The Waverley Castle Hotel
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Summary of reviewsThe Waverley Castle Hotel, nestled near Melrose in the beautiful Scottish Borders, is praised for its tranquil and picturesque location by the River Tweed with stunning grounds perfect for leisurely walks. The proximity to local attractions like Melrose Abbey and Tweedbank Station and convenient transport links to Edinburgh, make it a great base for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of the area. Guests travelling with dogs or interested in outdoor activities particularly enjoyed the location.
The breakfast, while receiving mixed reviews, is generally appreciated for its variety and value. Guests enjoy the ample and tasty offerings, including a full Scottish breakfast and vegan options. Self-service style and a pleasant breakfast room add to the positive experience, though some guests noted issues with timing and food temperature.
Dinner at the hotel also has varied feedback, but many guests find the meals tasty, delicious and good value for money. Vegetarian and vegan options are available with bar pizzas being a standout. The service during dinner is often highlighted as professional and courteous, though some guests felt the menu was limited and the food sometimes lacked consistency.
The rooms at the Waverley Castle Hotel are spacious, comfortable and clean with basic amenities. While some rooms are described as cosy and nicely appointed, there are concerns about outdated decor, poor ventilation and noise issues. The bathrooms, in particular, are noted for being small and in need of updates. Despite these drawbacks, the overall comfort and cleanliness are largely appreciated.
Cleanliness is generally satisfactory with many guests finding their rooms very clean and well-maintained. However, some areas, especially common spaces, show signs of wear and inconsistent cleaning standards. The hotel could benefit from a more consistent maintenance regime.
The staff at the hotel are frequently praised for being friendly, helpful and polite, contributing positively to guests’ experiences. Some reviews do mention the need for better training and occasional lapses in professionalism, particularly at the reception. Overall, the staff's efforts to ensure a welcoming atmosphere are well received.
WiFi services receive mixed feedback with some guests finding it fast and reliable, while others experience inconsistent connectivity. Despite these issues, the complimentary WiFi is a valued addition for many.
Parking facilities at the hotel are generally well-regarded with ample, secure and free parking spaces available. Most guests found it easy to find a spot close to the hotel entrance, adding to the convenience of their stay.
The beds in the hotel have received mixed reviews; many guests find them very comfortable with clean and good-quality bedding. However, some guests experienced discomfort with the mattresses and noted that the beds could be hard or sagging, impacting their sleep quality.
As a three-star establishment, The Waverley Castle Hotel meets basic expectations with essential amenities and services. While it's not luxurious and shows signs of aging with dated decor and furnishings, it offers good value for money, especially for budget-conscious travelers. The adult-only environment provides a serene retreat for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Categories
The breakfast, while receiving mixed reviews, is generally appreciated for its variety and value. Guests enjoy the ample and tasty offerings, including a full Scottish breakfast and vegan options. Self-service style and a pleasant breakfast room add to the positive experience, though some guests noted issues with timing and food temperature.
Dinner at the hotel also has varied feedback, but many guests find the meals tasty, delicious and good value for money. Vegetarian and vegan options are available with bar pizzas being a standout. The service during dinner is often highlighted as professional and courteous, though some guests felt the menu was limited and the food sometimes lacked consistency.
The rooms at the Waverley Castle Hotel are spacious, comfortable and clean with basic amenities. While some rooms are described as cosy and nicely appointed, there are concerns about outdated decor, poor ventilation and noise issues. The bathrooms, in particular, are noted for being small and in need of updates. Despite these drawbacks, the overall comfort and cleanliness are largely appreciated.
Cleanliness is generally satisfactory with many guests finding their rooms very clean and well-maintained. However, some areas, especially common spaces, show signs of wear and inconsistent cleaning standards. The hotel could benefit from a more consistent maintenance regime.
The staff at the hotel are frequently praised for being friendly, helpful and polite, contributing positively to guests’ experiences. Some reviews do mention the need for better training and occasional lapses in professionalism, particularly at the reception. Overall, the staff's efforts to ensure a welcoming atmosphere are well received.
WiFi services receive mixed feedback with some guests finding it fast and reliable, while others experience inconsistent connectivity. Despite these issues, the complimentary WiFi is a valued addition for many.
