A man was left stunned after using a UV light to inspect his hotel room and deciding not to stay in it. Zac Jones, 27, paid just £12.80 for a night at the Highbury hotel in Blackpool. He recorded what he described as the “worst” conditions he had ever seen in budget accommodation and shared it on social media. The video displayed possible stains all over the room, leading Zac to say, “For £12.80 a night I’m impressed … [but] I’d rather drive home than stay in that bed.” Despite basic amenities like coffee, tea, and a TV, the UV light revealed significant issues, causing him to label it “horrible” and “atrocious.” Among his discoveries were alleged stains on the chair, cupboard, and mattress after what he called the “worst UV light inspection I’ve ever done”.
Social media users expressed similar shock, with one commenting, “I first thought it wasn’t too bad but after this never mind I’ll go to a chain hotel.” Another simply said, “Hell no.” While a third stated, “I’d be booking a Premier Inn and leaving.” Some acknowledged that low prices come with certain expectations, but many agreed they would not feel comfortable staying there. One user noted, “For £12 I think I’d expect worse.” While another remarked, “For £12.80 I would still sleep in the bed, even if scenes of crime had just left.” Zac left the hotel early but had no ill feelings towards the staff, whom he described as “friendly.” He did not seek a refund, noting that the pricing was reasonable considering the room’s condition and affordability. Despite some cobwebs and stray hairs in shared areas, he mentioned, “The room wasn’t the worst I’ve stayed in, despite the price, and I was blown away when the owner said breakfast [was included] – and that it was included in the price!”
The Highbury hotel has been contacted for comment.