Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront An Ihg Hotel

So, you’re off to Edinburgh? Fancy a hotel that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers the goods? Let me introduce you to the Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Leith Waterfront, an IHG property that’s like that reliable friend who always knows a good pub. It’s practical, and it’s perched right on the water’s edge, which is way cooler than it sounds. Honestly, you’ll be too busy enjoying the view to worry about the hotel’s name being a mouthful.

Location, Location… And a Bit of a Walk

First off, let’s talk location because this is the hotel’s secret weapon. You’re in Leith, which is Edinburgh’s hip, salty-sea-dog district—think trendy eateries, a historic port, and the world-famous Royal Yacht Britannia. You are not in the tourist scrum of the Royal Mile, and that’s a good thing. It’s a gentle 20-minute walk or a short bus ride into the city centre, which means you can avoid the bagpipe buskers on repeat. Pro tip: walk along the Water of Leith path; it’s lovely and will make you feel all healthy.

Your Room: A Very Modern Box of Sleep

Walking into your room, you’ll find a space that screams “clean, modern, and we know exactly what you need.” The bed? It’s a cloud. A solid, firm, IHG-branded cloud that practically begs you to flop onto it after a day of climbing Arthur’s Seat. The bathroom is a slick pod of efficiency, with a shower that goes from “gentle rain” to “power wash your soul” in one twist. Don’t expect a mini-fridge or fancy toiletries—this is the Express life, baby! It’s all about the essentials done really well.

And the best part? The windows. Many rooms offer a view of the Firth of Forth, the river that leads out to the North Sea. I spent a good ten minutes just watching the boats bobbing around, pretending I was a sea captain. You might even spot a seal if you’re lucky (or if you’ve had one too many whiskies, but let’s stick to the seal story).

The Breakfast: A Legend in Its Own Right

Now, let’s get to the hero of this hotel: the breakfast. It’s included in the price—let that sink in for a second. Included. In a world of hidden fees, this is a glorious rebellion. You get a hot buffet with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, and beans, plus all the cereal, toast, and pastries you can handle. The star of the show? The pancake machine. Yes, you read that right. A magical machine that spits out fresh, fluffy pancakes at the press of a button. It’s like a tiny, adorable factory of joy. I may have made three. Or four. I’m not proud, but I am full.

Comfortable hotel at the Waterfront - Review of Holiday Inn Express

Vibes and People (and a Slight Smell of Sea Air)

The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious. You’ll see families fueling up for a day of exploring, couples quietly arguing over the best route to the castle, and solo travelers, like you, just happy not to be paying for orange juice. The staff are the secret sauce here—genuinely helpful, never fake-cheery. They’ll point you to the best fish and chips in Leith (hint: it’s anywhere on Shore Street) without rolling their eyes. There is a faint, salty breeze of sea air that wafts through the lobby, which I find oddly comforting. It’s like the hotel is whispering, “Relax, you’re on holiday.”

What’s Nearby? (Spoiler: Lots of Fun Stuff)

Step outside, and you’re in the thick of Leith’s food and drink scene. You can walk to The Shore, a street lined with gastropubs and Michelin-starred restaurants if you’re feeling fancy. For a more local experience, grab a pint at the Duke of Wellington, a pub that has more character than a Victorian novel. And don’t leave without visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia—it’s a floating palace that makes a cruise ship look like a bath toy. You’ll also find the Leith Theatre nearby, which hosts gigs and sometimes, I swear, a ghost or two (but a friendly one).

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront by IHG, Edinburgh

A Few Honest Nits (Because We’re Friends)

Okay, let’s be real for a second. The hotel is not a five-star palace—it’s a three-star gem that knows its lane. The walls are a bit thin, so you might hear your neighbor snoring or discussing their “adventure” with a deep-fried Mars bar. The Wi-Fi is free and works, but it can be a little moody during peak hours. And the decor? Think “corporate comfy with a splash of coastal blue.” It’s fine. It’s enjoyable. Just don’t expect a spa or a concierge wearing a top hat. You’ll live, I promise.

The Final Word (It’s a Good One)

So, why choose the Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Leith Waterfront? Because it gives you the best of both worlds: the peace of the waterfront and the electricity of Edinburgh city. You get a solid night’s sleep, a breakfast that cures hangovers before they start, and a location that makes you feel like a local rather than a tourist in a kilt. It’s the smart choice for the traveler who values their money, their time, and their pancake consumption.

Go ahead, book it. Then imagine yourself standing by the window, watching the tide roll in, a warm pancake in your hand, and Edinburgh waiting just beyond the horizon. You’ll leave with a smile, a full belly, and maybe a new appreciation for the word “included.” Cheers to that, my friend.