KIMPTON CHARLOTTE SQUARE BY IHG
About the Castle Hotel
Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh - An Elegant Georgian Sanctuary
In the heart of Edinburgh's New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kimpton Charlotte Square stands as a sophisticated retreat. It offers a refined urban experience, a calm counterpoint to the city's energetic pulse, making it a truly distinguished choice for discerning travelers.
Location
Positioned on the leafy, historic Charlotte Square, the hotel is a world away from the immediate tourist throngs, yet within easy reach of the city's cultural treasures. It's a mere 15-kilometer journey from Edinburgh Airport and a pleasant 20-minute walk to Edinburgh Waverley station. Landmarks like the Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile are all within a kilometer's stroll, while the more dramatic slopes of Arthur's Seat and Calton Hill are a short, invigorating walk away. Personally, I find its placement in the New Town offers a more authentic Edinburgh experience, a tranquil base from which to explore the city's Georgian grandeur.
Style and Character
The hotel occupies a collection of elegant Georgian townhouses, imbuing the property with a sense of history and understated grandeur. The interiors marry classic architectural features with contemporary comfort. While BABA restaurant's bold turquoise palette and theatrical Middle Eastern-inspired décor feel somewhat jarring against the building's inherent elegance, the overall atmosphere is one of polished serenity. The public spaces, particularly the ground-floor courtyard oasis, The Garden, offer a welcome sense of calm, accented by a curated selection of original prints from Upright Gallery.
Service and Facilities
The service here is notably affable and personal, ensuring a seamless experience from arrival. The guest services team are adept at making you feel immediately at ease, inquiring about your journey with genuine warmth. The Spa at Charlotte Square provides an elevated escape, with therapists offering a range of de-stressing treatments that utilize natural, organic ingredients. For those seeking to maintain their fitness regime, the gym is comprehensively equipped with the latest Intenza Fitness cardio equipment, Impulse strength stations, Peloton(R) bikes, and free weights, alongside a diverse schedule of classes from Pilates to HIIT. Hotel guests and locals alike can make use of the pool, sauna, and steam room for a complete wellness experience.
Rooms
Accommodations range from intimate Single rooms to spacious Junior Suites and the magnificent largest suite, all thoughtfully designed within the Georgian townhouses. Entry-level rooms, finished with neutral tones and stylish appointments, offer comforts such as free WiFi, smart TVs, and mini-fridges. Superior rooms, some featuring sofa beds, are more expansive. The Junior Suites and larger Suites add further space and amenities, including Nespresso machines and upgraded toiletries from Perfume's Story. Bathrooms are generally well-appointed, with rainfall showers and signature toiletries as standard. While the description mentions a range of bed configurations, it's always prudent to confirm your specific preference upon booking, as allocation is subject to availability.
Food and Drink
Breakfast is served in The Garden, an indoor courtyard that transforms into a relaxed setting for food and drink throughout the day. Here, one can enjoy salads, hot dishes, and cakes, with Scottish cocktails appearing as the evening draws in. BABA, with its distinctive turquoise décor, offers a unique culinary experience blending Middle Eastern and Scottish influences. For a more intimate dining experience, The Dining Room and The Drawing Room, part of the 33 at Charlotte Square event spaces, are designed to feel like an elegant private home. Aizle, while not explicitly detailed for this hotel, is known for its constantly changing tasting menus, offering a true snapshot of the season.
Value for Money
While specific rates are not provided, the Kimpton Charlotte Square positions itself as a high-end urban sanctuary. The inclusion of extensive spa and gym facilities, coupled with the personalized service and prime Georgian location, suggests a strong offering for those seeking a refined Edinburgh stay. Packages that combine spa treatments with dining experiences offer a clear opportunity to derive excellent value from the hotel's amenities.
Accessibility
The hotel offers accessible rooms designed to accommodate guests with specific needs. These rooms feature wider doors, grab handrails in the bathroom, and emergency pull cords, alongside standard amenities like free WiFi and air conditioning. This thoughtful provision ensures a comfortable and secure stay for all guests.
Family-Friendly
While not explicitly detailed as a primary focus, the hotel's spacious room options, including suites, would comfortably accommodate families. The tranquil setting and the availability of a pool and gym offer diversions for various ages. The courtyard setting of The Garden provides a relaxed atmosphere for meals, and the hotel's proximity to city attractions makes it a convenient base for exploring with children.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Security
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Lift
- Coffee shop
- Smoke detectors
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
- Key access
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Tennis court
- Bowling
- Golf course
- Squash
- Yoga class
- Sports trainer
- Aerobics
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Valet parking
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Car hire
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Packed lunches
Business
- Business centre
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Indoor swimming pool
- Leisure/ TV room
- Spa & wellness centre
- Sauna
- Steam room
- Jacuzzi
- Pedicure
- Manicure
- Body scrub
- Facial
- Body wraps
- Back massage
- Head massage
- Full body massage
- Foot massage
Room features
- Wi-Fi in rooms
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Mini-bar
- Sitting area
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
- Rollaway beds
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Sink
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Parquet floor
Location
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