Holiday Inn Express, Edinburgh Leith

Author's product rating:   

Advantages:	Plenty to do and see, within walking distance
Disadvantages:	None

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

I have stayed at this hotel on a number of occasions as we love to visit Scotland!

Whenever I visit Edinburgh I stay at this hotel, and book a room via the Holiday Inn Express website, as there are often cheaper rates available. Also I am a member of their Priority Club Rewards scheme which gives you points for every stay, which you can save up and redeem for free nights at any of their hotels.
I have had a few free nights over the years, and am about to redeem another. Being a member of this scheme also entitles you to priority check in , extended check out times, comlimentary newspapers as well as bonus points offers, which are sent to you via email.
It is completely free to join and a great scheme. All details can be found online at HiExpress.co.uk.

I last visited in 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.
We arrived by car, and there is a car park at the hotel. It is free to park your car which is a bonus as some hotels now charge you a daily rate to park your car!

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.

I have never experienced any problems checking in at this hotel, and found the staff very helpful and friendly. Indeed, when we last stayed there in February, it was the weekend when we had all the snow and freezing temperatures. The hotel provided extra heaters for all the rooms if required, which was welcomed by me and my partner!

The hotel itself is clean and comfortable in modern surroundings. Every room has a completely tiled and spotless bathroom with power shower, a TV, air-conditioning, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The rooms are quite spacious and also have a work area and internet connection.
Entry to your room is gained via a keycard which is also used to turn on the electricity.
Our room had a large king size bed with four comfy pillows. If you would like any more pillows then simply ask at reception. Likewise if you forget any toiletries, a replacement is provided free of charge if you ask! Shower gel and handwash (usually Dove) are provided in the bathroom, along with clean towels that are changed daily.

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. This is included in the price of your stay, so really good value!

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 and we have ate there on a couple of occasions.
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 it is in a great location, and also has everything you need within walking distance for a great weekend away.
I would recommend you book online to ensure the lowest possible rate for this hotel, as there are often weekend offers at £39 a night.