St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original
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Summary of reviewsSt Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original is highly praised for its unbeatable location in the heart of Edinburgh, providing easy access to the Royal Mile, Princes Street and major transportation hubs. Guests appreciate the convenience of exploring both the Old Town and New Town on foot, enhancing the hostel's appeal for those immersed in the city's vibrant culture and historical charm. The friendly and helpful staff also contribute significantly to positive guest experiences with specific team members frequently mentioned for their exceptional service.
Breakfast at the hostel is considered affordable and hearty, offering a variety of options including yogurt, fruit and cereals for just £4-6. Despite minor inconveniences like having to walk to a nearby café and occasional critiques about the variety, the breakfast provides a good, value-for-money start to the day. Dinner options are well-received with guests enjoying the discounts at Belushi's pub, the connected bar and café. The location across the street adds convenience and the array of food and drink specials, coupled with live music, enhances the dining experience.
Cleanliness receives mixed reviews; while many guests find the hostel clean and tidy, issues with bathroom cleanliness and neglected communal areas are cited by several. Despite these criticisms, the hostel's generally clean bedding and properly maintained dorms are acknowledged positively. Rooms are noted to be small and sometimes noisy, but they come with privacy curtains, individual lights and charging stations, adding a layer of convenience. Noise and poor ventilation are common complaints, particularly for street-facing rooms.
The hostel's Wi-Fi is generally reliable with most guests reporting a satisfactory internet experience. Additionally, the lively atmosphere and convenient proximity to nightlife venues make it ideal for those seeking a sociable and bustling environment. The bar with live music and the surrounding vibrant areas are significant draws for nightlife enthusiasts. However, potential guests are advised to be prepared for noise from the street and late-night disturbances.
In summary, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original offers an affordable, centrally located stay with a friendly staff and good social dynamics, making it an attractive choice for younger travelers or those looking for an active and convenient base to explore Edinburgh. Some trade-offs in room size, noise levels and varying cleanliness should be considered, but the hostel provides value for those prioritizing budget and location over luxury and tranquility.
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Breakfast at the hostel is considered affordable and hearty, offering a variety of options including yogurt, fruit and cereals for just £4-6. Despite minor inconveniences like having to walk to a nearby café and occasional critiques about the variety, the breakfast provides a good, value-for-money start to the day. Dinner options are well-received with guests enjoying the discounts at Belushi's pub, the connected bar and café. The location across the street adds convenience and the array of food and drink specials, coupled with live music, enhances the dining experience.
Cleanliness receives mixed reviews; while many guests find the hostel clean and tidy, issues with bathroom cleanliness and neglected communal areas are cited by several. Despite these criticisms, the hostel's generally clean bedding and properly maintained dorms are acknowledged positively. Rooms are noted to be small and sometimes noisy, but they come with privacy curtains, individual lights and charging stations, adding a layer of convenience. Noise and poor ventilation are common complaints, particularly for street-facing rooms.
The hostel's Wi-Fi is generally reliable with most guests reporting a satisfactory internet experience. Additionally, the lively atmosphere and convenient proximity to nightlife venues make it ideal for those seeking a sociable and bustling environment. The bar with live music and the surrounding vibrant areas are significant draws for nightlife enthusiasts. However, potential guests are advised to be prepared for noise from the street and late-night disturbances.
In summary, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original offers an affordable, centrally located stay with a friendly staff and good social dynamics, making it an attractive choice for younger travelers or those looking for an active and convenient base to explore Edinburgh. Some trade-offs in room size, noise levels and varying cleanliness should be considered, but the hostel provides value for those prioritizing budget and location over luxury and tranquility.
Hostel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hostel near Nightlife Spots
Hostel for Adults Only
Guest Reviews
St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original boasts an exceptional location, highly praised for its unbeatable convenience right in the heart of Edinburgh. The hostel is just steps away from the historic Royal Mile and Princes Street, ensuring that the city's main attractions are easily accessible. Situated directly across from Waverley Train Station and close to bus stations, it is ideally positioned for those traveling by public transportation. This central location allows guests to explore both the Old Town and New Town on foot, making it perfect for those who prefer walking to tourist spots. Numerous reviews highlight the superb, strategic and ultra-central positioning of the hostel, emphasizing that it's within walking distance of major landmarks, shopping areas and entertainment venues. Additionally, guests have lauded the friendly staff and clean facilities, enhancing the overall experience. For those seeking to immerse themselves in Edinburgh's vibrant culture and historical charm, St Christopher's offers an ideal, practically unbeatable location at an affordable price.
