Is it worth shelling out for a serviced apartment in Edinburgh rather than a hotel?
Your choice of accommodation has the power to make or break a trip.
Do you opt for a hotel and soak up the perks of daily room cleans and the greasy goodness of buffet breakfasts? Or do you bag yourself a cosy Airbnb, where you can fully spread out and save money on home-cooked meals? Or, do you try for the best of both world's and book a serviced apartment? I took the four-hour bullet train from London to Edinburgh to test out option three at Cheval Collection’s luxurious Old Town Chambers.
Things got off to a strong start thanks to its location in the cultural heart of the Scottish capital – perfect for a short trip with a large itinerary – overlooking the stunning 12th Century St Giles’ Cathedral.
What makes it special?
After checking into our home for the weekend, we couldn’t believe our luck. Not only was the apartment spacious and modern – with wooden floors, an enormous flatscreen TV and a waterfall shower – it had an artistic touch; beautiful art decorated the wall behind a rust-coloured velvet sofa.
The fully stocked kitchen was also a welcome surprise; we tucked into crisps, bananas and snack bars, but there was also milk, orange juice, fresh bread and eggs for guests to cook their own breakfasts. So, if you’re planning to chef up a storm, you’re sorted, although we decided to treat ourselves and test out some of Edinburgh’s culinary treasures…
What’s on the menu?
Our foodie weekend commenced with a hearty breakfast at Luckenbooths. The chic day-to-night restaurant is located on the ground floor of our apartment building, so we only needed to roll out of bed to get fed. The outdoor seating area is a wonderful spot to just soak up the vibrant city, with buskers playing the traditional Scottish bagpipes while you eat.
The food didn’t disappoint. Generously portioned plates stacked with freshly made sourdough, all your breakfast favourites (including traditional black pudding if you’re in the mood)… and probably the most delicious poached eggs I’ve ever tasted. With my belly happily full, we went for a mooch around the stunning city.
Everything on your must-see list…
Famous for its quaint cobbled streets, architectural splendour and cultural festivals, Edinburgh has a real buzz about it. But away from the centre it's surprisingly green - don’t miss hiking up to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city, followed by a stroll around Edinburgh Castle and wander through vibrant markets.
If you’re interested in learning more about its history, seek out a local tour guide for a walking tour or, for more relaxed sightseeing, hop from cute cafe to cute cafe. Whatever you do, know that the plush bed in your central apartment is ready to melt into when you’re spent.
Cheval Old Town Chambers is also home to a gym (which, I’ll admit, was not on my agenda for this relaxing break). The facility is open for an impressive 24 hours a day and you can even book yourself in for a personal training session.
Time for a spot of tea
We said farewell to Edinburgh in style with a scrumptious afternoon tea at Luckenbooths. Our waiter tells us that everything is made in-house using the very best Scottish produce – besides the bread, which is freshly delivered by the local artisan Andante Bakery every morning.
Tiers of homemade treats included four different sandwich flavours, freshly baked scones and a generous assortment of desserts to dig into. From Bakewell tart and lemon posset to a chocolate mousse tart and carrot cake, there’s something for every sweet tooth. If your mouth is watering, but it sounds a bit too filling, opt for a lighter cream tea (which includes two freshly baked scones and homemade jam, served with tea). Alternatively, you can level up your afternoon tea with a cocktail or champagne for a special occasion (or just to treat yourself). Whatever you go for, it may well be one of the highlights of your trip.
Make it happen
A train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh Waverley takes four hours and 20 minutes, with return fares from £80.
Cheval Old Town Chambers has open-plan one, two and three-bedroom apartments, starting at £205 per night in low season and £405 per night in high season BOOK NOW
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