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Summary of reviewsThe Waterside in Scotland has garnered significant praise for its location, nestled in a picturesque and quiet area while remaining conveniently close to the town center of Peterhead and the coastal trail. Guests particularly appreciate the stunning views, ample parking and easy access to local fishing villages and Glasgow.
While the breakfast experience received mixed reviews with many enjoying the variety and quality, there were some criticisms regarding limited options and inconsistent service. However, the overall sentiment leans positive with a delightful breakfast generally contributing to guests' stays.
Dinner at The Waterside is highly regarded by numerous guests who praise the excellent variety, generous portions and good value for money. The vegan options and locally sourced ingredients are often commended. Some inconsistencies were noted, particularly about limited menu items and slow service, but the majority of reviews appreciate the overall dining experience.
The rooms provide a mixed but generally positive impression. Guests find the rooms to be clean, comfortable and spacious, though some mention the need for updates and refurbishment. Despite occasional issues with water pressure, heating and decor, the accommodations are considered satisfactory for the price, especially for budget-conscious travelers.
Cleanliness stands out as a strong point for The Waterside with many guests describing the rooms and communal areas as immaculate and well-maintained. Although the decor may be dated, the hotel's commitment to cleanliness and the helpful, friendly staff enhance the overall experience.
The staff are consistently praised for their friendliness, accommodating nature and efficient service. While there are isolated reports of less favorable interactions, the overwhelming majority of guests are impressed by the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the attentive team.
Free WiFi, however, is a noted area of concern. Many guests report poor or non-existent signal quality, coupled with an extra charge for internet access, which leaves some visitors frustrated.
The gym and pool facilities receive commendations for being well-maintained and enjoyable, though there are minor issues related to access fees and occasional unavailability. Nonetheless, the amenities are appreciated by both adults and children, adding to the overall appeal of the hotel.
For families, The Waterside is particularly inviting, offering spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities and a welcoming environment for children and pets. The on-site swimming pool is a highlight for young guests and the hotel staff consistently go the extra mile to cater to family needs.
The beds receive mixed reviews with many guests enjoying a comfortable experience, while others find them too firm or in need of replacement. Cleanliness of the bedding occasionally falls short, but fresh linens are provided regularly.
Despite its dated decor, The Waterside is recognized as a solid three-star option, offering a comfortable and affordable stay with well-received amenities and a friendly atmosphere. While there are areas for improvement, the overall experience at The Waterside has left many guests satisfied and willing to recommend it. Show more
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Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
The Waterside is listed as a family-friendly hotel. Its waterfront location might offer scenic views and opportunities for seaside activities.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
The Waterside hotel has pool facilities. Guests appreciate the clean and well-maintained pool and the availability of a gym, sauna, and steam room.
Indoor Pool
Hotel with Gym
The hotel features a gym, providing guests with options for exercise and recreation during their visit.
3-Star Hotel
Located in Fraserburgh, this hotel provides a comfortable and accessible stay. It provides essential amenities for a pleasant visit to the region.
Hotel with Indoor Pool
The hotel features a swimming pool, gym, sauna, and steam room, with guest reviews highlighting the warm pool and exceptional sauna and steam room facilities.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Accessible Hotel
Room Types
Double RoomRooms are 8 square metres.
Twin RoomRooms are 10 square metres.
Family RoomThis family room features a seating area.
Executive Double RoomThis double room features a seating area.
Single RoomThis room features an en suite bathroom and a TV.
Guest Reviews
7.8
Good
Location
Nestled in a stunning part of Scotland, The Waterside boasts a fantastic location that has garnered high praise from guests. Situated not far from the beach with seals often seen swimming nearby and close to the town center of Peterhead, the hotel is ideally positioned for a variety of activities. Visitors appreciate the peaceful and quiet surroundings, yet the town is only a short walk away, making it convenient for exploring local amenities. The hotel provides easy access to the coastal trail, making it a great base for touring around Aberdeenshire and visiting the region's picturesque fishing villages.
