Lovely wee ones: these are the best boutique and design-led hotels in Edinburgh, Scotland

Europe is jam-packed full of beautiful hotels to call home as you explore its storied past. From the historic beauty of Malta to reimagined heritage gems in London and glorious escapes in Croatia, there’s something to capture every imagination. And if you’re heading to Scotland’s capital, then be sure to check-in at one of the best boutique and design-led hotels in Edinburgh.

P.S. If you are Scotland-bound, take a look at our interview with local musician Jane Gilbert on the best things to do in Edinburgh too.

The best boutique and design-led hotels in Edinburgh

1. Eden Locke | Central

Hotel: Eden Locke
Location: 127 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JN, Scotland
Neighbourhood: New Town, close to Princes Street and George Street’s shops and restaurants
Rooms: 72 studios and suites, each with a fully equipped kitchen and living area
Style: Contemporary aparthotel design within a Georgian heritage building, with pastel colours, botanical details and modern furnishings
Family-friendly: Suitable for families, with spacious apartments, kitchens and options for additional sleeping space
Wellness: Weekly complimentary yoga class at a nearby studio; no dedicated spa or gym
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: LUQA serves coffee and pastries; kitchens in every apartment allow self-catering
Best for: Longer stays, families and design-conscious travellers who prefer apartment-style accommodation
Prices starting from: £120 per night, depending on room and season

Part hotel/part apartment, Eden Locke belongs to the Locke Hotels family that is home to a range of aparthotels across the UK and Europe. Set inside a Georgian heritage building, each of the 72 apartments is intricately designed in a selection of pastel hues that are sure to capture the attention of any design lover. Feel completely at home here and enjoy fully equipped kitchens, comfy furnishings, and plenty of leafy friends.

Grab a drink at 127 or explore the neighbouring central area that’s full of the coolest coffee shops, foodie havens, and shopping galore. Guests can even take part in one free yoga class per week at a nearby studio to catch up on some zen or to stretch out the body after all that exploring.

Find out more about Eden Locke or Book through Booking.com

2. Motel One Edinburgh Royal | Old Town

Hotel: Motel One Edinburgh-Royal
Location: 18-21 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1BL, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Old Town, beside Edinburgh Waverley station and close to the Royal Mile
Rooms: Contemporary guest rooms with compact layouts and modern amenities
Style: Modern European design with Scottish references, tartan details, botanical accents and furnishings made from repurposed whisky barrels
Family-friendly: Suitable for short family city breaks; check room occupancy and bedding options when booking
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: One Lounge serves breakfast, drinks and a selection of snacks throughout the day
Best for: Budget-conscious design lovers, solo travellers and visitors wanting a central base for sightseeing
Prices starting from: £80 per night, depending on room and season

Part of the Motel One portfolio that promises affordable design hotels across Europe, Motel One Edinburgh Royal is a great option for long stays or those looking for extra bang for their buck. Set against the backdrop of the city’s Old Town and close to a number of tourist attractions, step inside and enjoy botanical-themed touches sitting next to iconic tartan furnishings and works by photographer Thomas Effinger.

Sample a selection of local whisky at the bar, or head out and get to know the neighbourhood on foot. We love that the lobby features unique tables crafted from whisky barrels that sit pretty against the Arne Jacobsen ball chairs.

Read our full review of Motel One Edinburgh Royal.

Learn more about Motel One Edinburgh Royal or Book through Booking.com

3. Native Edinburgh | New Town

Hotel: Native Edinburgh
Location: 74-77 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF, Scotland
Neighbourhood: New Town, opposite Queen Street Gardens and near George Street
Rooms: Serviced apartments with fully equipped kitchens, living areas and contemporary furnishings
Style: Georgian and Neoclassical architecture paired with stylish modern interiors
Family-friendly: Apartment-style accommodation provides extra space and kitchen facilities for families; check the current room configurations
Wellness: No dedicated spa or swimming pool; nearby fitness facilities are available independently
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: The property was listed with an on-site café; apartment kitchens also provide self-catering facilities
Best for: Longer stays, families and independent travellers who value the flexibility of an apartment
Prices starting from: £110 per night, depending on room and season

If it’s a serviced apartment that you’re looking for during your Edinburgh explorations, then Native Edinburgh is an excellent choice. Located in the city’s beloved New Town, architecture fans will adore the Georgian and Neoclassical-style building that the property is housed.

Inside, you’ll feel like you’re at home (if your home has an exceptionally stylish contemporary interior!) complete with kitchen and supremely comfy beds. There’s a cafe onsite that serves breakfast, coffee, wine, and nibbles, and it’s an easy walk to Stockbridge Market on Sundays.

