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New Town Hotel, Edinburgh
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Key details
About the Hotel
8-12 York Place,
Edinburgh,
United Kingdom,
EH1 3EP,
Edinburgh
Ballantrae Hotel is a Grade II listed Georgian townhouse located in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town. This historic establishment offers a unique blend of elegance and modern comfort at affordable prices. Its proximity to iconic attractions is complemented by the hotel’s character, featuring a rich history behind its walls.
Location
The hotel is ideally situated steps away from Princes Street and Multrees Walk, providing excellent access to shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Waverley Rail Station is approximately a 5-minute walk, and public transportation options, including tram stops, are conveniently located nearby. Guests can enjoy quick access to Edinburgh's historical sites, including Edinburgh Castle and the iconic Scottish National Gallery.
Rooms
All guestrooms at Ballantrae Hotel are spacious and equipped with private bathrooms, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers. Some rooms feature charming original features such as ornate windows and fireplaces. Free WiFi is available throughout, enhancing the modern comfort alongside traditional décor.
Eat & Drink
A continental breakfast can be served in-room at an additional cost, offering convenience to guests. The hotel also has a bar/lounge, although the restaurant is currently closed. Guests are within walking distance to various dining options in the vibrant surrounding area.
Leisure & Business
Ballantrae Hotel caters to both leisure and business travelers by offering complimentary wireless internet access and tour/ticket assistance. The hotel provides a 24-hour front desk service, ensuring guests receive support at any time during their stay. Additionally, while a bar/lounge is available, further leisure facilities may be limited.
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Select your room type
The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Spacious Comfort
“I was pleasantly surprised by the room's size; it was bright, airy, and beautifully designed, making me feel right at home.” view full review
Modern Convenience
“The bathroom seemed recently updated, featuring sleek fixtures and a lovely shower that made my stay so enjoyable.” view full review
Unique Stay
“Staying in a unique space outside the main building was a great experience—having my own entrance made it feel more private and comfortable.” view full review
Cozy Retreat
“The bedroom was extraordinarily cozy, providing the perfect ambiance for a romantic getaway while remaining quiet and peaceful.” view full review
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
No parking
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Dining
Bar/ Lounge area
Room features
Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
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Location
8-12 York Place,
Edinburgh,
United Kingdom,
EH1 3EP,
Edinburgh
Map view
street view
8-12 York Place,
Edinburgh,
United Kingdom,
EH1 3EP,
Edinburgh
City landmarks
Museum
Edinburgh Castle
1.4
km
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
1.4
km
Queen's Drive Holyrood Park
Arthur's Seat hike
2.3
km
Palace
Palace of Holyroodhouse
1.7
km
Gallery
Scottish National Gallery
990 m
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
1.2
km
High Street 2 Warriston's Close
The Real Mary King's Close
970 m
Park
Princes Street Gardens
1.4
km
St. Andrews House 2 Regent Road
Calton Hill
990 m
Museum
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
1.3
km
Botanical Garden
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1.5
km
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
1.0
km
Monument
Scott Monument
640 m
32 Calton Hill
Nelson Monument
1.0
km
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
900 m
Museum
The Writers' Museum
1.1
km
Museum
Gladstone's Land
1.1
km
Museum
Museum of Childhood
1.1
km
Nicolson Street
Surgeons' Hall Museums
1.4
km
53 Princes Street
Princes Street
930 m
Gallery
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One
2.1
km
Museum
Dynamic Earth
1.7
km
2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)
Brass Rubbing Centre
990 m
Museum
John Knox House
1.2
km
Museum
The Museum of the Royal Scots and the Royal Regiment of Scotland
1.2
km
Ocean Drive Ocean Terminal
Royal Yacht Britannia
3.1
km
Church
Mercat Cross
820 m
Gallery
City Art Centre
880 m
354 Castlehill
The Scotch Whisky Experience
1.3
km
Nearby
Picardy Place
Sherlock Holmes Statue
520 m
Restaurants
Fortitude Coffee Merchants
210 m
3C York Place Midlothian
The Square
200 m
17 North St. Andrew Street and 7 Dublin Street
Wetherspoons
430 m
Edinburgh Airport
Burger King
430 m
Fort Kinnaird
Papa johns leith walk
430 m
77A - 79 Leith Walk
Snax Cafe
510 m
West Register St
Gaucho
370 m
4A St. Andrew Square
St Andrew's and St George's West Undercroft Cafe Edinburgh
490 m
13 George Street
Soderberg Bakery Shop
350 m
45 Broughton Street
Papii
430 m
101 Hanover Street
Fed Sandwich Bar
350 m
2A Forth Street
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
72%
liked the hotel and would stay again
comfortable room
friendly staff
limited breakfast options
lack of wall decorations
7.2/10
Very good
Rooms
7.5
Location
8.5
Service
7.7
Dining
6.0
Guest reviews
7.2/10
based on 20 reviews
7.6
7.6/10 based on 1810 reviews
James
United Kingdom,
June
2024
6.6/10
My stay at the hotel was a mixed experience. The location was excellent, close to key areas and offering free parking, but the room setup was unusual with low roof height, making it uncomfortable. The service was friendly and efficient, although some aspects hint at higher standards elsewhere. Dining was limited, and facilities were satisfactory but not outstanding.
