The hype
Travelers adore the boutique design and the breakfast, but often wish it were slightly closer to the Old Town.
The Roseate Edinburgh
$150-350/ night
Book this if You want a moody, whisky-soaked Victorian fantasy in a quiet neighborhood, and don't mind being a 20-minute walk from the castle.
Why People Love It
- The incredible whisky selection (over 80 varieties) at The Dunstane Bar
- Authentic Orkney soul—fresh seafood and island hospitality remain despite the rebrand
- Vispring beds that guests consistently rate as 'cloud-like'
Quick Take: A stunning pair of Victorian villas that feels more like a wealthy friend's estate than a hotel, provided you don't get stuck in the basement annex.
Reviewed by @thezaisers: I felt like royalty staying here. The copper tub in the room was my favorite spot to unwind with champagne, and the mirrored canopy bed is just stunning. Perfect for a romantic escape away from the busy city center.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Cosy Wee Double' is literally that—12 sqm is tight for two people with luggage.
- You appreciate a curated gin and whisky collection over a hotel gym
- You prefer a residential, leafy vibe to the chaos of the Royal Mile
- You love bathtub culture—the copper roll-top baths in suites are legendary
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Generally meticulous daily service, though rare reports of missed dust in intricate Victorian decor exist.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are usually sparkling, but one recent guest reported mold issues in a specific room—inspect upon arrival.
- Maintenance: Well-maintained heritage property, but expect creaky floors and the occasional stiff sash window.
- Linens & towels: High-quality Egyptian cotton sheets and plush towels; consistently praised.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of fresh flowers and subtle wood polish; no musty old-house smells reported.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Creaking floorboards from guests above (especially in basement rooms)
- Traffic noise in front-facing rooms on West Coates (main road)
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is a 20-25 minute walk or 5-minute bus/taxi ride to the city center.
- Breakfast is a la carte and highly rated, featuring local haggis and kippers.
- There is a 12.5% discretionary service charge added to food and drink bills.
What to pack
- Walking shoes: The Water of Leith walkway is directly behind the hotel.
- Earplugs: Essential if you end up in a lower-floor room due to creaky floorboards.
- Universal adapter: Older buildings often have fewer outlets than modern builds.
Room Genie
Best picks
- Roseate Suite (Dunstane House): The showstopper with the copper tub in the bay window.
- Scapa or Hoy Suites: Spacious, character-rich, and often feature four-poster beds.
- Luxury King (Dunstane House): High ceilings and original Victorian features.
Rooms to avoid
- Cosy Wee Double: Only book for solo stays; it is claustrophobic for couples.
- Hampton House Basement Rooms: Often darker and prone to noise from the reception/lounge above.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a room in the main Dunstane House if possible, ideally on an upper floor to minimize overhead noise. Please avoid the lower ground/basement level.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a gym or pool?
No. There are absolutely no fitness facilities on-site. You'll need to run on the Water of Leith path nearby.
How far is the Old Town?
It's about a 20-30 minute brisk walk or a quick bus/tram ride. The Haymarket tram stop is a 5-minute walk away.
Is there parking?
Yes, on-site parking is available for £20/day, but spaces are limited and should be requested in advance.
Does the hotel have an elevator?
No. Be prepared to carry luggage up stairs. Staff will assist, but accessibility is limited.
Which building is better?
Dunstane House (the main building) generally has more character and the main bar/restaurant. Hampton House is the annex across the street.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome for a fee of £30 per stay, and they even get a welcome bed and treats.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Orkney' influence isn't just marketing; try the scallops and the Highland Park whisky—the previous owners were Orcadian and the legacy remains.
- ✨
Ask for a 'Dram' at the bar; the staff's whisky knowledge is genuinely expert-level, not just memorized scripts.
- ✨
The bus stop right outside (Wester Coates) has the 'Airlink 100' bus which goes directly to/from the airport—super convenient.
5 things to know before you go
💡You might have to cross a busy main road to get to breakfast if you stay in the annex (Hampton House).
💡The 'Cosy Wee Double' rooms are 12 square meters—that is smaller than a standard parking space.
💡There is no AC in most rooms, though Edinburgh rarely needs it (fans are provided).
💡The water pressure in the top-floor Victorian rooms can sometimes be 'gentle' rather than 'power shower'.
💡The garden in the back is a surprisingly private spot for a cigar or evening drink that most guests miss.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Roseate Edinburgh is located and what's nearby.