Scotland

The Best Places to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’ve read some of my previous posts on Edinburgh, Scotland, you know it’s my favorite city I’ve visited. Edinburgh has an abundance of accommodations to choose from. To help you decide where to stay during your visit, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite places to stay in Scotland’s capital city. These are all places that I’ve personally stayed at and recommend. There is something for every type of traveler!

For Large Groups

Stately Georgian Family Townhouse with Castle Views

Booking.com

Location: New Town

This 6 bedroom, 6.5 bathroom townhouse is absolutely stunning. It is perfect for large groups, as there is plenty of space to spread out over the three floors. Thirteen of us stayed there comfortably for my wedding trip. It is beautifully and thoughtfully decorated and has lovely views. Situated in New Town, the townhouse is in a quiet area, just a 10 minute walk to Old Town.

For History Lovers

The King’s Chamber- Stunning Flat on Royal Mile

Location: Riddle’s Court on the Royal Mile

You would be hard pressed to find a place to stay in Edinburgh that isn’t steeped in history (there are more historical places listed below), but this one is especially unique. King James the VI hosted a dinner party in this flat, and the bedroom ceiling has the original painted beams. I was instantly sold upon hearing this. The newly renovated flat is made available by the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust. This organization has made it their mission to find new uses for underused historical buildings throughout Scotland while preserving their historical integrity. It only makes sense that this kingly apartment would have a comfy king size bed. The colorful and modern furnishings somehow compliment the 400 year old beams above them. Although it is located on the Royal Mile, it is pushed back in a surprisingly quiet close.

For Honeymooners, History Lovers, and Ghostbusters

Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Aqueous Spa

Location: Midlothian (9 miles south of Edinburgh)

Dalhousie Castle is so incredibly dreamy. In 2016, I had a fairy tale destination wedding at Dalhousie. It was simply magical. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been renovated into a hotel. It has a variety of room options, but my favorites are the honeymoon suite, with it’s original stone walls and old castle well (covered with plexiglass to prevent injury), and the beautifully furnished themed rooms. In your free time have afternoon tea in the orangery, relax in the spa, visit the falconry, hang out at the library bar, have dinner in the dungeon, or even take archery lessons! If you’re lucky, you will get a chance to hear the castle piper expertly play a tune on his bagpipes. Keep an eye out for the ghosts of Lady Catherine and Sir Alexander Ramsay who are said to haunt the castle.

For Solo Travelers

Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel

Location: New Town

Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel is located in New Town and is just a 10 minute walk to Calton Hill. I stayed here for 2 weeks when I studied abroad in Edinburgh and was extremely pleased. All of the rooms are en-suite with free wifi. The rooms are simply furnished, but have everything I needed. The kitchen is quite big for hostel standards. I felt very safe there, because there are three points throughout the hostel you must scan your key card before gaining access to your room. A small cafe serves up snacks and tea, and there is a large breakfast area. It was nice to have a lift take me to my floor after a long day of exploring. I recommend the hostel to anyone who wants a nice, cheap, clean place with accommodating staff. I mean, who doesn’t want that?

For Marvel and Harry Potter Fans

City Centre Flat off the Royal Mile

Location: Cockburn Street (practically on the Royal Mile)

Booking.com

This Airbnb sits above an officially licensed Harry Potter store and on a curvy picturesque street that is prominently featured in Avengers: Infinity War. It is across the street from La Locanda, an Italian restaurant that made my list of the best places to eat in Edinburgh. Cockburn Street also has some of my favorite shops in the city centre. Another bonus about its location is that Waverly Station is literally at the end of this short street (which is also the drop off point for the airport bus).The apartment has large windows that I loved sitting by to people watch and listen to the Scotsman who sometimes sings below. In the evenings, you can occasionally hear groups of Scots belting Scottish hymns as they head home from the pubs. Some might find this bothersome, but I found it to be endearing.

If you’re a fellow Potterhead, check out our post on Visiting Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh!

For Amazing Views

High St Flat – Amazing Views!

Location: The Old Stamp Office Close on the Royal Mile

Being in a city filled to the brim with breathtaking architecture, it’s only natural that you want to see it at every available chance. Staying in this flat will definitely give you that opportunity! I loved waking up to such a beautiful panoramic view of Edinburgh’s skyline. There are a lot of steps up a narrow spiral staircase to get to the flat, but isn’t that how you usually see the best views? Another reason I loved this flat is because of the close’s impressive history. The Old Stamp Office Close was once home to the Government Stamp Office, the Royal Bank, two taverns, a boarding school tied to Bonnie Prince Charles, a countess, and a center for poor women in the community to receive midwifery and maternity resources.

For Lovebirds

Enchanting 16th Century Dovecot Cottage in Private Garden

Location: Morningside (Lovely 20 minute walk to Grassmarket that passes through parks and Flodden Wall)

This is definitely the most unique place I’ve ever stayed. Nestled in a garden fit for a fairy queen, this whimsical dovecot is perfect for a couple seeking a romantic getaway. The dovecot has modern features such as a luxurious shower, an extremely comfortable bed, and sky lights. Yet, the owner left the stone walls almost exactly as they would have been hundreds of years ago, which is what my husband and I loved best. It is an oasis that makes you feel as if you are far removed from the world, despite being so close to Edinburgh’s city centre.

Which one of these impressive places do you want to stay in? Tell us in the comments below!

Resources: Airbnb, Brides & Dolls Photography (My awesome wedding photographers)

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