Glenalmond House

25 Mayfield Gardens, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 2BX, Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland

Why We Like It

A friendly, well-priced B&B that does what it says on the tin competently and comfortably, with some decorative flair (who doesn't want to feel a little like a princess as they draw the velvet curtains on their four-poster bed in their B&B?).

Fodor's Expert Review

Longtime hoteliers Jimmy and Fiona Mackie are well schooled in delighting guests, which makes elegant Glenalmond House a reliable choice. There is nothing overly complicated about their latest venture, but the spacious rooms with handsome dark-wood furniture, ample breakfasts, and friendly welcome are testament to the appeal of simplicity. Recent upgrades have smartened up guest rooms and added a new lounge with leather sofas.

You Should Know The B&B is about 30 minutes walk from the Royal Mile, but near a clutch of other B&Bs, and it is just 15 minutes by bus or less than 10 minutes by car to the center.

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Room

Rooms are suprisingly luxurious for a B&B, with very high ceilings. Some have four-poster beds, and others have access to the garden, which is pleasant in summer. All are comfortable, although some can be a little dark.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are well-equipped and functional, although the nice hot showers can feel a little small.

Lobby

A very traditional-style B&B welcome during the day, with easy instructions for late night check-in because the owners have to get up early to make the breakfasts. Put your breakfast card on the side and you'll get your choice too!

Dining

A tasty Scottish breakfast, including haggis if you want it, is served in the bright breakfast room.

Tip Don't forget to leave your breakfast card, with your choices for the next day's repast, out the night before - there's a wide variety of options but Jimmy and Fiona need warning to make sure everyone gets what they want.

Drinking

Guests can use the lounge area at the front of the B&B if they are looking for more space.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

It's not in the center of the city, but it's a quick hop, skip and jump in - even on foot it only takes 30 minutes. It's also close to Arthur's Seat and some of the university student halls. Otherwise Jimmy and Fiona will help you with public transport options.

Restaurants

Upscale Indian restaurant Pataka (8-minute walk) has been voted one of the best curry houses in Scotland. Or treat yourself to a Michelin-starred blowout at 21212 (11-minute drive).

Bars

Gin straight from source at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery (16-minute drive) on the edge of Princes Street, where you can even go on a tour or tasting trip. Or The Abbey Bar (13-minute walk) - helpfully on the way home from the city center, if you're walking - has a huge range of Scottish whiskies.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 0131-668–2392