Ellersly House Hotel - Edinburgh, United Kingdom 

Wanted a cheap base from which to explore Edinburgh. This place was absolutely fine. It was a bit dated, and the rooms did need a bit of refurbishing really, but on the whole it was comfortable. The bathroom was pretty manky and my husband refused to use it! Tiles broken and grout really dirty. The staff were very nice, and public areas were fine. There was a lack of facilities but we didn't go to Edinburgh to stay in the hotel! It was adequate if you viewed it as somewhere to sleep.

Found this place by chance after walking out of terrible place elsewhere and finding Ellersley House online and taking a chance. Explained our experience to the receptionist, a charming, effiecient lady called Lindsey and she was most sympathetic. I had booked two singles and a double on the phone and we were upgraded to two executive suites and a large double for the same price. That cheered us up immeasurably and after drinks and an excellent bar meal we retired very happy. Breakfast was comprehensive, buffet style, and plentiful. After a hard days sightseeing we returned and had another excellent meal washed down with a very good house red. A very good all round experience, made so by all the staff who were, without exception, friendly and helpful. The rooms were well appointed, but slightly in need of updating. The only downside is that the hotel has been sold to a developer, witness the building work in the garden and its future as a hotel is uncertain, it is closing in April 2009.