Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront by IHG

This hotel offers an exceptional urban base, renowned for its prime location directly opposite a tram stop, providing seamless access to the city center and airport, and its close proximity to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Guests consistently highlight the friendly staff, comfortable beds, and the included breakfast as stand-out features. It is an ideal fit for sightseers and families looking for convenient transport links and a quieter area, as well as value-conscious travelers seeking a comfortable stay with essential amenities. To enhance your experience, consider utilizing the efficient tram system for city exploration and be aware that breakfast can be very busy during peak hours.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests generally find the hotel’s facilities to be clean and functional. The availability of on-site parking is appreciated, though it comes with a daily fee, and guests are advised to obtain a discount code from reception or consider the nearby Ocean Terminal for free parking. Rooms are equipped with useful amenities such as an iron, tea and coffee making facilities, and ample USB charging outlets. While the lift is noted by some as being slow or having mechanical noises, the hotel also offers a comfortable lounge area and bar service. Free Wi-Fi is available, ensuring guests can stay connected throughout their stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Rooms are consistently described as clean and comfortable, with many guests praising the very good beds and pillows for a restful sleep. However, some find the rooms to be small or cramped, particularly when a sofa bed is in use, with the sofa beds themselves sometimes noted as lumpy or uncomfortable. The bathrooms are generally clean, though some reviews mention issues with shower drainage, water pressure, mold in the shower cubicle, or dated fixtures. Noise can be a concern, with reports of sounds from lift mechanics, neighboring rooms, hallway activity, and plumbing or draining pipes. Some guests also experienced issues with the air conditioning unit being noisy or not providing adequate heating, though portable heaters were sometimes provided upon request.

Dining & Food Quality
The included breakfast is a significant draw for many guests, often praised for its good value and variety of options, including both hot and cold items. However, the breakfast room can become very busy and chaotic, especially after 8:30 AM, leading to queues for tables and frequent issues with food items running out quickly, such as bacon, hash browns, yogurt, and fruit. Replenishment can be slow during peak times. The quality of hot food receives mixed feedback, with some finding it bland, overcooked, or not hot enough, while others enjoy it. Coffee from the dispensers is frequently described as watery or poor quality. The dinner menu is noted as limited, with some guests finding the food quality disappointing, describing dishes as microwaved, dry, or having small portions.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location for exploring the area, situated directly across from a tram stop that provides easy and quick access to Edinburgh city center and the airport. It is also conveniently located within a short walk of the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Ocean Terminal, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema. The Leith waterfront with its dining options is also easily accessible. Public transport links are a major advantage, with both tram and bus stops on the doorstep, making it simple to reach various attractions and even Portobello Beach. While some guests note the immediate surroundings are not bustling, the excellent transport connections make up for it.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendly, helpful, and professional demeanor. Guests frequently highlight the attentive service provided by reception, bar, and breakfast staff, who go out of their way to assist with inquiries and requests. The check-in process is often described as quick and efficient, with staff accommodating early arrivals when possible. Many reviews commend the staff's ability to manage busy periods, particularly during breakfast, and their willingness to resolve issues promptly, such as food orders or room concerns. The overall impression is one of a dedicated team committed to ensuring a positive guest experience, making guests feel welcomed and at home.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates a pet-friendly policy, allowing furry companions to stay for a reasonable cost. While the hotel does not offer traditional room service, staff are helpful in guiding guests to nearby takeaway options or the hotel's own bar for food. Some guests note that the lift can be slow and occasionally experience minor malfunctions. For those concerned about heating, some rooms may require a portable heater if the built-in unit is insufficient, and a key card is needed to keep the heating active in the room. Loyal members of the rewards program often report receiving benefits such as early check-in or complimentary drinks.