This hostel is centrally located in a nice part of Cork city, one block from the Lee River. It's located near the Summerhill Bridge bus station, on the opposite side of the river. There is one free parking spot in front of the hostel, but when it's not available there are plenty of paid parking places at your disposal.
This hostel is extremely clean. Fresh sheets and comforters are included and every room has its own ensuite bathroom. The bathrooms and showers are spacious and very clean, however there is no temperature control on them, so the water can get quite hot. The shower also runs on a timer, so you have to push a button every minute or so in order to run the water. As for hostel security, each block of rooms require a key card in order to gain access to the room itself where the same keycard is used to open the room's door. Keycards are replaced each day for added security.
This hostel is owned and operated by four New Zealanders, and they are all very friendly and welcoming. Upon your arrival you are presented with a free map and coupon book full of savings on dining and entertainment. The hosts are extremely knowledgeable with the city sights and sounds, as well as places to dine or get a pint. Before you head out for dinner, ask them for their recommendations. You won't be disappointed.
The hotel also owns and operates the adjacent Bru Bar pub. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this. The main advantage is that you don't have far to crawl home after a hard night of partying, however the main disadvantage is that on Friday and Saturday nights, the pub patrons can get quite rowdy and if you are on one of the first few floors, it will be difficult to get some sleep. The pub atmosphere is classy yet relaxed with limited seating, but overall a great place to have a pint and meet fellow travelers.
The Bru Bar Hostel does not have an elevator, and is about five stories high. It also has a public internet café on the main floor, and rates are decent. A continental breakfast is included with your stay and is served daily in the large and clean kitchen attached to the common room where the TV and pool table are located.
Overall, the Bru Bar hostel is a fantastic place to stay while visiting Cork.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2005
Location/Contact
4.6 Average from 17 Ratings
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