Top Quirky Hotels in Charming Edinburgh

We checked thousands of reviews on and to find the best hotels for your stay
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Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and renowned for its rich tapestry of cultural heritage. But beyond the traditional cobbled streets and majestic castle lies a more whimsical side to this enchanting city, where the accommodation options are as unique as the tales whispering through its wynds. Quirky hotels in Edinburgh offer a delightful twist to your stay, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in locales brimming with character and charm.

As you plan your Scottish escapade, consider eschewing the conventional in favor of the extraordinary. The quirky hotels of Edinburgh are not just places to rest your head; they are part of the experience, with each one offering a distinct flavor of the city's eclectic spirit. From converted historic homes to avant-garde art hotels, these accommodations infuse your journey with a sense of fun and local color that standard hotels simply cannot match.

Choosing to stay in one of Edinburgh's unconventional hotels means embracing the offbeat rhythm of the city. Guests can expect the unexpected, from whimsically themed rooms to boutique hotels that double as art galleries. For the discerning traveler with an appetite for the unusual, Edinburgh's quirky hotels stand ready to transform a simple trip into an extraordinary adventure.

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Our Top 9

(Sorted by rating & number of reviews)

1. The Balmoral Hotel
2. The Howard, An Ascend Hotel Collection Member Edinburgh
3. Prestonfield House
4. Dalhousie Castle
5. The Witchery
6. Kimpton Charlotte Square By Ihg
7. Royal Mile Mansions 2 Bedroom - Edinburgh City Centre
8. The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
9. The Bonham

Art Lover's Retreat: Quirky Hotels Edinburgh for Creative Souls

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Edinburgh
May 24, 2026 - May 25, 2026

The Balmoral Hotel

9.3

Good

(1104 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
With its iconic clock tower, The Balmoral Hotel is an Edinburgh landmark commanding a prestigious position on Princes Street. Alongside its luxury and prestige, it's rumored that a friendly ghost roams its halls – a detail that only adds to the hotel's quirky allure. The Balmoral harmonizes its storied past with modern elegance, making it a grand choice for those who appreciate a touch of the supernatural within a luxury setting.
Address: 1 Princes Street
Rating: Good 9.3 (1104 Reviews)
Rooms: 162
Price: From 741$

The Howard, An Ascend Hotel Collection Member Edinburgh

9.2

Good

(469 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
An intimate and elegant Georgian retreat, The Howard takes guests back in time with its antiques, oil paintings, and period features. This small, plush hotel with its personalized butler service does quirky in a quietly upscale fashion. Opulent drawing rooms and individually designed bedrooms offer a luxury experience that feels both elite and delightfully eccentric, embodying the quirky charm of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Address: 34 Great King Street
Rating: Good 9.2 (469 Reviews)
Rooms: 19
Price: From 273$

Historical Hideaways: Quirky Hotels Edinburgh with a Past

The walls of Edinburgh are steeped in stories, and some hotels offer more than just a nod to the city's illustrious past. This section is dedicated to the quirky hotels in Edinburgh that allow guests to step back in time and experience a slice of history firsthand. Immerse yourself in bygone eras amid carefully preserved architecture and antique furnishings, all while enjoying the modern comforts of today. It's a chance to sleep under the same roofs that once sheltered historical figures, to walk the floors they walked, and to feel the presence of the city's rich timeline.

Prestonfield House

9.6

Good

(276 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
Prestonfield House is a luxurious and quirky Edinburgh hotel, known for its extravagant décor and private, romantic atmosphere. Originally built as a grand baroque manor, each room is filled with historic charm and dramatic flair, from the velvet-lined walls to the lush, peacock-filled gardens. This 5-star retreat offers a decadent escape a short distance from the city's hustle and bustle.
Address: Priestfield Road
Rating: Good 9.6 (276 Reviews)
Rooms: 22
Price: From 617$

Dalhousie Castle

8.3

Good

(500 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
Just a short drive from Edinburgh, the 13th-century Dalhousie Castle Hotel allows guests to immerse themselves in Scotland's historic grandeur, complete with stories of resident ghosts. Haunted tales aside, this castle-turned-hotel presents a fascinating journey through Scottish history with its themed rooms, hidden staircases, and the impressive dungeon dining room. It's a fitting choice for travelers searching for a quirky yet authentically medieval stay with a splash of the supernatural.
Address: Cockpen Road
Rating: Good 8.3 (500 Reviews)
Rooms: 70
Price: From 206$

Fantasy & Fiction: Literary-Inspired Quirky Hotels Edinburgh

Edinburgh is not only Scotland's heart but also its storytelling soul, a UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired writers for centuries. The quirky hotels in this section pay homage to the literary legends that have penned their masterpieces in this inspiring city. Bookworms and narrative-seekers will find themselves surrounded by decorative narratives, thematic rooms, and hidden nooks perfect for losing oneself in a good book. Whether you wish to dwell in the ambiance of your favorite novel or trace the steps of literary giants, these hotels offer a stay that is both enchanted and enlightening.

