-As a solo traveller, I would be staying in a basic room. Of rooms 12, 14, 15 & 16 are there any significant differences? Do you have a favorite?

All the rooms are quite similar with the exception of location of course. If you have a choice...ask for one of the back rooms it will give you a bit more balcony privacy...but either way all rooms are good.

-I like to be able to walk to places to eat/drink/shop. Looking at the map it is hard to tell what is reasonably close by. How long is the walk to West End Drive (is it safe at night to walk?)? Can I find places to hang if I walk 10 minutes?

Located within easy walking distance of Seastar.... (Seastar Lane is fine to walk at night & surrounding areas that are well-lit...but ALWAYS use common sense)....LTU Pub, Ricks Cafe, Westside Pub, Catcha Falling Star for dinner and/or drinks, Salt & Pepper Pub, Sharks Restaurant, Ras Roddy's for great soup, a smattering of souvenir shops & grocery store at the beginning of the lane.
Note. Alice's Restaurant has been closed for some time now.

Enjoy...Sam I am!!