Royal Mile Apartment, 451/17 Lawnmarket

Near Castle Sunny Lux Apt - Perfect to explore Edinburgh on foot

You will enjoy exclusive use of this beautiful top floor apartment with its two double bedrooms that luxuriously accommodate two couples (two double beds on special request) or one double plus two singles and the use of sofa for a child (please bring a sleeping bag).

What do our Guests really appreciate? The central Old Town location, meaning you can walk everywhere, the amenities within the apartment, its spacious feel and Edinburgh’s huge range of interesting things to do many on the doorstep.

What do our Guests not like so much? The 57 steps from ground level to the front door with no lift and the out door bins - both of which are the consequence of the very central location and about which we receive little negative feedback! Being city center, weekend nights are vibrant but again we have few complaints about the noise. The apartment is completely free from traffic noise as it is situated on a pedestrian only square.

One bedroom has a double bed, and the other has two singles capable of being set up as a luxurious double bed on advance request for which we are charged extra to make up and dismantle - please request two doubles before you make your reservation.

There is a bright, sunny, open plan living room with fascinating views over The Writers Museum and pedestrian square, active with its daily walking tours, and towards The Castle. Three-seater and 2-seater leather sofas in the living room, a dining suite and spacious facilities provide lots of room for our guests.

The apartment has a fully fitted and equipped kitchen with dishwasher, fridge, microwave, full cooker/hob, toaster facilities and modest storage space for food etc.; a modern bathroom with bath and electric shower and a washing machine in the utility space. Full spec internet and fast wifi connection (which you can use free of charge anywhere in the UK using BT WiFi). Flat screen TV. Hair dryer.

Check in: 2pm (early check in/luggage drop off possible).
Check out: 10:15am (luggage storage facilities available nearby at Edinburgh Rail Station.

During your stay you will have quick and easy access to Princes Street shopping and the enormous choice of central Edinburgh attractions, some literally on your doorstep and most within a 15 minutes walk.

This 4th floor apartment is situated in the heart of Edinburgh's Auld (Old) Town and in the local area you will find everything you need for a great stay; there are food shops, 100s of cafes and restaurants, takeaways, bars and clubs - all within a short walk of your front door. It is also just a short 5-10 min walk to Edinburgh train and bus stations, so you can easily explore more of Scotland and North of England! Travelling by car? Don't, there's no need, but more information about travel, how to get to the apartment and car parking below.

Edinburgh is packed with things to see and do. As well as the great restaurants and shopping there are many cultural sights to visit.

The city's skyline is dominated by the beautiful Edinburgh (website hidden)-built in 1617, the Castle is one of Scotland's most iconic visitor attractions, and sits on its own volcanic rock at the top of the Royal Mile. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is also set against the Castle's backdrop every August, and showcases the best military bands, pipers and drummers, dancers and display teams from across the world.

Great suggestions of things to do and see also within walking distance include:
- National Museum of Scotland: explore the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, art and design, science and technology and Scottish history, all under one roof and thoroughly well worth a visit to this newly modernised Museum.
- The Scotch Whisky Experience: All Whisky tours start with a swirling, bubbling barrel ride ...
- The Real Mary King's Close:  the #1 thing to do in Edinburgh according to the Lonely Planet and well worth a visit if you want to discover Edinburgh's unattractive past (and if you're not claustrophobic!);
- Our Dynamic Earth: The Mother Earth of all adventures and a science centre with interactive exhibits about planet earth.
Edinburgh's Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: provides unrivalled views over Edinburgh's skyline & fun attractions;
- Surgeons' Hall Museums: think gruesome and possibly Burke and Hare. Although initially established as a medical teaching resource, access by all is a priority. Visitors can explore The Pathology Museum, The History of Surgery Museum and the Dental Museum. The kids will love it!
- Walking and ghost tours too numerous to list; open the apartment window and you will hear many of the actor/guides entertain their groups with dark tales, throughout the day and into the early evening!

Edinburgh is the world's Festival City. It’s where people come together from across the globe to share their passion for arts, culture and ideas. There are 12 Festivals throughout the year ranging from the famous Fringe during August with 1000s of events packed into a free 400-page Guide, to the Literary, International Science (in the spring) and International Magic Festivals.  