Read our full review of Native Edinburgh.

Find out more about Native Edinburgh or Book through Booking.com

4. The Glasshouse, Edinburgh | Central

Hotel: The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
Location: 2 Greenside Place, Edinburgh EH1 3AA, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Central Edinburgh, at the foot of Calton Hill and beside the Edinburgh Playhouse
Rooms: 77 rooms and suites, many with floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies or rooftop garden access
Style: Contemporary luxury behind the Gothic façade of the former Lady Glenorchy Church, combining historic architecture with modern interiors
Family-friendly: Interconnecting rooms and spacious suites are available; family rooms provide additional flexibility
Wellness: Guests can access the neighbouring Nuffield Health gym, sauna and leisure facilities, subject to hotel arrangements
Pool: Access to a neighbouring indoor swimming pool; no pool within the hotel itself
Dining: The Brasserie serves breakfast, while The Snug Lounge offers afternoon tea, drinks and light dining
Best for: Couples, architecture enthusiasts and city-break travellers seeking a central hotel with a distinctive rooftop garden
Prices starting from: £195 per night, depending on room and season

Hidden behind the striking Gothic façade of the former Lady Glenorchy Church, The Glasshouse is one of Edinburgh’s most distinctive boutique hotels. Once a place of worship for more than 170 years, the building was transformed into a 77-room luxury retreat in 2003, pairing historic architecture with contemporary interiors and one of the city’s most beautiful rooftop gardens. Its central location, just moments from St James Quarter and Edinburgh Waverley station, makes it an ideal base for exploring the Scottish capital.

The Glasshouse offers far more than an impressive setting. Spacious Garden Suites feel more like stylish city apartments, complete with private terraces opening onto the rooftop garden, while thoughtful touches such as complimentary minibars, Elemis toiletries and warm, genuinely personal service elevate the experience throughout the stay. Guests can enjoy breakfast in The Brasserie, indulge in afternoon tea in The Snug Lounge, and take advantage of complimentary access to the neighbouring Nuffield Health gym, pool and sauna.

Read our full review of The Glasshouse, Edinburgh.

Discover more about The Glasshouse, Edinburgh or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda

5. Rock House | Calton Hill

Hotel: Rock House
Location: 28 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Calton Hill, within walking distance of Princes Street and Edinburgh Waverley station
Rooms: Three self-catering accommodations: the four-bedroom main house, a two-bedroom apartment and a one-bedroom photographer’s studio; the entire property sleeps up to 14
Style: Historic 18th-century architecture with period interiors, original features and a strong connection to Scotland’s early photography scene
Family-friendly: Particularly suitable for families and groups, with separate kitchens, living spaces and multi-bedroom accommodation
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym; Calton Hill and nearby walking routes provide outdoor recreation
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: No restaurant; all accommodations have self-catering facilities, with central Edinburgh’s restaurants nearby
Best for: Families, groups and history enthusiasts seeking a private historic residence rather than a conventional hotel
Prices starting from: £200 per night, depending on room and season

If you’re a history buff, then you simply can’t miss out on a stay at Rock House, a heritage home with a long-standing connection with the local photography and art scene. Originally built in 1756 for a local merchant, the property sits at the foot of secluded Calton Hill and offers panoramic views across the city from its elevated terrace.

Here, you can book the entire house to sleep 14 for the perfect family or friends getaway, or spaces can be booked as three separate apartments, including the octagonal Photographer’s Studio that features a stunning domed roof.

Find out more about Rock House or Book through Booking.com

6. Market Street Hotel | Old Town

Hotel: Market Street Hotel
Location: 6 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1DE, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Old Town, beside Edinburgh Waverley station and within walking distance of the Royal Mile
Rooms: 98 rooms and suites, including options with city views, additional living space and private terraces
Style: Contemporary design by FG Stijl, combining minimalist furnishings, Scottish materials and references to the city’s historic landscape
Family-friendly: Larger room categories offer more space, although the hotel is particularly suited to couples and city-break travellers; confirm occupancy before booking
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Nor’ Loft is a rooftop Champagne lounge serving breakfast, drinks and sharing dishes inspired by Scottish ingredients
Best for: Design lovers, couples and visitors arriving by train who want a central Old Town base
Prices starting from: £140 per night, depending on room and season

Brought to life by JM ARCHITECTS and renowned design studio FG Stijl, Market Street Hotel offers guests the chance to stay in the historic centre of the city. Expect stellar views of the surroundings, coupled by elite service and a design story that is inspired by the property’s exceptional location.

