Hotels in Edinburgh

In the not so dim and distant past, Edinburgh used to explode into life like a Roman candle during the International Festival and Fringe, before fizzling out just as quickly and allowing the locals to reclaim their city.

But the last decade or so has seen the city transformed into a year-round destination, which in turn has created a buoyant demand for accommodation across a range of budgets. Tartan carpets and thistle-patterned wallpaper are becoming things of the past; new investment, particularly from a clutch of ambitious, home-grown hoteliers, has challenged the old-stagers to raise their games.

Almost all places now have Wi-Fi and some top-end hotels have recently opened spas to cater for those after a spot of pampering.

Prices & booking

If you're planning to visit in the run-up to Hogmanay or during August, or if your stay coincides with a rugby international, you may end up paying a premium for your room; book as early as possible. The flipside is that bargain deals are increasingly commonplace – particularly from October to April, when rates can drop by more than 50 per cent.

Significant savings can also sometimes be made if you're prepared to wait until the last minute before booking; most clued-up hoteliers would rather sell their beds at a discount than leave them empty. If you arrive in town without having pre-booked your hotel, it may be worth getting in touch with the Edinburgh & Lothians Tourist Board (0845 225 5121/www.edinburgh.org). Staff can make reservations for hotels across the city direct from its office for a small booking fee.

Budget beds

If you're on a tight budget or just up for partying, hostels can be a fun place to stay. All the following places have no curfew but you'll probably need to book ahead, especially during the festival. See the Budget Backpackers, Caledonian Backpackers, the Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel and the Princes Street East Backpackers hostel.

The Scottish Youth Hostel Association (SYHA/www.syha.org.uk) runs a number of hostels in Edinburgh, including the Edinburgh Central SYHA Hostel, the Edinburgh Metro SYHA Hostel which is only open in July and August to cater for the summer crowds.

Spas

Upmarket hotel the Sheraton Grand boasts one of the best spas in Europe, One Spa, where you can come for a swim in the pool, hang around the extensive thermal suite, enjoy the bubbling outdoors hydropool at night, or just pop in for a swift treatment. The menu covers everything from a quick eye lift to a bundled package of exfoliation, shiatsu and head massage that goes on for nearly two hours.

One Spa is not the only recent arrival in the city, though. The Cowshed, forms part of the Scotsman hotel's Escape fitness centre which features a rather funky stainless steel pool as well as an extensive gym – and the usual array of pamperings. The most extravagant involves a salt scrub, massage, a break for lunch, then a facial and a manicure to finish.

With all this healthy competition around, The Balmoral decided to get in on the act; general atmosphere and attention to detail has seen it sail into the upper reaches of 'best UK urban day spa' lists. It even does a massage treatment for children with a drink and gift at the end.

Top tips

Disabled access: many hotels have disabled access and specially adapted rooms; the Edinburgh & Lothians Tourist Board (0845 225 5121/www.edinburgh.org) can provide a comprehensive list. Other advice is available from Edinburgh City Council and Grapevine (www.lothiancil.org.uk).

Our listings

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this guide, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors it may contain. Before you go out of your way, we strongly advise you to phone ahead and check the particulars.

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