7 Quirky Hotels in Edinburgh (2025)

If you enjoy staying in hotels that are that bit different from the norm, Edinburgh offers a great variety of quirky options. From chic boutiques and Gothic retreats to converted lighthouse tenders and eclectic cocktail bars with rooms, Scotland's capital city boasts a fantastic choice. Read on for a range of accommodation options, each with its own distinct charm and character, and start planning your unique break.

For a boutique gem

• If an adults-only cocktail bar with boutique rooms in Edinburgh's Old Town sounds like your kind of thing, then House of Gods is the answer! The decor blends glossy wood, fake fur, velvet, bold prints, mood lighting, and tassels galore. With a breakfast basket delivered to your room and seductive suites with four-posters, it's pure decadence.
• Black Ivy is a chic boutique hotel in leafy Bruntsfield. Expect lots of visual drama here with vintage chandeliers, exposed brick, and old-fashioned standard lamps with fringed shades. The quirkily-designed bedrooms make a style statement with bold and bright colours, plus there's a cool cocktail bar.

For a floating hotel

• Set in the cool Leith area, with numerous high-end eateries and bars within walking distance, Fingal is a retired lighthouse tender turned luxury hotel. The 23 cabins are luxurious and romantic, with interiors featuring original porthole windows, curvaceous wood panelling, and soft Scottish Lambswool throws. Enjoy the best of Scotland’s larder in the restaurant on the main deck. 

For a central location

• Centrally located close to Edinburgh's best bars and restaurants and in easy distance to many sights, Eden Locke is ideal for city exploring. Expect simply decorated studio apartment-style bedrooms with fully-equipped kitchens. The overall vibe is fun, young, and Scandi-chic, plus there's lots going on here, from live acoustic music sessions and cultural events to yoga classes and cooking courses.
• Its name gives away its location - 100 Princes Street couldn't be better located for a city centre stay. The interiors are simply stunning here with bespoke hand-painted murals, rich and moody colour schemes, and beautiful tartans. The overall feel is eclectic, decadent, and unique. Many rooms boast a fireplace for cosy evenings in, and there's even a Terrace Suite for your private outdoor space. But, if you can, reserve a room at the front for epic castle views! 

For a romantic stay

• In the heart of the Old Town on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile, The Witchery by the Castle is flamboyantly decorated with gilded ceilings, panelling, and swathes of jewel-coloured velvet. For added romance, love seats, four-poster beds, and plenty of candles are perfect for couples, plus the atmospheric restaurant serves delicious Scottish fare. 
• Another romantic choice with character in spades is Gleneagles Townhouse. The columned, dramatic entrance leads to the reception area with plenty of original features — sweeping staircase, period floor tiles — alongside a changing collection of modern artworks. For dining, there’s The Spence, a huge space with stunning ceiling and cupola, while downstairs in the old bank vaults, there's a relaxing wellness area. 

Still not sure? 

• Browse through our full list of accommodation options in Edinburgh,
• Refine your search to include our recommendations for the Best Boutique Hotels in Edinburgh or the 8 Best Hotels in Edinburgh's Old Town.
• Alternatively, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.