Premier Inn Edinburgh Airport (Newbridge) Hotel

This Premier Inn may not offer style or upscale amenities, but if fits the bill for those who simply need a clean, comfortable place to sleep within easy access of the airport. Everything is straightforward and functional here, from the self-check-in machines in the lobby to the low-frills rooms and the restaurant. Travelers familiar with the brand may recognize the purple color scheme and even the restaurant name and menu, but that’s exactly what makes the hotel a popular pick among budget-conscious travelers; there are no surprises here, and rates are competitive. Decor is generic and chain-like, although there are some touches here and there that make spaces feel warmer, including eye-catching wallpaper with big red flowers over a chocolate-brown background in the bar, and wooden floors and plush, upholstered chairs in the restaurant. 

Unlike at other more business-oriented airport hotels, we saw plenty of families and groups of friends during our visit, and the bar had a lively atmosphere, with a mix of guests cheering at the TV during the soccer game, and families having tea or a beer. The vibe was friendly and laid-back, and while on-site services and amenities are limited (the front desk is not always manned, but staff can be called by pressing a button), the hotel covers all the basics, with comfortable rooms, a solid restaurant, and front desk staff that can help with transportation. Those wanting something with more on-site amenities that's still near the airport may want to compare rates at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh Airport. Sister property Premier Inn Edinburgh Park (The Gyle) Hotel is a better pick for those looking to explore Edinburgh’s main attractions, as it is just a block from the tram and train stations and also less than a 10-minute drive from the airport. The Holiday Inn Edinburgh is closer to the city center and has contemporary rooms and an indoor pool.  

Tucked among car dealers and across the road from the end of the airport’s runway, this Premier Inn has a somewhat isolated location better suited for those wanting to stay close to the airport than for travelers looking to explore the city center. There is a fast-food joint a 15-minute walk away, but there are no other restaurants or shops nearby. There are two bus stops within a seven-minute walk of the hotel, but the ride to the city center takes about 50 minutes and most guests choose to take a taxi instead. The airport is less than a 10-minute drive away, and there is free outdoor parking at the hotel. There are limited spots available, but it is also easy (and free) to park on the street. 

The 119 rooms are your standard Premier Inn digs: they’re more functional than stylish, but comfortable and clean. Decor is simple and generic, featuring a combination of blond-wood furniture, gray carpet, and the chain’s signature purple accents. Each room is outfitted with just the most basic furniture, including a tiny, open closet with a few hangers, a spacious work desk with a lamp, and two miniature nightstands. In-room amenities are good for a hotel in this price range, and include flat-screen TVs with many channels, electric kettles with free instant coffee and Twinings tea, and hairdryers. Unfortunately, there are no mini-fridges or safes. Quality beds are topped with plush duvets and four pillows, and Wi-Fi is free and reliable. High-speed Internet access is available for a daily fee, but we found the standard connection good enough for checking email and general browsing. 

Bathrooms are straightforward and spotless, with white tiles (and a few purple accents), big shower/tub combos with plastic curtains, and small sinks. Only liquid hand soap and two-in-one shower gel and shampoo are provided, both in large wall-mounted containers. 

We could hear planes taking off from our room from time to time, but aircraft noise was generally not a big issue despite proximity to the airport. 

Thyme Restaurant serves British pub food and international specialties in a light-filled dining room off the lobby. Breakfast (not included in the standard rate) is made up of all-you-can-eat set menus along with unlimited coffee or tea. The full breakfast option includes bacon, sausages, eggs, hash browns, and grilled tomatoes, among other items, while the continental breakfast offers pancakes, pastries, fruit, yogurt, and cereals. Kids under 16 eat free when accompanied by a paying adult. The restaurant is closed for lunch, but it reopens for dinner with a solid menu that includes fish, steak, flatbread, chicken wings, soups, salads, pizzas, and burgers. Our veggie lasagna was tasty and cheesy, and came sizzling in an oven dish along with a small salad. 

The pub adjacent to the restaurant has a decent selection of beer and wine, as well as Costa coffee and chips. There are three vending machines with snacks and soft drinks in the lobby.