Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional central location, placing guests within easy reach of major attractions and transport links. Its signature feature is its direct proximity to Waverley Station and the Royal Mile, making it an ideal choice for sightseers, train travelers, and business travelers seeking convenience. Guests consistently praise the hotel's overall cleanliness, the comfort of its accommodations, and the attentive service provided by the staff. For couples and families, the hotel offers a comfortable base for exploring the city. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to inquire about room placement, as ongoing construction near the hotel has been a significant point of feedback, and requesting a room away from this area could improve the experience.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's well-equipped fitness center, which is described as spacious and even includes Peloton bikes, offering a great option for staying active. Rooms are generally well-appointed with convenient amenities such as an in-room coffee machine or kettle, and a mini-fridge for personal use, though some guests noted the fridge's cooling performance was inconsistent or that it was empty. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, ensuring guests can stay connected. Additional conveniences like ice machines, ironing facilities, and in-room safes contribute to a comfortable and hassle-free stay. Some guests also appreciated the thoughtful provision of umbrellas for use during their visit.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high praise for its spotless rooms and overall cleanliness, with many guests noting a pleasant scent throughout the property. Most guests found the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, and appreciated the spaciousness and modern decor of the rooms. However, a recurring concern among some guests was the noise levels, particularly from ongoing construction outside, but also from lifts, street activity, or thin walls, which occasionally disturbed sleep. While many found the rooms quiet, others experienced significant disturbances. Some feedback also highlighted issues with room temperature, with rooms occasionally being too warm due to windows that do not open, and some reported issues with the air conditioning. The bathroom facilities were generally clean, though some found them small, and a few mentioned issues with shower design leading to water spillage, dim lighting, or a damp/moldy smell.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel is a standout feature, consistently receiving excellent reviews for its variety and quality. Guests particularly enjoyed the extensive hot buffet and continental options, which include fresh fruits, yogurts, pastries, and a selection of meats and cheeses. A highlight for many is the dedicated omelet chef, who prepares fresh, customized omelets. The breakfast experience is often described as delicious and a great start to the day. While the breakfast is highly praised, feedback on the hotel's restaurant and bar facilities is more mixed. Some guests found the restaurant food to be good, though others noted service issues, limited menu choices, or perceived it as overpriced. The bar also received varied comments, with some finding the service lacking or the drinks expensive.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major draw, offering unparalleled convenience for exploring the city. It is situated just a few minutes' walk from Waverley Station, making it exceptionally convenient for those arriving by train or using public transport, including the airport bus. Guests appreciate being steps away from the Royal Mile, providing easy access to numerous attractions, shops, and restaurants in both the Old Town and New Town. This prime position allows guests to walk to most key landmarks, minimizing the need for additional transportation. While the location is highly advantageous, some guests noted that parking is available nearby but can be expensive, though the hotel sometimes offers a discount.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives glowing reviews for their friendly and helpful demeanor, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. Many guests highlighted the attentive service provided by team members across all departments, from reception to housekeeping and dining. The quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as early check-ins or luggage storage, are frequently mentioned. Guests appreciate the warm welcome, sometimes including a complimentary refreshment upon arrival. While most experiences with housekeeping were positive, with rooms being cleaned daily and supplies replenished, some guests reported occasional inconsistencies with towel replacement or amenity refills. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing excellent service is a strong point for the hotel.

Additional Information
A significant and frequently mentioned aspect of the hotel experience is the ongoing construction work in the vicinity, particularly at the rear of the building. This has led to noise disturbances, especially in the mornings, and an unsightly view for rooms facing the construction site, with some guests expressing disappointment at not being forewarned. This long-term project can impact the tranquility of a stay. On a more positive note, the hotel has been noted for its thoughtful gestures, such as providing anniversary or birthday surprises like cards, chocolates, or sparkling wine in guests' rooms. Some guests also reported an overpowering air freshener scent in the hotel and rooms, or a damp/musty smell in certain areas, which affected their comfort.