Though I do I actually hate giving bad reviews, I must say that this particular hostel did nothing to improve my stay in Dublin, and has in fact tainted my over all opinion of hostels.

But, because it does have its uses, I'll start out first with the positive aspects. The first and probably most important advantage for many people looking to stay in a hostel in central Dublin, it's very cheap. I've already mentioned in my overview just how tight of a budget I was on for this particular trip and the Avalon House certainly did accommodate this budget. As with all hostels the time of year will effect the price that you get, but I visited in June and still got an excellent price.

You can get a bed in this hostel from £15 a night (or about $30) which for the location is very good indeed. The location is excellent. You are with in 5 minutes walk from many hot spots in central Dublin including Temple Bar, Grafton Street, and several parks and museums. The bus from the airport will drop you off just minutes from the hostel and from there it's a very quick walk to many of the places you may want to go. The place is basically clean and even though it's shared dorm rooms, you can (as we luckily did) get little upstairs alcoves with in the room if there are more than one of you. My friend and I got a bunk set in one of these alcoves which - except for the snoring from downstairs - was almost like having your own room. It is tricky, however, getting out of it if you have to leave early to catch a flight. Even the building is architecturally great, and can make for some really interesting photos.

But, there are also some definite downsides to this hostel. For one thing, it's very old inside and you kind of feel like you are staying in an old army barracks than in a hostel. Fine, of course, if your only there for the budget rate and a bed, but not great if your spending the week chilling out in the city. It is basically clean, but you it looses the impression of cleanliness because everything is so old and basically run down feeling.

For me the worst thing about this hostel was the overall vibe of the place. It wasn't the least bit welcoming; in general it was pretty unfriendly and reminded me more of nights I’ve spent camped out in bus stations than in hostels. I was really surprised by the lack of communal friendliness shown in this place, and it has actually put my off hostels since. For me the only good thing about sharing rooms and space with strangers is the advantage of swapping friendly stories and experiences with other travellers.

There was none of this at Avalon House Dublin, and in fact the writing COVERING the bathroom walls in the shared bathroom was very depressing.

This 1870s Victorian sandstone building is in the perfect location. 300 metres from St Stephens Green, handy to pubs (what isn't), local transport and all the sights.
Well designed rooms range from dorm-style through to ensuite twins and family rooms. Security is a priority here and everything is kept spotless. Showers are hot and strong and there's plenty of hot water.

The downstairs area is known as the Avalon Cafe and is a meeting place for residents and local students alike - a great place to hook up with like-minded travellers or just shoot the breeze over a coffee to the strains of lively contemporary music. The tariff includes a meagre breakfast, but then you're only a stones throw from any number of cafes or pubs.

So, how much? We had a twin room with an ensuite, and the B&B price is now 35 Irish Pounds. Absolute bargain. Oh, by the way, places this good don't stay a secret - you'll need to book in advance, especially in the peak summer season.