Parking facilities at the hotel are generally well-regarded with ample, secure and free parking spaces available. Most guests found it easy to find a spot close to the hotel entrance, adding to the convenience of their stay.
The beds in the hotel have received mixed reviews; many guests find them very comfortable with clean and good-quality bedding. However, some guests experienced discomfort with the mattresses and noted that the beds could be hard or sagging, impacting their sleep quality.
As a three-star establishment, The Waverley Castle Hotel meets basic expectations with essential amenities and services. While it's not luxurious and shows signs of aging with dated decor and furnishings, it offers good value for money, especially for budget-conscious travelers. The adult-only environment provides a serene retreat for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Hotel with Parking
The Waverley Castle Hotel, located on Skirmish Hill, offers parking for guests. Its elevated position provides views, and the parking makes it convenient for exploring the area.
3-Star Hotel
The Waverley Castle Hotel offers a suited location and serene environment for people lodging here. It is one of the good quality places to stay in Melrose.
Historic Hotel
Family Friendly Hotel
Cheap Hotel
Guest Reviews
Located near Melrose, 'The Waverley Castle Hotel' is a standout for those wanting to explore the beautiful Scottish Borders. The hotel's location is highly praised for its peace and tranquility, making it an ideal retreat. It sits by the picturesque River Tweed and boasts stunning, well-maintained grounds which are perfect for leisurely walks and exploring.
The proximity to Melrose and Tweedbank Station enhances its accessibility, offering convenient transport links for visitors. Guests particularly appreciated the hotel's accessibility to various attractions such as Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House and found it easy to venture into Edinburgh via the local train station.
The surrounding area is lauded for its natural beauty with many guests highlighting the scenic countryside and lovely riverside paths that lead directly to Melrose. The historic building itself, despite some suggesting it could use a bit of tender loving care, exudes charm and sits beautifully within its spacious grounds.
Those traveling with dogs or seeking outdoor activities found the location perfect for dog walks along the river and through nearby parks. The hotel's quiet, countryside setting ensures a restful stay, while still being close enough to enjoy the amenities and quaint atmosphere of Melrose town center.
In summary, 'The Waverley Castle Hotel' offers a top-notch location for those wishing to explore the scenic and historical richness of the Scottish Borders with excellent transport links, beautiful surroundings and a peaceful environment.
The breakfast experience at The Waverley Castle Hotel has received varied reviews with many guests highlighting positive aspects while others noted areas for improvement. The majority of guests appreciated the ample variety and tasty offerings with several describing the breakfast as excellent, fresh and plentiful. Many commended the value for money, especially considering the inclusion of a full Scottish breakfast and vegan options, along with a good selection of cereals, fruits and cooked dishes.
Guests frequently enjoyed the buffet's self-service style, which allowed for generous portions and an abundant selection. The breakfast room was described as lovely and the setting civilized, adding to the overall pleasant experience. Additionally, the friendly and helpful staff contributed positively to the meal.
However, criticisms included the timing of breakfast, which some found too late and issues with the temperature and promptness of food with some guests noting that hot items were sometimes served cold. A few guests felt the quality and variety of breakfast items could be improved, mentioning small portions and occasional overcooked elements. The cost of breakfast was another point of contention for some, who felt it didn't meet their expectations given the price.
Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the breakfast at The Waverley Castle Hotel is generally well-received for its variety, taste and value, complemented by a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service.
The Waverley Castle Hotel offers a mixed dining experience, as reflected by guests' reviews. On the positive side, the evening meal at the hotel frequently garners praise for being tasty, delicious and good value for money. Many guests have enjoyed meals that were well above their initial expectations, describing the food as lovely, great and even exceptional. It appears that the hotel offers a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options with pizza from the bar being particularly noted for its quality. Service during dinner is often highlighted as courteous and professional.
However, the dining experience is not universally acclaimed. Some guests consider the portions to be small and there are repeated mentions of the restaurant menu being limited in both variety and choice. A number of reviews also point out inconsistencies with some meals being described as basic, uninspiring or even poor. Issues with the quality of food, including dishes that were cold, lacked flavor or seemed pre-prepared, are also noted.
