HOTEL OF THE WEEK
Scotland
WHERE AND WHY: This is a stone’s throw from the famous Playhouse Theatre, and a short walk from Princes Street with Edinburgh Castle towering above you, right in the heart of Scotland’s capital city.
It’s worth ditching the car, especially with hotel residents getting 40% off by parking just around the corner. With a tram stop at the front door, it’s also ideal for travelling further afield.
Set in a Georgian townhouse in the 18th-century New Town, the boutique hotel is contemporary but cosy and its giraffe-themed family suite is great for the kids. With teepee beds and giraffe decor, they think they’re glamping in an African rainforest, while adults can chill on a super-comfy bed facing a plasma TV screen.
ON THE MENU: The hotel’s £12 breakfast in The Turquoise Thistle lounge is terrific value. A continental selection is followed by a choice of hot dishes, but while in Auld Reekie, it’s difficult to see past the ‘full Edinburgh’ fry-up. Light lunches and beer and burgers are available in the evening, and you can sample a dram of malt whisky in the bar.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE:
Edinburgh Zoo is a 20-minute bus ride from the hotel. You can also visit the castle, the Royal Mile or go shopping on Princes Street. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, visit Greyfriars Kirkyard to spot some of the characters’ names on the gravestones. At night, the Stand Comedy Club is close by, then you can head to the Grassmarket or George Street for a choice of bars.
WAKE UP CALL: The Giraffethemed family suite package, including breakfast, bus passes and tickets for Edinburgh Zoo is available from £169 a night. edinburgh.hotelindigo.com