I wasn't expecting much when I booked a few days at the Shandwick, especially after some of the negative reviews. However, I have to say that we really enjoyed our stay. We had a suite/apartment which consisted of a kitchen, separate bathroom (with tub!) and then an enormous room that contained two double beds, closet, tv, and lounge chairs...and there was still room to host a party - I kid you not, the room was very spacious indeed. It looked out over the street, but that wasn't a problem as the noise was minimal. With high ceilings and enormous windows, I was enchanted with the character of the room. Heating is excellent (it was often close to 10 below outside) and I felt safe. However, in the interests of honesty, I have to tell you that if you are looking for modern, fresh and immaculate, then this is not for you. The Shandwick offers budget accommodation (we paid about $80 a night), so if you are looking for LOTS of room, don't mind the surrounds looking a bit worn and tired (the furniture is a bit higgedly-piddedly), then this place is for you. Please note that the Shadwick does not have an elevator. We had a suite on the first floor, so it was easy to get to. I can't comment on their single rooms or what else they have on offer, but we were happy with the suite we were in, and the stairs weren't too difficult to navigate (the staircase is very wide and generous).

The Shandwick is within easy walking distance of the main train station. We caught the bus from the airport (which practically stops outside the hotel!) and caught it back (the stop is on the other side of the street), so it was incredibly convenient. By the way, buses in Edinburgh have free wi-fi. Plus, there are heaps of shops just outside the door - supermarkets, pharmacy, pubs, etc, so you don't have too go far for a bit to eat. Be warned, though, the Shadwick doesn't have a huge sign out the front, so you'll have to keep your eyes peeled (there is a sign, but it's small). If you go to the train station, there's an information bureau where you can get tourist information. The tourist bureau also have stand alone computers with printing facilities available.

I really enjoyed staying at the Shandwick. Although it was worn around the edges, it provided spacious, clean, warm and secure self-contained accommodation that would be ideal for budget travellers.

If you are going to Edinburgh, want to stay close to city center and are not too plump in your pocket, this hotel is for you. It is well-situated, clean, not noisy and excellent communication from the airport. Service is very pleasant as well. There are only two small "buts": some rooms face nothing but wall some 5 cm from the window and it is difficult to spot the hotel even if you stand just in front of it!

I was very pleased with my stay at the Shandwick. I am from the United States, and stayed there in September, 2010.

I had a single room with a shared bath - that I had prepaid for on Expedia. But, there was no one on my wing, so no one else ever used the bathroom while I was there. The room was completely adequate, clean, and private - with a small flat screen television. The bath had a beautiful cast iron tub, which I used for a nice long soak. There was no shower curtain. But, I didn't need one - and loved that tub!

You are only a few minutes away from all the shops, the National Gallery, and everything you want to see. There are good, inexpensive food options in the neighborhood - which is not at all scary. This is a great location for Edinburgh, with the public bus to the Airport right across the street (for three pounds).

I felt that the staff was extremely helpful with all of my requests. If you don't need any facilities, and are looking for a basic and affordable place to stay - you can book with confidence.

We ended up a day early in Edinburgh and booked a twin private (with bathroom) last minute for 50 pounds. Although a bit hard to find, as was great value for money for that price if just looking for a good place to say an huge roomy apartment with bedroom, living room (nice couch, not much to watch on the tv though) and separate bathroom. The interior was a bit dated, but nothing worry about. The bed wasn't the most comfortable. But then again for 50 pounds it was a bargain compared to the hostel we stayed in on the other nights.