I would recommend this hotel if you need a bed for a night or two. My partner and I stayed one night for Christmas shopping. The decor and fittings were basic, but the room was clean and quiet and we were able to control the temperature to our comfort. The hotel is well-located for central Edinburgh and very good value for money. The staff were pleasant and very helpful. Didn't get to try the infamous breakfast because we got up too late!!
The only real downside was that the bathroom was small, unheated and unventilated. Having said that, it was comfortable enough with a hot shower.

If you need somewhere central, with an airport shuttle bus that stops right outside, The Clarendon is for you. Don't expect luxury, but it's clean, quiet and comfortable.

Bad Stuff: as reported elsewhere, breakfast is dreadful. I've had more relaxing meals in service stations. And they couldn't really make the portions any smaller. Or the toast colder. Or thinner.

Good stuff: Somerfield supermarket is a few doors down for provisions; great bars and the sites of Edinburgh are right outside the door. Plus, the management have put secondary glazing up at the windows, and the ample space between it and the outer window makes an EXCELLENT freezer for your milk, champagne, coleslaw, chocolate etc.

Not recommended, but okay if you just need a decent bed.

Stayed at the Clarendon for 3 nights in the middle of November. The price we paid for the location was very reasonable indeed (£35 per night each). We had a large room with 3 large windows which faced out onto the main road. This did make it a little noisy at night and in the morning, but not so much that it kept us awake. Yes, the bathroom had no ventilation and there were no biscuits on the tea tray but at the end of the day you don't come to Edinburgh to spend loads of time in your hotel, do you? The breakfast is more limited than I have experienced elsewhere, but if you ask for exactly what you want (i.e 2 eggs, 2 sausages) then you get it!

If you're looking for somewhere clean and comfortable to stay, in a great location for a reasonable price then this would be a good choice. I would stay here again if I came back to Edinburgh.

Me and my girlfriend we're both pleased with the room - basic, but clean and newly refurbished. Friendly staff at reception, though the bar didn't seem particularly inviting. Would stay again.