You never know what other people’s expectations are. Some seem to dislike everything and anything. The Carlton is a perfectly fine hotel. I love staying here. The only reason I would not stay here now is the construction works right in front of the hotel. But otherwise, rooms are nice, the restaurant and the bar are great, and breakfast is really good. I prefer the Waldorf but only because I have been staying there for over ten years and I love the view, but when I come to Edinburgh for more than two nights I split my stay between the two hotels. Give the Carlton a try. I hope you will like it.