Check out the Edinburgh Festivals online:

Edinburgh International Film Festival - June

Edinburgh International Jazz and Blues Festival
Friday 17th - Sunday 26th July 2015

Edinburgh Art Festival
30 July - 30 August 2015

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
7-29 August 2015

Edinburgh Festival Fringe
7-31 August 2015

Edinburgh International Book Festival
15-31 August 2015

Edinburgh Mela
29-30 August 2015

Edinburgh International Science Festival
4-19 April 2015

Imaginate Festival
Scotland's International Children's Theatre Festival
11-17 May 2015

And not forgetting the BIGGEST OF ALL - Edinburgh's Hogmany: The largest New Year event in the world with five days of celebrations culminating with a massive New Year's Eve street party. The Apartment is close to the Special Party Zone. A three day festival to welcome in the New Year, including a torchlight procession, dancing to A-list musicians, and an incredible fireworks display over the Castle while the entire city sings Auld Lang Syne.

Getting there by Train, from the Airport and Parking

By Train: From Edinburgh's main Waverley Station it's then a slow 5-10 min walk to the apartment.

From Edinburgh Airport (involving a short 5-10 minute walk):

The Tram (10+ mins walk with luggage)

Frequent and reliable service linking the airport and the city centre.
• Frequency: approximately every 8-12 minutes
• Journey time: average journey time 35 minutes
• Fare: Adult single £5, adult return £8 (reductions for children)
• Tickets can be purchased from the ticket machines at the tram halt.

Airlink Express Bus 100 (Stance 19) (-10 mins walk with luggage)

24 hour express bus service runs from the airport to Waverley Bridge (near Princes Street and the main rail and bus stations). Buy tickets at the Airlink Kiosk outside Domestic Arrivals in advance at the Lothian Buses website.
• Frequency: Every 10 minutes.
• Journey time: 30 minutes approximately (Waverley Bridge).
• Fare: Single £4, return £7 (reductions for children).                                                                             The final destination is on Waverley Bridge opposite Edinburgh's main, central station (called Waverley Station).

No Car Parking: There is a multi story car park 5 mins walk from the flat on King Stables Road (4 hr max and £2 ph between 8:30 am and 6:30pm) and metered parking nearer on Johnstone Terrace (£3ph same hours). Try the web site parkopedia for other car parks for £15 and £19 per 24 hrs, 10-12 mins walk away and there is sometimes a private drive available for £5.50 per day quite close. Edinburgh City Council out of town Park and Ride car parks are mostly free and many include overnight parking.

Reviews and Testimonials

“An absolutely fantastic location right in the heart of Edinburgh! We stayed in John's place for five nights in late September during the Ryder Cup, and couldn't have been more pleased. The apartment itself suited our needs perfectly. Small living room and two bedrooms (one with two single beds, the other a double). We didn't use the kitchen at all. The steps up to the flat were no problem for us at all, but might be an issue for some with mobility concerns. The wifi was great (and fast). The lockbox for the keys was easy to use. Everything was in great working order (and quite clean). We arrived late at night at the train station and were worried about finding the address, but navigating to the flat actually turned out to be quite easy (if uphill the whole way). All in all: Highly recommended.” Michael T. September 2014

(website hidden) translated from French. “The accommodation is spacious, functional and ideally situated for exploring the city on foot and less than 10 minutes from the bus stop AIR LINK to the airport Very good for 4 people. Kitchen and bedding of good quality restaurants and shops all around difficulty finding the entrance to the building as in a court.” Philippe B. Our response: “What a lovely response and great feedback. We give very specific written instructions on how to access the apartment as it is off a pedestrian square. Perhaps we should have used (website hidden) Translate to convert them to French on this occasion. Access is via a keysafe and many guest love the flexibility that offers. So we also offer tips on the City by email and guests have commented on the usefulness of the apartment guidebook which is in English.” August 2014

“John was very helpful , gave us some useful information and was very prompt in answering our questions. The location was wonderful, central but not noisy, a short climb from the station but not arduous. The apartment was clean and comfortable and well stocked, things like washing up liquid, dishwasher tablets and soap are all provided including a welcome pack of tea, coffee and milk. Great for those coming by public transport. Would thoroughly recommend and hope to return.” Things J loved: “Apartment was everything we expected it to be. Thanks for those little extras such as washing up liquid etc. so useful especially when arriving by public transport. As we spent much of our time commuting to the Games in Glasgow we didn't have enough time to see Edinburgh but are hoping to return for the Festival - shame to see it being set up and not having time to go. Thank you for a wonderful time”. Jill R. August 2014

“Great Location - This property is in a really great location - it is walking distance to just about everything! We had a great 3 days in Edinburgh (our first time there). The "hop on hop off" bus stop is right out the front on the Royal Mile - lots of cafes, shops and historical buildings and sights so very close. The castle is a short walk up the hill - if you are in Edinburgh - don't miss the Castle - it is extraordinary. A basic two bedroom unit - not exceptional but a good basic unit with all you need. Pretty good kitchen with good amenities, open plan lounge area with books, games and a good size TV. Steps to the unit (my husband tells me there were 75 in total) could be an issue if you are not ready for them. So if you want to stay here - just be ready to climb a few times. I think this is a good property in a fantastic area.” Trip Advisor