Despite these drawbacks, the hotel does offer reasonably priced food and for many guests, the overall dining experience was satisfactory. The ambiance, along with the cleanliness of the crockery and cutlery, also received positive feedback. It's clear that while the restaurant may have its ups and downs, many diners leave content with their meals, particularly when considering the value for money.
The Waverley Castle Hotel offers a mix of accommodations that generally receive varied feedback from guests. Many guests appreciated that the rooms were spacious, comfortable and clean with some rooms described as large, cosy and very clean. Positive remarks were made about the hot showers, good-sized rooms and comfortable beds. The rooms were considered adequate and provided basic but sufficient amenities. Some visitors particularly enjoyed rooms that were described as large and airy or nicely appointed, contributing to a pleasant stay.
However, numerous guests pointed out certain areas of concern. The decor and furnishings across many rooms appeared outdated and in need of renovation. Issues such as stiflingly hot rooms with poor ventilation were frequent with some rooms described as small, cramped or very dated. Guests often mentioned that the bathrooms were tiny and some encountered issues with fixtures and cleanliness standards. Discomfort from noise was also noted with thin walls and poorly insulated windows.
Despite these drawbacks, the rooms still garnered mentions for their cleanliness and basic comfort. Some visitors highlighted their satisfaction with the efficient staff and the overall value for money. The hotel's location, close to town and natural surroundings, was also a plus.
In summary, while The Waverley Castle Hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms with some charm, there is a significant need for updates and renovations to improve guest experiences fully.
The reviews of the beds at The Waverley Castle Hotel highlight a mixed experience for guests. On the positive side, many guests found the beds to be comfortable with several noting the beds as very comfortable or super comfortable. The presence of comfortable king-size beds was also appreciated by some. The bedding was praised for being clean, soft and of good quality, often described as immaculate, fluffy and well-maintained.
However, some guests experienced discomfort, mentioning that certain beds were too hard, sagging or in need of new mattresses. There were also complaints about the size of the beds with descriptions of narrow, small or even too small double beds. Overall, while many found the beds to be cozy and conducive to a good night's sleep, there were noticeable concerns regarding comfort and bed sizes that detracted from some guests' experiences.
The Waverley Castle Hotel has garnered a mixed bag of reviews, particularly concerning cleanliness. On the positive side, many guests remarked that their rooms were very clean, comfortable and well-maintained with clean bathrooms stocked with soaps and gels. Some found the grounds well-trimmed and appreciated the general cleanliness of common areas. The hotel has been referred to as spotless by several guests, indicating good room cleaning practices and clean linens and towels.
However, other reviews highlight several concerns, especially in common areas which were described as tired and in need of updating. Issues such as dirty carpets, visible dust and marked sheets were noted in several reviews. Complaints about mould in bathrooms, low-pressure showers and grubby conditions were frequent. The decor was often described as dated and some rooms suffered from musty smells, dampness and inadequate cleaning. The discrepancy in cleanliness suggests that while some areas and rooms were kept in good condition, inconsistency in maintenance and cleanliness across the hotel was evident.
Overall, while many guests were satisfied with the cleanliness and comfort of their rooms, there is a clear indication that the hotel could benefit from a more consistent cleaning regime and updates to its interior decor.
The reviews for the staff at The Waverley Castle Hotel highlight a blend of positive experiences with a few areas of needed improvement. Overall, guests frequently described the staff as friendly, helpful, welcoming and polite. The dining staff received praise for being friendly, efficient and accommodating, making the dining experience pleasant for many. Specific staff members were noted for their outstanding service with some reviewers mentioning that individual efforts, such as a helpful receptionist or a lovely bar manager, significantly enhanced their stay.
However, feedback also pointed to inconsistencies in service quality. While many found the staff excellent and attentive, comments about the need for better training and instances of staff appearing overly busy or disorganized were recurrent. The reception staff, in particular, received mixed reviews with some guests describing them as indifferent or unhelpful, while others found them friendly and efficient.
