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Summary of reviewsThe Holyrood Aparthotel in Edinburgh stands out primarily for its excellent location and convenience. Nestled just off the Royal Mile and within walking distance of iconic attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and Arthur's Seat, the aparthotel offers easy access to both the old town and the city center. Guests appreciated its proximity to numerous restaurants, bars, shops and public transportation options, while still being in a quiet, tranquil area.
The apartments themselves receive numerous commendations for their spaciousness, cleanliness and fully equipped kitchens, making them ideal for longer stays. Families and groups particularly value the well-stocked kitchens, comfortable beds, large bathrooms and the overall homely setup. The rooms also appeal to visitors with their ample amenities, including washing machines and dishwashers, contributing to a comfortable and practical experience.
Guests frequently praise the friendly, helpful and attentive staff, highlighting their ability to address issues promptly and provide informative assistance during their stay. While some reviews mentioned occasional unfriendly staff interactions, the majority found the staff to enhance their overall experience.
The breakfast offered at the Holyrood Aparthotel garnered mixed reviews with positive notes about the convenience of in-room breakfast packs containing cereals, bread, cheese and other essentials. However, several guests felt the offerings lacked variety and freshness with some suggesting the breakfast was overpriced for its simplicity.
For dining, the aparthotel boasts well-equipped in-room kitchens that many guests find convenient for meal preparation. With a nearby Tesco Express, obtaining groceries is easy, though the lack of a suitable dining table for larger meals was noted. Guests also benefit from the close proximity to local eateries for alternative dining options.
Cleanliness is frequently highlighted as a positive aspect with many guests describing the apartments as very clean and well-maintained. Some minor issues, such as dated decor and occasional lapses in housekeeping, were mentioned but did not overshadow the overall positive sentiment.
The aparthotel’s Wi-Fi received mixed feedback with some guests experiencing fast and reliable service while others struggled with connectivity issues. The gym, while available 24 hours, faced criticism for outdated and insufficient equipment and some guests noted that it had been repurposed as a storage area at times.
Secure parking is available on-site, which many guests found convenient, though the limited and sometimes pricey nature of the parking spaces was a concern for some. The location also offers quick access to Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife with many bars, pubs and cultural venues nearby. Despite being close to lively areas, the hotel itself remains quiet and peaceful, ensuring guests can enjoy a restful stay after exploring the city's attractions.
Beds at the Holyrood Aparthotel are generally described as comfortable, though some guests reported issues with bed sizes, mattress quality and pillows. Nonetheless, the overall sentiment is that the beds provide a decent level of comfort for a good night's sleep.
In summary, the Holyrood Aparthotel is highly regarded for its prime location, spacious and well-equipped apartments, cleanliness and attentive staff, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking convenience and comfort in Edinburgh despite some areas needing updates and improvement. Show more
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Aparthotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
This eco-friendly aparthotel has Green Tourism accreditation. They aim to reduce their environmental impact through comprehensive recycling programs, water-saving fixtures, energy-efficient lighting, and providing cleaning services only when required.
Boutique-style Aparthotel
Luxury Aparthotel
Aparthotel near Nightlife Spots
Aparthotel with Parking
Accessible Aparthotel
Aparthotel with Gym
4-Star Aparthotel
Room Types
Two-Bedroom Apartment (4 Adults)The lounge has a flat-screen TV, sofa bed and there is an Italian tiled bathroom.
Standard Double RoomThe lounge has a flat-screen TV, and there is an Italian tiled bathroom. There is also a fully-equipped kitchen.
Standard Twin RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this twin room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. Meals can be prepared in the well-fitted kitchen, which has a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. The twin room has parquet floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a tea and coffee maker as well as a quiet street view. The unit has 2 beds.
Two-Bedroom Superior ApartmentThis apartment features 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The fully equipped kitchen has a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. The apartment features parquet floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a tea and coffee maker as well as a quiet street view. The unit has 3 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Location
The reviews for the Holyrood Aparthotel overwhelmingly highlight its prime location in Edinburgh. Positioned just off the Royal Mile, the aparthotel is central to many key attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and Arthur's Seat, making it an excellent base for exploring the city. Guests appreciated the convenience of being near the old town, city center and numerous restaurants, bars and shops, including a nearby Tesco Express. The location also offers easy access to public transportation, including a short walk to Edinburgh Waverley Station and the hop-on hop-off bus routes.
