The Top Edinburgh Hotels

Edinburgh is the capital and the second-largest city of Scotland in terms of its population.  Having been consistently inhabited since ancient times, this modern urban centre is a hustling and bustling location home to thousands of businesses as well as a unique culture.  We should also not be surprised to learn that millions of tourists will visit here each and every year.  Although the sites and sounds are certainly something to behold, it is just as important to keep in mind that many visitors hope to enjoy the lap of luxury upon their arrival.  So, let's take a look at the top five Edinburgh hotels, the amenities that they offer and a few of the aspects which makes each quite different from the others. 

The National Trust Gladstone's Land Apartments

While labelled as “apartments”, this boutique hotel is certainly something to behold.  Those who are new to the city will be very happy to learn that the National Trust is found within the heart of the most amazing districts.  Sights such as Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral and the Writer's Museum are all a stone's throw away from the front doors of this establishment.  

The character of this property is also worth mentioning.  Embracing a bright, simple and yet elegant appearance, the rooms and the entire ambiance will provide a comfortable alternative to the more gaudy hotels in Edinburgh.  One-bedroom options such as the “Harrison” and the “Gladstone” are minimalistic in their personalities and yet, the visitor will find that he or she is just as comfortable as if they were in their own home.

It can be argued that the most attractive quality of The National Trust Gladstone is its price.  While fees can vary from room to room, they are much lower when compared to other luxury boutique hotels.  This is complimented by an amenable staff, free services such as wireless Internet and laundry, a basic and yet elegant menu and finally, an attention to the needs of the client in question.

The Balmoral Hotel

When it comes to the best in the city, it is difficult to beat the attractions offered by the Balmoral Hotel.  This iconic property is designed in a Renaissance style which will allow visitors to feel as if they are residing in Rome or Venice.  From its high ceilings to its stunning pastel frescoes, The Balmoral is a visually enticing piece of architecture.  As it has been open for well over 100 years, they must be doing something right.

The Balmoral offers a total of 188 rooms and 20 of these are larger suites.  Artwork adorns the walls and reflects the many landscapes of Scotland.  Images of heather, mists and rolling green hills provide an extra sense of vibrancy.  These are complimented by a comfortable and organic appeal.  Many of the rooms overlook Princess Street and provide exquisite views of Edinburgh Castle.  This is a great advantage for those who are looking to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city itself.

While similarly priced to Th National Trust Gladstone, the main difference is that The Balmoral offers a luxury restaurant that is said to be one of the best in the city.  Known simply as “Number One”, local and organic ingredients dominate this Scottish menu while there are always possibilities to enjoy more international cuisine.

Rutland Residence

The Rutland Residence is a shining example of how a hotel does not necessarily have to boast a massive number of rooms to retain a unique sense of style and character.  Having been fashioned from an original 19^th century town house, Rutland Residence is found immediately off of Princess Street.  It is therefore surprising to learn that the area is particularly quiet for being situated in the centre of Edinburgh.

The generous sizes of the rooms offered here are excellent for those who are arriving with a group of friends or their family.  Traditional “sitting rooms” are exquisitely furnished; helping to reflect the 19^th century appeal of the original structure.  Still, modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions, docks for iPads and Bluetooth connections are ideal for the technology enthusiast or for anyone who needs to stay connected to the world during their stay.  All rooms are attended to on a daily basis and of course, personalised room service is available 24 hours a day.

Many visitors feel that the overall appearance of the Rutland Residence is its most outstanding quality.  Ornate cornices, original fireplaces and large sash windows all reflect traditional Scottish culture.  These are also able to provide an unparalleled sense of comfort.  Tumble dryers, microwaves, fully equipped kitchens and quality espresso machines all serve to round out what the Rutland Residence has in store.

The G&V Royal Mile Hotel

The G&V is the only five-star hotel located within what is known as the “Royal Mile” of Edinburgh. It is found nestled between George IV Bridge and Victoria Street (this explains the name).  Waverly Station, the airport and other convenient locations are all found only a short distance away.  The only potential drawback that some have observed is that the G&V can get a bit noisy during busier times of the year such as over the holidays or throughout local festivals.  As it offers no less than 136 rooms, this property is also a great idea for last-minute bookings; vacancies are much more of a reality when compared to boutique hotels.

There are four different categories of rooms.  These are listed as:

• Cosy
• Signature
• Superior
• Deluxe

While the rooms may seem to be a bit small at first glance, guests will soon learn that their diminutive sizes reflect an impressive level of comfort and that no expense has been spared in terms of luxury.  Cotton terry robes, thick linen sheets and bathrooms equipped with rainwater showers are certainly not to be overlooked.  

The facilities and services provided by the GÇ&V Royal Mile Hotel serve to punctuate the experience that anyone can expect to enjoy during their stay here.  Some of the standard amenities include (but are by no means limited to) wireless Internet, rooms service, laundry, a restaurant, a fitness centre and a spa.  

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

The Sheraton is known throughout the world as one of the most luxurious hotels, and this property can be given this very same honour.  The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa provides everything that one would expect from this brand.  Although the site was only recently remodelled, original finishings such as polished granite and rich hardwoods permeate its ambiance.  

269 rooms can be selected when staying at this hotel.  These range from Grand Suites to the smaller appeal of “classic” rooms.  Glass bathrooms, polished wooden floors and neutral tones tend to dominate the overall sense of décor and still, the sense of opulence cannot be overstated. Large-screen LCD televisions, wireless Internet, a mini-bar and a full kitchen provide further conveniences for those who enjoy a bit of pampering.  

The Sheraton is known for its friendly staff as well as the plethora of facilities that are offered to all of its guests.  A bar, a restaurant, a pool, laundry rooms and a large fitness centre are a few examples of this advantage.  It is especially worthwhile to mention the spa here.  Thermal suites and seven different areas to receive expert treatments such as massages and reflexology.  So, we can now fully appreciate why this massive property is without a doubt one of the most popular hotels in all of Edinburgh.