The Enlightened
8 guests
-
4 bedrooms, 4 beds
2 bathrooms
sq/ft
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Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
When your neighbour is Edinburgh Castle, you can be pretty certain that your home is in a prime spot in the city. Living right in the heart of the Old Town certainly has its perks, with Princes Street Gardens and the Grassmarket both less than ten minutes from your front door. But with such busy days on the horizon, you’ll also need somewhere to recline and relax. This grand apartment is set on one of Edinburgh’s most esteemed addresses. Even the street name is soaked in culture and history – named after the Enlightenment poet, Allan Ramsay the Elder who built the first structure here in 1733. And as soon as you step inside, you can see how culture and creativity have transcended the centuries. We love the opulent and elegant interiors, where a cream colour palette meets plush fabrics and faux furs. Of course there are still traditional features like four-poster beds, an iron fireplace, and sash windows with striking city skyline views, but there are some wonderful 21st-century additions. On chilly Scottish evenings, you’ll love padding along the underfloor heating of the bathroom on your way to fill up the tub. Don’t forget to take a tumbler of whisky in... there while you soak, just for an extra layer of warmth.
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Ask the host anything
Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights

Stroll to the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in less than five minutes

Take a picnic down to Princes Street Gardens, just over five minutes from home

Gather around for a dram of whisky by the original fireplace

Admire striking views of the city centre from your sash windows

Sink into the plush sofa with a classic Scottish novel
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
As this home allows for self check-in with a lockbox, you won't meet your host when you arrive
There's a washing machine, but no tumble dryer
Guests are kindly asked to keep noise to a minimum after 10:00 pm
Your host provides a travel cot and high chair for free upon request, but please bring your own linen
There's no dedicated workspace, but plenty of laptop-friendly spots like the dining table
On-street parking is free overnight from 6:30 pm to 8:30 am from Monday to Saturday; on Saturday evening, it's free from 6:30 pm until 12:30 pm on Sunday; then it's free again from Sunday 6:30 pm to Monday 8:30 am (there are also multi-storey car parks within a short walking distance from the apartment)
About this stay
Amenities
Desk
Laptop friendly workspace
Wi-fi
Washing machine
TV
Dishwasher
Fridge
Hair dryer
Bedrooms & bathrooms
4 bedrooms, 4 beds
2 bathrooms
Local guide
About Old Town
Perched on top of an extinct volcano, the iconic Edinburgh Castle forms the main focal point of the city. The Royal Mile runs (for just over a mile) from the Castle down to Holyrood Palace – the Queen’s official Scottish residence. The winding medieval layout of the Old Town is steeped in history, deeply atmospheric and provides perfectly framed glimpses of the city’s skyline. Breathtaking views abound. There are layers...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts

Time travel at the Museum of Scotland
There's something for everyone at the National Museum of Scotland – you can learn about history, explore the natural world, or admire the design innovation.

Walk the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is (almost) a mile long and runs from the Castle down to Holyrood Palace. Take a walk to explore the streets of Edinburgh's historic Old Town.

See free art at the National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery is home to a collection of fine art from the Renaissance to the late 19th Century. The annual Turner show is a must-see.

Have a picnic in Princes Street Gardens
On the rare days the sun does shine, Princes Street Gardens is a great picnic spot. You'll also find the Christmas market and many concerts happening here.

Enjoy flavours of India at Dishoom
A relatively new addition to the city, London-based chain Dishoom has brought its classic Bombay cafe style to Scotland. The breakfast is particularly great.

Indulge at The Ivy on the Square
The Ivy is well known in London and has recently brought its classic brasserie style to Edinburgh. It's perfect for a long lunch after a morning of shopping.

Drink and dine in splendour at The Dome
Bar, restaurant, afternoon tea spot, and eternal winner of prizes for its Christmas decorations, The Dome is one of the best known eateries in the city.

Enjoy Delicious Local Produce at the Edinburgh Larder
Relaxed cafe serving artisan coffee and seasonal produce for breakfast and lunch. Try their vegan Scottish breakfast or the generous Veggie Breakfast with veggie haggis, mushrooms, spinach, poached egg, potato scone, tomatoes, and granary breads.

Experience the Illusions at Camera Obscura
Discover the whimsical world of illusions at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. With five floors of interactive exhibits and stunning views of Edinburgh, this museum is a must-visit for all ages.

Feast on tapas at Cafe Andaluz
Enjoy an intimate tapas experience with delicious Spanish fare in an elegant Andalucian decor. Tasty dishes, kind staff, and excellent ambience make it a must-visit restaurant.

Feast on classic Italian dishes at Amarone
Enjoy Italian cuisine and cocktails in a chic environment. Try the tasty minestrone soup, beef lasagna, and scallop pasta. Friendly staff and reasonable prices make it a great choice.
Get around
Airport
Edinburgh
36 min
Perth
1 hr 18 min
Dundee
1 hr 21 min
Train station
Edinburgh Waverley
10 min
Bus stop
Princes Street (Stop PS)
6 min
Local shops & services
Convenience store
5 min
Cafe
4 min
Pharmacy
9 min
Points of interest
Beach
Portobello Beach
21 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Infants welcome (under 12 months)
No pets
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 16:00
Departure before 10:00
Wifi
No air con
Cancellation policy
Up until
5
days
Cancel at least 5 days before your check-in date for a full refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 5 days away.
Host
This home is managed by Stuart
This home is managed directly by a business. A member of their staff will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Your host Stuart is from Edinburgh and loves living in his hometown. Since his passion is exploring new restaurants, be sure to ask him for some local recommendations – he will be happily available for any questions or requests prior to or during your stay.
This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
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- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
- Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
- Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.