Visitors found the area quiet yet vibrant, balancing tranquility with proximity to major tourist sites. The hotel's setting in the Holyrood area, close to the Scottish Parliament, provided a scenic backdrop and added a layer of historic ambiance. Whether for sightseeing, dining or shopping, guests consistently noted that everything they needed was within walking distance.
In short, the Holyrood Aparthotel's location stands out as one of its key strengths, offering visitors a perfect blend of accessibility, comfort and a central position ideal for both short stays and extended visits to Edinburgh.
Breakfast
Overall, the breakfast experience at Holyrood Aparthotel has garnered mixed reviews from guests. Several patrons appreciated the concept of having breakfast delivered to their room in a basket or box which included items like cereals, bread, cheese, jams, milk and orange juice. The convenience of having breakfast supplies in-room was noted positively with some guests finding the selection sufficient for a basic start to the day.
Positives highlighted include the variety of cereals, the inclusion of cheese slices and the overall generosity of the provided items. Guests also appreciated that the breakfast packs ensured all needed items for a short stay were readily available.
On the downside, many reviews mentioned that the quality and variety of the breakfast items were lacking with some finding the offerings plain, monotonous or not proportional to the hotel’s standard. Issues like stale bread, sugary cereals and the absence of fresh options like fruit were often cited as points of disappointment. Some guests felt that the breakfast was overpriced for what was provided, leading a few to recommend against opting for the breakfast package.
In summary, while the breakfast at Holyrood Aparthotel is convenient and basic, it falls short in terms of variety and freshness for some guests, particularly those expecting a more substantial or varied meal to start their day.
Dinner
Holyrood Aparthotel offers a convenient dining experience for guests who prefer to prepare their own meals. Each room features a well-stocked kitchen complete with cutlery and cooking facilities, making it easy to self-cater. Guests appreciated the option to make their own breakfast and dinner, finding the in-room kitchen particularly handy. The hotel's proximity to a nearby Tesco Express also proved beneficial, allowing guests to purchase groceries easily. While there isn't a suitable dining table for an elaborate sit-down meal, the overall set-up is comfortable and perfect for groups, especially for four adults. For those who wish to explore the local dining scene, Cafe Nero and other eateries are just a short 10-minute walk away, adding flexibility to their culinary options.
Rooms
The Holyrood Aparthotel is generally well-regarded for its spacious, clean and well-equipped apartments. The location is a significant advantage, as it’s conveniently situated close to the Royal Mile and various tourist attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring Edinburgh. Many guests appreciated the fully equipped kitchens, comfortable beds and spacious living areas that made longer stays comfortable and pleasant.
While the apartments are praised for their cleanliness and comprehensive amenities, including washing machines, dishwashers and ample kitchen supplies, some space issues and the dated condition of the furniture and decor were noted. Several guests highlighted that some rooms appeared to be in mid-renovation or in need of refurbishment with instances of worn carpets, chipped furniture and musty smells.
The living areas, bright and roomy with large bathrooms, were a hit with families and groups, offering plenty of space to spread out. However, sound isolation between the apartments received mixed reviews with some experiencing noise disruptions.
One of the top perks cited by guests is the accommodation’s value for money, particularly for larger groups. The well-stocked kitchen and the excellent location near the Royal Mile were frequently mentioned as standout features.
Overall, the apartments at Holyrood Aparthotel present a solid choice for travelers seeking spacious accommodations with the convenience of home-like amenities, despite some areas needing aesthetic updates and maintenance.
Beds
The beds at Holyrood Aparthotel have received mixed reviews from guests with a substantial number of positive comments highlighting their comfort. Many guests described the beds as comfortable, very comfortable and even extremely comfortable, often mentioning that the cleanliness and quality of the bed linen contributed to a pleasant sleeping experience. The availability of spacious rooms and high-quality bedding was also noted and some guests specifically appreciated the king-size beds provided.