Rooms
6.0
My room was not in the main hotel but in a separate building along the road, facing the street. It felt like an attic room on the 3rd floor, with a low roof on one side of the bed, which was quite uncomfortable.
Service
7.0
The staff were good and friendly, although at times it seemed they were striving to meet a higher standard. Marta at reception stood out for being especially efficient and welcoming.
Location
9.0
The location is a strong point, with easy access to the bus and train station and within walking distance of significant shopping areas. The free parking in the heart of Edinburgh is a valuable perk.
Dining
5.0
The dining options were limited, with not much variety available. However, there was a selection of local cold cuts offered.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities were decent, offering the basics without any standout features. However, the setup seemed adequate for a comfortable stay.
Vanessa
United States,
May
2024
8.2/10
I couldn't have asked for a better location in the city! The room, while spacious and clean, was a bit cramped being located below ground level. The price wasn't on the cheap side, but it offered more than enough space for our group of three.
Rooms
8.0
The room was large and clean, providing more than enough space for the three of us.
Service
9.0
The staff went above and beyond to help, especially Elia, who organized everything for us even though he couldn't provide a discount. They were always friendly and welcoming.
Location
10.0
The location was excellent, within walking distance of shopping, trams stops, bars, restaurants, and even a casino! It was so close to popular attractions and public transport, making it convenient for us to explore the city.
Dining
7.0
The breakfast was sparse but sufficient. I would have preferred a cooked breakfast option, but the location made up for it. The restaurant being in a different building was a bit inconvenient.
Facilities
7.0
The overall facilities were good, although a bit limited. The small meals were okay but nothing special.
Stephen
United Kingdom,
May
2024
8.0/10
I had a fabulous stay at this hotel. The room was fantastic with a comfortable double bed, and the bathroom was exquisite. The location was excellent for my holiday in Edinburgh, making my experience even more enjoyable. However, the breakfast was a bit disappointing with limited options, but the staff made up for it with their friendliness. Overall, a great value for money.
Rooms
9.0
The room was fabulous with a comfortable double bed and the bathroom was exquisite.
Service
9.0
The staff was so friendly, the room was huge, and they even carried my luggage upstairs.
Location
8.0
The location was excellent, near the center of the city with good restaurants nearby.
Dining
6.0
The breakfast was disappointing as the bread was harder than expected, but the tea was good.
Facilities
8.0
The hotel had good facilities overall.
comfortable room
limited breakfast options
James
United Kingdom,
May
2024
8.4/10
I had a comfortable stay in a lovely room with modern technology right at the top of the building. The staff was friendly, but it did get a bit cold at night due to the big windows and lack of double glazing.
Rooms
8.0
The room with modern technology was perfect for my stay. It was comfortable and the staff were lovely.
Service
9.0
The staff who informed us we were staying two doors down were most helpful and accommodating. The receptionist who showed us to our room was also very pleasant.
Location
9.0
The location was great, close to Waverly Bridge for easy access to hop on hop off bus services. Despite being in the City Centre, it was very quiet.
Dining
7.0
The breakfast provided was plenty for me, although more choices would have been nice. Starting half an hour earlier would be more convenient for business travelers.
Facilities
9.0
The facilities were great, with an excellent idea of bedside pastries. The bathroom was lovely.
friendly staff
cold nights
Mike
United States,
April
2024
7.4/10
The hotel room was very spacious and clean, exceeding my expectations. The bathroom was beautiful. However, there was an issue with a broken wardrobe door, and the ensuite was quite small. The location of the room in the basement was a bit inconvenient.
Rooms
7.0
The room was very spacious and clean, and the bathroom looked beautiful.
Service
9.0
The staff was super friendly and helpful upon our arrival.
Location
9.0
The hotel's location was perfect, not right on Princes street, but within walking distance of all the main attractions and shops. It was very close to the tram stop, which is a direct link to the Edinburgh airport.
