In a city rooted in history with a thriving tourist industry, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of hotels to cater for all the visitors, which makes it a difficult choice if you’re not ‘in the know’. It’s understandable that when travelling to an unfamiliar place you gravitate towards the more familiar and that’s often the case with hotels, where people lean towards the big groups and recognisable names in the belief that it will ensure quality. However, the downside of this thinking is that you often end up paying for a very generic experience and miss the hidden gems. With quirky nooks and crannies round every corner in a city that is far from generic, surely the whole aim of coming to Edinburgh is to experience the individuality and history of the place?
Here at The Rutland Hotel, we take pride in offering our guests a unique experience in the heart of the West End. Everything is within easy reach, which makes it the perfect place to stay to explore the city. Although, if you just wish to hide, relax and indulge away from all the chaos, then our individually designed rooms create the perfect escape. With The Huxley, Kyloe steak restaurant and Heads and Tales gin bar all downstairs, you need never leave the building!
The beauty of The Rutland is that when you choose to stay here, not only is there a sophisticated and stylish boutique hotel steeped in Edinburgh history, but you also have the choice of staying in the stunning and luxurious, five-star serviced apartments. Whether you’re looking for a home away from home, or just fancy that little bit more privacy, our selection of apartments will be sure to help you settle in and feel like an Edinburgher in no time! It’s the perfect basecamp for families, offering the security of being all together, yet the freedom to get out and about. Business visits are also a great opportunity to take up residence in the apartments because it’s ideally located for getting to the financial district quickly; in addition, when you get home from a busy day at the office, sometimes you just need the chance to be able to unwind and relax on the sofa or finish that extra bit of work…and how much better that is in designer surroundings!
If you’re planning to get out exploring other places to eat and drink, here are a few recommendations of some of the best places to try out:
Badger & Co
An exciting new bar and eatery in the former childhood home of The Wind in the Willows’ author, Kenneth Grahame, on Castle Street, which is just a short walk from The Rutland. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a menu that focuses on local and seasonal produce, this is the perfect spot to refuel in glamorous, yet comfortable, surroundings any time of the day.
The Queens Arms
This is a quality pub on Frederick Street, just off George Street, where you can mingle with those enjoying an after-work tipple alongside regulars, so the perfect place to mix with locals, although it has proved equally popular with tourists. They serve delicious, seasonal Scottish food as well as a wide selection of drinks and craft beers.
Element
A cosy bar with a warm welcome and a Scottish feel. Situated on Rose Street, it is not too far to walk from The Rutland, either, so very easy to get to. After a day trawling the shops and boutiques of town, this is your oasis!
The Basement Bar
Located on Broughton Street, which is definitely worth a visit for its quirky vibe, The Basement Bar is a trendy cocktail bar where you can satisfy your craving for Mexican food whilst listening to the latest tunes and, if you’re there on a Sunday, you can see a live band.
The Black Bull
If you’re up in the Old Town and in the historic Grassmarket, then this is where you need to head for refreshment. It’s a traditional pub serving tasty pub grub; depending on the day, they will be showing all the big sporting events and there is regular live music as well as a DJ at the weekend, so plenty to keep you entertained and get the party started!
