Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh

Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh, you immediately sense you’re somewhere special — and honestly, the location alone makes this four-star property worth considering. Tucked away on Jeffrey Street in the Old Town, it sits right in the thick of everything that makes Edinburgh magical. I mean, you’re literally steps from the Royal Mile, and the castle looms overhead like something out of a fairy tale. The building itself has this solid, reassuring presence that fits perfectly with the historic surroundings.

Location & Neighborhood

Here’s what I love about this spot — you can walk to pretty much everything worth seeing without breaking a sweat. The Royal Mile is right there, Princes Street is a quick stroll down the hill, and you know what? During festival season, you’re in the absolute heart of the action. Couples especially seem to get this location (they rate it 9.4, which honestly makes sense), probably because there’s something undeniably romantic about wandering these ancient streets together. The Old Town has this incredible energy, especially in the evenings when the crowds thin out and you get those atmospheric moments with the cobblestones and historic buildings.

The Room Experience

The rooms here strike that sweet spot between modern comfort and respecting the building’s character. You’ll find everything you need without feeling like you’re in some sterile chain hotel — the furnishings are thoughtful, and the beds are genuinely comfortable after long days exploring the city. What really impressed me was how well they’ve managed noise control, considering you’re right in the city center. I actually slept well here, which isn’t always a given when you’re this close to the action. The bathrooms are well-appointed too, with decent water pressure (always a relief when you’re dealing with older buildings).

Breakfast & Dining

The breakfast situation here is actually pretty impressive — they’ve clearly thought about different dietary needs and preferences. Whether you want a full Scottish breakfast or something lighter like the continental options, they’ve got you covered. I was particularly pleased to see proper vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices that didn’t feel like afterthoughts. The buffet setup works well, though if you’re rushing off to catch an early tour or flight, the breakfast-to-go option is genuinely handy. The restaurant space itself has a pleasant atmosphere without being overly formal.

Why Guests Love It

What keeps people coming back here isn’t just one thing — it’s how everything comes together. The location means you’re never more than a few minutes from Edinburgh’s best bits, whether that’s shopping, sightseeing, or finding a good pub. The staff genuinely seem to know the area and can point you toward things you might miss otherwise. And honestly, for a four-star place in this prime location, the value feels right. You’re paying for that unbeatable Old Town address, but you’re also getting solid comfort and service that makes the whole Edinburgh experience smoother. It’s the kind of place where you spend your time exploring the city rather than worrying about your accommodation.

To book a hotel in Edinburgh during Fringe Festival, visitors plan ahead to balance comedy marathons with Arthur’s Seat sunrise hikes.

Facilities