Overview
King Edward Hotel Banff was built in 1904 and is located in the heart of downtown, which may make it a good choice for those wanting to be within close walking distance of shops, restaurants and bars.
This 100% non-smoking hotel offers 21 rooms over two floors. Standard room features include a TV, a coffeemaker, a mini-fridge, a hair dryer, air conditioning and either one queen bed, one king bed or two twin beds. Upgraded rooms feature a king or queen bed and a sofabed or a king bed and two twin beds. Iron and ironing boards are available upon request. Free Wi-Fi and local calls are available in every room. Pets are not allowed.
Amenities at this hotel include an ATM and currency exchange in the lobby. Free public parking is available in the area surrounding the hotel and a private, heated underground parking lot is also available for $5 a day (must be reserved).
Banff Centre is a 5-minute drive away while Banff Gondola and Banff Upper Hot Springs can be reached in 10 minutes by car. Mount Norquay is a 15-minute drive away. The Trans-Canada Highway is a 5-minute drive from the hotel and Calgary International Airport (YYC) can be reached in an hour and half by car. (All distance and travel time estimates: Google Maps)
Verified by hotel staff on February 27, 2013: 100% non-smoking, no on-site amenities, free public parking is available in the area surrounding the hotel and private secured, heated underground parking is also available for $5 a day (must be reserved).
The GoodMany reviews used for this analysis were positive and focused on the location, the staff and the rooms.
The downtown location was a highlight for many guests who enjoyed being right in the heart of Banff's dining and shopping district. Guests liked that there were many shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance of the hotel.
The staff were complimented by many guests for being friendly and accommodating. Guests also felt that the staff were quick to address problems or requests.
Although many guests felt the rooms were rundown and outdated, some said that they were clean and functional with a mini-fridge and flat screen TV.
The Bad
Although many reviews used for this analysis were positive, a large portion of negative reviews focused on noise and the hotel's need for upgrades and maintenance.
Some guests were disturbed by noise from people and traffic on the street, particularly later at night or on the weekends when people were out partying at neighbouring bars.
Many guests felt that the hotel was basic, rundown and had little in the way of on-site amenities. The rooms were described as small, with small windows and old, worn towels and linens. Although some guests felt the rooms were clean, there were several complaints of mouldy bathrooms and stained carpets and walls. Several guests also claimed the room they stayed in was infested with bed bugs.
TripAdvisor.com ranked this hotel #29 out of 34 hotels and rated it 3 out of 5 based on 66 guest reviews.
Booking.com rated this hotel 7.4 out of 10 based on 114 guest reviews.
Hotels.com rated this hotel 3.4 out of 5 based on 142 guest reviews.
The author called the hotel on February 27, 2013 to verify some information.
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Analyzed by Steph J.
Stephanie lives on Vancouver Island, BC, where she enjoys all things West Coast. She has daydreamed about travelling since childhood and has visited over a dozen countries since, but Canada is always at the top of her list.
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