“The Edinburgh flight was perfect for our 2 nights. The location could not have been better for accessing both the Royal Mile (the Castle / souvenir shops) and Princes St for more non-touristic shops. We walked everywhere, which was a fantastic change of pace. The washing machine worked great and the shower had plenty of hot water (all 4 of us could shower back-to-back with hot water). The apartment was very clean and exactly as described. The hill up from the Waverly bus stop and the steps to the apartment were pleasantly not as strenuous as expected. Would recommend John's apartment to others!”. James L. June 2014

“The apartment was spacious and able to comfortably accommodate 4 persons. The living area was suitable for watching the world cup matches and the dining table had room for meals together. 2 bath towels were provided for each guests. There was a washing machine/dryer in the apartment - do note that the floor would vibrate when the machine was spinning dry (no washing allowed after 9pm). Location was good, and it's interesting to hear actors in period costume at the square downstairs entertaining different tourist groups (almost every evening around 6-8pm). Nearest Sainsbury supermarket was about 10 minutes walk away. It was easy to order food delivery, although most of them had difficulty finding the exact apartment and would usually wait at the square downstairs. Clean apartment (hotel standards for bed linen and towels) Excellent location and communication before check-in Thanks for the recommendation for Mary King's close - it was amazing.” Wensi L. June 2014

“Great location! John is an excellent host and provided perfect instructions, which made our arrival very easy. He provided many great tips for activities and restaurant suggestions. The flat is very clean and fully stocked with anything you would need. Would definitely recommend this flat and hope to stay in it again! We absolutely loved your flat. It was very clean and comfortable. The instructions made everything very simple. For us there is no need for the host to be there when we check in so the lockbox and instructions worked perfect for us. Really appreciate the tips and suggestions too!” Jennifer O. June 2014

“The flat was ideally located, quiet, and proved just as advertised. John was clear about the stairs and there were no surprises. If anything, it wasn't so bad. Taking the News Stairs from the Mound became a bit of a chore by day 4 but can be avoided my walking the Market Street hill instead - or taking a cab! John could not have been more attentive or accommodating. I highly recommend this flat for the unique experience of staying on the Royal Mile and being central to most other parts of town.” Robert H. May 2014

“We couldn't have asked for a better location! Right in the middle of the action - walking distance to the main attractions, bars and restaurants. The apartment was perfect for my three friends and I. Very clean with comfy beds and fast wifi. John was very easy to get a hold of and was able to get us a late checkout at the last minute ... I will absolutely be staying here again! Angie V.  May 2014

“A Very Enjoyable Rugby Weekend in some Fine accommodation”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 8, 2014 for a stay in February 2014 – “The property is located in an excellent part of Edinburgh. It is spacious, warm, clean, tidy and well maintained. It is close to all local amenities including the station and bus routes. I have stayed there twice and will hope to do so in the future.” Trip Advisor.

“Perfect location” 5 of 5 stars. Reviewed March 18, 2014 for a stay in March 2014
Easy to get to from Waverley Station and a short walk across to the 'New Town'. Location is perfect just off the Royal Mile. Lots of pubs, restaurants, galleries, museums and shops within a few minutes walk. Clean, comfy and well equipped. Plenty of space for relaxing.” Trip Advisor.

“Fantastic Stay in very central apartment.” 5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 8, 2014 for a stay in November 2013. “We had a great stay in this apartment in November 2013. We were a group of four friends and it was very easy to get to from the airport, easy to find and very very central. We could walk to everything all the sights, the castle, bars, restaurants and cafe's. The apartment was very clean and had everything that we required for a weekend stay. John the owner was great at answering any questions and provided us with everything we needed to know. I would recommend staying here and would definitely come back again.” Trip Advisor.

“Thank you for a great stay in your apartment John. John has been a great host and has responded very quickly and has been very helpful with any questions/requests we have had. The apartment was in a super location very easy to find and very central. We were able to walk to everything from this spot and the view of the courtyard is amazing. We had a great stay!! We would definitely use this flat again if we were to return. (my only negative would be the pressure of the power shower - but that’s the only one!)” Thea J. November 2013 NB We are pleased to note that the water pressure issue has been long since put right.