Despite some critiques about the staff's lack of training and occasional lapses in professionalism, the general sentiment towards the team at the hotel is positive. Underlining this is the warm recognition of staff going above and beyond, making efforts to ensure guests felt welcomed and cared for during their stay.
The Waverley Castle Hotel offers WiFi services that have received mixed feedback from guests. Some visitors praised the WiFi for being very fast and ideal for work, noting that it worked great and even reached the gardens. Others appreciated the assistance provided by the receptionist in maintaining a connection. Free WiFi is available in rooms and other areas of the hotel. However, several guests reported issues such as inconsistent and weak signals with some experiencing poor connectivity or finding the WiFi non-existent at times. The internet periodically cuts out and keeps logging users out, making it unreliable for continuous use. Despite these challenges, the hotel does provide complimentary WiFi, which functions well in some areas, particularly around the reception.
The Waverley Castle Hotel boasts extensive parking facilities that have generally left guests satisfied. The car park is spacious and offers ample parking spaces, making it easy for visitors to find a spot. Notably, the parking is free and often described as convenient and easy with specific mentions of good and secure parking options.
Many guests appreciated the on-site parking, which is close to the entrances and well within the hotel grounds, providing a sense of safety and convenience. For those traveling by motorcycle, there were plenty of spaces to park effectively.
While the majority of reviews highlight the ease and adequacy of the parking, a few guests did note some challenges. Some mentioned difficulties in getting out of the parking area or finding spaces that matched the descriptions provided. However, these issues seem to be the exception rather than the rule.
Overall, the Waverley Castle Hotel's parking facilities are well-regarded with ample and secure options that cater to various vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience for most of their guests.
The Waverley Castle Hotel, a three-star establishment, provides a fair value for money, particularly reflecting in its meal offerings which guests found reasonably priced. While not luxurious, the hotel meets the basic expectations for a three-star rating. It features essential amenities and standard services often associated with this category.
However, the hotel seems to be showing its age. Several reviews highlight that the decor and furniture are quite dated, reminiscent of the 1990s and parts of the building appear rundown. Common issues reported include thin walls, which do not provide much sound insulation and small, somewhat dated rooms with basic infrastructure. There were also mentions of cleanliness issues, particularly in the shower areas and around the carpets, along with an occasional bad smell.
Despite its shortcomings, guests acknowledge that the price paid was in line with the standard of accommodation offered. The hotel was often cited as being a good value for money – a budget-friendly option for those not seeking luxury. Additionally, the staff, while seemingly overwhelmed during dinner times, add a level of service that aligns with the hotel’s rating. Overall, The Waverley Castle Hotel serves as a clean, budget accommodation suitable for travelers looking for an economical stay.
The Waverley Castle Hotel offers a serene adult-only experience, making it an ideal getaway for adults seeking a peaceful retreat. Its atmosphere caters specifically to adults, ensuring a tranquil environment. The presence of a caretaker on shift provides added reassurance, contributing to the overall security and well-being of guests. While some aspects may give off the vibe of an OAP holiday camp, the emphasis on adult-only accommodations ensures a serene and undisturbed stay.
Nestled in a picturesque country location, The Waverley Castle Hotel stands as a testament to historical grandeur and charm. This period property showcases beautiful, old and charming architecture that highlights its impressive past. Despite needing some modern updates, the building's historical significance and character are well-preserved, offering guests a cozy stay imbued with a romantic touch of the past. The grand, imposing structure is complemented by beautiful gardens, making it an attractive destination for those who appreciate historic buildings.
With a backdrop of an old abbey, the hotel's location adds to its allure, providing guests with a serene and scenic environment. The efforts to revitalize the building are evident, as it beautifully balances its old-world charm with contemporary comforts. While some areas still reflect a bygone era, especially in terms of decor, the hotel's historical feel remains intact, offering an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and visitors seeking a unique stay.
In essence, The Waverley Castle Hotel is a lovely, historic building that, despite needing some sprucing up, captivates with its architectural elegance and historical charm, making it a memorable destination for travelers.
