Fodor's Expert Review 94DR

Name: 94DR
Address: 94 Dalkeith Rd., Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 5AF, Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland
Telephone: 0131-662–9265
Price range: $$

94 Dalkeith Rd., Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 5AF, Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland See on Map

Jennifer Rigby

Like the infectiously optimistic owners, Paul and John, 94DR reaches for the stars with its stylish decor and contemporary trappings, while maintaining a comfortable, homey feel. Breakfasts are legendary. The guesthouse is situated a little out of town in a residential area, but it is very close to Arthur's Seat (some rooms have views of the ancient volcano). A bonus for dog-lovers is Molli, the owners' friendly labradoodle.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The guesthouse is 25 minutes' walk to the Royal Mile, but there are free bicycles available to guests.

room

The stylish rooms in this boutique B&B (all named after Scotch malt whiskies) are light, spacious, and well appointed, with views of either Arthur's Seat at the front or the private garden in the back. There are some quirky touches, like the teddy bears who pop up around the room. Some have the gorgeous original fireplaces.

bathroom

Bathrooms are large, white and crisp, with grey tiles. Two have baths, and the rest have roomy showers.

lobby

The entrance hall is beautiful, all grown-up decor, beautiful patterned tiles and fresh lilies.

dining

The inspired international breakfasts change on a daily basis, but are always cooked with flair using only organic and seasonal ingredients and served in the lovely conservatory overlooking the garden.

Ask Paul and John for their dining recommendations. They'll not only suggest the best places, but probably book you in.

drinking

The guesthouse has a cute honesty bar in its sleek grey lounge, which also stocks travel books.

LOCATION

Getting Around

It's a long-ish stroll into town, but well-served by at least four buses from almost right outside the B&B, or you can borrow a bike.

Restaurants

Recent suggestions from the pair's 'The Male Landlady' blog include trying happy hour (Monday-Thursday, 4-6pm) at the newly opened White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar (16-minute bus ride, 24-minute walk) on the site of the oldest inn on the Royal Mile, where a selection of oysters are just £1 each. Or Holyrood 9A (22-minute walk) is their top tip for the best burgers.

Bars

Traditional local boozer The Old Bell Inn (8-minute walk) also does pub grub. Or gin fans should try The Royal Dick (13-minute walk), which serves Edinburgh's first exclusive gin in 150 years, from the Pickering's Gin distillery, on tap. The building is the former small animal hospital, so vintage veterinary instruments jostle for space with modern art.

WHY WE LIKE IT

A stellar B&B, knocking it out of the park on the two key aspects, comfortable beds and delicious breakfasts, as well as having super friendly hosts with enough foodie chops to recommend the best restaurants in town.