The Old Waverley Hotel

The Old Waverley Hotel is a peaceful, ultra-civilized property with an antique flavor. The decor is simple, with historical prints and framed documents, grandfather clocks, old maps of the city, and voluminous draperies framing large, beautiful windows with views of local monuments. Some guest complain that reception can only be reached via a long staircase and isn't serviced by the elevator, but the hotel encourages those with cumbersome luggage to ring a bell for staff assistance. Soft jazz is piped into the common areas, and bagpipers can often be heard playing on the busy shopping street below. The Old Waverley caters to travelers who are middle-aged and older, although all are welcome. But families may find the rooms a little cramped for more than two. The Abbotsford Bar has a classic British royal feel, from the deep-blue carpeting to the striking, red velvet drapes with their gold fringe. Cranston’s, the hotel restaurant, has elaborately carved plaster, classical columns, leather chairs, and a sophisticated vibe to go along with the views of Edinburgh Castle. This is not a hotel for nightlife-lovers or hipsters, but guests seeking a serene,  home base for an Edinburgh stay will enjoy the calm and the spectacular location.

The Old Waverley Hotel is located in Edinburgh’s New Town area, on Princes Street, the city’s number one shopping destination. The area is full of restaurants and other dining options, and there is plenty of room to stroll. The financial district is a 15-minute walk, and a number of excellent galleries and museums are within five- to 10-minute walk, including The Mound and City Art Centre. Waverley train station is across the street, a minute or two on foot from the lobby. There are bus and taxi stands just outside, as well. Guests who like to walk will enjoy a stroll in the adjacent park area, Princes Street Gardens, located past the Victorian Gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument, which is visible from the hotel’s bar, restaurant, and many guest rooms.

Rooms at the Old Waverley Hotel are small, but include some regal touches. The high ceilings have elaborately carved plasterwork, and the large, beautiful windows offer great city views, some of picturesque Edinburgh Castle. Rooms facing Princes Street cost extra, but many guests say the views of Old Town are worth it. Decor includes some cozy touches, like floral-patterned throw pillows, deep red carpeting, and small bedside lamps. Lovely, long, voluminous drapes add sophistication, and some rooms have bay windows with seating areas. Rooms are clean, but the furniture shows some wear, with water stains visible on some surfaces. Closet space is tight. The marble bathrooms are small, but clean and modern, with deep tubs. Amenities include coffeemakers (with free shortbread!), flat-screen TVs, irons and ironing boards, and digital climate control panels. 

Abbotsford, the hotel's private bar, has a conservative vibe and serves delicious afternoon tea with tiny sandwiches, scones, and cakes. The bar menu includes Scottish staples, such as meat pies and “Traditional Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties Served with Whisky Sauce.” And, of course, a wide variety of Scotch whisky. Cranston’s, the Old Waverley’s restaurant, has a spacious dining room with views of Edinburgh castle. The fine dining menu makes use of local produce, and includes traditional Scottish fare with sophisticated twists. Meeting and event facilities are available, including the restaurant and bar.