Experience the Best of Edinburgh Old Town from Your Perfect Place to Stay

Wander off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a shadowy alleyway, drawn by the sounds of a fiddle and tin whistle and stumble into a tiny pub absolutely buzzing with locals drinking whisky and swaying along to Scottish folk songs. That is the real magic of Old Town that exists down its captivating close and wynds just waiting to be discovered…

Why Stay Overnight in Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town

Centuries of Scottish history collides with modern vibrancy in Edinburgh’s magical Old Town located right along the iconic Royal Mile leading up to Edinburgh Castle.

Staying overnight allows you to fully experience Old Town’s enduring allure across spaces steeped in everything from royal intrigue to literary legends.

Wake up just footsteps from top landmarks like lively Grassmarket square, getting in there before the tourist crowds arrive. Soak in gorgeous views of Edinburgh Castle, plus the cityscape, and become enveloped in the past by unwinding at a historic pub that’s existed for centuries. As darkness falls, make your way through shadowy lanes following enchanting strains of Celtic violins guiding you to an underground folk music session tucked away somewhere off the Cowgate.

Not convinced to book one of the Old Town’s distinctive and storied accommodations? Here’s more reasons why staying right in the heart of Edinburgh matters:

Walkability – With your lodgings set right in the Old Town, you’re centrally positioned near all major attractions without relying on public transportation.

After Hours Access – By staying in the beautiful old town, you have the unique perk of having major sites practically all to yourself early morning or late evening when tourist doors are closed.

Total Immersion – Days start early and run long during Edinburgh’s lively summer festivals. Minimise travel times by staying steps from all the action. During Christmas, when days are short, not needing to travel far gives you more time to immerse yourself into what the city has to offer.

Quaint Atmosphere – Cobblestone streets, stone tenement architecture and narrow walkways immediately envelope you in all the old world allure.

Explore Top Old Town Areas

Edinburgh’s Old Town stretches along several charming yet uniquely vibed districts. Here’s a breakdown of top areas to consider when booking your Old Town accommodations:

Royal Mile – This bustling main thoroughfare features prime sightseeing as well as bountiful shops, restaurants and nightlife options. Stay central to all the action while still just minutes from Edinburgh Castle.

Cowgate and Grassmarket – South of Royal Mile, these interconnected enclaves offer lively nightlife, street performers and festival events within enclosed village-style settings. Guesthouses and apartments are nestled along old cobbled walkways to provide quietude after playing.

Canongate – This historic 16th century area stretches below the Royal Mile down to the majestic Holyrood Palace providing a departure from the touristy centre into a quieter setting near the iconic Scottish Parliament building.

Knight Residence by Mansley is situated just 0.6 miles from Princes Street and 0.4 miles from Edinburgh Castle, really close to the Grassmarket area, giving you the proximity to all major attractions in the Old Town.

Tips for Booking Your Old Town Accommodations

Follow these tips for an amazing stay:

• Location, Location – Carefully consider your ideal vibe and sightseeing priorities when booking. Opt central for a lively atmosphere or quieter suburbs for seclusion.


• Confirm Amenities – Double check any must-have amenities like WiFi, parking, breakfast, early check-in are included before reserving.


• Manage Expectations – Temper expectations by reading reviews and understanding the average room size for historic buildings can be quite small. Focus instead on location, charm and views.


• Book Early For December and August – Reserve rooms 4-6 months out if visiting during iconic Edinburgh Festivals in August and one of the best times of the year – Christmas and Hogmanay.

Top Things to See and Do in Edinburgh’s Old Town

Beyond marvelling at the iconic Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral, here are top things to see and do just steps from your Old Town accommodation:

• Explore centuries of Scottish history at the National Museum of Scotland


• Descend into creepy underground vaults with one of the the Old Town Ghost Tours


• Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of Edinburgh


• Sample over Scotch whiskies at one of the Old Town’s whisky bars


• Wander the Royal Mile checking out tartan shops, tea rooms, restaurants and historic pubs

With so much to uncover beyond Edinburgh’s already captivating Royal Mile and major landmarks, staying overnight immersed in Old Town is really a must. You’ll delight in its endless walkability revealing colourful streets abundant with culture, attractions, cosy pubs and mediaeval intrigue hidden down its old world wynds and closes that can’t be experienced anywhere else.

Book your stay in the Knight Residence by Mansley to explore Edinburgh with the comfort of your own home with your own kitchen, living space, parking slot and friendly staff ready to help 24/7.