Kings Arms Hotel

This hotel offers a memorable stay, distinguished by its traditional pub atmosphere and a reputation for excellent food, particularly its breakfast, which many guests consider a highlight. Its central location in Melrose makes it an ideal base for sightseers exploring the Scottish Borders and its attractions, including the nearby Abbey. The hotel's cosy ambiance and the consistently friendly staff contribute significantly to a welcoming experience. It caters well to a diverse range of guests, including couples seeking a charming getaway, families enjoying meals together, business travelers on work assignments, and especially dog owners due to its highly accommodating pet policy. For those sensitive to noise, it is advisable to request a room away from the pub side, and guests should be aware that some rooms may exhibit a more dated decor.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities that enhance the guest experience. The bar is a popular feature, offering a good selection of drinks and a lively, cosy atmosphere, sometimes hosting live music. An inviting beer garden is also available, though some guests note it can be noisy at times. While the hotel generally offers Wi-Fi, feedback on its reliability is mixed, with some reporting patchy or poor connectivity. Similarly, while TVs are present in rooms, some guests experienced issues with them not working. The hotel does not have a dedicated reception desk, with check-in often handled at the bar, which some guests found less conventional. Overall, the facilities contribute to the hotel's character, though some aspects could benefit from updates.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Many guests praise the rooms as being clean, comfortable, and well-appointed, highlighting the comfortable beds and high-quality pillows that ensure a restful night's sleep. The showers are frequently commended for being hot and powerful. However, a significant number of reviews describe rooms as "tired" or "run down," with reports of "dirty" conditions, including "black mould" in showers, "filthy carpets," and "grimy" bathroom surfaces. Some rooms are noted for their dated decor, peeling wallpaper, and uneven floors. Noise levels can vary; while some rooms are quiet, others experience disturbance from the pub below, street activity, or proximity to public toilets and hand dryers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience consistently receives high praise, particularly the breakfast, which many guests describe as "excellent," "superb," and among the "best in the Borders." The cooked breakfast options are highlighted for their quality, generous portions, and variety, including good vegetarian options and coffee. While breakfast service can occasionally be slow, the overall quality is a significant draw. The restaurant and bar food also garner very positive reviews, with dishes like fish pie, steak frites, and Sunday roast being frequently recommended. Guests appreciate the delicious, well-presented, and good quality meals, noting the cosy and sophisticated atmosphere of the dining areas.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location on the main street of Melrose, making it incredibly convenient for guests to explore the town. It is within easy walking distance of key attractions such as Melrose Abbey and provides a superb base for discovering the wider Scottish Borders region. For guests arriving by car, there is no dedicated on-site parking; however, free on-street parking is often available nearby, and pay-and-display options are also close by, though availability can sometimes be hit or miss. It is important to note that many rooms are located up multiple flights of stairs, and the hotel does not have a lift, which could be a consideration for guests with mobility challenges or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, being described as exceptionally friendly, helpful, and welcoming. Guests frequently highlight their attentiveness and willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is generally smooth, and staff are praised for efficiently resolving any issues, such as room requests. The hotel's highly commended dog-friendly service is a standout, with staff making pets feel very welcome. Whether assisting with luggage, providing local recommendations, or ensuring dining needs are met, the team's dedication to providing excellent service is a recurring theme in guest reviews.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably dog-friendly, welcoming canine companions in the bar and restaurant areas and even providing dog treats at the front desk, making it an excellent choice for pet owners. Guests should be aware that room doors require a room key for re-entry, so it's advisable to keep it on hand. Some rooms are accessed via a charming but potentially uneven cobbled yard access. While the hotel maintains a lively and cosy atmosphere, particularly in the bar, a recurring theme in reviews suggests a need for ongoing maintenance attention and investment in updating certain areas of the property to address signs of wear and tear.