Old Waverley Hotel (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)

The Old Waverley Hotel impresses many guests with its central location near Waverley Station, its charming, traditional ambiance, and the helpful and friendly staff. This prime location makes it easy to explore Edinburgh's attractions, with many sites within walking distance. The hotel's character provides a unique experience, and the staff consistently receive praise for their service. However, some guests note that the hotel's condition requires upgrades, and the lack of certain modern amenities can be a drawback. Despite these issues, the hotel's strengths often outweigh its weaknesses, making it a popular choice for visitors.

Many guests appreciate the hotel's amenities, though some find them lacking in certain respects. The convenient Wi-Fi is frequently mentioned, although some reviews indicate that the signal can be unreliable in certain rooms. The elevator is often described as small and slow, leading to longer wait times, especially during peak hours. While the hotel does not have a swimming pool or spa, the lounge area is often mentioned as a comfortable space to relax. Some guests have noted the absence of USB ports in the rooms, which can be inconvenient for charging devices. Despite these shortcomings, the hotel's central location and friendly staff often compensate for the limited amenities.

Cleanliness and room comfort receive mixed reviews, with some guests praising the comfortable beds and clean rooms, while others note issues with the room condition. Many reviewers mention that the rooms are clean and well-maintained, with fresh towels and toiletries provided daily. However, some guests have reported issues with noise from the street, particularly in rooms facing Princes Street. Some reviewers have noted that the lack of air conditioning can make rooms uncomfortably warm, especially during the summer months. Some guests have also mentioned that the bathrooms are small and outdated, with limited counter space. Despite these issues, many guests find the rooms to be adequate for their needs, particularly given the hotel's central location.

The dining experience at the hotel receives mixed feedback, with some guests praising the generous breakfast buffet and others expressing disappointment with the food quality. The breakfast buffet typically includes a variety of hot and cold options, such as eggs, bacon, sausage, cereal, and pastries. However, some guests have noted that the breakfast can be repetitive and that the coffee is not very good. The breakfast area can also be crowded during peak times, leading to long wait times for tables. While some guests enjoy the convenience of having breakfast at the hotel, others prefer to explore the many cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area.

The hotel's location is frequently cited as a major advantage, with many guests praising its central location and proximity to attractions and transportation options. The hotel is located on Princes Street, within walking distance of Waverley Station, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile. The airport bus also stops nearby, making it easy to get to and from the airport. However, some guests have noted that the street noise can be a problem, particularly in rooms facing Princes Street. The hotel's location also makes it easy to explore the many shops, restaurants, and bars in the surrounding area.

Several reviews mention the hotel's lack of accessibility for guests with mobility issues. The stairs to the reception area are a recurring concern, as there is no elevator access from the street level. This can be a significant challenge for guests with heavy luggage or mobility limitations. The small elevator, which begins at the first floor, is also frequently mentioned as being busy and slow. While the staff are generally helpful with luggage, the lack of accessible entry points remains a significant drawback for some guests.

The overall sentiment regarding value and satisfaction is mixed, with some guests feeling that the hotel is a good value for its location, while others find it overpriced for the amenities and condition. Many guests appreciate the hotel's central location and friendly staff, which contribute to a positive overall experience. However, some guests feel that the hotel is in need of updates and that the rooms are not worth the price. The hotel is best suited for travellers who prioritize location and convenience over luxury amenities, and it appeals equally to all groups.