However, there were notable criticisms as well. Some guests found the beds to be too small with preferences expressed for larger sizes, such as king-size instead of double beds. There were complaints about beds being hard or the mattresses showing signs of age and a few guests mentioned discomfort due to lumpy or overly firm mattresses. Instances of beds dipping in the middle, beds creaking and double beds being made up of two single mattresses were also mentioned, which could lead to discomfort during sleep.
Additionally, a recurring theme in the reviews was the quality of the pillows, which many guests found to be flat and unsatisfactory, detracting from the overall bed comfort. Despite these issues, the general consensus was that the beds were clean and provided a decent level of comfort for a good night's sleep.
Cleanliness
The Holyrood Aparthotel has consistently received high praise for its cleanliness from its guests with many describing the rooms and apartments as very clean, spotless and well-maintained. Most reviews highlight that the rooms are not only clean but also comfortable, contributing to a pleasant stay. The kitchens and bathrooms are specifically noted for being recently renovated, modern and exceptionally clean. Guests appreciate the spaciousness and organization of the apartments and the cleanliness extends to communal areas which are also kept in pristine condition.
However, a few reviews did indicate some inconsistencies, mentioning issues such as unclean carpets, blocked drains and dirt in overlooked areas like under sofas. There were also isolated complaints about dated decor and furniture and occasional lapses in housekeeping, such as unemptied bins or incomplete room services. Despite these occasional issues, the general consensus remains positive with many noting that the apartments felt fresh and the overall cleanliness met or exceeded expectations.
In summary, Holyrood Aparthotel is generally seen as a very clean and comfortable place to stay with well-maintained apartments that offer good value for money. Though with some minor housekeeping improvements needed, it continues to provide a high standard of hygiene and comfort for its guests.
Staff
The reviews for the staff at Holyrood Aparthotel reveal a mixed but predominantly positive experience. Numerous guests appreciated the friendly, helpful and attentive nature of the staff, often describing them as welcoming, accommodating and professional. Many highlighted the staff’s quick response to issues, courteousness and the ability to make the stay more pleasant through their supportive attitude.
Several guests noted exceptional service from specific staff members, mentioning that the front desk was particularly informative and efficient. The 24-hour reception also received praise for being constantly available to assist and answer questions.
However, there were some negative remarks too. A few guests felt that some staff members were unhelpful, transactional or rude. Some experienced a lack of warmth during check-in and interactions that seemed indifferent or inattentive. Instances of staff being uncooperative or not resolving complaints satisfactorily were also mentioned.
Overall, while most guests found the staff to be a positive aspect of their stay, contributing significantly to the hotel's appeal, there were sporadic mentions of unfriendly or unaccommodating behavior that could dampen the experience for some visitors.
Wi-Fi
Guest reviews of the Holyrood Aparthotel highlight a mixed experience with the hotel's WiFi. While there were positive comments about the WiFi being fast, strong and working well, many guests encountered significant issues. Common complaints included the WiFi not reaching certain parts such as the living room and kitchen, poor connectivity, intermittent and slow speeds and sometimes an outright non-existent connection. Some guests noted that the WiFi was only accessible in specific areas, like bedrooms and others struggled with unreliable service throughout their stay. The internet situation did improve for a few after intervention by the service provider. However, overall, the WiFi experience at Holyrood Aparthotel appears to be inconsistent and an area needing improvement according to guest feedback.
Gym
Holyrood Aparthotel offers a small gym that is available 24 hours, making it convenient for guests who wish to maintain their fitness routine during their stay. However, the facility has faced considerable criticism for its outdated and insufficient equipment. Some guests found the gym to be primitive with non-functional machines and a limited selection of free weights, some of which were missing. There were also mentions of the gym being closed or repurposed as a luggage storage area, which raised concerns about security since the space lacks proper supervision and locks. While the fitness room has potential, significant improvements and updates are needed to meet guest expectations.
Parking
Holyrood Aparthotel offers secure parking facilities that are praised for their convenience and accessibility to the city center. Many guests appreciated the availability of on-site parking, despite it being a paid amenity. The secure nature of the parking is often highlighted as a positive aspect, providing peace of mind for travelers with vehicles.
However, the parking spaces are described as limited and occasionally difficult to find with some guests stressing the need to pre-book directly with the hotel. The cost of parking is a repeated concern with several reviews mentioning that it should be included in the room rate or at least be more reasonably priced.