A selection of contemporary rooms and suites allows for a range of layouts, with some inclusive of private outdoor terraces. The rooftop bar and lounge is the perfect spot to start or finish an evening, and is also the place to be for a hearty breakfast that will fuel days of exploring.

Discover more about Market Street Hotel or Book through Booking.com

7. Prestonfield House | Prestonfield

Hotel: Prestonfield House
Location: Priestfield Road, Edinburgh EH16 5UT, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Prestonfield, beside Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, south of the Old Town
Rooms: 23 individually designed bedrooms and suites
Style: Opulent historic interiors with antique furniture, rich fabrics, ornate wood panelling and dramatic period details
Family-friendly: Children are accepted, with family suites and cots available, although the hotel primarily caters to adults and special occasions
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym; extensive gardens and parkland offer peaceful outdoor space
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Rhubarb serves Scottish cuisine, with private dining rooms and elegant lounges for drinks and afternoon tea
Best for: Romantic breaks, celebrations and luxury travellers seeking a secluded country-estate atmosphere within Edinburgh
Prices starting from: £300 per night, depending on room and season

Luxury opulence sums up a stay at the five-star Prestonfield House. Conveniently located near to the city’s centre, this historic hotel is situated within 20 acres of gardens and right next to Arthur’s Seat.

No room on the property is alike, but each features a selection of antique furniture and glamorous beds dressed in impressive linens. Rhubarb serves up cuisine made with the finest Scottish produce, plus don’t miss out on a game of croquet on the lawn.

Find out more about Prestonfield House or Book through Booking.com

8. Dalhousie Castle | Bonnyrigg

Hotel: Dalhousie Castle
Location: Dalhousie Castle, Bonnyrigg, Midlothian EH19 3JB, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Bonnyrigg, around eight miles south of Edinburgh, surrounded by private parkland and wooded valleys
Rooms: 35 refurbished castle bedrooms, with additional accommodation in the Lodge building
Style: Historic medieval castle interiors with stone walls, turrets, traditional furnishings and atmospheric period features
Family-friendly: Suitable for families seeking a countryside castle experience; activities include falconry and archery, subject to availability and age restrictions
Wellness: Spa with treatments and hydrotherapy facilities
Pool: Indoor hydrotherapy pool within the spa; not a conventional swimming pool
Dining: The Castle Dungeon Restaurant offers fine dining, while the Ramsay Restaurant and Orangery provide additional dining options
Best for: History enthusiasts, couples and families seeking a castle stay outside Edinburgh
Prices starting from: £180 per night, depending on room and season

If your dream is to live your best castle life, then make a beeline to gorgeous Dalhousie Castle, located a mere 20-minute drive away from Edinburgh proper. With over 700 years of history behind it, this ancient castle will give you all the turret fix you can handle, and if it’s good enough for Oliver Cromwell and Queen Victoria, it’s good enough for us!

Spend time exploring the network of passageways, or feast in the candlelit dungeon complete with armour and exquisite cuisine. You can take part in falconry on the grounds or channel your inner archer with a session on the bow and arrow. Of course the 29 rooms and suites will satisfy your most regal design dreams, plus the onsite spa will make you feel like the King or Queen you are.

Learn more about Dalhousie Castle or Book through Booking.com

9. The Roseate | Murrayfield

Hotel: The Roseate Edinburgh
Location: 4 West Coates, Edinburgh EH12 5JQ, Scotland
Neighbourhood: West End, near Haymarket railway station and Murrayfield Stadium
Rooms: 35 rooms and suites across two restored Victorian townhouses
Style: Traditional Scottish character combined with contemporary boutique design, antique furnishings and individually styled interiors
Family-friendly: Suitable for couples and smaller families; check room configurations and connecting options directly
Wellness: No dedicated spa or swimming pool; guests can enjoy the garden and peaceful lounge areas
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Dunstane Restaurant & Bar serves Scottish cuisine made with locally sourced, seasonal produce; afternoon tea is also available
Best for: Couples, food enthusiasts and travellers seeking a quieter boutique stay near Haymarket
Prices starting from: £130 per night, depending on room and season

This boutique hotel is a firm favourite for many travellers visiting Edinburgh. Set over two refurbished Victorian townhouses that sit opposite one another, guests love the old-meets-new design of the 35 rooms here, many of which offer highlights like free-standing bathtubs and views across the city.

All-day Scottish dining is available at the restaurant, and The Ba’Bar is home to some of the best aged whisky in town (40-year-old Highland Park tipple, anyone?!) Don’t miss out on enjoying a beer in the garden as you catch the sun here too.

