing the venue's appeal to dog lovers. Even late arrivals are graciously accommodated, reflecting the host’s commitment to hospitality. This charming B&B offers a heartfelt invitation to those traveling with pets, providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for all.
No, James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel.
Yes, James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire
No, parking facilities aren't available at James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel.
No, James John Hamilton House and backpacker hostel doesn't have a gym.