Dining
5.0
The dining experience was mediocre, with limited options. The quality did not match the price paid.
Facilities
7.0
The hotel had good facilities, but there were some maintenance issues like the broken wardrobe door.
George
United States,
April
2024
7.4/10
The hotel was in a great location for visiting sights, very close to public transportation options. The rooms were stunning, with a huge bathroom and ample seating. The service was friendly and helpful, but a bit offhand on arrival. The location was ideal, though a bit busy in a small space. Dining options were limited to cold dishes. The facilities were really good with helpful staff during emergencies.
Rooms
9.0
The room was stunning and very large with ample seating and sleeping facilities.
Service
7.0
The service was friendly and helpful, though a bit offhand on arrival.
Location
8.0
The location was perfect for walking into town and accessing public transportation easily.
Dining
5.0
Dining options were limited to cold dishes.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were really good with helpful staff during emergencies.
Richard
United Kingdom,
March
2024
7.4/10
I was in the servants quarters but had a good night's sleep at this hotel in central Edinburgh. Although the room was pokey, it was comfy enough, but cleanliness could be improved. The staff were lovely and welcoming, helping me find places since I was on my own. The continental breakfast had plenty to offer, perfect before heading out to explore. The convenient location made it easy to wander around the city, although some areas needed a good clean.
Rooms
7.0
The room was clean and comfortable, albeit pokey. Could benefit from extra care and attention for a deep clean.
Service
9.0
The staff were lovely and welcoming, helping me as a solo traveler to find places and making me feel comfortable.
Location
8.0
The hotel is in central Edinburgh, just a few minutes from the playhouse, making it convenient to explore the city, despite needing some cleaning in certain areas.
Dining
7.0
The basic continental breakfast offered a variety of options, from cold meats to pastries, suitable for a light morning meal.
Facilities
6.0
Rosie
United Kingdom,
February
2024
8.0/10
The hotel offers amazing and huge rooms with a fantastic view over Firth of Forth, but it was a bit inconvenient being in a separate building requiring walking outside in the rain for breakfast and other amenities. Service was mostly helpful, especially Elia, although a bit uncooperative with bags. The location is superb for easy access to the city center. Dining was fresh and excellent but a bit rushed. Overall, a comfortable stay with minor inconveniences.
Rooms
8.0
The rooms were amazing and huge with a fantastic view over Firth of Forth.
Service
7.0
The service was mostly helpful, especially Elia, but a bit uncooperative with our bags.
Location
9.0
The location is excellent, very close to the city center and all attractions, with easy access to the tram.
Dining
8.0
The dining experience was fresh and excellent, though a bit rushed at times.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were good, comfortable and with a great view.
Gary
United States,
February
2024
5.8/10
I had a mixed experience at this hotel. On the positive side, the rooms looked recently decorated, well-equipped, and beautifully decorated with a lovely en-suite bathroom. However, the room's location right opposite a casino made it difficult to sleep due to noise until 6.00 am. The cleanliness of the bed, broken mattress, sockets, and dirty walls were major drawbacks.
Rooms
6.0
The rooms looked recently decorated, well-equipped, and beautifully decorated with a lovely en-suite bathroom. However, the location opposite a casino made it noisy until very late, affecting sleep quality.
Service
5.0
The stay was spoilt by a less than satisfactory experience at the front desk. Additionally, without asking if we were finished, they took all our breakfast away, souring the overall experience.
Location
7.0
The hotel could do with a bit of modernization, but it is very close to the main tram stop providing easy access to central Edinburgh, transportation lines, and attractions. It was surprisingly quiet given its central location.
Dining
7.0
The dining was of good quality and in a great location. The staff were friendly, and the breakfast was nice. However, the experience was marred by cold croissants that seemed to miss the oven.
Facilities
5.0
The hotel has potential and good facilities, but unfortunately, cleanliness and maintenance issues were apparent, such as broken sockets and dirty walls.
Richard
United States,
February
2024
7.6/10
My stay at this hotel was a mix of positives and negatives. The room, while beautifully designed, had not been properly cleaned after the previous guest, which was a letdown. However, the young female receptionist was incredibly kind and made our stay comfortable. The hotel's location was perfect for exploring Edinburgh, being close to many attractions and amenities. The dining experience left something to be desired with limited options, but the facilities were satisfactory.
Rooms
7.0
The room was amazing and beautiful, but cleanliness was an issue with traces of the previous occupant. The overall appearance suffered as a result.
Service
9.0
The young female receptionist was very kind and helpful, making us feel comfortable during our stay.
