What It’s Really Like to Stay in Budget Hotels in London, Edinburgh & Dublin

ABBEY:

• Citadines at Barbican 

We chose Citadines Barbican London because of its proximity to our colleagues’ offices. After late-night meetups, it was a relief to walk back without hassle. Although it was cold when we arrived in London, the warmth we felt at Citadines was like a cozy embrace.

A special touch? A welcome basket filled with snacks and chocolates to celebrate my wife’s birthday- thoughtful and heartwarming. The room itself was spacious, with plenty of storage for our shoes, luggage, and clothes. For refreshments, filtered water is available on the ground floor, and you can grab specialty drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, or hot chocolate from the self-service station at the basement level. The hotel’s close proximity to a train station was another major plus, especially since we relied heavily on public transportation throughout our stay.

• ibis Styles St Andrew Square

In Edinburgh, we stayed at ibis Styles St Andrew Square, a stylish hotel located right in the heart of the city. It was perfectly situated- just a short walk from the train station, top museums, restaurants, and even the airport bus stop.

Our room had a large, clean bed where we enjoyed unwinding with streaming content on the internet-enabled TV (a welcome feature, especially since cable channels were limited). The complimentary breakfast buffet offered a satisfying start to the day, with fresh pastries, scones, oatmeal, fruits, and juices. Bonus points for offering umbrella rentals- very handy for those drizzly Edinburgh days when you still want to explore.

• Hampton by Hilton in Dublin

Our final stay was at Hampton by Hilton in Dublin, which offered easy access to city hotspots like Temple Bar and Jervis Shopping Centre- just an 8-minute walk away.

The room was impressively spacious with a city view, giving us plenty of room to spread out and relax. One of our favorite highlights? The breakfast- especially the DIY waffle station with toppings like whipped cream, blueberries, and syrup. I also enjoyed the classic English breakfast options, complete with pork and blood sausage, eggs, grilled tomatoes, and beans. The lobby bar was a great spot to unwind and catch up with friends over a drink.

What It’s Really Like to Stay in Budget Hotels in London, Edinburgh & Dublin

WILL: When planning a trip to the UK and Ireland, hotels can take up a big chunk of your budget. But here’s the question: should you sacrifice comfort and security just to save?

We say—no need!

You can have both—and here are the budget-friendly hotels we stayed at during our recent London, Edinburgh, and Dublin trip. We’re sharing honest reviews to help you decide whether these places are for you.

🏨 Citadines Barbican London

There’s no shortage of hotels in Central London, but why did we choose Citadines at Barbican?

1.It’s within walking distance of Abbey’s office

2.Centrally located and close to many tourist spots

For our 4-night stay, we were surprised that housekeeping wasn’t included. That meant we had to take out the trash, change our own towels, and refill our water from the gym (or basement). No tea/coffee refill too.

A bit of a hassle—but:

— The room size fits 2 open large luggages comfortably

— The bed was cozy, and the quilt was warm and fluffy

So, if you’re okay being independent, this is a good pick.

🛏️ ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square

I’m glad Abbey picked this over other hotel chains. What makes it stand out?

1.The location feels peaceful, yet you’re just minutes from the buzz of the main streets.

2.Breakfast is a winner—fresh bagels, scones, a great cheese spread. One of our fave breakfast buffets!

3.And don’t miss their sticky toffee pudding—a surprise hit.

Heads-up though: The room and bathroom are quite cramped. But if you won’t be spending much time inside, it still works.

☕ Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Centre

We’re not big IHG fans—but this hotel was a smart choice.

1.Walking distance to the mall, St Stephen’s Green, and major bus stops

2.And since Dublin was our “sleep vacation,” we appreciated the restful vibes here

—Room and bathroom sizes were more generous than London

—Housekeeping came daily, and

—Breakfast? Always exciting—especially the fresh fruits and DIY waffles!

That wraps up our hotel picks for our UK-Ireland trip. Hope this gives you a glimpse of what it’s like to stay at these three hotels—and helps you decide which one suits your travel style best.

If you’re looking for comfort without going over budget, these are worth considering. 💸✨

Happy planning!

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

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Aparthotel Citadines Barbican London - Official Site

(W) https://www.discoverasr.com/en/citadines/united-kingdom/citadines-barbican-london

ibis Styles St Andrew Square | Stylish Hotel in Edinburgh

(W) https://all.accor.com/hotel/9058/index.en.shtml

Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Centre

(W) https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dubbihx-hampton-dublin-city-centre/

The Truth About Dublin’s #1 Attraction: Guinness Storehouse

ABBEY: If you ever find yourself in Dublin, a visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse should definitely be on your itinerary. It’s more than just a brewery tour—it’s a deep dive into Ireland’s rich brewing history and one of the world’s most recognizable beers.

