Whenever you think about arranging a trip to Scotland and more importantly a hotel in Scotland then memories of 'the worst toilet in Scotland' from Trainspotting are likely to fill your head. It was with great trepidation that I booked The Kenneth Mackenzie Suites for my recent jaunt to the Scottish capital.

Getting to the hotel was also a bit of a trek. After being dropped at the bus station in the centre of town you need to find your way across the South Bridge and into the old town. If you follow your way to the Cowgate you are almost there. I had to try and find the hotel quite late at night and in the driving range. I reckon I would have been a gonner if I didn't have 'maps' on my iphone! The hotel is situated on a back street behind a KFC and unfortunately when I go there the 'door' was closed.

The door to the 'suites' was locked and a sign said I needed to knock on another door a few doors down. That was a little disconcerting and I didn't hold my hopes up for a great experience! I found the clerk who unlocked the hotel and gave me a key without batting an eyelid at my paperwork.

I was told that the hotel had no lift and my room was on the 4th floor. I would definitely avoid this hotel if you are old or need help walking. It felt a little like a hostel to me and I was expectation a shared loo or something. Fortunately when I turned the key and opened the door I was pleasantly surprised. The room was very well furnished with a good sized bed and cupboard. The room also had a desk and a flat screen television with digital channels.

The bathroom was compact and clean with a shower and sink - pretty basic. Really all I was after was a good night's sleep after a rubbish flight from Southampton and that's what I got. There were no noises from the corridor or the other rooms which was good. The bed was comfortable if a little hard.

The breakfast was served in the building next door and was a full English (? - surely Scottish!) and was very well cooked and served. You could help yourself to as much toast and preserves and cereals as you wanted which was also very welcome.

Initially I was a bit wary of the Kenneth Mackenzie Suites, but I was pleasantly surprised by its quality and price. It was a little far out of town for my tastes, but if you are having a night out in the Grassmarket or at the Castle then this will be perfectly situated for you.