We chose the Harvest House as we were trying to stay within an under-$100 budget for lodging, a challenge in Scotland (and most of the UK). It was easily accessible by bus from Waverly Station (rail) and the day passes for the buses were wonderful.

On arrival we were upgraded to a larger room because we were ahead of season. Now, were the rooms decorated in immaculate, modern style? No. Were they clean? Yes! And the view we had of the water was awesome.

Out the front door we were on the "boardwalk" of Portabello, a Victorian era promenade that led to an arcade area. On the way home one of the most magnificent rainbows filled the sky.

Our hoteliers, an Iraqi family, were gracious and helpful. We enjoyed several deep discussions with them about issues which might have separated us (we being from the US) but which in the end led us to find exciting common ground.

The morning meal was hot and delicious.

The 15 minute ride into Edinburgh centre was a delight as well, as we observed the life of locals which one does not encounter in the usual hotels.

Were we back in Edinburgh, we would be back at Harvest House.

I was disappointed with this B&B. We were in Edinburgh for the first few days of the festival and wanted somewhere reasonably priced to stay. The Harvest was reasonably priced and clean but is in need of some redecoration. The one thing we were hoping for was a decent Scottish breakfast but the portions were meagre and I swear that the baked beans must have been counted out! Portobello is a nice place to stay and the bus ride into the city is fast and frequent. If I wanted to visit the festival on a budget again I would probably opt for one of the many hostels in the city centre to be nearer to the action.

If you want a cheap stay in Edinburgh - I would recommend here. It's in a quaint area called Portobello which is on the forth coast to the north. The B&B itself was listed as 1* and it does live up to this. The heating was on all night so we were a bit hot in our room. The bed's weren't fantastically comfortable and you don't have that much room to store your things if your staying for more than a weekend. The shower was very weak in the shared bathroom too. However, the breakfast was lovely, the staff were freindly, it was clean and only cost £40 per room per night during valentines week. It's on the Edinburgh tourist board website too. As for the first review, they seem to have high expectations for a 1* B&B. If your on a budget but don't want a hostel, I would recommend.

I don't agree with the other review. This cute B&B is no resort but it is a good value. It isn't the Hilton but I felt safe and clean staying there. The staff was very friendly and the breakfast was fantastic. I was very pleased with my stay and would love to go back there again. Portobello is a great area, and a short bus ride away from the City Centre. If you don't need to live in the lap of luxury and are looking for a safe, clean, and affordable place to stay, I would definitely recommend staying here.