Learn more about The Roseate or Book through Booking.com

10. The Raeburn | Stockbridge

Hotel: The Raeburn
Location: 112 Raeburn Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1HG, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Stockbridge, a short walk from the New Town and the Water of Leith
Rooms: 10 individually styled bedrooms
Style: Restored Georgian townhouse interiors with Scottish tartan, vintage furnishings and traditional architectural details
Family-friendly: Suitable for smaller families, although its intimate size means room availability and occupancy should be checked in advance
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym; nearby walking routes include the Water of Leith path
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: The Raeburn Restaurant serves seasonal Scottish dishes, with a lively bar, private dining and outdoor terraces
Best for: Couples, food lovers and travellers seeking a characterful stay in one of Edinburgh’s most appealing neighbourhoods
Prices starting from: £140 per night, depending on room and season

Originally a Georgian family home built in 1832, The Raeburn has been lovingly restored into a 10-room boutique hotel oozing charm and character. Check in to spacious guestrooms with plenty of Scottish charm in the form of plaid furnishings, Highland cattle artworks, and vintage wooden furniture.

Enjoy a Sunday Roast crafted from local seasonal produce at the restaurant or work your way through the impressive drinks list at the bar.

Learn more about The Raeburn or Book through Booking.com

11. Fingal | Alexandra Docks, Leith

Hotel: Fingal
Location: Alexandra Dock, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 7DX, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Leith waterfront, near the Royal Yacht Britannia
Rooms: 22 individually designed cabins aboard a converted former Northern Lighthouse Board ship
Style: Nautical luxury with polished wood, maritime details, leather furnishings and traditional Scottish textiles
Family-friendly: Best suited to couples and adults seeking a distinctive stay; cabin sizes and the ship’s layout may be less convenient for young children
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym; guests can enjoy the ship’s lounges and waterfront setting
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar serves seasonal Scottish cuisine, afternoon tea and cocktails
Best for: Couples, maritime enthusiasts and travellers seeking an unusual luxury hotel experience
Prices starting from: £200 per night, depending on room and season

For something completely different, how about a stay aboard a luxe floating hotel berthed at Edinburgh’s buzzing waterfront? Originally commissioned by the Northern Lighthouse Board, cabins here have been designed with comfort in mind and include warm wood elements next to leather sofas and pops of tartan. Go all out and book the Skerryvore Suite which includes a private deck, dining area, and even a freestanding bath.

The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar serves exquisite cuisine crafted to reflect seasonal Scottish products.

Find out more about Fingal

12. Hotel du Vin | Old Town

Hotel: Hotel du Vin Edinburgh
Location: 11 Bristo Place, Edinburgh EH1 1EZ, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Old Town, close to the University of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal Mile
Rooms: 47 individually designed rooms and suites
Style: Historic architecture with contemporary boutique interiors, handcrafted furniture and traditional details
Family-friendly: Suitable for families, with children’s menus and highchairs available; check room occupancy when booking
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Bistro du Vin serves French-inspired cuisine with Scottish influences; the hotel also has a bar, Whisky Snug and Cigar Bothy
Best for: Couples, food and wine enthusiasts, and visitors wanting to explore the Old Town on foot
Prices starting from: £120 per night, depending on room and season

Conveniently located in Old Town, and close for exploring the city, Hotel Du Vin is a wonderful base for travellers seeking a little history. Originally built in 1743, this stunning building has formerly seen life as a poorhouse, a science lab, and even an asylum.

Choose from 47 distinctly designed rooms here, and enjoy handcrafted furniture alongside handsprung mattresses and oodles of charm. Bistro du Vin focuses on serving the freshest ingredients from breakfast to dinner.

Discover more about Hotel du Vin or Book through Booking.com

13. 23 Mayfield | Newington

Hotel: 23 Mayfield
Location: 23 Mayfield Gardens, Newington, Edinburgh EH9 2BX, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Newington, a residential area south of the city centre and near Arthur’s Seat
Rooms: Five individually furnished guest rooms in a Victorian villa dating from 1868
Style: Traditional Victorian elegance with carved mahogany furniture, four-poster beds, stained glass and antique decorative details
Family-friendly: Family rooms are listed, but cots and extra beds are not available; check suitability for younger children
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym; the garden offers a quiet outdoor retreat
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Breakfast is served in the period dining room, with a bar on site and restaurants nearby
Best for: Couples and travellers seeking an intimate guesthouse with traditional Scottish hospitality
Prices starting from: £120 per night, depending on room and season

Located right in the heart of the city, 23 Mayfield offers a twist on the classic bed and breakfast experience. The seven rooms here feature ornately hand-carved solid mahogany furniture, requisite touches of tartan, and central heating to keep you cosy in the winter months.

