ROYAL MILE BALCONIES BY THE CASTLE | Edinburgh ★ Prime Downtown Location & Comfort

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Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle Aparthotel Edinburgh Facilities photo The photo shows a cozy corner of a room, likely a bedroom or study area. The main focus is a light wooden desk positioned against a white wall, creating a small workspace. On the desk, there's a silver laptop displaying a colorful image, and a black

Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle Aparthotel Edinburgh Room photo The photo shows a cozy bedroom with a double bed as the main focus. The bed is neatly made with white sheets and several pillows, including two large grey square pillows and a smaller pillow in the center. A folded grey throw blanket is placed at the

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Key details

Hotel Details

493 Lawnmarket,The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 2PB

Next to the Royal Mile

Great

8.2

/10

3.0

2.4

Loved by Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle Aparthotel guests

Comfortable beds
Excellent location
Clean rooms
Good view
Tea making facilities

"The room is so cosy it was lovely coming back after a cold day walking round Edinburgh to the room."

Suzanne from United Kingdom

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"The property is perfectly located in the Centre so you can get to all the main attractions including The Castle, which is on the same street."

Giorgio from United Kingdom

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"Even though its central location, and having a Jolly Judge pub in the courtyard, there was not any disturbance or noise - nights well slept."

Jari from Finland

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Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle - 15th-century philosopher's residence with courtyard views in Old Town Edinburgh

Located in a 15th-century building once home to philosopher Sir David Hume, this 5-star EDI hotel occupies a prime spot on the Royal Mile. Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle features 6 rooms equipped with king-size beds, LCD TVs, and free high-speed WiFi. Each room includes a private bathroom with a large shower, hairdryer, safe deposit box, and electric kettle. The double rooms offer inner courtyard views and carpeted floors. A well-fitted kitchenette comes with a refrigerator, oven, microwave, and essential cookware. The property sits within 0.5 miles of the Scottish National Gallery and The Writers' Museum, 0.5 miles from Edinburgh Castle, and 0.5 miles from Calton Hill. Eight restaurants and taverns, including The Ensign Ewart and Deacon Brodie's Tavern, operate within 0.5 miles of the property.

Pros

Historic building accessed through an alley and winding staircase

Complimentary shortbread provided to guests

Quiet location despite central position

Self-check-in system for flexible arrival

Cons

Limited parking available nearby (paid only)

Minimal toiletries provided (2 small sachets of shower gel per stay)

“Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle places you right where you want to be-moments from Edinburgh Castle and immersed in the Royal Mile's buzz. The self-check-in adds a layer of modern convenience to a historic setting. I think its real value lies in offering such a central location alongside uniquely personalized Scottish hospitality.”

Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

Map View

Highlights from guests

Room FeaturesCozy, Quiet!

The room was very cozy. It blocked out all street noise, despite being on the Royal Mile. Biscuits and water were a treat.

Mia from Sweden

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BathroomDirty Bathroom!

The bathroom had dirty brown water all over the toilet and wall. I assumed from recent rain seeping in. It maybe leaky toilet/shower.

Katrina from Australia

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BedroomComfy Bed!

The bed was comfortable. There were wine glasses, a corkscrew, tea, coffee, and milk. The location was excellent for exploring attractions.

Jane from United Kingdom

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Select room type

Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive deals.

Deluxe King Room Catcune

2 persons

270 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Deluxe Double Room Arniston

2 persons

270 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Deluxe Double Room Kirkhill

2 persons

270 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Deluxe Double Room Melville

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location

Facilities: Great

8.1/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Safe deposit box
Pets allowed
Smoke detectors

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Room features

Heating

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle Aparthotel Location

493 Lawnmarket,The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 2PB

Map view

493 Lawnmarket,The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 2PB

City landmarks

Museum

National Museum of Scotland

2400 ft

Landmark

Arthur's Seat hike

1.3 mi

Palace

Palace of Holyroodhouse

4900 ft

Landmark

Calton Hill

3700 ft

Monument

Scott Monument

2100 ft

Landmark

Nelson Monument

4100 ft

Botanical Garden

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

1.2 mi

Landmark

Surgeons' Hall Museums

2800 ft

Museum

John Knox House

2100 ft

Museum

Dynamic Earth

4600 ft

Museum

The Museum of the Royal Scots and the Royal Regiment of Scotland

2500 ft

Gallery

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One

1.5 mi

Nearby

Museum

Edinburgh Castle

1200 ft

Gallery

Scottish National Gallery

800 ft

Royal Mile

300 ft

High Street 2 Warriston's Close

The Real Mary King's Close

900 ft

Park

Princes Street Gardens

1000 ft

Museum

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

600 ft

Church

St Giles' Cathedral

1300 ft

Store

Edinburgh Old Town

1400 ft

Museum

The Writers' Museum

400 ft

Museum

Gladstone's Land

300 ft

Museum

Museum of Childhood

1900 ft

2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)