At St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original, the breakfast receives mixed but largely favorable reviews from guests. Many highlight its affordability and the hearty, varied options available with several reviewers praising the delicious and complete meals offered for just £4-6. The breakfast includes yogurt, fruit, cereal and sandwich-making ingredients, which many guests found abundant and worth the cost.
Despite some noting that breakfast is served at a café across the street, which can be slightly inconvenient, the low price and good quality still make it appealing. The breakfast is described as particularly good and filling with options available for both cold and hot dishes. Some minor criticisms include the absence of coffee in the morning and the limited variety of options, but overall, guests find the breakfast adequate and a valuable addition to their stay.
Moreover, the location and friendly staff further enhance the breakfast experience and there are noted benefits like discounted or even complimentary meals offered in certain situations. In essence, St Christopher's Edinburgh offers a good, affordable breakfast that meets the needs of most travelers looking for a convenient and satisfying start to their day.
The dinner experience at St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original is frequently highlighted in guest reviews for its appealing discounts and convenient location. Guests appreciated the great deals available at Belushi's, the connected pub and café, where discounts on both food and drinks are a common perk for those staying at the hostel. The associated bar and restaurant, noted for its variety of drinks and tasty food at affordable prices, is conveniently situated just across from the hostel, making dining options easily accessible.
Many enjoyed the added value of having coupons for the pub and the benefit of food and drink specials. The proximity of the breakfast and dinner buffet to the rooms added to the overall convenience, complemented by the availability of board games and good breakfast options at Belushi's café. With live music on some evenings and the financial savings offered by the discounts, dining at the associated venues contributed significantly to the positive experience at the hostel.
St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original offers a blended experience in its dormitory and private rooms. Set in a prime location near the Royal Mile, it's a convenient spot for travelers keen on exploring Edinburgh.
The rooms here are known for their compact size—many guests mentioned the rooms being remarkably small, cramped or narrow, often making it difficult to move around or even open a suitcase. Despite this, the rooms are generally clean and there are personal touches like outlets, lights and curtains for privacy at each bed, which many found essential. Shared and private bathrooms were a topic of mixed reviews; although some highlighted their cleanliness and convenience, others found them dirty and poorly maintained.
Noise and ventilation seem to be recurring issues with street-facing rooms often being noisy and some rooms feeling stuffy or extremely hot. The decor is basic and occasionally outdated, contributing to a less inviting atmosphere. Some rooms have a nice view of the city, but overall, ventilation and noise control need improvement.
On the positive side, many appreciated the privacy provided by the bed curtains, individual reading lights and the availability of charging points. Guests also benefited from the friendly staff and the general cleanliness of the rooms. Moreover, the location is a significant highlight, allowing easy access to key attractions.
For budget travelers looking for a central place to crash, St Christopher's might fit the bill. However, those seeking comfort, space and tranquility might find their stay less than satisfactory.
The bed situation at St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original appears to be a mixed experience for guests. Many reviews highlight positive aspects, noting that the beds are generally equipped with privacy curtains, individual lights, charging stations and shelves, adding a layer of convenience and personal space. A number of guests found the beds comfortable and appreciated the clean linens and bedding.
However, numerous reviews pointed out certain drawbacks. The triple bunk bed design, common in the dorms, was frequently criticized for being uncomfortable, wobbly and difficult to climb. Some guests mentioned issues with thin and worn-out mattresses, beds being too narrow, noisy and in some cases, broken or sagging. Cleanliness also seemed to be inconsistent with a fair amount of feedback indicating that some beds were dirty or hadn’t been changed from the previous guest.
Despite the mixed reviews, some guests did note that the beds were comfortable enough for a budget stay and appreciated the privacy curtains. Overall, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original provides a practical and affordable sleeping arrangement, though potential guests might want to be prepared for varying comfort levels and occasional issues with bed quality and cleanliness.
Reviews for St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original show a mixed bag concerning cleanliness. On one hand, many guests have reported rooms and facilities to be "very clean,” “spotlessly clean,” and in some cases “clean, neat and tidy." Several pointed out the clean bedding, clean dorms, centrality and the friendly cleaning staff who were always maintaining the area.
