MOTEL ONE EDINBURGH-ROYAL
About the Castle Hotel
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal - The Savvy Explorer's Edinburgh Base
For the discerning traveler seeking to unlock Edinburgh's ancient secrets without sacrificing comfort or style, the Motel One Edinburgh-Royal presents itself as an exceptionally well-placed and thoughtfully designed option. It's a establishment that manages to feel both contemporary and intrinsically tied to its historic surroundings, proving that a budget-friendly stay need not compromise on sophisticated design or a prime location. This is a hotel that understands the traveler's needs, from proximity to transport hubs to moments of quiet repose after a day of exploration.
Location
Situated near the foot of the iconic Cockburn Street, this hotel finds itself at the very heart of Edinburgh's UNESCO World Heritage site, an advantageous position that places much of the city's storied past within striking distance. The legendary Royal Mile and the imposing Edinburgh Castle are mere minutes away on foot, as are the Princes Street Gardens, providing a picturesque backdrop. For those wishing to venture further afield, the Waverley Train Station, the second-largest rail depot in the United Kingdom, is a mere five-minute stroll, and the Airport Express bus ensures effortless transit. The historic market square of Grassmarket, with its array of bars and restaurants, is also easily accessible, completing a picture of supreme connectivity.
Style and Character
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal successfully sidesteps the usual expectations of its 'motel' moniker, instead offering a boutique and design-led experience. The property has infused the rustic yet regal style of the Scottish Highlands into its interiors, creating a unique atmosphere. This is immediately apparent in the reception area, where a wall of real ferns and mosses brings the charm of the Scottish outdoors inside, a fetching touch that sets the tone. The collective design ethos marries mid-century modern sensibilities with a distinctively Scottish flair, evident in elements like Arne Jacobsen ball chairs paired with tables crafted from repurposed whiskey barrels. Decorative flourishes abound, from fetching blue tartan swivel chairs to elegant Arco floor lamps and warm wooden floors. The property's walls in the One Lounge are notably adorned with sheep sculptures by artist Marie Talalaeff, adding a narrative and artistic dimension. Overall, the aesthetic is one of refined contemporary style that sits comfortably within Edinburgh's Old Town scenery.
Service and Facilities
The commitment to guest comfort is evident in the 24-hour reception and consistently high standards of service. The lobby lounge, known as the One Lounge, offers a welcoming sanctuary, outfitted with an abundance of high-backed, cloth-covered chairs that invite guests to linger. It serves as a practical space for enjoying breakfast in the morning or unwinding with a drink at day's end. For those seeking a caffeine fix or a light refreshment, freshly brewed barista coffee is available alongside an assortment of hot and cold snacks. The hotel provides complimentary WiFi throughout the property, a standard that has become essential for any modern traveler.
Rooms
The hotel offers 208 non-smoking rooms, each designed to be a stylish and comfortable retreat. Standard rooms feature practical amenities such as an en suite bathroom with a shower, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and modern, tasteful furniture. Thoughtful touches like premium bedding and laptop-friendly workspaces are standard inclusions, alongside essential amenities like free WiFi. While the Basic Room might offer a skylight window rather than an external view, the Double Room with View provides an opportunity to gaze out over Edinburgh, offering glimpses of its historical beauty. Each room is appointed with carpeted floors, a desk, a safe deposit box, and an electric kettle, ensuring a degree of convenience and comfort.
Food and Drink
While not offering extensive onsite dining facilities in the traditional sense, the Motel One Edinburgh-Royal ensures guests have access to refreshments. The One Lounge serves as the central hub for food and drink, providing freshly brewed barista coffee and a selection of hot and cold snacks. This makes it a convenient spot for a quick bite or a pre-dinner aperitif. For more substantial meals, guests are perfectly positioned to explore the numerous bars and restaurants in the nearby Grassmarket and the wider Old Town, a short walk away.
Value for Money
As a 3-star budget hotel, the Motel One Edinburgh-Royal excels in delivering a design-conscious experience at an accessible price point. The inclusion of complimentary WiFi throughout the property and its prime location within a UNESCO World Heritage site significantly enhance its value proposition. Guests gain access to a stylish, comfortable base from which to explore one of Europe's most captivating cities, with many key attractions and transport links within easy walking distance. It represents a smart choice for the traveler who prioritizes location and curated design without the premium price tag.
Accessibility
While specific details on adapted rooms and comprehensive wheelchair access are not detailed, the hotel's general layout and 24-hour reception suggest a degree of attentiveness to guest needs. The presence of a functional lift would be typical for a property of this nature, facilitating access to upper floors. Further inquiry directly with the hotel would be recommended for specific accessibility requirements.
Family-Friendly
The proximity to attractions like the Scottish Storytelling Centre, which is just a 10-minute walk away and offers family activities and evening entertainment, makes this a practical choice for those traveling with children. Its central location also means easy access to museums and historical sites. While not overtly marketed as a family resort, the provision of comfortable rooms and a convenient location for exploring the city's many wonders should appeal to families looking for a functional and engaging base.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- Security
- Luggage storage
- Lift
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Housekeeping
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Bar/ Lounge area
Spa & Leisure
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Wi-Fi in rooms
- Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
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