The Witchery

9.6

Good

(125 Reviews)

+ 22 photos
Commanding a location just steps from Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery by the Castle is a famous and lavish retreat known for its sumptuous gothic décor and opulent suites. Each of its uniquely decorated rooms carries a historic and slightly eerie charm, making it a favorite for those who love a blend of luxury and legend. Antique furnishings, rich velvets, and an ambiance of bygone extravagance make it a magnet for celebrities and those looking for a quirky, atmospheric getaway in the very heart of the Old Town.
Address: Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh
Rating: Good 9.6 (125 Reviews)
Rooms: 9
Price: From 1402$

Kimpton Charlotte Square By Ihg

8.9

Good

(1600 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel offers a central location and a trendy environment that extends a warm welcome to pets. Recognizing the importance of the furry family members, the hotel provides pet beds, water bowls, and toys to keep them entertained. They even offer a pet concierge service to ensure that all of your companion's needs are met while you explore the city.
Address: 38 Charlotte Square
Rating: Good 8.9 (1600 Reviews)
Rooms: 251
Price: From 356$

Nautical Nods: Seascape Quirky Hotels Edinburgh

Edinburgh's connection to the sea is proudly reflected in the quirky hotels that dot its coastline and the nearby Leith area. Marrying maritime charm with eclectic luxury, the accommodations featured in this section appeal to seafarers and landlubbers alike. These hotels capture the essence of Edinburgh's historic ports and shipyards, embedding the city's nautical narrative into each maritime-themed room and common space. Prepare to embark on an unconventional voyage, where the tales of the ocean infuse every corner with a spirit of adventure.

Royal Mile Mansions 2 Bedroom - Edinburgh City Centre

8.2

Good

(117 Reviews)

+ 4 photos
For a truly royal experience, The Royal Mile Mansions transport guests to the opulence of centuries past, with a location that's hard to beat. Set along the famed Royal Mile, this quirky hotel is a stone's throw from Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Each suite within this storied residence embodies a different chapter of Edinburgh's history, with decor ranging from Jacobean to Victorian. Guests are treated to stunning views and intricate details that have been lovingly maintained or restored, offering a regal stay that celebrates Edinburgh's architectural and historical splendor.
Address: 50 North Bridge 8 Royal Mile Mansions
Rating: Good 8.2 (117 Reviews)
Price: From 191$

The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection

8.7

Good

(928 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
Blending modern design with historic foundations, The Glasshouse Hotel is a standout in Edinburgh's luxury hotel scene. Guests can enjoy a stay in a converted 170-year-old church, featuring a stunning rooftop garden with views of Calton Hill. It's the intricate blend of old and new and the meticulously designed spaces that place The Glasshouse among the most quirky luxury hotels in the city.
Address: 2 Greenside Place
Rating: Good 8.7 (928 Reviews)
Rooms: 77
Price: From 299$

Gothic Glamour: Historically Haunted Quirky Hotels Edinburgh

Edinburgh's ancient streets whisper with the tales of the past, and for those intrigued by the supernatural, the city does not disappoint. This section is for the quirky hotels in Edinburgh that celebrate their ghostly lore and gothic charm. These accommodations offer an immersive experience for guests who seek a brush with the mysterious and the otherworldly, all within historic, atmospheric settings. From spectral sightings to eerie ambiances, these hotels boast stories that will make for an unforgettable, spine-tingling stay.

The Bonham

9.2

Good

(2638 Reviews)

+ 91 photos
Situated in the West End, The Bonham is a chic boutique hotel nestled amongst classic townhouses in a tranquil part of the city. Not only does it boast stylish décor and a contemporary vibe, but it's also known for being extremely pet-friendly. Dogs are provided with their own beds, bowls, and treats, ensuring they have a luxurious stay right alongside their owners.
Address: 35 Drumsheugh Gardens
Rating: Good 9.2 (2638 Reviews)
Rooms: 48
Price: From 465$

Pet-Friendly Perks: Quirky Hotels Edinburgh for Animal Lovers

Travelers with furry companions often seek out accommodations that not only welcome pets but celebrate them with unique offerings. These quirky hotels in Edinburgh go the extra mile for guests and their pets, offering services and amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all. From dedicated pet menus to bespoke bedding, these hotels understand that pets are an integral part of the family and deserve to be treated as such during your Edinburgh adventure.

Luxurious Whimsy: Upscale Quirky Hotels Edinburgh

Extravagance meets eccentricity in these upscale quirky hotels in Edinburgh, where opulence and originality create an unforgettable hospitality experience. These accommodations are for travelers who love their luxury served with a side of the unconventional. With their exquisite attention to detail, extraordinary design, and premium services, these quirky hotels provide an indulgent stay that defies the ordinary, confirming Edinburgh's reputation as a city that melds splendor with surprise.