Guests also find the parking ample and convenient with plenty of space available even during busier times. The Waterside is well-suited for both leisure and business stays with its location described as ideal by those with specific work or family visit needs. The beautiful private grounds enhance the overall experience and the stunning views over the Clyde add to the hotel's charm.
The staff receive compliments for their friendliness, adding to the overall positive experience. For fitness enthusiasts, the on-site gym and other facilities are appreciated. The hotel is conveniently placed for those traveling by train, enabling easy day trips to Glasgow and other nearby locations. Breakfast at The Waterside also comes highly recommended, complementing what many describe as an excellent stay.
Breakfast
When staying at The Waterside, guests can expect a mixed experience with breakfast. Many patrons appreciated the variety and quality of the breakfast offerings, describing it as very good, excellent and even fantastic. Reviews frequently highlighted the extensive selection, especially the buffet breakfast which was deemed plentiful, hearty and superb. Staff at breakfast were also commended for being pleasant, friendly and helpful, contributing positively to the dining experience.
On the other hand, some guests encountered issues such as limited options, lukewarm food and occasionally inattentive service. The quality of the cooked food received particular criticism for being dry or of poor quality at times. There were also mentions of inconsistent buffet replenishment and long waits for food.
Despite some criticisms, the overall sentiment leans positive with many finding the breakfast at The Waterside a delightful part of their stay. Improvements in buffet maintenance and service consistency could elevate the breakfast experience markedly.
Dinner
The Waterside hotel offers a mixed dining experience that leans heavily on positive reviews. Numerous guests praised the dinner for being excellent with many remarks on the good variety and generous portions. The food often exceeded expectations, being described as lovely, outstanding and even exceptional. Many reviews highlighted the excellent value for money, particularly for the Dinner, Bed and Breakfast package with meals being locally sourced and delicious. Vegan options were appreciated and the menu provided varied options that were well-received.
However, some guests noted inconsistencies. There were frequent mentions of limited menu options, often exacerbated by items selling out early. Some found the food mediocre, basic or overpriced with specific dishes like steak and pie receiving criticism for poor quality. Negative points were also mentioned about the dinner service, which was occasionally slow and failed to meet expectations. Despite these drawbacks, many found the overall dining experience enjoyable with good facilities and friendly, competent service, making it a decent choice for a stay.
Rooms
The reviews for The Waterside convey a mix of positive and negative experiences regarding the rooms. On the bright side, guests frequently mention that the rooms are clean, tidy and offer good value for money. Many appreciated the spaciousness and comfort of the rooms, highlighting their generous size, cleanliness and well-appointed nature. Extra amenities like fridges, ironing boards and provisions for pets were also positively noted.
However, several reviews indicate that the rooms are outdated with tired decor and furniture that could use some refurbishment. Issues such as poor water pressure, ineffective heating, limited lighting and dated bathrooms were recurrent themes. Some guests noted cleanliness inconsistencies, while others appreciated the clean and comfortable nature of their rooms. Despite the dated decor, the overall experience provided basic essentials sufficient for a comfortable stay. The hotel's reception staff received positive remarks, being described as friendly and helpful.
Overall, while the rooms might benefit from a facelift and some minor fixes, they generally deliver on cleanliness, comfort and space, making them satisfactory for guests, especially given the budget-friendly pricing.
Beds
When exploring The Waterside, guests frequently spotlight the beds and their bedding, though opinions vary. Many reviews point out that the beds are comfortable with several guests noting they were able to get a good night's sleep and that the bedding and pillows provided a cozy experience. Phrases like "bed was clean and comfy" and "beds were nice and comfortable" are common highlights among the positive remarks. Some even described their sleep as "fine" and expressed satisfaction with both bed comfort and the freshness of the bedding and towels.
