Story and photos by Gwyn Goodrow
Pamper yourself in the distinctive charm and luxury of overnight accommodations near the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland. You’ve entered a city where history whispers from every cobblestone and spire. As the day softened to evening hours and I become weary from wandering the Royal Mile’s storied paths, the city delivered luxurious overnight comfort.
In the heart of Scotland’s capital, these five lodging options promise a place to lay your head and an extension of Edinburgh’s rich culture. From the stately Renaissance-Revival architecture to a cozy, charming boutique inn, your perfect overnight experience in Edinburgh continues long after the sun sets on the city’s ancient skyline.
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton Hotel
Among these recommended destinations, the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton Hotel emerges as a beacon of modern luxury with touches of historical charm. Less than a block from High Street (the Royal Mile), it was an ideal base for exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Designed by five Scottish architects, the impressive structure displays Renaissance-Revival architecture. Cream sandstone was cut and dressed into ashlar blocks to create a visually cohesive and elegant façade. When construction finished in 1899, the ornate building was an architectural masterpiece. Patrick William Thomson moved his department store into the structure. The building was revitalized many years later as a preeminent fixture at the North Bridge. The arched windows and domed cupolasd add an air of grand classical elegance, reminiscent of Italian opulence in the late 1800s.
The Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill inside the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton Hotel serves evening meals. Menu options include classic Fish & Chips, seafood, and steaks. Enjoy familiar foods then ease into the decadent dessert menu that includes Chocolate Caramel Cake a la mode or a tasty chocolate mousse with fresh seasonal berries.
With contemporary elegance, impeccable service, and amenities that cater to both leisure and business travelers, the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton treats guests to a refined and comfortable stay.
The Balmoral, the Royal British Hotel in Edinburgh
Just a stone’s throw away (.2 miles walking distance) stands The Balmoral, an iconic five-star retreat positioned at Princes Street’s east end, between Waverly Station and the North Bridge. With its timeless architecture and luxurious interiors, The Balmoral is a landmark in its own right.
Boasting Michelin-starred dining, spa facilities, and exquisite accommodations, the hotel is a sophisticated haven for relaxation. Its strategic location ensures guests can easily venture to the Royal Mile, immersing themselves in the historic sites, shops, and restaurants that uphold Edinburgh’s medieval charm. Likewise, the hotel is steps from urban nature sites like the Princes Street Gardens or Calton Hill and all the shopping that Edinburgh’s New Town offers.
Hotel Indigo
Located on Princes Street, the Hotel Indigo delivers a contemporary, stylish sanctuary with breathtaking views. Its boutique design embodies the neighborhood’s charm and provides a trendy, convenient home base for exploration. Throughout the centuries, Edinburgh has been a meeting point for some of the world’s greatest minds, literary pioneers, and creative souls. The guest quarters reflect the city’s literary and artistic heritage. My third-floor guest room had a writing desk, a wall adorned with images of classic books, and a stunning view of the Old Town skyline.
The Twenty Restaurant, one floor above the street level, shows off a panoramic vista. It’s an unforgettable backdrop for dining. Hotel Indigo effortlessly combines modern comfort with historic surroundings. Guests enjoy an easy-going stay while surrounded by New Town’s vibrant energy and the medieval history of the nearby Old Town.
Inn on the Mile in Old Town Edinburg
In the heart of the historic Old Town, the Inn on the Mile is a testament to Edinburgh’s unique charm. This boutique hotel, situated directly on the Royal Mile, inhabits a meticulously renovated 19th-century bank building. The result is a harmonious blend of period features and contemporary comforts, creating a cozy retreat inside the lively Old Town atmosphere.
Radisson Blu Hotel at the Royal Mile
Further enriching the hospitality landscape near the Royal Mile, the Radisson Blu Hotel merges modern comforts with the allure of Edinburgh’s rich history. The Radisson Blu Hotel at the Royal Mile is a sleek and stylish retreat with a blend of contemporary design and medieval history. Only 200 feet from High Street, its spacious rooms, thoughtful amenities, and proximity to Edinburgh Castle make it an ideal option for travelers.
Come Stay in Glorious Edinburg, Scotland
Whether you wander through the historic streets or slowly savor the views of Edinburgh Castle, you’ll enjoy a memorable exploration in Scotland’s capital city. When the stars twinkle above Edinburgh’s timeless silhouette, these five accommodation options near the Royal Mile are trustworthy guardians of luxury, history, and comfort.
They are not merely places to stay. Each location has a unique perspective of this majestic city. Whether you’re nestled in an opulent five-star hotel, reveling in a contemporary chic boutique sanctuary, or cuddled in the warm embrace of a historical inn, these living quarters will enrich your Edinburgh adventure.
More Information If You Go
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton Hotel – https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/edicahi-hilton-edinburgh-carlton/
The Balmoral – https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/
Hotel Indigo – https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/us/en/edinburgh/ediin/hoteldetail
Inn on the Mile – https://www.theinnonthemile.co.uk/
Radisson Blu Hotel – https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-collection-edinburgh-royal-mile
