Top Hotels in Edinburgh You’ll Want to Book Immediately
So you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh? What an excellent choice!
Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities in the world. I used to live there many moons ago and we still go back to visit almost yearly!
There’s so much to see and do – but where you stay can make all the difference. As one of the Top UK Travel Creators (2024 nomination from TikTok!), I’ve curated my top hotel picks for some of the coolest and most unique stays (and some chill affordable ones) along with nearby restaurants and bars to complete your experience.
And of course, you can find 25 of the most magical things to do in Edinburgh in my full blog post.
Let’s dive into the capital city of Scotland!
The Witchery by the Castle
The Witchery basically allows to spend a night like you’re living in a real life fairytale novel. The dream!
All of the rooms are full of gothic glamour, velvet drapes, and the hotel location right beside Edinburgh Castle. It’s dramatic in the best way, perfect for a romantic getaway. Book your stay here!
Staying at The Witchery in Edinburgh, Scotland is an experience that feels plucked right out of a fairytale.
You’ll also want to book into The Witchery by the Castle restaurants – they have some of the best food and the atmosphere is incredibly romantic!
You can even check out my full blog post on The Witchery too.
Other Nearby Dining and Drinking:
Amber Restaurant at The Scotch Whisky Experience: Just a short stroll away, Amber offers a true taste of Scotland with an extensive whisky selection to match.
The Devil’s Advocate: Tucked away in a historic close, this bar boasts an impressive whisky list and inventive cocktails in a rustic setting.
The Balmoral
Having lived in the city of Edinburgh, I’ve always known The Balmoral as an absolutely iconic Scottish landmark and location to stay.
I mean just LOOK AT IT – gorgeous!! An unmissable spot to see when in the city. And now I’m here to tell you it’s also a totally unmissable place to stay… or even just pop in for drinks and dinner.
Luckily for us – we booked in to stay at The Balmoral Hotel for two nights. And even got upgraded to stay in a very magical suite, where the very last book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, was completed!
The Balmoral Hotel has a number of luxury suites to enchant guests during their stay.
And while the suite itself is an enchanting haven, The Balmoral Hotel has an array of amenities that further elevate the stay… you won’t want to spend your entire time in the room, but you easily could.
PS I would 10/10 recommend the room service for a cosy night in with a film too.
But as I said, The Balmoral Hotel isn’t just a haven for luxurious accommodation. Indulge in fine dining at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant or the slightly more casual but still incredible, The Prince Brasserie.
Perhaps you can relax in the spa for an afternoon or take advantage of the hotel’s central location to explore Edinburgh’s historical sites and cultural treasures. Book your stay here!
Check out my full review of The Balmoral.
Nearby Dining and Drinking:
Number One: Located within The Balmoral, this Michelin-starred restaurant delivers exquisite dining with impeccable service.
The Guildford Arms: A short walk away, this Victorian pub is known for its ornate interior and a wide range of ales.
Prestonfield House
I highly recommend that upon your visit to capital city of Edinburgh that you take yourself just outside of the bustling city for a night or two.
A quick 10 minute drive away will take you to the sprawling grounds of the beautiful Prestonfield House.
With candlelit dining rooms and lush gardens, it’s a step into a more extravagant era and some respite from the bustling city. Book your stay here!
Check out my full blog post of this magical hotel.
Nearby Dining and Drinking:
Rhubarb: Situated within Prestonfield House, Rhubarb serves refined Scottish cuisine in a sumptuous setting. We loved having dinner here, it’s such a lovely atmosphere!
The Sheep Heid Inn: A historic pub nearby, known for its traditional Scottish fare and cozy atmosphere.
Cheval Old Town Chambers
Modern luxury meets historic charm in these 15th-century buildings. With contemporary interiors and full kitchens, it’s ideal for longer stays. Book your stay here!
Nearby Dining and Drinking:
The Outsider: A lively brasserie with lovely views of Edinburgh Castle, offering a diverse menu.
The Bow Bar: Known for its extensive whisky selection and traditional pub atmosphere. We’ve been a few times and it’s always PACKED! But try and snag a window seat, it’s so cosy!
House of Gods
Bold and unapologetically extravagant, House of Gods is for those who love a bit of drama.
Expect dark regal interiors, mirrored ceilings, AND they even have press for prosecco buttons in the room!
It’s quite an experience… prepare yourself for a mildly sore head the next day! Book your stay here!
Nearby Dining and Drinking:
Tattu Edinburgh: A contemporary Chinese restaurant with stunning interior design and innovative dishes.
Panda & Sons: A speakeasy-style bar known for its creative cocktails and hidden entrance. We went here on a group trip and it was the best night! Truly the coolest experience.
Gleneagles Townhouse
Gleneagles Townhouse offers a blend of luxury and comfort.
With warm lighting, curated art, and a rooftop bar, it’s both chic and inviting. It’s definitely on the expensive side, but that’s what treats are for – Book your stay here!
Nearby Dining and Drinking:
The Spence: Located within Gleneagles Townhouse, The Spence offers all-day dining with a focus on Scottish produce.
The Register Club: A sophisticated bar offering classic cocktails and afternoon tea, located nearby.
Fraser Suites Edinburgh
Sleek, central, and stylish, Fraser Suites offers elegant accommodations just off the Royal Mile. It’s perfect for a city break where you want to feel a bit like a local AND without breaking the bank.
Nearby Dining and Drinking:
Angels with Bagpipes: A contemporary Scottish restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional dishes, located on the Royal Mile.
The Jolly Judge: A cozy, low-ceilinged pub tucked away in a close, offering a range of ales and whiskies.
Each of these hotels offers a unique Edinburgh experience, complemented by nearby dining and drinking establishments that capture the city’s culinary spirit.
Be sure to book in advance, Edinburgh is as popular as ever!
Kelly xoxo