The morning meal is served in the candle-lit breakfast room, where guests enjoy dishes made from fresh, local produce, and the beautifully appointed front garden is the perfect place to recuperate after a long day of sightseeing in the capital.

Find out more about 23 Mayfield or Book through Booking.com

14. Black Ivy | Bruntsfield

Hotel: Black Ivy
Location: 4 Alvanley Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 1DU, Scotland
Neighbourhood: Bruntsfield, overlooking Bruntsfield Links and within easy reach of the city centre
Rooms: 22 individually designed bedrooms
Style: Contemporary boutique interiors with bold colours, layered textures and a mix of modern and traditional furnishings
Family-friendly: Suitable for families, with family accommodation and a relaxed restaurant; note that the bar can be lively at weekends
Wellness: No dedicated spa or gym; Bruntsfield Links provides nearby outdoor space
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: The restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, modern pub dishes and Sunday roasts; the property also has several bars and an outdoor terrace
Best for: Couples, friends and food lovers who enjoy a lively neighbourhood hotel with a strong bar and restaurant scene
Prices starting from: £100 per night, depending on room and season

Home to just 21 guestrooms, Black Ivy delights with its unique design aesthetic that blends minimalism with pops of colour and texture. Just five minutes away from the city centre, if you base yourself here, you’ll find Egyptian Cotton sheets on the bed, White Company toiletries, and views of the neighbouring park from certain suites.

The property is also home to a bustling restaurant which prides itself on serving classics with a twist–think Lobster Mac & Cheese and Creamy Chicken, Bacon, and Haggis Pie. Four bars are onsite to quench your thirst for everything from craft beer, to local gins or whisky.

Find out more about Black Ivy or Book through Booking.com

15. Dakota Edinburgh | Queensferry

Hotel: Dakota Edinburgh
Location: 11 Ferrymuir, South Queensferry, Edinburgh EH30 9QZ, Scotland
Neighbourhood: South Queensferry, a coastal town west of Edinburgh overlooking the Firth of Forth
Rooms: Contemporary guest rooms and suites with comfortable beds, rainfall showers and modern amenities
Style: Understated contemporary luxury with dark tones, clean lines and refined industrial-inspired interiors
Family-friendly: Family-friendly facilities include cots, children’s menus and accessible accommodation options
Wellness: Fitness facilities are available; no dedicated spa
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: Dakota Grill serves seasonal dishes, while Dakota Bar offers cocktails, whisky and relaxed dining
Best for: Couples, business travellers and visitors seeking a stylish coastal base near Edinburgh Airport and the Forth bridges
Prices starting from: £100 per night, depending on room and season

Nestled away on the outskirts of the city near the village of South Queensferry, Dakota Edinburgh is all about that luxe vibe, featuring a subdued yet chic aesthetic that will have you relaxing in no time. Expect sumptuous cotton linen bedding, rejuvenating monsoon showers, and cosy nooks from which to catch up on a good book.

Dine at renowned Dakota Grill, where high-quality, seasonal ingredients are the orders of the day or hit Dakota Bar for a cocktail or whisky tasting.

Learn more about Dakota Edinburgh or Book through Booking.com

16. 100 Princes Street Edinburgh | Central

Hotel: 100 Princes Street
Location: 100 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 3AB, Scotland
Neighbourhood: New Town, overlooking Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle
Rooms: 29 individually designed rooms and suites, including interconnecting options for groups of up to six guests
Style: Maximalist Scottish luxury inspired by a private members’ club, with bespoke tartans, antiques, curated artwork and rich furnishings
Family-friendly: Interconnecting rooms can accommodate families and groups of up to six, subject to availability
Wellness: No dedicated spa or swimming pool; personalised guest experiences and intimate lounges are central to the hotel offering
Pool: No swimming pool
Dining: The Wallace serves Scottish cuisine, while Ghillie’s Pantry offers an extensive whisky selection and light refreshments
Best for: Couples, luxury travellers and guests seeking an intimate central hotel with Edinburgh Castle views
Prices starting from: £350 per night, depending on room and season

Formerly the headquarters of the Royal Overseas League, history buffs will fall in love with this boutique hotel that combines a traditional Scottish aesthetic with hints of opulence. Conveniently located and offering exceptional views of famed Edinburgh Castle, we can attest to top-notch service here.

Rooms and Suites are designed to suit every type of traveller, from single occupancy to interleading spaces that can accommodate up to six people, but our favourite part is the original tartans designed by Araminta Campbell. The Wallace showcases the very best of local produce, while Ghillie’s Pantry is the spot for whiskies.

Learn more about 100 Princes Street Edinburgh or Book through Booking.com

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