Location-wise, the parking facilities are noted as advantageous, adding to the appeal of the hotel’s excellent city center position. Some reviews mention that although the on-site parking can be scarce, options like nearby self-parking lots are available, albeit sometimes requiring a short walk. Despite the minor issues regarding space and cost, the overall sentiment toward Holyrood Aparthotel’s parking facilities remains largely positive due to its secure and accessible nature.
Nightlife
The 'Holyrood Aparthotel' is situated in a convenient location that offers the best of both worlds for those looking to explore Edinburgh's vibrant nightlife and those seeking some peace and quiet. Guests frequently highlight its proximity to multiple pubs, bars and restaurants, making it an excellent spot for nightlife enthusiasts. The area is also near the Royal Mile, Fringe venues and various tourist attractions, adding to its appeal for visitors looking to experience the cultural aspects of the city.
Despite being close to bustling nightlife spots, the hotel itself is nestled in a quieter neighborhood. Numerous reviews commend its set-back position from the main road, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. Many note that while the hotel's surroundings are serene, it is only a short walk from the lively old town and Cowgate strip, making it easy to return to tranquility after an evening out.
While most reviews are positive about the quiet evenings, some guests did mention occasional noise issues such as music from the restaurant below and early morning bin collection. However, these were relatively isolated comments compared to overall positive feedback about the hotel's quiet atmosphere.
Overall, the 'Holyrood Aparthotel' offers a fantastic balance of access to Edinburgh's nightlife and a quiet retreat, making it a well-regarded choice for a diverse range of visitors.
4 Star
Holyrood Aparthotel, situated in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town and just steps from the Royal Mile, offers spacious accommodation ideal for large groups. Guests frequently commend the hotel's impeccable cleanliness and appreciate features such as the door separating the bathroom from the living area and the convenience of an in-room washer.
The staff receive high praise for their exceptional helpfulness and friendliness, contributing positively to the overall experience. The hotel is considered good value for money, especially given the relatively expensive area it inhabits. Many reviews highlight the excellent WiFi and the good standard of accommodation, noting that the apartments are well-kept and extremely clean.
However, there's a recurring theme of confusion and disappointment regarding the hotel's four-star rating. Multiple guests feel that the quality of the facilities, particularly issues like non-functional stovetops and air conditioning, falls short of four-star standards. Some express doubt about the advertised star rating and suggest that the hotel would more accurately be categorized as three-star accommodation. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment about Holyrood Aparthotel is one of good value and reasonable comfort, making it a practical choice for visitors looking to stay in a central, well-appointed location.
Accessible
Holyrood Aparthotel offers notable accessibility benefits for guests with disabilities, particularly its proximity to major tourist sites, shops and restaurants, making it convenient to explore Edinburgh’s attractions. The property includes accessible rooms with provisions such as lifts to upper floors and an easy-access door entrance, accommodating for those with mobility needs.
The availability of a spacious and comfortable studio proved beneficial for wheelchair users and the building’s lift greatly facilitated movement within the aparthotel. The property also features confident disabled parking spaces near the entrance, adding to its convenience.
However, there are some drawbacks regarding accessibility. While the apartment itself is accessible, certain rooms and bathroom facilities may not fully accommodate wheelchair users and guests have occasionally been placed in non-accessible rooms despite requests. Disabled toilets and some bathrooms lack adequate space for maneuvering and issues such as non-functional disabled toilets can cause inconvenience.
The location's accessibility has mixed reviews. While it is close to various amenities and transport hubs and within walking distance to the university and the main parts of the town, the pavement can be challenging for those carrying luggage or using strollers. Additionally, the location is not entirely central and can require walking uphill to reach points of interest.
Despite being well-equipped, the condition of the apartment varies and there have been reports of noise from the airport and a smelly lift, which could be slight inconveniences. Overall, while Holyrood Aparthotel provides accessible features and a central location advantageous to mobility users, future guests should carefully consider specific accessibility needs and potential issues.
No, Holyrood Aparthotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Holyrood Aparthotel.
No, Holyrood Aparthotel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Holyrood Aparthotel.