Premier Inn Edinburgh Park (Airport) Hotel

Housed in a nondescript gray-and-white building across the train tracks from a mall, this Premier Inn may not sound like the most appealing option for a city break, but the hotel actually offers good value for money in a convenient location a short train or tram ride from the heart of the action. Everything is more functional than stylish here, but interiors are contemporary, and the chain’s signature purple-and-white color scheme makes spaces cheerful. Travelers familiar with the brand will find here exactly what they’ve found in other Premier Inn properties in other locations: comfortable rooms, a solid restaurant, and free, reliable Wi-Fi -- all at a reasonable price and in a friendly atmosphere. The combination of good rates and high level of comfort draws lots of budget-minded couples and families, who don’t seem to mind forgoing a more central location, especially given the hotel’s easy access to train and tram stops and major roads. Still, those wanting to stay closer to the city center may want to consider sister property Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) Hotel, which is right on Edinburgh’s top shopping street and has just slightly higher rates. Novotel Edinburgh Park, complete with an indoor pool, an all-day restaurant, and a small gym, is a great alternative for travelers wanting something with more on-site amenities and services in this area. Those on a tighter budget may want to compare rates at the Cairn Hotel Edinburgh, which is within walking distance of many major attractions and has cheery, clean rooms. The property was in the process of building 80 additional rooms when we visited in December 2017, and part of the reception was covered in plastic. Costa Coffee was closed temporarily, but the expansion was expected to be completed within the first quarter of 2018, and the loudest phases of construction were over, which allowed for quieter days. 

The hotel is located in Edinburgh Park, a business park located between the airport and the city center. There is a big shopping mall and a gas station across the street, but little else of general interest can be found in the immediate vicinity. While this location may not sound convenient for those planning to explore the city center, the hotel is right across from the Edinburgh Park train and tram stations, which allows for easy, cheap access to central Edinburgh. Waverley Station, Edinburgh’s main transportation hub, is just a 10-minute train ride away, which puts guests within easy walking distance of shopping along Princes Street, the Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and many other of the city’s top sights. This location is also convenient for the airport, located a 20-minute tram ride (or 10-minute drive) away. 

The 120 rooms here are decorated in the same simple, contemporary style the chain is known for -- think a combination of basic wood furniture and purple accents in carpets, curtains, and headboards. Those familiar with the brand will find virtually no surprises here: rooms are clean and tidy, and come with all the basics for a comfortable stay. Plush king beds are topped with soft duvets and several pillows, and thick blackout curtains do a good job blocking out the light. Other standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with over 80 free channels, and electric kettles with free tea and instant coffee. Open closets are small and simple, with just a rod for hanging clothes, one drawer, and a couple of shelves. There is additional hanging space by the door, along with two mirrors. Bathrooms are simple but clean, with big shower/tub combos and small sinks. Only liquid hand soap and two-in-one shower gel and shampoo are provided, both in large wall-mounted containers. 

Thyme Restaurant serves British pub food and international specialties in a pleasant, sun-filled room off the lobby. The restaurant opens for breakfast and dinner, but is closed for lunch. 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. Those who prefer a lighter breakfast can stop by the on-site Costa Coffee, which offers a long menu of hot and cold drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and other snacks. The tasty dinner menu at Thyme includes fish, steak, flatbread, chicken wings, soups, salads, pizzas, and burgers. There is some meeting space at this Premier Inn, complete with audiovisual equipment and coffee service. Casual meetings can also be held in the space adjacent to reception, which features a coffee machine and a few tables with comfortable chairs by the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the parking lot, where guests can park free of charge.