Please note our writer visited Devon prior to the coronavirus pandemic
Deservedly Scotland’s most popular tourist destination, Edinburgh is blessed with an amazing choice of hotels, but don’t let big names (and advertising budgets) blind you to the considerable charms of a new breed of bed and often gourmet breakfast accommodation. Whether you’re ooking for boutique chic, candlelit flights of fantasy or a seaside in the city retreat, there’s an Edinburgh b&b to suit. No hotel can give a feel for a city the way a stay with a local can, nor offer a warmer, more knowledgable welcome. Here’s our pick of the best bed and breakfasts in Edinburgh.
The Chaumer Abide
Edinburgh, Scotland
‘Chaumer’ is a Scottish word meaning ‘a room’ – and this stand-alone suite hidden in the heart of Georgian Edinburgh is just that, a deliciously discreet room and your own perfectly private, stylish re-imagining of Victorian Edinburgh. This is the very personal project of Vixy Rae, owner and creative director of Stewart Christie & Co, providers of bespoke tweed and tailoring to the great estates of Scotland for 300 years. There are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby, but you may not wander far from the deep-sea banquettes of The Chaumer, where you’ll find cheese and charcuterie boards, a gentleman’s afternoon tea and a cracking wine list.
From
£
175
per night
94DR
Edinburgh, Scotland
94DR is located on the south side of the city, five minutes’ walk from Holyrood Park and the foot of Arthur’s Seat; a 10-minute bus ride from the city centre. Bedrooms are as tailored as a city suit, there are bicycles to borrow (free), and a sophisticated lounge opens with a dramatic flourish onto a conservatory dining room and garden. The six bedrooms (plus the Wee Dram bunk room) come in three styles, but all share period features confidently combined with contemporary monochrome design theme. All this and the most adventurous breakfasts in Edinburgh guarantee its well-deserved popularity.
From
£
121
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
23 Mayfield
Edinburgh, Scotland
In this beautifully kept, unassuming Victorian villa you will find candle-light, acres of mahogany panelling, stained glass and bespoke period furniture, with the occasional well-judged modern touch. There are belt-busting breakfasts, a ‘club room’ for relaxing in and a hot tub and gazebo in the garden. Bedrooms, like the rest of the house, are like stage sets – all Tudor mahogany panelling, rich furnishings and jewel-like colours. Unashamedly dramatic, this is a destination guesthouse that doesn’t cost a fortune. It’s child-friendly, too.
From
£
119
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
2 Cambridge Street Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland
For lovers of the dramatic – of rich colours and fascinating, finely-judged clutter – this witty old curiosity shop of antiques and bibelots, trinkets and curios is the perfect destination. With affable hosts, distinctively different breakfasts, a good location for sightseeing and concert/theatre going, and a tranquil zen-like garden to unwind in, the two bedrooms at this glorious bed and breakfast are in high demand. Book early for this unique riposte to generic hotels.
From
£
110
per night
Abercorn Guesthouse
Edinburgh, Scotland
The Abercorn is a substantial Victorian guesthouse in Portobello – Edinburgh’s seaside and a great alternative to staying in the city. With the bus stop only a few steps away and services to Edinburgh city centre every 10 minutes, this former Manse has been a labour of love for the owners, focused entirely on the comfort of their guests. It has large, comfortable bedrooms and appealing public rooms, as well as a useful location two minutes’ walk from the beach and close to all the town’s amenities.
From
£
65
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
Millers 64
Edinburgh, Scotland
About a mile away from the city centre, Pilrig isn’t the liveliest part of town, but it is only a 15-minute walk to Princes Street and the Michelin-starred restaurants of Leith are even closer. This immaculate b&b deftly combines the best features of a Victorian townhouse with touches of southeast Asian style (evidenced by the unusual hammered pewter wash-hand basins), creating a sophisticated, comfortable urban retreat run to exacting standards. The three bedrooms are smart as paint.
From
£
90
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
14 Hart Street
Edinburgh, Scotland
It’s hard to believe such tranquility is possible so close to busy Broughton Street with its cafés, restaurants and shops. With only a number on the door to guide you, arriving at this pretty Georgian house is like staying in an incredibly thoughtful friend’s home. Three comfortable bedrooms are all on the garden level at the back of the house. Furnished with pretty antiques, these rooms have a cosy, classic style that is entirely in keeping with the age and style of the building.
From
£
90
per night
Six Brunton Place Guest House
Edinburgh, Scotland
The hotel is located just east of the city centre, close to Calton Hill and Holyrood Park. The architect owner’s quiet, considered influence is everywhere in the restoration and design of this historic home (with one of the most attractive entrance halls in Edinburgh). Colours are rich and sympathetic to the house, while the mix of antique furniture and interesting contemporary art bring it comfortably into the 21st century. With only four rooms for guests, staying here feels very spoiling.
From
£
159
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
Two Hillside Crescent
Edinburgh, Scotland
The hotel is located just east of the city centre, close to Calton Hill and Holyrood Park. The architect owner’s quiet, considered influence is everywhere in the restoration and design of this historic home (with one of the most attractive entrance halls in Edinburgh). Colours are rich and sympathetic to the house, while the mix of antique furniture and interesting contemporary art bring it comfortably into the 21st century. With only four rooms for guests, staying here feels very spoiling.
From
£
95
per night
Albyn Townhouse
Edinburgh, Scotland
Hidden at the end of a leafy lane, but close to the great shops and cafés of Bruntsfield/Morningside, this modern guesthouse version of the ‘Auld Alliance’ offers hospitality with a distinctive French accent. Rooms are generous, with high-ceilings and big windows – the back of the house offers surprising views to the distant Firth of Forth (and a glimpse of Edinburgh Castle). Full Scottish as well as Continental breakfast options; home-made granola, compotes, jam and treats like vanilla pancakes with chocolate or toffee sauce.
From
£
106
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
This article was originally published by Telegraph.co.uk. Read the original article here.