However, numerous reviews indicate significant problems. The most frequent issues pertain to the bathrooms and communal areas being dirty with some guests mentioning black mold, foul odors and floors that seemed improperly maintained. Several rooms were reported to be tiny, dusty and poorly cleaned. Guest reviews also highlighted problems such as hair and soap residues left in bathrooms, slimy shower floors, dirty trash bins overflowing and an overall lack of regular cleaning services in shared accommodations.
Additionally, reviewers brought up concerns about the upkeep of bathroom facilities—moldy ceilings, unclean toilets, broken fixtures and water leaks. Some guests noted disruptions from loud cleaning activities, while others criticized the hostel for not being cleaned during their stay. The cleanliness around common areas, such as hallways and chill-out zones, was also noted as subpar, often described using terms like filthy, stinking and congested.
Despite these criticisms, there remains an emphasis on the hostel’s potential for improvement and the positive experiences of some who found the place clean and satisfactory for a budget stay.
St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original has garnered a considerable amount of praise for its dedicated and friendly staff. Many guests highlight the exceptional level of assistance and warmth offered by the team, describing them as super friendly, helpful, accommodating and welcoming. The reception staff receive particular commendations for their kindness and immediate responses to any issues, including dealing with noisy guests and assisting with room changes due to disturbances like loud snorers.
Staff members speak multiple languages, enhancing communication for international visitors and ensuring a more inclusive experience. Specific personnel, such as Ruta, Anna-Marie, Bernard and a Spanish girl named Violeta, are often mentioned for their exemplary service.
A majority of the reviews reflect a positive atmosphere created by the team, contributing to the overall comfortable and friendly environment of the hostel. The staff's proactive involvement in organizing social events and providing excellent local advice ensures guests have enjoyable stays. Issues with efficiency and handling certain complaints were noted in some reviews, echoing that staff experiences can vary.
Overall, the staff at St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original stand out for their commitment to making guests feel welcome and ensuring they have a pleasant and enjoyable stay.
St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original offers generally reliable Wi-Fi with many guests noting that the Wi-Fi in the rooms works properly and is good. The internet has been described as superb and the free Wi-Fi network as well-functioning. However, some visitors have experienced slower speeds and occasional issues with connectivity. While there have been reports of poor Wi-Fi in certain instances, the overall impression is a satisfactory and functional internet experience for guests.
St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original offers an excellent location for nightlife enthusiasts. The hostel is conveniently close to numerous pubs, clubs and nightlife areas, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Edinburgh's vibrant social scene. Guests have positively noted the good ambiance for social activities within the hostel with an affiliated pub that features live music, providing a great atmosphere for mingling and entertainment. The staff have also been praised for offering great tips on local pubs and music spots, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
However, the central location also brings its share of noise, which is a common issue in hostels. Noise from the street, other rooms and the bar downstairs can be quite audible throughout the night. Some guests reported disturbances from others returning from late-night outings. Despite these noise complaints, the lively and festive environment around the hostel is a significant draw for those who enjoy being in the heart of the action.
The hostel's proximity to many attractions, including cafes and nightlife spots, contributes to its appeal, although potential visitors should be prepared for a bustling and sometimes noisy environment. The bar with live music adds a unique touch, but it’s advisable for light sleepers to consider earplugs for a more restful night. Overall, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original is perfect for those seeking a sociable and lively stay in the city.
St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original caters primarily to a younger demographic, making it more appealing for those in their early twenties. The atmosphere throughout the property is vibrant and friendly, contributing to an enjoyable social experience for younger travelers. However, the accommodations involve shared rooms that can feel overcrowded and noise can be an issue, especially late at night with some guests being loud and disruptive. The cleanliness of the showers and walls has also been flagged with reports of mold and dirt. Despite its lively ambiance, the hostel’s upkeep and noise levels might not be ideal for everyone.
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Location
Breakfast
Despite some noting that breakfast is served at a café across the street, which can be slightly inconvenient, the low price and good quality still make it appealing. The breakfast is described as particularly good and filling with options available for both cold and hot dishes. Some minor criticisms include the absence of coffee in the morning and the limited variety of options, but overall, guests find the breakfast adequate and a valuable addition to their stay.
Moreover, the location and friendly staff further enhance the breakfast experience and there are noted benefits like discounted or even complimentary meals offered in certain situations. In essence, St Christopher's Edinburgh offers a good, affordable breakfast that meets the needs of most travelers looking for a convenient and satisfying start to their day.
