Canon Court ApartHotel

Housed in two small, pale structures separated by the property’s parking lot, the Canon Court looks from the outside just like any other apartment building in the area. A small gate opens to a narrow path lined on one side by a neat garden, leading straight to the front door. The property was one of the first serviced apartment complexes to open in Edinburgh, but it changed hands in 2006 and underwent some renovations in 2016. The only common space is the reception area, a tiny room with just two chairs, a small table, and a small front desk. However, warm lights, a neutral palette, and a big mirror make it pleasant and homey. The rest of the interiors are more straightforward and somewhat worn, with older carpet in some of the hallways, simple wooden doors, and plain off-white tiles in some areas. Though a tad bland in general, the property is well-maintained and comfortable, especially for extended stays and business travelers, who make up the majority of guests here. 

While the Canon Court Apartments are a good option for budget-conscious families and groups, there is an extra charge for additional guests using the sofa beds, which can add up. At the Edinburgh City Hotel, kids under 15 stay and eat for free, making it a great alternative for those who don’t need apartment-style amenities such as a kitchen. Travelers wanting something more modern than the Canon Court may want to check out the Staycity Serviced Apartments West End, which is generally in the same price range and also just a short bus ride from the center.  

Canon Court Apartments are located on a busy street in the Canonmills district, a quiet area between central Edinburgh and Leith. The street where the apartments are is one of the main thoroughfares in the neighborhood, with several bus stops within two blocks of the hotel, and lots of traffic during the day. Princes Street can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot, but Canonmills is a low-lying area, which means the walk to the city center and all major attractions is up a long, steep hill. There is a 24-hour supermarket right across the street from the property, as well as a bigger one and many bars and restaurants within a five-minute walk. The Royal Botanic Garden is just down the street from the Canon Court, and it takes about 15 minutes to reach lovely Inverleith Park. Attractions in the Old Town, including the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Edinburgh Castle are all about a 30-minute bus ride away. The airport is about 25 minutes away by car. 

Apartments at Canon Court have either one or two bedrooms, separate living areas, and full kitchens. Decor varies a little bit between Standard and Classic units, but most look fresh and cheerful from the 2016 renovations, with laminate floors, clean lines, and a purple palette. Standard Apartments have leather-like black couches and simple pinewood dining tables, while Classic ones are a tad more modern, with more minimalist lines, striped accent walls, and colorful contemporary art throughout. Classic units can only be booked directly with the property. Apartments are generally in good shape and clean, though minor maintenance issues have been reported, including scuff marks on walls. Ours had worn door knobs throughout and older hot plates in the kitchen, but was otherwise in good condition.

Each apartment has a kitchen outfitted with four hot plates, a washer, oven, microwave, toaster, electric kettle, and mini-fridge, as well as a few pots and pans. Welcome packs with instant coffee, sugar, milk, and teabags are provided free of charge. Additionally, apartments come with a few nice amenities, including free Wi-Fi, DVD players, flat-screen TVs, and free safes. Central heating is available (though the system is older and sometimes complicated to operate), but apartments lack air-conditioning. Bedrooms have either two twin beds or a double bed, and sofa beds are available for additional guests for an extra fee. Our mattress was a little bit past its prime, but most guests seem to find beds comfortable. Bathrooms are clean though basic, with simple off-white tiles throughout, small sinks, no toiletries other than hand soap, and shower/tub combos with plastic curtains. 

Housekeeping is available once per week, or more often for a charge. 

The Canon Court Apartments has no common spaces other than a small reception area with tourism brochures and two chairs. The front desk is not staffed overnight, but late arrivals can be arranged by prior notice, and there is an emergency number available 24/7. The property also has a few parking spots in a small lot located between both buildings that guests can book for a daily fee. Wi-Fi is free for all guests. Unfortunately, there are no dining or leisure facilities available.