The Waverley Castle Hotel receives mixed reviews regarding its dog-friendly amenities and services. Many guests highlight the hotel as being very dog-friendly, allowing dogs in multiple areas and providing welcoming treatment to canine companions. Several reviews commend the friendly staff who made both dogs and their owners feel at home. The hotel's grounds are praised for offering excellent facilities for dog walking with spacious gardens providing a pleasant setting for leisurely strolls.
Despite the positive aspects, there are some critical points to note. The surcharge of £10 per dog is mentioned as being somewhat steep and the fine for dogs going on linens indicates a less welcoming approach in certain situations. Additionally, while many found the dog policies accommodating, a few reviewers mentioned issues such as dog smells in rooms and barking at night. Some expressed disappointment that the hotel was no longer as dog-friendly as advertised and lacked specific dog amenities like bowls or treats.
In summary, while The Waverley Castle Hotel offers a generally dog-friendly environment with ample walking areas and friendly staff, potential guests should be aware of the additional costs and some inconsistencies in the overall dog-friendly ambiance.
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Location
The proximity to Melrose and Tweedbank Station enhances its accessibility, offering convenient transport links for visitors. Guests particularly appreciated the hotel's accessibility to various attractions such as Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House and found it easy to venture into Edinburgh via the local train station.
The surrounding area is lauded for its natural beauty with many guests highlighting the scenic countryside and lovely riverside paths that lead directly to Melrose. The historic building itself, despite some suggesting it could use a bit of tender loving care, exudes charm and sits beautifully within its spacious grounds.
Those traveling with dogs or seeking outdoor activities found the location perfect for dog walks along the river and through nearby parks. The hotel's quiet, countryside setting ensures a restful stay, while still being close enough to enjoy the amenities and quaint atmosphere of Melrose town center.
In summary, 'The Waverley Castle Hotel' offers a top-notch location for those wishing to explore the scenic and historical richness of the Scottish Borders with excellent transport links, beautiful surroundings and a peaceful environment.
Breakfast
Guests frequently enjoyed the buffet's self-service style, which allowed for generous portions and an abundant selection. The breakfast room was described as lovely and the setting civilized, adding to the overall pleasant experience. Additionally, the friendly and helpful staff contributed positively to the meal.
However, criticisms included the timing of breakfast, which some found too late and issues with the temperature and promptness of food with some guests noting that hot items were sometimes served cold. A few guests felt the quality and variety of breakfast items could be improved, mentioning small portions and occasional overcooked elements. The cost of breakfast was another point of contention for some, who felt it didn't meet their expectations given the price.
Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the breakfast at The Waverley Castle Hotel is generally well-received for its variety, taste and value, complemented by a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service.
Dinner
However, the dining experience is not universally acclaimed. Some guests consider the portions to be small and there are repeated mentions of the restaurant menu being limited in both variety and choice. A number of reviews also point out inconsistencies with some meals being described as basic, uninspiring or even poor. Issues with the quality of food, including dishes that were cold, lacked flavor or seemed pre-prepared, are also noted.
Despite these drawbacks, the hotel does offer reasonably priced food and for many guests, the overall dining experience was satisfactory. The ambiance, along with the cleanliness of the crockery and cutlery, also received positive feedback. It's clear that while the restaurant may have its ups and downs, many diners leave content with their meals, particularly when considering the value for money.
Rooms
However, numerous guests pointed out certain areas of concern. The decor and furnishings across many rooms appeared outdated and in need of renovation. Issues such as stiflingly hot rooms with poor ventilation were frequent with some rooms described as small, cramped or very dated. Guests often mentioned that the bathrooms were tiny and some encountered issues with fixtures and cleanliness standards. Discomfort from noise was also noted with thin walls and poorly insulated windows.
Despite these drawbacks, the rooms still garnered mentions for their cleanliness and basic comfort. Some visitors highlighted their satisfaction with the efficient staff and the overall value for money. The hotel's location, close to town and natural surroundings, was also a plus.
In summary, while The Waverley Castle Hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms with some charm, there is a significant need for updates and renovations to improve guest experiences fully.
Beds
However, some guests experienced discomfort, mentioning that certain beds were too hard, sagging or in need of new mattresses. There were also complaints about the size of the beds with descriptions of narrow, small or even too small double beds. Overall, while many found the beds to be cozy and conducive to a good night's sleep, there were noticeable concerns regarding comfort and bed sizes that detracted from some guests' experiences.