Dinner
Many enjoyed the added value of having coupons for the pub and the benefit of food and drink specials. The proximity of the breakfast and dinner buffet to the rooms added to the overall convenience, complemented by the availability of board games and good breakfast options at Belushi's café. With live music on some evenings and the financial savings offered by the discounts, dining at the associated venues contributed significantly to the positive experience at the hostel.
Rooms
The rooms here are known for their compact size—many guests mentioned the rooms being remarkably small, cramped or narrow, often making it difficult to move around or even open a suitcase. Despite this, the rooms are generally clean and there are personal touches like outlets, lights and curtains for privacy at each bed, which many found essential. Shared and private bathrooms were a topic of mixed reviews; although some highlighted their cleanliness and convenience, others found them dirty and poorly maintained.
Noise and ventilation seem to be recurring issues with street-facing rooms often being noisy and some rooms feeling stuffy or extremely hot. The decor is basic and occasionally outdated, contributing to a less inviting atmosphere. Some rooms have a nice view of the city, but overall, ventilation and noise control need improvement.
On the positive side, many appreciated the privacy provided by the bed curtains, individual reading lights and the availability of charging points. Guests also benefited from the friendly staff and the general cleanliness of the rooms. Moreover, the location is a significant highlight, allowing easy access to key attractions.
For budget travelers looking for a central place to crash, St Christopher's might fit the bill. However, those seeking comfort, space and tranquility might find their stay less than satisfactory.
Beds
However, numerous reviews pointed out certain drawbacks. The triple bunk bed design, common in the dorms, was frequently criticized for being uncomfortable, wobbly and difficult to climb. Some guests mentioned issues with thin and worn-out mattresses, beds being too narrow, noisy and in some cases, broken or sagging. Cleanliness also seemed to be inconsistent with a fair amount of feedback indicating that some beds were dirty or hadn’t been changed from the previous guest.
Despite the mixed reviews, some guests did note that the beds were comfortable enough for a budget stay and appreciated the privacy curtains. Overall, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original provides a practical and affordable sleeping arrangement, though potential guests might want to be prepared for varying comfort levels and occasional issues with bed quality and cleanliness.
Cleanliness
However, numerous reviews indicate significant problems. The most frequent issues pertain to the bathrooms and communal areas being dirty with some guests mentioning black mold, foul odors and floors that seemed improperly maintained. Several rooms were reported to be tiny, dusty and poorly cleaned. Guest reviews also highlighted problems such as hair and soap residues left in bathrooms, slimy shower floors, dirty trash bins overflowing and an overall lack of regular cleaning services in shared accommodations.
Additionally, reviewers brought up concerns about the upkeep of bathroom facilities—moldy ceilings, unclean toilets, broken fixtures and water leaks. Some guests noted disruptions from loud cleaning activities, while others criticized the hostel for not being cleaned during their stay. The cleanliness around common areas, such as hallways and chill-out zones, was also noted as subpar, often described using terms like filthy, stinking and congested.
Despite these criticisms, there remains an emphasis on the hostel’s potential for improvement and the positive experiences of some who found the place clean and satisfactory for a budget stay.
Staff
Staff members speak multiple languages, enhancing communication for international visitors and ensuring a more inclusive experience. Specific personnel, such as Ruta, Anna-Marie, Bernard and a Spanish girl named Violeta, are often mentioned for their exemplary service.
A majority of the reviews reflect a positive atmosphere created by the team, contributing to the overall comfortable and friendly environment of the hostel. The staff's proactive involvement in organizing social events and providing excellent local advice ensures guests have enjoyable stays. Issues with efficiency and handling certain complaints were noted in some reviews, echoing that staff experiences can vary.
Overall, the staff at St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original stand out for their commitment to making guests feel welcome and ensuring they have a pleasant and enjoyable stay.
Wi-Fi
Nightlife
However, the central location also brings its share of noise, which is a common issue in hostels. Noise from the street, other rooms and the bar downstairs can be quite audible throughout the night. Some guests reported disturbances from others returning from late-night outings. Despite these noise complaints, the lively and festive environment around the hostel is a significant draw for those who enjoy being in the heart of the action.
The hostel's proximity to many attractions, including cafes and nightlife spots, contributes to its appeal, although potential visitors should be prepared for a bustling and sometimes noisy environment. The bar with live music adds a unique touch, but it’s advisable for light sleepers to consider earplugs for a more restful night. Overall, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original is perfect for those seeking a sociable and lively stay in the city.
Adult Only
No, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original.
No, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original.
No, St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh - Original doesn't have a gym.
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