Parliament Square – Royal Mile

Parliament Square – Royal Mile Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Parliament Square – Royal Mile honestly feels like stepping into a piece of Edinburgh’s history — and I mean that in the best possible way. This four-star apartment sits right on Parliament Square in the Old Town, literally surrounded by centuries-old buildings that have watched over Scotland’s political heart. You know what struck me most? The location is so central that you can hear the distant hum of the Royal Mile’s street performers from your window, but once you’re inside, there’s this surprising sense of calm.

The Heart of Old Town

I’ve stayed in plenty of places that claim to be “centrally located,” but this one actually delivers on that promise. You’re basically living on one of Edinburgh’s most historic squares — St. Giles’ Cathedral is right there, and the Scottish Parliament building is just a short walk down the Royal Mile. What I really appreciated was how easy it became to slip into the rhythm of the city. Morning coffee runs to Deacon’s Café, evening strolls up to the Castle (which takes maybe ten minutes), and you’re genuinely living like a local rather than just passing through.

The Space Itself

The room setup works really well for couples — which makes sense given how highly pairs rate this place. There’s something intimate about the way the space is arranged, with original stone walls that remind you you’re in a building with serious history. The kitchen is compact but functional, perfect for those mornings when you want to make your own breakfast before heading out to explore. I actually found myself cooking more than I expected, partly because the nearby Tesco on Princes Street makes grocery runs so easy.

What Makes It Special

Here’s the thing about staying right in Old Town — you get to experience Edinburgh’s dual personality. During the day, there’s the steady flow of tourists and the energy of the Royal Mile, but in the evenings, especially after the tour groups head back to their hotels, the area becomes almost medieval in its quiet. The apartment’s windows look out onto the square where John Knox once preached, and honestly, there are moments when you feel connected to all that history. Plus, the restaurant scene around here is fantastic — Ondine for seafood is just around the corner, and you’ve got everything from traditional Scottish fare to modern European cuisine within walking distance.

Why Guests Love It

The location score of 9.5 isn’t just a number — it reflects how rare it is to find accommodation that puts you this close to everything that matters in Edinburgh. You can walk to Princes Street for shopping, climb Arthur’s Seat for sunrise (though that’s a bit of a hike), or just wander the closes and wynds that branch off the Royal Mile. What I found most valuable was the sense of belonging somewhere rather than just visiting. When you’re staying on Parliament Square, you’re not just near Edinburgh’s heart — you’re actually living in it.

Facilities