Sometimes the magic just happens
5
5
Date of visit: January 2016
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
The Sheraton wasn’t a visit but more of an experience. With two very accessible bedrooms along with interconnecting rooms the hotel has much to offer.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
Access in and around the building: Getting around in the building was great with wide walkways and good signage. Supported by attentive staff who were more than happy to show the way. There are several features including lounges, bar, restaurant and spa. Visiting them all I found the access to be very good and staff were more than happy to move the odd piece of furniture if required. Two large lifts take guests between the various floors. The door clearance was 97 cm with a depth of 137 cm. I was easily able to wheel in and turn my powerchair full circle. Out of curiosity I ventured off to visit the Spa thinking that it would probably not work for me as a powerchair user. How wrong could I be? Well, the Spa turned out to be amazing as there was an accessible changing facility, an accessible toilet, access to the gym, access to the swimming pool, and to the various treatment rooms. Later it was time for tea in the restaurant overlooking Festival Square, the Usher Hall and the castle in the distance. Again, no problems getting in, finding a comfortable spot to sit and enjoy the moment. Access in the accessible bedrooms and bathrooms: The accessible bedroom was exactly as described with a wide door to get in (77 cm clearance) and a massive door to the bathroom. No tight turns or lack of space here as there was plenty of room to move around. The bathroom was well equipped and I was able to wheel and move around comfortably. Good for me as my chair is 68 cm wide and 116 cm in length. The room was equipped with a bath and shower over. Access in the dining area: The dining area was spacious and well laid out. It was easy to manoeuvre between tables. Access to other facilities: The hotel is large and I explored most areas. With a combination of wide walkways, good sized lifts and clear signage it was easy to get around.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
The hotel can be approached from two different routes and I ventured off to try both of them. If you arrive by car or taxi you will go to the main entrance. The way in is clearly signposted and there is parking by arrangement. Within seconds of wheeling in the door, I’m a powerchair user, I was warmly greeted. Later I tried out the pedestrian route into Festival Square. The entrance sits above street level and a large permanent ramp, built into the landscape, takes you into the Square.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
The hotel has accessible toilets in several locations. Even the Spa had an accessible toilet and changing area.
Staff
Excellent
The staff contributed much to making the visit memorable. Everyone was friendly and helpful. Nothing was too much trouble and the positive attitude toward creating a customer experience was impressive.
Additional Information
The hotel is well located for use as a base for exploring the city or when visit the nearby Edinburgh International Conference Centre.
