We love to travel on a budget and now that we have a family, we have switched away from hotel rooms and more towards rental flats, and also try to self cater. The location of this flat was absolutely perfect. We were close to all major attractions. There were 2 grocery stores nearby on South Bridge street - a Tesco Express very close by as well as a Sainsbury Local a little further up . Also as book lovers, we were thrilled to find both a Blackwells book store and a second hand book store just a little beyond the Tesco Express.

The flat itself was stocked with amenities. There's a stove, microwave, toaster, freezer, fridge and washing machine in the kitchen. I found a clothes rack in the closet of the main bedroom. The flat is advertised for up to 5 people but I would say it's a bit cramped for 5 adults. I was glad that my mother or my sister didn't join us. But for 2 adults and 2 children under the age of 10, it worked out fine. The flat gets a ton of light and if you so choose, the curtains are very effective at keeping the light out as well.

Two things to remember. For hot water, remember to flip on the red switch just outside the toilet. Also if you want to reserve the parking space (for an additional fee), send specific dates to the host ASAP. I didn't do that and lost my space but it worked out as I later decided not to rent a car. There is street parking nearby on Blackfriars Street and Pleasance (Pleasance looked more available) that is free at night starting at 6 p.m. until 8 a.m. but remember to check the posted times yourself but as we didn't use it, I can't tell you how easy or convenient that will be.

Our host sent clear instructions prior to the trip on how to get the key to the flat and was immediately responsive to all my inquiries. The flat is in a charming old building that I believe was once a school. We enjoyed going through the entryway marked "Boys" that had clearly been carved a very long time ago. The entryway at the other end is marked "Girls" in the same fashion.

We would happily stay at this place again.