“The flat worked out perfectly for our three night stay in Edinburgh. Close to Waverley Station, High Street, and Castle. The flat was spacious and worked well for our party of three. We used the kitchen each morning for making breakfast and the separate living room area made it nice for night owls and early risers. As other reviews have noted, there are many steps up to the flat and it is an uphill walk from Waverley Station. I would still highly recommend this flat. John was a great host and provided ample communication prior to our stay and contact information during our stay”. Stephen H. October 2013

“This apartment is located within yards of the castle grounds and on the Royal Mile. Very convenient and close to Waverley Station where the bus from the airport drops you off, and where you can easily catch a train. Always good to read reviews first, which I had done so I knew that there were many stairs to climb as well as no elevator. Instructions for operating the heating system were easy to follow. It was a perfect apartment from which to do all the sites that Edinburgh had to offer, and close to the University where my daughter attends. John, my host, made sure that keys were available to me on my arrival, and a contact person, should the need arise. Very comfortable and pleasant experience. Thank you.” Lillian C. October 2013

"We had a marvellous time in Edinburgh and John's flat made it very comfortable and relaxing. The location of his flat was so central to anything and everything yet it was quiet and again, I say comfortable. We would recommend staying there and would certainly want to stay there again, ourselves, in the future." VT Sept 2013

"Great location, nice apartment, clean an quiet. Thank you, we will come back." RS Aug 2013

This apartment was in the perfect location! We never had to take public transportation. Just walked down the stairs onto the Royal Mile. Home was nice, 4 adults stayed comfortably. Our only complaint was the low water pressure made showers longer. Hali from Seattle 4/01/2013 Note: A new more powerful shower has since been installed. Thank you, Hali, for this feedback.

Spot on! What an excellent location to explore Edinburgh. Since it was so central, we were able to break up our day with stops back at the apartment which is so important when you have kids so no one got completely miserable having to go an entire day. It was also a nice find to realise we were in same building as Deacon Brodie whose food we enjoyed. The apartment is spacious, clean and well equipped. Our two boys aged 5 and 7 immediately claimed their room and were so at home. Jayne was very helpful at the end of the phone when we came a bit unprepared. We will be definitely be back.

..... The location is perfect, within a short walking distance to everything. The value was unbeatable. And the apartment itself was the best we've ever stayed in on vacation (by far). Very modern accommodations with lots of room. Arriving to the apartment was seamless thanks to Jayne's help and was very easy to get to it from the airport. If this apartment is available, book it. You won't be disappointed.

Am writing to say how much we enjoyed the apartment and Lawnmarket - it is a very special place and we were thrown immediately into the history of Edinburgh. This holiday was a retirement gift from my son and daughter-in-law who did all of the arrangements. They could not have done it better. Thank you.

Very clean and tidy Location excellent location central to all the sights. Vanessa, Perth Australia

I wanted to say thanks once again before leaving. And Thanks for a perfect stay, the apartment is beautiful and very comfortable. We will recommend it to our friends and family! Until next time...  

The location is excellent and the apartment is very nice and well equipped. Location Edinburgh is a wonderful city with many things to see and do.

Actually to us it was outstanding, because it was everything we wanted. The flat was well laid out and extremely comfortable. I rated Castle Walk excellent because some folks might not want to climb the stairs, or might expect services that would not be included in self-catering. We totally loved it, and Jayne and Tony were very helpful. I would definitely stay there again, and hope to. Loved the view out the kitchen window! Location Loved the area and how close we were to everything in the Old Town. Great pub up the street and to the left of the big restaurant that was a church once. Writers' Museum right across the close should not be missed--it's free, but donate--it's worth it. Can walk to Waverley Station, although it's uphill all the way. Going back down was a breeze. You don't want or need a car here.

Aug 2013 "Great apartment and Service and Location"
This apartment has been great for myself and 2 teenagers for our stay in Edinburgh. It was more than roomy so my daughter has her own room, and the wifi and plenty of outlets has been great, as we all travel with lots of electronics. Its also great to have a kitchen and washer/dryer - all the reasons to book an apartment instead of a hotel. The location is also great, with the castle right down the road, and everything else in walking distance.

I also want to say the service has been stellar, which is the icing on the cake. The building had to have the gas turned off for some work that was unrelated to the apartment. We were out too late to find out this left us without gas, but the owners came and took care of us as soon as possible. So all turned out great, when in all honesty it could have went poorly and not been their fault at all. But they went above and beyond!

Oct 2013: This apartment is located within yards of the castle grounds and on the Royal Mile. Very convenient and close to Waverley Station where the bus from the airport drops you off, and where you can easily catch a train. Always good to read reviews first, which I had done so I knew that there were many stairs to climb as well as no elevator. Instructions for operating the heating system were easy to follow. It was a perfect apartment from which to do all the sites that Edinburgh had to offer, and close to the University where my daughter attends. John, my host, made sure that keys were available to me on my arrival, and a contact person, should the need arise. Very comfortable and pleasant experience. Thank you.