Cleanliness
However, other reviews highlight several concerns, especially in common areas which were described as tired and in need of updating. Issues such as dirty carpets, visible dust and marked sheets were noted in several reviews. Complaints about mould in bathrooms, low-pressure showers and grubby conditions were frequent. The decor was often described as dated and some rooms suffered from musty smells, dampness and inadequate cleaning. The discrepancy in cleanliness suggests that while some areas and rooms were kept in good condition, inconsistency in maintenance and cleanliness across the hotel was evident.
Overall, while many guests were satisfied with the cleanliness and comfort of their rooms, there is a clear indication that the hotel could benefit from a more consistent cleaning regime and updates to its interior decor.
Staff
However, feedback also pointed to inconsistencies in service quality. While many found the staff excellent and attentive, comments about the need for better training and instances of staff appearing overly busy or disorganized were recurrent. The reception staff, in particular, received mixed reviews with some guests describing them as indifferent or unhelpful, while others found them friendly and efficient.
Despite some critiques about the staff's lack of training and occasional lapses in professionalism, the general sentiment towards the team at the hotel is positive. Underlining this is the warm recognition of staff going above and beyond, making efforts to ensure guests felt welcomed and cared for during their stay.
Wi-Fi
Parking
Many guests appreciated the on-site parking, which is close to the entrances and well within the hotel grounds, providing a sense of safety and convenience. For those traveling by motorcycle, there were plenty of spaces to park effectively.
While the majority of reviews highlight the ease and adequacy of the parking, a few guests did note some challenges. Some mentioned difficulties in getting out of the parking area or finding spaces that matched the descriptions provided. However, these issues seem to be the exception rather than the rule.
Overall, the Waverley Castle Hotel's parking facilities are well-regarded with ample and secure options that cater to various vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience for most of their guests.
3 Star
However, the hotel seems to be showing its age. Several reviews highlight that the decor and furniture are quite dated, reminiscent of the 1990s and parts of the building appear rundown. Common issues reported include thin walls, which do not provide much sound insulation and small, somewhat dated rooms with basic infrastructure. There were also mentions of cleanliness issues, particularly in the shower areas and around the carpets, along with an occasional bad smell.
Despite its shortcomings, guests acknowledge that the price paid was in line with the standard of accommodation offered. The hotel was often cited as being a good value for money – a budget-friendly option for those not seeking luxury. Additionally, the staff, while seemingly overwhelmed during dinner times, add a level of service that aligns with the hotel’s rating. Overall, The Waverley Castle Hotel serves as a clean, budget accommodation suitable for travelers looking for an economical stay.
Adult Only
Historic
With a backdrop of an old abbey, the hotel's location adds to its allure, providing guests with a serene and scenic environment. The efforts to revitalize the building are evident, as it beautifully balances its old-world charm with contemporary comforts. While some areas still reflect a bygone era, especially in terms of decor, the hotel's historical feel remains intact, offering an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and visitors seeking a unique stay.
In essence, The Waverley Castle Hotel is a lovely, historic building that, despite needing some sprucing up, captivates with its architectural elegance and historical charm, making it a memorable destination for travelers.
Dog Friendly
Despite the positive aspects, there are some critical points to note. The surcharge of £10 per dog is mentioned as being somewhat steep and the fine for dogs going on linens indicates a less welcoming approach in certain situations. Additionally, while many found the dog policies accommodating, a few reviewers mentioned issues such as dog smells in rooms and barking at night. Some expressed disappointment that the hotel was no longer as dog-friendly as advertised and lacked specific dog amenities like bowls or treats.
In summary, while The Waverley Castle Hotel offers a generally dog-friendly environment with ample walking areas and friendly staff, potential guests should be aware of the additional costs and some inconsistencies in the overall dog-friendly ambiance.
No, The Waverley Castle Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Waverley Castle Hotel.
No, The Waverley Castle Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Waverley Castle Hotel.
No, The Waverley Castle Hotel doesn't have a gym.
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