PREMIER INN EDINBURGH EAST, Edinburgh

The hotel sits on a main road about 5 km east of the city centre, with a bus stop directly outside offering services every 10 minutes into town (£2.20 single). It is a 20-25 minute flat walk to Portobello Beach and close to Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Sheep Heid Inn and The Lookout are both 1 km away. Parking is free and on-site, making it practical for car travellers, though the surrounding area has limited dining and shopping beyond a neighbouring Tesco and petrol station. An Uber to the centre costs roughly £8.

The property is an older, tired building that would benefit from refurbishment. Rooms vary: some are spacious, others are described as small. All include a comfortable Premier Inn bed, tea and coffee facilities, free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a flat-screen TV. Many rooms lack air conditioning and can become very hot, especially in summer, though a fan is provided. Some rooms have no openable window or only a skylight, making ventilation difficult. Noise can travel through walls, and rooms at the rear have a view of boilers and a roof. A limited number of hangers (typically six) and no drawers mean storage is minimal - better suited for short stays. Bathrooms are generally clean with a good shower, though reports of mould and cleanliness issues exist. Families can request travel cots. The property has lifts to all floors.

Breakfast costs £9 per person (full Premier Inn cooked breakfast) or continental style. However, the restaurant sometimes serves only continental due to kitchen staff shortages, and hot items may be unavailable without prior notice. When served, cooked breakfast is made to order and of good quality. Evening meals at the Beefeater include steaks, pub food, and a bar; some reviews note long waits and limited service, but when running properly the food is described as excellent and good value. Walk-in diners are not always accepted - only those with a hotel booking may be seated. The restaurant operates independently from the hotel, so its availability cannot be guaranteed for every evening. A Tesco supermarket is next door for self-catering options.

There is no pool, gym, spa, or sauna at this property. Leisure activities are centred on the surrounding area: a 20-25 minute walk leads to Portobello Beach, a flat promenade path along the Firth of Forth. Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat are a short bus ride or a longer walk away, offering hill walking and views. The Sheep Heid Inn, a historic pub, is 1 km away. For those attending events such as the Fringe Festival or Military Tattoo, city-centre venues are a direct bus ride away.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though connectivity can be unreliable in some areas. Reception is staffed 24 hours. Parking is free and private on-site, but a small daily charge (£3.50-£4) has been introduced for some stays - confirm this at the time of booking. Luggage storage may be available at reception. Housekeeping is provided on request but can be inconsistent; it is advisable to request daily servicing at the start of your stay if needed. Cots for children under 3 are provided free of charge (max 1 per room). Pets are not permitted. Card payments are accepted. The property has wheelchair access and lifts to all floors.