Brass Rubbing Centre

1300 ft

354 Castlehill

The Scotch Whisky Experience

700 ft

53 Princes Street

Princes Street

1900 ft

Square

Grassmarket

1500 ft

Cemetery

The Robertson Mausoleum

1000 ft

Church

Mercat Cross

1400 ft

Gallery

City Art Centre

1600 ft

Restaurants

Makars Gourmet Mash Bar

400 ft

12 N. Bank St

The Witchery by the Castle

500 ft

The Royal Mile 352 Castlehill

Ondine

600 ft

10 Cambridge Street (1st Floor

Deacon Brodie's Tavern

300 ft

435 Lawnmarket The Royal Mile

Taste of Scotland

100 ft

503 Lawnmarket

Whiski Rooms

500 ft

4-7 North Bank Street

The Ensign Ewart

200 ft

521-523 Lawnmarket The Royal Mile

Hanam's Middle East Restaurant

300 ft

3 Johnston Terrace Near Edinburgh Castle

Maison Bleue

500 ft

Kinnells House 36-38 Victoria Street

Mariachi

500 ft

7 Victoria Street

The Mussel and Steak Bar

900 ft

110 West Bow Grassmarket

Explore Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh Near Royal Mile Balconies

Edinburgh Castle

5 minutes' walk

Historic fortress offering stunning city views and captivating exhibits on Scottish history.

Scott Monument

8 minutes' walk

Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, featuring a climb for panoramic city views.

National Museum of Scotland

9 minutes' walk

A dynamic museum with diverse collections from Scottish history to natural sciences, with free admission.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

18 minutes' walk

Official residence of the monarch, showcasing historic apartments and beautiful gardens.

Arthur's Seat Hike

25 minutes walking

Iconic hill offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh, suitable for all levels of hikers.

Yoga at The Meadows

11 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga sessions in a scenic park setting, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

The Witchery by the Castle

2 minutes' walk

Intimate and luxurious venue with a focus on Scottish cuisine, ideal for special occasions.

Makars Gourmet Mash Bar

2 minutes' walk

Casual dining spot specializing in comfort food, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

The Usher Hall

17 minutes' walk

Renowned concert hall hosting diverse performances from classical music to rock concerts.

Scotch Whisky Experience

10 minutes' walk

Offers whisky tastings and guided tours showcasing Scotland's whisky heritage, suitable for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Edinburgh6 min · 1700 ft

Airports

Edinburgh (EDI)20 min · 8.0 mi

Glasgow (GLA)132 min · 54.7 mi

Train

Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station6 min · 1700 ft

Bus

Bus stop3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Former name

sir hume residence

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle Aparthotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle enjoys a superb location right on the Royal Mile, making it easy to explore Edinburgh's attractions. Guests often highlight the clean and comfortable rooms, with some appreciating the modern bathrooms and biscuits and tea/coffee upon arrival. While the rooms are generally spacious, some guests have noted that certain rooms, especially the bathrooms, can be quite small. The value for money is frequently praised, particularly during peak seasons like the Edinburgh Christmas Market.

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Review score

Based on 691 verified reviews

8.0/10

Great

82%

Recommend

Location

9.5/10

Comfort

8.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.7/10

Staff

7.9/10

Pros

Great location

Cool building

Modern shower

Tea/coffee station

Cons

Leak issues

Rattling windows

Difficult access

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FAQs

About Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle

What is the distance between Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle and Edinburgh Castle?

Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle is located 200 m from Edinburgh Castle.

How far is Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle from the Edinburgh Military Tattoo?

The Edinburgh Military Tattoo is 300 m away from Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle.

Are there any dining options on-site at Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

The hotel features a café and a cozy pub for convenient dining options.

What room amenities are available at Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

Rooms include a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and original private bathrooms.

What time is check-in and check-out at Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:00.

Is parking available at Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

Limited payable parking is available close to the hotel.

What nearby restaurants are available near Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

Nearby restaurants include The Ensign Ewart, Deacon Brodie's Tavern, Ondine, The Thistle Stop, Deacon's House Cafe, Hanam's Middle East Restaurant, Whiski Rooms, and Howies Victoria, all within 0.5 km.

Does Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle allow pets?

Pets are allowed on request.

What type of hotel is Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

The hotel is a historic accommodation located in one of the oldest Scottish buildings dating back to the 15th century.

What are the main highlights of staying at Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

Highlights include unique accommodations, self-check-in, a quiet atmosphere despite a central location, and close proximity to major attractions.

What kitchen facilities are available in the apartments at Royal Mile Balconies By The Castle?

Apartments feature a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher and cookware for guest convenience.