The Ben Doran Guest House

The Ben Doran Guest House Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to The Ben Doran Guest House on Mayfield Gardens, you immediately get that feeling of stumbling onto something special. This four-star Victorian townhouse sits perfectly in the Newington area of Edinburgh, and honestly, the location couldn’t be better planned if you tried. The building itself has that classic Edinburgh charm — you know, the kind of stone facade that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a proper Scottish story.

Location & Getting Around

Here’s what I love about staying here — you’re actually in a residential neighborhood that feels authentically Edinburgh, not some touristy bubble. Newington is one of those areas where locals actually live, which means you’ll find proper cafes and shops mixed in with the usual tourist spots. The city center is easily walkable (about 15-20 minutes), but more importantly, you’re close enough to Holyrood Park that you can practically roll out of bed and hike up Arthur’s Seat if that’s your thing. There’s parking right on site too, which is honestly a godsend in Edinburgh — anyone who’s tried to park in the Old Town will tell you that.

The Room Experience

My room had that perfect balance of period character and modern comfort that’s surprisingly hard to find. The ceilings are high, the windows are generous, and everything feels well-maintained without being overly fussy. What struck me most was how quiet it was — despite being on a main road, the double glazing really works. The bathroom was compact but thoughtfully designed, and I appreciated the little touches like decent toiletries and a proper shower with good water pressure.

Breakfast & Dining

The breakfast situation here is actually quite impressive for a guest house this size. They’ve got the full spread — continental options, proper full Scottish breakfast, vegetarian choices, and it’s set up buffet-style so you can take your time. I mean, there’s something satisfying about a place that doesn’t rush you through breakfast, especially when you’re on holiday. The dining restaurant area overlooks the garden, which is lovely in the morning light, and the staff genuinely seem to care about getting things right.

Why Guests Love It

What really sets The Ben Doran apart is how it manages to feel both welcoming and unobtrusive — you get the personal attention of a smaller property without anyone hovering. The fact that couples consistently rate the location so highly (8.3 out of 10) tells you something about the neighborhood’s appeal for romantic getaways. You’re close enough to everything that matters in Edinburgh, but far enough from the Royal Mile crowds that you can actually relax. Plus, having reliable parking in this city is worth its weight in gold, especially if you’re planning day trips to the Highlands or the coast.

Hotel in Edinburgh reservations surge ahead of Hogmanay fireworks, so revelers reserve suites before the bells ring.

Facilities