However, not all feedback was favorable. A significant number of guests found the beds to be hard or uncomfortable with some mentioning mattresses that were too firm and pillows that did not add to their comfort. There are mentions of beds needing replacement and their tendency to roll around, contributing to an overall uneasy sleep. Concerns about the cleanliness of bedding, including stained sheets, were also raised, though fresh bedding and towels were provided for some.
While a portion of guests had a pleasant sleeping experience, it's evident that bed comfort at The Waterside can greatly vary, which might be a consideration for those planning their stay.
Cleanliness
The Waterside Hotel stands out for its consistent cleanliness with many guests highlighting its immaculate and tidy rooms. Descriptions like very clean, spotless and meticulously clean are recurrent in guest reviews, underscoring the hotel’s commitment to maintaining high hygiene standards. Rooms are often mentioned as being spacious and comfortable, adding to the overall positive experience.
Despite being described as dated in decor, the hotel has a personality that some guests find charming. The clean and well-maintained bathrooms also contribute to the guests' satisfaction, although a few noted that certain areas, such as carpets and towels, showed signs of wear and tear. Some issues were reported regarding room service and maintenance, but they were not the norm.
The facility itself, including its swimming pool and communal areas, generally receives praise for being clean and well-sanitized, although occasional cleanliness lapses are noted. While there were some critical comments about specific incidents of uncleanliness and the property’s dated appearance, on the whole, the hotel effectively delivers a clean and comfortable stay for its guests.
Adding to the positive aspects are the friendly and helpful staff, who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. Although the absence of complimentary Wi-Fi was noted, the hotel's cleanliness and the staff's hospitality seem to create a pleasant and satisfying experience overall.
Staff
The staff at The Waterside hotel receive overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests. They are frequently described as friendly, welcoming and incredibly helpful. Many reviews highlight the excellent and efficient service provided by staff members, particularly those at reception who are noted for their helpfulness and local knowledge.
Several guests mention how accommodating the staff are, often going the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay. The attentiveness and professionalism of the restaurant and leisure staff were particularly praised, contributing to an enjoyable experience. Guests also appreciate the warm and cheerful demeanor of the staff, which includes friendly interactions, beautiful smiles and a genuinely kind and gracious attitude.
However, there were occasional mentions of less favorable experiences, such as unpleasant behavior from specific staff members and a few instances at the pool and gym where interactions were not up to the standard seen elsewhere in the hotel. Yet, these instances seem to be rare compared to the consistent positive feedback.
Overall, the staff at The Waterside are seen as a significant asset, consistently making guests feel welcome and ensuring their needs are met with warmth and efficiency.
Wi-Fi
Travelers to 'The Waterside' should be prepared for some challenges regarding internet access. Many guests have reported that WiFi is not available for free in the rooms and accessing it often requires an additional charge, which is generally viewed as unreasonable. The quality of the WiFi is also frequently criticized; numerous guests have found the signal to be poor or extremely slow and at times it didn't work at all. This has caused frustration, especially given the extra cost. However, there are a few instances where people found it easy to connect. Overall, the lack of complimentary and reliable WiFi is a common grievance among visitors. For those who rely heavily on internet access, considering alternative arrangements might be advisable.
Gym
The Waterside offers a gym and swimming pool that many guests find very good, citing well-maintained fitness equipment and a fabulous indoor gym. The facilities also include hot tubs, a sauna and a whirlpool. While there is an additional fee of £5 for access to the pool, gym, sauna and steam room, some guests feel these amenities should be complimentary for hotel patrons. Despite a few concerns, such as the gym music being loud early in the morning and occasional unavailability of the spa and gym, the overall feedback on the gym facilities is positive with remarks highlighting good facilities and a convenient location.
