Slate & Thistle

A studio apartment in a grand Georgian townhouse in the heart of Edinburgh, this is the kind of city-break base that invites you to unwind from the moment you arrive. Period cornicing and original architecture give the mezzanine bedroom a calm, considered character. And the location? Hard to beat. Edinburgh Castle is a fifteen-minute walk, Princes Street Gardens less than ten minutes on foot, and acclaimed bars and eateries are within a five-minute stroll – so whether you're here to sightsee or simply eat and drink well, the city is right there waiting.

Home truths:
* There is ongoing construction on a neighbouring building, so noise is to be expected. The area is also in the centre of New Town where city noise is likely. Your host thoughtfully provides earplugs.
* Entry to the building uses an online key system accessed via your phone, so make sure your device is charged and you have wi-fi or mobile data before you head out for the day.
* There's a clothing rail instead of a proper wardrobe, so we'd recommend packing light.
* At full occupancy, two guests will sleep on the sofa bed in the living area. Keep in mind that the double bedroom is on the mezzanine level and semi-open to the space below, so privacy is limited.
* There's no lift here. A steep spiral staircase leads to the first floor, and the apartment itself is also split across two levels.
* You won't find an oven here – though there is a hob. We think the kitchen is better suited to prepping lighter bites than large meals.