Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments, at Holyrood

Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments, at Holyrood Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments, at Holyrood honestly feels like stepping into a piece of Edinburgh’s history. The building sits right on the Royal Mile in Old Town, and I mean literally — you’re surrounded by centuries-old cobblestones and medieval architecture. This four-star property has this understated elegance that doesn’t scream for attention, but once you’re inside, you realize you’ve found something special. The location score of 9.4 makes perfect sense when you see how everything worth visiting is practically at your doorstep.

Location & Neighborhood

You know what’s brilliant about staying here? You’re in the absolute heart of Edinburgh without feeling like you’re trapped in a tourist bubble. Holyrood Palace is literally a two-minute walk away, and Arthur’s Seat — that iconic hill everyone climbs for photos — is right there when you want to work off your haggis. The Royal Mile stretches out in front of you with all its shops and pubs, but here’s the thing couples seem to love most (they rate it 9.8, which is pretty incredible) — you can duck into quiet closes and wynds that most visitors never discover. I actually found myself taking evening walks just because the atmosphere is so atmospheric, especially when the street lamps come on.

The Apartment Experience

These aren’t your typical hotel room — each apartment feels like someone’s carefully curated Edinburgh home. The spaces are generous, which is rare in Old Town, and they’ve managed to blend modern comfort with period character without making it feel forced. Most units have a proper kitchen, which honestly saved me a fortune since Edinburgh restaurants can get pricey. There’s something satisfying about making morning coffee while looking out at medieval buildings, and the grocery stores nearby make it easy to stock up on Scottish treats to take home.

Practical Comforts

The staff here actually know the neighborhood — not just the obvious tourist spots, but where locals go for the best fish and chips or which pub has live music on Tuesday nights. Parking in Old Town is notoriously tricky, but they’ve sorted that out for guests, which removes a major headache. The apartments are well-soundproofed too, which matters when you’re this close to the action. I was worried about noise from the Royal Mile, but honestly, you hear more atmosphere than actual disturbance — church bells, distant bagpipes, that sort of thing that makes you remember you’re in Scotland.

Why Guests Love It

This place works because it gives you the best of both worlds — you’re staying in a piece of Edinburgh’s story, but with all the modern conveniences that make a trip actually relaxing. The 9.5 rating reflects something you feel rather than just see — it’s that sense of being a temporary local rather than just another tourist passing through. Whether you’re here for the Festival, exploring Scottish history, or just want to experience Edinburgh properly, you’ll find yourself coming back to this apartment each evening feeling like you’ve discovered something authentic. Plus, when you tell people you stayed on the Royal Mile, they’re always impressed — and rightfully so.

Facilities