To make the most of your visit, it’s best to book your tickets online ahead of time. We were a few minutes late for our scheduled time slot, but the friendly staff welcomed us in without any hassle—a great start to the experience!

The tour begins on the ground floor with a look at the legendary 9,000-year lease signed by Arthur Guinness for the St. James’s Gate Brewery. From there, you ascend through several levels that take you on a journey through the brewing process—from the raw ingredients (barley, hops, water, and yeast) to roasting, fermentation, and finally, tasting.

One of the highlights? The tasting experience. You’ll be offered a sample of Guinness and taught the proper way to enjoy it—no small sips here! To truly experience the flavor, you’re encouraged to take a generous mouthful and savor the richness.

For a fun twist, we upgraded our tour with The Stoutie experience—where your selfie (or group photo) gets printed in foam right on top of a pint of Guinness. It’s a quirky souvenir and definitely Instagram-worthy!

Once you’ve explored the exhibits and had your first taste, head up to the Gravity Bar, the highest point of the Storehouse. Here, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Dublin while sipping on more freshly poured Guinness. There’s also a restaurant if you’re in the mood to pair your pint with a hearty Irish meal.

Before you leave, be sure to stop by the Guinness Storehouse shop, where you’ll find everything from glassware and apparel to limited-edition collectibles—perfect for remembering your visit or picking up a gift for someone back home.

Enjoying a pint of Guinness inside the Gravity Bar at Guinness Storehouse

WILL: When you think of beer, it’s usually the golden-yellow kind that comes to mind. But in Dublin, Ireland, the most iconic beer isn’t gold—it’s black. Yes, we’re talking about the world-famous Guinness. And there’s no better place to understand its legacy than at the Guinness Storehouse, one of the top things to do in Dublin.

Did you know the Guinness Storehouse stands on a site with a 9,000-year lease? That alone shows how deeply rooted this brand is in Irish culture.

Inside, you’ll learn how Guinness is made—from its ingredients to the brewing process. But what stood out most to me was the interactive way they teach you how to properly drink a pint of Guinness. That tip alone was golden (even for someone like me who isn’t a beer fan).

Another section I really enjoyed was the cooperage display—watching videos of how they used to make barrels by hand. It’s an impressive skill that deserves appreciation!

Finally, the experience wraps up with a visit to the famous Gravity Bar, where guests enjoy 360° views of Dublin while sipping on their freshly poured pint. The vibe here is lively and infectious—full of laughter, music, and conversations.

So, is it worth visiting the Guinness Storehouse?

Absolutely yes. Even if you’re not a beer enthusiast, the Guinness Storehouse isn’t just about beer. It’s about Irish pride, history, craftsmanship, and culture—all poured into one unforgettable experience.

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!

Guinness Storehouse: 

Brewery experience telling the tale of Ireland's famous beer, with tastings and a rooftop bar.

(W) https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/home

What to Eat in Dublin: Real Food We Actually Tried (And Loved!)

ABBEY:

• Easy Food: KFC and Supermacs  

Our first food stop upon arrival was Supermac’s, an Irish fast-food chain we were trying for the first time. Naturally, we were expecting something new or unique. While the branding and packaging were unfamiliar to us, the taste was reminiscent of other popular fast-food options—comforting but not particularly standout. If you’re after something quick and filling at the airport, it does the job.

We also stopped by KFC, and here’s where things got interesting. Unlike what we’re used to, KFC in Ireland offers a bucket meal for one—a surprising portion size that ended up satisfying me, Wilma, and a couple of friends! Whether it’s cultural or just generous serving, it was a fun discovery that made us smile.

• Bewleys Cafe

After a bit of strolling at Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, we made our way to the iconic Bewley’s Oriental Café on Grafton Street. Our table was on the second floor by the window—perfect for some peaceful people-watching over cappuccino, tea, and pastries. The upper level offers a cozy, warm ambiance, far removed from the busy buzz downstairs. A great pit stop to recharge before heading back to the hotel.

• Leo Burdock Fish and Chips

No visit to Dublin would be complete without trying the local fish and chips, and we had ours at Leo Burdock’s in Temple Bar. One serving was more than enough for me and Wilma to share. The fish was crispy on the outside, tender and moist inside, while the fries were plentiful without being greasy. A splash of vinegar and a wedge of lemon brought everything to life. Definitely worth trying if you’re in the area!

