Apex Grassmarket Hotel

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime location in the vibrant Grassmarket area, offering unparalleled views of Edinburgh Castle that many guests find truly memorable. Its central position makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and couples looking to explore the city's historic attractions on foot, including the Royal Mile and Victoria Street. Families also find the spacious rooms and on-site amenities appealing for a comfortable stay. The hotel is noted for its generally positive guest experience, often highlighted by the attentive and helpful staff. To enhance your visit, consider requesting a castle view room for a breathtaking vista, and be prepared for potential street noise, especially during peak evening hours, though earplugs are often provided. Guests with mobility concerns should note the multi-level layout and inquire about accessibility options upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest stays. A swimming pool is available, which many guests appreciate for relaxation after a day of exploring, though some note it can be small, busy, or may have minor maintenance issues like broken lockers. The gym is described as compact but adequately equipped with cardio machines and some weights. A standout feature praised by many is the availability of filtered water stations on each floor, promoting sustainability by eliminating the need for plastic bottles and providing large glass bottles in rooms for refilling. The bar and lounge area offer a pleasant space for guests to unwind, though feedback on service speed and stock availability can vary. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally reliable throughout the property, ensuring guests can stay connected.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is somewhat mixed, though many found their accommodations spacious and well-appointed. Most guests praised the comfortable beds and quality linens, ensuring a restful night's sleep, with some highlighting the excellent pillows. However, some reviews noted issues with the overall room condition, reporting instances of stains on carpets or quilts, and visible mold in bathrooms, suggesting a need for updates in certain areas. Rooms are often described as warm or hot, and the absence of air conditioning means windows often need to be opened, leading to significant street noise from the lively Grassmarket area, particularly from pubs and early morning deliveries. Bathrooms generally provide good hot water and toiletries, but some guests found the high tub/shower combination challenging to access, and noted issues with leaking showers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive generally positive feedback, particularly concerning breakfast. Many guests describe the breakfast as excellent, ample, and delicious, offering a wide variety of choices including both buffet and a la carte options. Popular items include fresh fruit, cereals, and hot selections. While the restaurant is praised by some for its food quality and value, especially for specific dishes, others found the evening menu to be mediocre or expensive for the quality offered, with some noting a limited wine selection. The bar area is considered pleasant for drinks, contributing to the hotel's overall atmosphere. Room service is also available and generally regarded as substantial and of good quality.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as one of its strongest assets. Situated directly in the historic Grassmarket area, it offers immediate access to a vibrant array of pubs, restaurants, and shops. Guests appreciate being within easy walking distance of major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Victoria Street, making it an ideal base for exploring Old Town. While the location is highly convenient, guests should be aware that reaching some areas, like the Royal Mile, involves navigating hills and stairs. On-site parking is available, providing convenience for those traveling by car, though it is noted to be an additional cost.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently commend the reception team for their courteous demeanor, quick check-in process, and willingness to go above and beyond to accommodate requests, such as room changes or assistance with luggage. Many reviews highlight the staff's efficiency in resolving issues, from lost items to providing extra amenities. The housekeeping team is also noted for keeping rooms clean and refreshed daily. Overall, the hotel's commitment to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience and making visitors feel welcomed and valued throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the hotel's multi-level design, which includes numerous stairs leading to reception and other areas, potentially posing challenges for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. While a ramp and stair lift are available, their use often requires staff assistance. The hotel is committed to sustainability, notably by eliminating plastic bottles and providing filtered water stations on each floor for guest use. A unique and much-loved touch is the complimentary rubber duck left in rooms, encouraging guests to take it on their travels. Some guests have experienced fire alarms during their stay, though these were typically resolved quickly.