The 7 Best Hotels on The Royal Mile (or Almost)

Edinburgh has so much to offer across the breadth of the city, however, the Hotel Guru recommends the Royal Mile as the place to stay. Just below the castle, and in amongst the medieval and the granite grey, the Royal Mile is at the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Aside from the central locality, the historic area of the Royal Mile also has the added benefit that many of the hotels are packed full of history. Our Hotel Gurus have compiled a selection of the best hotels on the Royal Mile selected on their design, service, location, and amenities. There is a good range of options, whether you are looking for all-out luxury in one of the city's grand dames or you want something a bit more low-key, like a pub. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next getaway?

For luxury

• The Scotsman is right in the thick of things. An imposing building suggests luxury from the outset. Interiors effortlessly blend old and new, and there are great facilities, including a top-notch spa, a 3AA Rosette-standard brasserie, and a cinema.

For a pub

• You can’t get closer to the action than The Inn on the Mile, a nine-room hotel and inn on the Royal Mile just a five-minute stroll from the castle. With chic design, good pub food, and an attractive price tag, this is an easy choice.

For couples

• House of Gods is an eclectic and atmospheric adult-only cocktail bar with boutique rooms. Decor inspired by the Orient Express and the palace of Versailles, combined with contemporary on-trend touches, packs a punch. Small yet sexy rooms have a cosy cabin-like feel. Designed for seduction and just a few minutes' walk from the Royal Mile.
• For complete over-the-top decadence, the Witchery by the Castle fits the bill. Expect gilded ceilings, dark hues, panelling, and swathes of jewel-coloured velvet. The most romantic rooms have free-standing bathtubs and four-posters. A location unto itself.

For foodies

• The Balmoral is a true grande dame. Originally built as an old railway hotel, the property has been artfully rejuvenated by the Rocco Forte group. It now boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant (Number one) and a comprehensive spa. A sophisticated choice.
• Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh is close to the National Museum of Scotland, just past Cowgate, which is a great, central location. This version of the chain has a whisky snug as well as an extensive wine list in its bar and brasserie.

For self-catering

• Lord Lyons Chambers offers smart self-catering apartments featuring light-filled interiors, elegant parquet floors, and stylish yet homely contemporary furniture. A discerning choice for sophisticated travellers wanting a home-away-from-home near the Royal Mile.

Still not sure where to book?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Edinburgh.
• Consider our Guru’s collection of the 7 Best Hotels in Edinburgh’s Old Town or one of the 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh's West End.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.