Premier Inn Edinburgh A1 - Newcraighall

The pub next door serves delicious food, and we’d definitely stay here again. We came for a December weekend of Christmas shopping and a show at Edinburgh’s Playhouse Theatre. For shopping, the location is handy, right beside a huge retail park. The train station is across the road, and Edinburgh Waverley is only two stops away. Breakfast was okay, though really busy, perhaps just because of the time we went. The rooms were fine too. If I were being picky, I’d like some drawers for clothes. For a stay longer than one night, living out of a suitcase isn’t ideal.

Our first trip to Edinburgh was unfortunately marred by how unwelcome we felt at both reception and the pub next door. We booked two nights without breakfast for about £379, paid in full online, and were travelling with a child, so the check-in confusion was stressful. When we returned after arriving early, the receptionist had changed. The man didn’t greet us or explain anything, just told us to wait and walked off with a piece of paper for a few minutes. When he came back, he handed over the keys without a word. Earlier, a woman at reception had kindly said we could use the pub toilet while waiting. But the man who seemed to own the pub was annoyed and said we couldn’t, because the pub and hotel were separate. I explained what the hotel staff had told us, and he reluctantly let us use it, though his attitude made us feel unwelcome. The pub menu was in our room, so the situation was confusing. The following day we ate at the pub to support a local business. When the same man saw us, he looked displeased, as though we were only there for the toilet. A clear sign saying the toilet is for customers only would help avoid confusion and people being treated rudely. The whole experience left us with a very poor impression.

The staff were lovely and very kind, and there are several restaurants and shops about a five-minute walk away. The room was clean but looked old and smelled a little, probably because of the carpet. You also have to ask each time if you want the room serviced, since it isn’t done by default. I stayed three nights for work and paid $1,000 at the beginning of October. Even allowing for events, that’s too expensive for what the hotel offers and for its location. There’s no restaurant inside, just a room for breakfast, which wasn’t included in my rate. Is the booking algorithm really that efficient? I won’t come back at that price, even on company money. I don’t like wasting money.

The buffet breakfast was fantastic, and our room was clean and cozy. The staff were warm and caring, and went above and beyond for us. We had a wonderful stay and will definitely come back next time we’re in Edinburgh.