Cumberland Hotel in Edinburgh

We booked a standard double room for two people. When we arrived around 2 AM after a long trip, we unlocked the room only to find it as cold as Siberia. Exhausted, we just wanted to take a shower, but there were no towels prepared in the room – even though they were supposed to be provided.

The so-called “double bed” was nothing more than a slightly larger single bed, and the bedding itself was dirty. The doors were paper-thin, so you could hear absolutely everything: people walking, talking, slamming around – no privacy at all. To make things worse, we were given a room adapted for disabled guests, which meant everything was oddly low and uncomfortable. The sink was so low you practically had to kneel down just to brush your teeth.

The reception was not available overnight, so we had no choice but to sleep in that freezing, uncomfortable room. The next morning, I went to the front desk to request the room type we had actually booked – only to be told it was “not available.” No compensation, no upgrade, no attempt to make our stay even slightly more comfortable. Just pure indifference and lack of care.

Housekeeping was just as bad. After two days, our towels were finally changed, but the “new” ones were filthy – one of them was literally stained with lipstick. Completely unacceptable.

For the price we paid, this was a disgrace. Absolutely would NOT recommend – you can find far better options for the same money.