Edinburgh Metro

The location was great, right in the middle of everything, and the wifi stayed reliable, easily good enough for video chats. The accommodation itself is basic, with a shared bathroom and kitchen, but it was clean and reasonably comfortable. My room faced a noisy street where people seemed to party all night, every night. I suppose that was the Fringe festival effect. It didn’t really bother me since I can sleep through anything, but a light sleeper would probably struggle.

It’s a cheap place to stay during the Fringe, but there are tradeoffs. The location is great, and we dropped our bags before check-in, though they were left unsecured on the floor in a corner. Check-in took longer than expected but was okay. Towels and shower gel are available to rent at the main desk. The rooms are basic, which is fine, but the bed and floorboards are both noisy. There’s also a pub very close by, so it can get loud late at night.

A room here is very well priced, and the beds are comfortable. Rooms are a good size and have some furniture, including a desk and drawers that can be secured with a padlock. The hostel gives you easy walking access to Edinburgh and the train station. Key deposits and similar conditions are standard and reasonable.

Great central spot, clean room and a full kitchen, all for bargain accommodation. But the bar right below was noisy, and the shower wasn’t very functional. Some rooms really ought to come with a discount and a warning.