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From stylish boutique hotels to homey B&Bs, Edinburgh has a world-class array of accommodation options to suit every taste. Its status as one of Britain's most attractive and fascinating cities ensures a steady influx of visitors, but the wealth of overnight options means there's no need to compromise on where you stay. Grand old hotels are rightly renowned for their regal bearing and old-world charm, but if your tastes are a little more contemporary, the city's burgeoning contingent of chic-design hotels offers an equally alluring alternative. For those on a tighter budget, the town's B&Bs are the most likely choice. If you've previously found B&Bs to be restrictive, keep in mind that Scots are trusting people—many proprietors provide front-door keys and very few impose curfews.
Rooms are harder to find in August and September, when the Edinburgh International Festival and the Festival Fringe take place, so reserve at least three months in advance. B&Bs may prove trickier to find in the winter months (with the exception of Christmas and New Year), as this is when many proprietors choose to close up shop and go on vacation themselves.
Set within a gorgeous, 300-year-old gamekeeper's cottage on the edge of a deer park, this charming B&B offers large, stylishly appointed suites with en suite bedrooms and separate living/dining rooms. The location is a particular favorite with Outlander fans, with owner James offering private tours of local filming locations such as Hopetoun House, Blackness Castle, and Culross. Hearty breakfasts can be served either in-room, in the communal kitchen, or out in the garden.
Standing out along an elegant and tranquil West End terrace, this excellent B&B is the Scottish outpost of supertrendy B+B Belgravia of London; the imposing Victorian mansion combines grand public spaces with affordable modern accommodation. An elegant entrance, hallway, and handsome original features—including marble and carved wood—are complemented by quirky lights and furniture. The building has a double-height library and a lounge bar crammed with interesting artwork and antiques, as well as views down to leafy Dean Village and the Water of Leith from the large breakfast room. The contemporary bedrooms offer muted colors and simple but stylish decor: think gray walls, large artwork, and big comfy beds.
With its welcoming owners and quiet location near Arthur's Seat, this Victorian B&B is a smart choice for those seeking warm Edinburgh hospitality and a restful atmosphere away from the city center. The high-ceilinged guest rooms have a traditional feel with carpets and patterned wallpaper, and breakfast is served in a homey annex.
This small family-run guesthouse in a red-sandstone town house offers simple, traditionally decorated rooms and warm hospitality. Framed prints of old Edinburgh adorn walls decorated in pale hues. The owners, Liz and David, have a wealth of knowledge about what to see and do in Edinburgh. There's a healthy choice at breakfast for carnivores and vegetarians alike, as well as a traditional full Scottish breakfast.
This stately 18th-century building was once a manse (minister's house), but is now a delightful and luxurious B&B. The property sits within its own secluded grounds, yet it's right in the heart of town—a 10-minute walk from the station, the same from Milsey Bay Beach, and within easy reach of several fine golf courses, including the world-renowned Muirfield. The elegant bedrooms, one of which has a four-poster bed, are in keeping with the Georgian style of the house, while the sitting, drawing, and dining rooms feature grand period furniture, paintings, and ornaments. The breakfast is great, too.
Elegantly furnished rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and a hearty breakfast are three big factors that make this town-house B&B a popular budget stay. The rooms feel upmarket but unfussy, with the deluxe rooms particularly appealing thanks to their modern bathrooms, Queen Anne four-poster beds, large TVs, and garden terraces. The handsome lounge downstairs is a fine place to mingle with fellow guests—there's an honesty bar if you want a drink or a snack. Glenalmond House is a little out of the center, but there are many regular buses to the Royal Mile and Princes Street, and owners Jimmy and Fiona Mackie will be happy to help you plan your travels.
This chic and welcoming boutique inn could hardly be more central—some rooms even overlook the Royal Mile. The guest rooms are a decent size, with polished wood floors and a cool, oatmeal color scheme, while sleek bathrooms showcase black-slate tiles, huge freestanding tubs, and steam-resistant mirrors. The hotel bar has a good range of craft beers and an outstanding selection of whiskies. Check the website for good discounts on multinight stays.
