Tartan, herringbone, and houndstooth patterns all feature at this affordable design-led property in the heart of the city's Old Town.
From Singapore to New York, we’re always on the hunt for the best design hotels across the globe. So when we heard that German brand Motel One was in the business of creating affordable design-led properties, we just had to see it for ourselves, and as we were heading to Edinburgh anyway, it seemed like the perfect time to check in.
Don’t miss our local’s guide on the best things to do in Edinburgh too.
While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.
On a cold autumn day, a train crossed into Scotland carrying a very excited travel editor who had never visited the bonnie country before. When I alighted at Waverley Station with my partner in crime, Google maps told us that Motel One Edinburgh Royal was just a hop, skip, and a jump away, and the app wasn’t wrong.
Sitting in a gorgeous listed heritage building from the 16th century in the heart of the Old Town, the property has one of the best locations around. But could a hotel with rooms from just £79 per night really offer a great design and service experience?
The short answer is: heck yes.
As soon as we entered the One Lounge communal area, the good vibes were flowing. Mismatched furniture (I spied Tom Dixon’s Fan Chair and Arne Jacobsen Egg Chairs at first glance) had been carefully curated to create a comfy area where guests can relax or work throughout the day, enjoy a drink at night, and tuck into breakfast in the morning. A number of fires keep spaces warm and cosy, and I loved the quirky sheep sculptures by Marie Talalaeff (lead image) on the walls, surrounded by greenery that echoes the flora and fauna of Scotland, and a range of tables crafted from whisky barrels.
Check-in was simple, and we soon discovered how warm the staff at Motel One Edinburgh Royal were. As we walked along hallways covered in herringbone and houndstooth wallpaper we found our room and went inside.
The room was small but well-formed featuring a fun Edinburgh tartan headboard and photography of a highland cow in nods to the location. As someone who has lived almost half her life in Asia, I found the design quite functional, with enough space for clothes to hang, a small fridge, and a kettle. The addition of even a few drawers would have been advantageous for a longer stay, but the bed was really comfortable and that’s one of the most important things to me.
The bathroom has high quality fittings, including Dornbracht taps and a Hansgrohe showerhead, so it’s great to see that they’ve invested in these important bits. I love the fact that there’s no toothbrushes or extras in the room, and it’s things like these that keep costs down, plus, it’s so much more sustainable. This is no-frills good times, so if you’re looking for luxury – this isn’t it, but for us it worked really well as a central base.
Breakfast is served downstairs and includes a mix of fresh fruit, cereals, bread, and charcuterie. My favourite bit was the pot of soft-boiled eggs where, every morning, a member of staff draws faces on them to make you smile: so cute! (Side note, we asked one of the waitresses who drew them and she said it changes everyday but is a highly sought after job.)
Above the bar, 50 whisky decanters have been crafted into light fittings by designer Lee Broom, in homage to the nation’s favourite tipple. A number of whiskys are available of course, and they also have a surprisingly large gin menu along with everything else you’d expect from a central city bar, including the friendly service.
I can’t stress enough how perfectly placed the hotel is. You’re within walking distance of so much, including The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, The Real Mary King’s Close, and some of the finest restaurants (we loved Noto and The Devil’s Advocate), cafes, and bars around.
Our first experience at Motel One was a delight from start to finish, and I can’t wait to visit more of their properties across Europe.
Find out more about Motel One Edinburgh Royal or Book through Booking.com
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