Good Hotel in Edinburgh
- September 16, 2009
- Rated 5 of 5 by
Jennifer23 from Sunderland, United Kingdom
I have stayed at this hotel on a number of occasions as love to visit Scotland!
Whenever I visit Edinburgh I book this hotel via the Holiday Inn Express website, as there are often cheaper rates available, and I am a member of their Priority Club Rewards scheme which gives you points for every stay which you can redeem for free nights at any of their hotels.
I have had a few free nights now and am about to redeem another. Being a member of this scheme also entitles you to priority check in , extended check out times, complimentary newspapers as well as bonus points offers.
It is completely free to join and a great scheme.
I last visited at the beginning of February where I paid £35 for a double room for myself and partner - bargain!
I always find that these hotels are clean, modern and comfortable with Continental Breakfast included in the price , you really can't go wrong.
This particular hotel is situated on Ocean Drive, Leith, which is an area of Edinburgh which has benefitted from a lot of upgrading and new bars, restaurants, shops and visitor attractions in recent years.
It overlooks the Firth of Forth and Ocean Terminal, which is a large indoor shopping centre on the waterfront, and also where the Royal Yacht Britannia is situated.
You can enjoy a meal, a drink or coffee in one of the many cafe bars/restaurants enjoying the view of the Firth of Forth, the Yacht and often naval frigates which dock here regularly.
Checking in at the hotel, the staff were friendly and helpful each time I have visited. A key card is provided to gain access your room, and it also operates the electricity.
The hotel itself is clean and comfortable in modern surroundings. The rooms are quite spacious with a work area and space to hang your clothes. The en suite bathroom has a power shower, and is fully tiled. I was quite impressed as the bathroom was spotless! Towels are provided and also shower gel and handwash, but if you have forgotten an essential toiletry item, then just ask at Reception and they are happy to provide you with a replacement.
There is a TV with some satellite channels, air-conditioning, hair dryer and tea/coffee making facilities also in the room.
The beds are large and comfortable with plenty of pillows. If staying for more than one night the tea/coffee and also the towels are replenished if left on the bathroom floor.
The reception area has a bar area with television and plenty of seating for Continental breakfast, although you can collect a tray and take this to your room if you prefer.
The breakfast is self-service and offers a good choice of cereals, toast,croissants, pastries, fruit, yoghurt and juice/tea/coffee.
There are plenty of places to eat out in Ocean Terminal and Leith itself. An award winning Indian restaurant (Spice) is right next to the hotel and I would definately recommend it. Prices are quite reasonable.
Or if you prefer, the hotel will provide you with take away menus where you can arrange for food to be delivered.
Buses stop every few minutes right outside the hotel for you to explore the rest of Edinburgh.
This is probably one of my favourite hotels because not only is it a Holiday Inn Express but it is in a great location with everything you need within walking distance for a great weekend away!
From journal A Break in Scotland (East)