Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Royal Mile

The Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Royal Mile offers exactly what you would expect of the brand: clean, comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and limited on-site amenities. The property is housed in a boxy, gray building that pales in comparison with its more historic neighbors (especially with the lovely St. Patrick’s Parish Church next door), but the property was renovated in the mid-2010s, and the overall style is cheerful and appealing, albeit generic. Metallic-colored vinyl couches, black and orange geometric-print throw pillows and carpet give the lobby an updated feel, as does the combination of round, cluster lamps and blue recessed lighting. Gray accent walls hung with black-and-white photos of local historic sights are attractive, and large windows let in lots of light. There is little to do on-site aside from grabbing a drink at the bar or having breakfast, and the vibe is quiet and casual throughout the day. The breakfast room can get crowded at peak times, but few guests seem to stick around on-site after 10 a.m. We saw a handful of guests hanging out in the lobby during our visit, but they were either waiting to check in or out, or working on their computers. The hotel does have a meeting room, which could potentially generate some overcrowding in the common areas, but it is small and in the basement, and events generally don’t disturb guests. Rates at this Holiday Inn Express are comparable to other mid-range hotels in the area, but the Ibis chain is often a little cheaper, and most of its properties in the city center have been fully renovated in the mid-2010s. The Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge is a great alternative, with simple, contemporary rooms, a solid restaurant, and reliable, free Wi-Fi. Breakfast, however, is an extra charge there. Travelers seeking something with a little bit more charm may prefer the similarly priced B+B Edinburgh, though it is farther away from some major attractions, including the Edinburgh Castle. The Bonham, located right next to the B+B Edinburgh, is an excellent pick for those wanting a more upscale stay.  

Located on the corner of busy Cowgate and tiny, cobblestoned South Gray’s Close, the Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Royal Mile is ideally located for travelers wanting to explore the city center on foot. Although not directly on the Royal Mile, as the name would imply, it is a block from the famous street, lined with restaurants, historic buildings, and shops selling traditional Scottish wool clothing and accessories. Directly adjacent to the hotel is St Patrick’s Parish Church, and there are several other beautiful churches within easy walking distance, including St Gile’s Cathedral, located a five-minute walk away. Princes Street shopping area can be reached in about 10 minutes, and other major attractions -- such as the Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, the Scottish National Gallery, and Calton Hill -- are all within a 15-minute walk of the hotel. Waverley Station, Edinburgh’s main public transport hub, is also just under 10 minutes away on foot. It takes about half an hour to drive to the airport. 

The hotel’s 78 rooms were all renovated in the mid-2010s and are decorated in a contemporary, albeit simple, style, with a combination of gray and red accents, and blond-wood furniture with clean lines. The striped carpet and navy couches are bland and chain-like, but dark accent walls and backlit headboards add some style. Some rooms are snug, but open closets with hanging racks and shelves instead of drawers create some visual space. All rooms have big windows, but units overlooking the adjacent church offer the best views. Cowgate is a busy street, so light sleepers may want to request either a room facing the back of the building or South Gray’s Close. Standard amenities are decent for the price, and include free, reliable Wi-Fi, electric kettles with free tea and instant coffee, and flat-screen TVs with a few international channels. Air-conditioning is provided in all rooms, as are irons and ironing boards. Rooms lack mini-fridges and safes, though. There are a few Family Rooms available at the Holiday Inn Express, complete with additional floor space and a sofa bed for up to two other guests. Bathrooms are compact in all room categories, but they have a smart design that makes the most of the small space, with corner sinks and small counters. Small shelves provide additional storage space. All bathrooms come with shower stalls and wall-mounted shower gel and hand soap. Hairdryers are generally plugged in by the closets, which are conveniently placed adjacent to full-length mirrors with shelves.  

Continental breakfast with a few hot options -- including scrambled eggs, sausages, and bacon -- is served daily free of charge in the basement breakfast room. Though simple, most guests seem to find the spread good enough to keep them going until lunchtime. The only major complaint about breakfast seems to be about the size of the dining room, which proves too small for all guests at peak times. The adjacent conference room is set up with tables during the busiest times, but the space can still be crowded. The hotel lacks a full restaurant, but the lobby bar offers a few nibbles and light meals along with hot and cold drinks throughout the day. The one meeting room is outfitted with air-conditioning and audiovisual equipment, and is suitable for a maximum of 30 guests. No fitness facilities are on-site. The hotel offers discounted rates at a nearby parking garage, and allows pets for a daily fee.