The Witchery by the Castle

This hotel offers an unparalleled journey into the past, distinguished by its immersive historic and gothic ambiance and unique, lavishly themed suites. It is an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic escape, sightseers eager to explore the city's landmarks, and luxury travelers desiring a truly memorable and decadent experience. History enthusiasts will appreciate the meticulous attention to period detail, while those intrigued by the supernatural may find an added layer of excitement. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's captivating decor, the attentive service provided by the staff, and its prime location. To maximize your stay, be prepared for the hotel's unique layout which involves stairs, and consider booking dining reservations well in advance due to high demand.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the thoughtful in-room amenities that enhance their stay. Each suite is well-appointed with a Nespresso machine and tea making facilities, complemented by fresh milk, chocolates, biscuits, and crisps. A daily refreshed bottle of complementary champagne is a highly appreciated touch. For convenience, modern comforts such as a Dyson hairdryer, GHD straighteners, Alexa for music, and smart TVs are provided, seamlessly integrated into the historic setting. It is important to note that due to its unique "restaurant with rooms" license, the hotel does not offer full room service beyond breakfast, nor does it have a dedicated bar area, though a small outdoor terrace is available weather permitting. Guests arriving by car can utilize parking at a sister hotel, with a complimentary taxi transfer provided.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the spotless cleanliness of the suites, a remarkable feat given the intricate and richly decorated interiors. The beds are frequently described as exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few guests found some mattresses a little firm or the bed size small for two. Each spacious suite boasts a unique theme and is adorned with lavish gothic decor, creating an opulent and immersive atmosphere. The luxurious bathrooms are a highlight, featuring deep soaking tubs, often large enough for two, and the added comfort of heated floors. While most rooms offer a quiet retreat, some guests noted minor noise from the bustling Royal Mile or reported paranormal activity. A rare but welcome feature for Scotland is the presence of AC in some suites. While the antique furniture contributes to the ambiance, a few guests found some seating less comfortable.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers excellent breakfast options, with guests choosing between a bountiful continental hamper delivered to their room or a full hot breakfast served in the elegant dining room. The breakfast variety and quality are highly praised, with options like freshly baked pastries and a full Scottish breakfast. The two on-site restaurants, the Original Dining Room and the Secret Garden, are renowned for their candlelit, romantic atmosphere and generally high food quality. Many guests rave about specific dishes, including seafood, game, and the lamb Wellington. While most feedback on the service is positive, describing staff as attentive and professional, some guests found the service distant or felt the portions were small for the price. Advance reservations are strongly recommended due to the restaurants' popularity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a prime location directly adjacent to Edinburgh Castle and situated on the historic Royal Mile, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous attractions and vibrant city life. This central position allows for convenient exploration of landmarks like the Whiskey Experience and Real Mary's Close. For guests arriving by car, parking is available at a sister hotel, with a complimentary taxi transfer to the hotel's doorstep. However, guests should be aware of the hotel's unique accessibility; there is no lift, and access to many suites involves navigating steep, winding stairs. This makes the hotel less suitable for individuals with mobility issues. The immediate area around the hotel can also be very busy with tourist crowds, especially during peak seasons.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their attentiveness, helpfulness, professionalism, and friendliness, contributing significantly to the overall exceptional guest experience. A standout service frequently mentioned is the luggage assistance, with staff readily carrying bags up and down the hotel's unique staircases. Guests appreciate the seamless check-in and check-out process, which is often described as quick and efficient. Specific services like the meticulous turndown service, which includes setting the mood with music and preparing the bed, and the thoughtful setup of the in-room breakfast delivery, are highly valued. While a few isolated comments noted staff being somewhat distant or impersonal, the overwhelming majority of reviews highlight the staff's dedication to providing excellent and personalized service.

Additional Information
A unique and frequently mentioned aspect of the hotel experience involves ghostly experiences, with several guests reporting unexplained phenomena such as flickering lights, footsteps, and objects moving, adding an intriguing layer to the historic ambiance. Guests should be aware that the hotel operates under a "restaurant with rooms" license, which means full room service for meals is not available beyond the breakfast hamper. For those planning a stay, it's worth noting that booking direct with the hotel often includes complimentary champagne in the room, a perk not always available through third-party bookings. While the hotel generally maintains its luxurious aesthetic, some recent reviews have noted minor signs of wear and tear in the decor, suggesting that some areas might benefit from refurbishment in the future.