The Place
The only indication that 34 Great King Street is a hotel is the simple brass plate to the right of the front door. The location, a cobbled street in Edinburgh New Town (new in the early 1800s, that is), could hardly be bettered, within walking distance of Princes Street and the Castle, but almost free of traffic noise.
The 1820s building, comprising three terraced town houses, displays all the elegance and sense of proportion one associates with the Georgian era. Push open the door, and willing service is immediately on hand, including directions to the hotel’s own private car park. After checking in, the charming reception staff will ask if you’d like some tea and shortbread, thus reinforcing the sense of being a guest in a friend’s house.
Public rooms are elegant and captivating, although the drawing room could do with better lighting. The breakfast room is graced by delightful Italianate murals, uncovered during restoration. Bedrooms are supremely comfortable.