Fodor's Expert Review Rutland Hotel

The building may have once been the residence of Sir Joseph Lister—known as the \"father of antiseptic surgery\"—but there's nothing clinical about this acclaimed boutique hotel at the west end of Princes Street. Nominated for several style awards, the design is chic without being intimidating, and the team are friendly and welcoming, often offering upgrades when available.

room

Guest rooms have flamboyant fabrics and classic furnishings like Barcelona chairs. A luxury apartment provides a stylish and flexible option for a family or two couples traveling together. There's some fun pop art and all rooms have modern amenities like bluetooth speakers and - a nice touch - proper fresh milk for your tea and coffee. Despite the central location, rooms are very quiet, and some have great castle views.

YOU SHOULD KNOW As it's a listed building, the lift only goes up to the second floor. If this is a problem, let staff know when you book.

bathroom

The lightbulb-surrounded Hollywood style mirrors add a touch of glamor to the bathrooms, which have Arran toiletries. Some rooms have rain showers, others spa baths.

lobby

The lobby is more of a reception desk adjacent to the hotel's funky The Huxley bar and grill, but staff are cheery and accommodating.

dining

The gourmet steak restaurant Kyloe has developed quite the reputation for its meat, and feels buzzy and cool to boot. Breakfast is a cold buffet with hot a la carte options cooked fresh.

Guests get 20% off, but make sure to book at weekends.

drinking

The Huxley bar opens onto the street so is often full of tourists and locals supping away. It has a pub/diner feel and serves tapas and snack foods like hotdogs and haggis bonbons as well as drinks.

Both hotel restaurants are happy to help with gluten-free, vegan and lactose-free dishes, with advance notice.