Rick Steves’ separates lodging in Edinburgh into three areas – the city center, the West End, and a quieter neighborhood south of town.
Jackie and I were not looking for a large, mostly impersonal hotel or guesthouses right near old town. Since I had stayed in the area the previous August, I knew how well the bus system worked and was comfortable looking for the more classic B&B experience – you know… friendly hosts, great cooked breakfast. The neighborhood identified by Rick was south of town near either Dalkeith Road or Mayfield Gardens. You can walk to old town if you want (30 minutes), but the buses are ontime, arrive often, are often double decker (how cool!) and inexpensive.
I had stayed near Dalkeith Road in August and really liked it. But we thought we would give the area near Mayfield Gardens a try.
These choices are just a couple of blocks from the Dalkeith Road options, and most are along Newington Road.
We chose 23 Mayfield Guest House. We are so happy we did! 🙂
Hosts Ross and Kathleen (along with their kids) rent seven splurge-worthy, thoughtfully appointed rooms that are complete with high-tech bathroom (rain showers and motion-sensor light-up mirrors).
It’s the little extras that make this place extraordinary. Like the music playing softly when you enter the room (classical – but we loved it and it set the perfect mood!). A pitcher of infused water. High quality furniture that matches the decor. Stained glass windows in the bay seating area of our room.
The bathroom was high tech and smaller than most American’s expect – but it did everything well. I really have learned to love the towel warmer in most better rooms in England/Scotland/Wales… I have got to get them installed at our home!
The lounge area was very comfortable. Big, overstuffed chairs… books for you to relax into… the three stooges playing on the TV (no sound). And a fully equipped honor bar just off the lounge for drinks, wine, Champagne, beer… and open whenever the mood strikes you for a beverage.
Breakfast… well… it was better than expected. And we had high expectations! Jackie would have the waffle every day if she could (she did while we stayed and she wants me to learn how to make it “that way”. And a printed menu is provided each afternoon so you can choose from the standards or see what Ross has crafted as the special for the next day.
There is off-street parking available right at the front door… and the bus picks you up and drops you off within a half-block.
You do feel like Royalty here. It is no wonder that 23 Mayfield Guest House is one of the few five-diamond guesthouses in Edinburgh. They have earned it!
Highly Highly recommended.