At the foot of the castle, on Castlehill, The Witchery by the Castle has just nine suites, decorated in a Gothic style with oak four-poster beds and freestanding baths. It has its own restaurant. It is aimed mainly at couples who want to sleep at the top of the Royal Mile.
Location and getting around
Edinburgh Castle is about a 5-minute walk away, as are St Giles’ Cathedral, the Grassmarket, the National Museum of Scotland and the Scott Monument on Princes Street. Waverley station is about 10 minutes away and Calton Hill about 20. The Palace of Holyroodhouse, at the other end of the Royal Mile, is about 25 minutes on foot.
Rooms and facilities
Each suite has a separate sitting area and velvet-covered walls in red and gold tones; some also have a dressing room and a sofa for two. Several have views of the Royal Mile, Princes Street or the Old Town.
Breakfast is served in a hamper in your suite or, if you prefer, hot in the restaurant; according to the property, at no extra cost. The hotel restaurant is in the same building.
Who it suits
- A good fit if you are travelling as a couple for a special occasion.
- Ideal if you want to start the day a few steps from the castle entrance.
- Worth a look if you like ornate, Gothic-inspired decor.
Good to know
There are only nine suites. Wi-Fi is not listed among the facilities, so ask if you need it for work. Check-in starts at 14:30 and check-out is at 11:30. For other options, see hotels in Edinburgh.









