TRAVEL TEST

WHAT: ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square hotel, from £89 a night. all.accor.com

WHERE: In the heart of Edinburgh on St Andrew Square, the Ibis Styles is the perfect place to stay to explore the city, if you’re on a budget.

The three-star property is in a historic Victorian building and welcomes guests to enjoy a fun and unfussy stay.

EXPERIENCE: The bedrooms set the scene for a stay in the Scottish capital, with themed wallpaper featuring thistles, tartan and highland cows. The whisky barrel tables are a nice touch, as is the Arran soap in the bathroom.

We stayed in a standard twin room, but those on the top floor have balconies with a fantastic view of Edinburgh’s skyline.

Food is served in the modern, vibrant Bonnie & Whistle bar and brasserie in the evenings, offering a basic menu of pizza, burgers and nachos, plus a range of cocktails and beers.

In the morning, a continental buffet breakfast is served, but be quick as seats fill up quickly. Guests can choose from pastries, toast and cereal and also meats and cheeses.

The hotel is located in one of the prettiest areas of Edinburgh, and you are are a short walk from all the best bars, restaurants, cafes and attractions.

If it’s shopping you’re after, Harvey Nichols is across the road, Princes Street is around the corner and the newly reopened St James Centre is a stone’s throw away.

There’s also the castle, the Royal Mile, Princes Street

Gardens and plenty of museums and art galleries to visit in the city centre.

QUIBBLES: The evening menu was pretty limited and uninspiring and the rooms were quite small and a touch gimmicky.

VERDICT: Great location for all of central Edinburgh’s sights. 7/10