Pool
The Waterside hotel boasts impressive pool facilities that have garnered much appreciation from its guests. Described as spotless and lovely, the pool is a highlight for many with numerous mentions of its clean and well-maintained condition. Both adults and children have enjoyed their time in the pool, often referring to it as great, fabulous and brilliant. The water temperature is also noted to be just right—hot and clean—making for a comfortable swimming experience. Despite occasional issues with availability and additional charges that some guests found disappointing, the overall sentiment towards the pool remains highly positive. Guests particularly appreciated the indoor swimming pool and the overall hygiene of the pool area, emphasizing its suitability for a relaxing dip or an energizing swim.
Family
The Waterside proves to be an exceptional destination for families seeking a welcoming and accommodating environment. Highlighting numerous positive aspects, guests frequently commend the hotel's family-friendly atmosphere and willingness to cater to young children and even pets. The swimming pool is consistently noted as a standout feature with many kids enjoying their time splashing around and creating lasting memories. The hotel staff are described as super friendly, exceptionally helpful and attentive to family needs, whether ensuring a cot is ready for the baby or accommodating late arrivals.
Rooms at The Waterside are equipped with features suitable for families, offering spacious lounge areas and specific zones dedicated to family use. Cleanliness in most areas acts as a notable advantage, though a few reviews mention issues like stains and hairs. Despite these minor setbacks, guests appreciate the little personal touches from staff and the general cleanliness of leisure facilities.
The affordability of the hotel combined with its child-friendly amenities, such as the popular swimming pools, positions The Waterside as an ideal choice for families. Whether visiting for a short family trip or an extended stay, many families express their happiness and positive experiences, making it a recommended spot for a family-friendly getaway.
3 Star
The Waterside offers a budget-friendly stay just outside Peterhead, making it an affordable option for travelers. The hotel features a spacious lounge area and a nice pool, which both kids and adults seem to enjoy. Families, in particular, find it to be a good choice due to its family-friendly amenities, including a gym and the pool.
Despite its dated decor and a need for renewal throughout the property, The Waterside has been praised as the best three-star rated hotel some visitors have experienced. There have been mentions of the hotel being frequently occupied by workmen, which could be indicative of its suitability for business travelers as well.
While food quality has had mixed reviews with some describing it as cheap and cheerful, there is an overarching agreement on the great value the hotel provides. However, leisure facilities ideally should be included in the rates for an even better experience. Overall, The Waterside stands as a viable three-star option with room for improvement in certain areas.
Accessible
The Waterside receives mixed reviews regarding its accessibility for guests with disabilities. The hotel's parking lot is easily accessible, which is a positive for those arriving by car. The staff also appears to be quite accommodating and willing to assist; for instance, they help with carrying luggage up stairs when needed.
However, there are some notable challenges. The hotel lacks lifts, making it difficult for guests who rely on wheelchairs, prams or have mobility issues. Some guests noted specific difficulties, such as steep stairs that can be problematic to navigate. Despite having designated disabled-access rooms that are mostly suitable, some guests still faced issues with the overall accessibility of the facilities.
Reviews suggest that more transparent communication regarding accessibility would benefit all guests, ensuring those with special needs are fully aware of any potential challenges before arrival. It appears that both the location of accessible rooms and the overall disabled access policy could use some improvement to meet the needs of all travelers more effectively. Overall, while there are helpful elements, the property could gain by addressing and enhancing its accessibility features.
Indoor Pool
The Waterside offers a range of leisure facilities, including an indoor pool, sauna, gym and steam room, which guests generally appreciate. Despite its small size, the pool is often praised for being warm, clean and well-maintained. Families, in particular, find it enjoyable with kids loving the swimming experience. Although some guests comment that the pool is a bit basic or outdated, many still find it excellent and lovely for a swim. The cleanliness of the pool area stands out, frequently described as spotless. There are also positive mentions of the sauna and jacuzzi adding to the overall leisure experience. However, a few guests noted the additional charge to use these facilities and felt that certain areas could benefit from upgrades.
Yes, The Waterside has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Indoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Waterside.
No, The Waterside doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Waterside.