• Butlers Chocolate 

As a certified chocolate lover, I was thrilled to visit Butlers Chocolate Café on Wicklow Street—especially on a cold, drizzly day. Their hot chocolate was exactly what I needed: rich, creamy, and comforting, served with their signature velvety truffles. It was the perfect indulgence to forget about the chill outside. We couldn’t resist grabbing a few chocolate bars to bring home for friends—and maybe a few extra for ourselves.

• Black Forge Inn 

Of course, a visit to Conor McGregor’s very own pub, The Black Forge Inn, was a must. We walked in without a reservation and were greeted by two imposing gentlemen who looked like bodyguards—adding to the mystique. Seated near the bar with a live guitar performance in the background, the place felt straight out of a lively Irish movie scene.

We tried the Olive Pork Belly and the Philly Cheesesteak Sambo. The pork was tender and melt-in-your-mouth, while the cheesesteak came with flavorful rump steak strips, caramelized onions, and a delicious cheese sauce. Naturally, we paired it with a cold pint of Guinness. The overall vibe was energetic and festive—exactly what you’d want from a true Irish pub experience.

Dublin food trip collage – Supermac’s taco fries, Bewley’s Café, Leo Burdock fish and chips, Butler’s Hot Chocolate, and Black Forge Inn steak

WILL:  Of course, we travel with our stomach too. 😅 And to be honest, we weren’t that prepared with a food list when we landed in Dublin. The only non-negotiable? Butlers Hot Chocolate — that was on our list way before the flight.

But hey, we ended up finding some solid spots that are either well-loved by locals or just too iconic to skip. Here’s a no-fancy, no-pretend list of what we actually ate in Dublin — and yep, we’d go back for most of them.

1. Easy Food: KFC & Supermac’s

Let’s start with survival mode.

You know those days when your brain is too jetlagged to think and you just need something you recognize? Yup — KFC and Burger King. 

But if you want something proudly Irish, try Supermac’s. It’s their local fast food chain, and the taco fries? Surprisingly good. Messy, saucy, and comfort in a box. Definitely hits different when eaten while watching light rain from your hotel window. 

2. Bewley’s Café – Grafton Street Staple

Almost a hundred years old, Bewley’s Café is hard to miss — especially with the long queue outside. The vibe inside? Old-school European with giant windows (try to get the upstairs view table!). Even if you just order tea and a bun, it’s worth it.

They offer Afternoon Tea too, but even a simple pastry here feels like an experience — especially when you’re seated by the window doing people-watching.

3. Leo Burdock – The OG Fish and Chips

If there’s one dish Ireland proudly serves up, it’s fish and chips, and Leo Burdock is that spot.

Been around since 1913, and all they serve is the classic. No twists, no frills. Just thick, fresh fish, perfectly fried, and generous servings. €19 for a full nod from us taste and freshness and quality. 

4. Butlers Chocolate Café – Don’t Leave Without It

If there’s only one thing I’ll make you try in Ireland, it’s this:

Butlers Hot Chocolate.

Even if you’re not a chocolate lover (like me!), this might just win you over. It’s not too thick, not too sweet, just comforting. You also get to pick one chocolate truffle to go with your drink — classy!

5. The Black Forge Inn – Hello, McGregor Fans

Whether you’re into UFC or not, this one’s fun:

The Black Forge Inn — owned by Conor McGregor himself.

It’s not just some celebrity vanity project either. The food? Really good. We tried the Steak and Porchetta (around €26) — no regrets.

Surprisingly, it’s family-friendly too, so yes, kids are welcome in this Irish Pub. If you’re in Dublin and craving a proper date night spot with a little McGregor flex, this one makes the cut.

I know, Ireland is usually about cliffs, castles, and dramatic Game of Thrones sceneries. But really — the food here is worth talking about, too. Simple, hearty, and often underrated.

So if you’re wondering where to eat in Dublin without falling into tourist traps, save this list. We ate here. We survived the rain and random hunger pangs. And most importantly — we were happy. ☺️

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!

Supermac's is an Irish fast food restaurant chain 

(W) https://supermacs.ie

Bewley's Grafton Street: Dublin's Iconic Café Experience

(W) https://bewleysgraftonstreet.com

Leo Burdock – Famous Fish & Chips

(W) https://www.leoburdock.com

Luxury Butlers Chocolates

(W) https://www.butlerschocolates.com

The Black Forge will lead the way in entertainment in Dublin Twelve.

(W) https://www.theblackforgeinn.com