Location
9.0
The location of the hotel was excellent for our Christmas holiday in Edinburgh, close to various attractions and transportation options.
Dining
6.0
The dining experience had limited options, and the lack of choice between continental or English breakfast was disappointing.
Facilities
7.0
The facilities were decent overall, nothing extraordinary but satisfactory for a comfortable stay.
Great location
Room cleanliness
Patrick
United States,
January
2024
6.4/10
My stay at the hotel was a mixed experience. The rooms were very luxurious with a wonderful view, and the reception staff were extremely helpful when we had a problem that wasn't the hotel's fault. However, there were some maintenance issues like a loose sink basin tap and broken floor tiles. The room was well-equipped with a comfortable bed, seating area, large TV, coffee and tea making facilities, and an en-suite. I booked just 30 minutes before checking in.
Rooms
8.0
The rooms were very luxurious, with a wonderful view, and the reception staff were extremely helpful when we had a problem that wasn't the hotel's fault. However, there were some maintenance issues like a loose sink basin tap and broken floor tiles. The room was comfortable with a seating area, large TV, coffee and tea making facilities, and an en-suite.
Service
7.0
The service was a bit of a mixed bag. The staff were very friendly and helpful, particularly the young man on reception. However, there were communication issues as some staff had poor English. They did go the extra mile by arranging a takeaway delivery for their own consumption and surprising us with a bottle of warm prosecco and glasses.
Location
6.0
The location was terrific for exploring Edinburgh. However, the cleanliness of the hotel left much to be desired, with visible dirt and spots on the carpet. Despite that, it's conveniently situated on York Place with easy access to the city center and various transport options.
Dining
5.0
The dining options were limited, especially for vegans. The basic continental breakfast lacked hot food like Scottish porridge or scrambled eggs. The croissants were hard and almost stale, but the homemade sweets were a nice touch.
Facilities
6.0
The hotel facilities were average. There is room for improvement in terms of cleanliness and maintenance to make the overall experience more enjoyable.
Thomas
United Kingdom,
November
2023
7.4/10
The hotel was large, clean, and comfortable, perfect for a stay in Scotland in January. It was very quiet and conveniently located near everything. However, the breakfast experience was not worth the additional cost. The service was friendly and helpful but could have been more accommodating. The location was excellent for exploring the city and accessing transportation easily.
Rooms
8.0
The room was very large, comfortable, and quiet, meeting the standards of a four-star hotel.
Service
8.0
The service was very friendly and helpful, especially the young man at reception.
Location
9.0
The hotel's location was exceptional, close to major attractions, restaurants, and transportation hubs.
Dining
5.0
The dining experience was subpar for the price paid, leading us to explore alternatives outside the hotel.
Facilities
7.0
Additional dining options were offsite, and the facilities were satisfactory but not exceptional.
Frank
United States,
November
2023
7.0/10
My stay at the hotel was quite a mixed experience. The rooms were clean and comfortable, but they were nothing like what I saw on the website. The service was great, and the staff went out of their way to assist us. The location was convenient for accessing the city center and major attractions, but the hotel itself felt very tired. The dining options were limited and didn't offer much value for the extra cost.
Rooms
7.0
My room was kitted out with two single beds on the fourth floor with no lift. It was clean and comfortable.
Service
9.0
The staff were as helpful as possible, moving us when needed and assisting with printing our boarding passes. They really made our stay enjoyable.
Location
8.0
The location was excellent, especially for accessing the city center and major tourist attractions. However, the hotel felt more like a youth hostel and could use some updating.
Dining
5.0
The dining experience was a bit disappointing as the restaurant was in a different building down the street with limited breakfast options. It was not worth the extra money we paid for it.
Facilities
6.0
The hotel facilities were basic but sufficient for our needs. However, they could use some improvement to match the price paid for the stay.
Andrew
United States,
October
2023
7.6/10
I had a great stay overall. The hotel offered clean and comfortable rooms with a lovely view and a nice continental breakfast, which was a nice touch. However, the inconvenience of having to walk outside to reach some facilities during rainy weather was a drawback.
Rooms
8.0
The room was clean and comfortable with a lovely view. The continental breakfast was a nice addition.
Service
7.0
The staff was very friendly and accommodating, although there were some instances of inattentiveness and lack of focus.
Location
9.0
The location was fantastic, right in the city center opposite The Art Gallery. It was convenient for exploring the main parts of the city with good transport links.
Dining
7.0
Facilities
7.0
Mary
United Kingdom,
October
2023
6.6/10
Staying at the hotel was a mix of luxury and inconvenience. The rooms, though massive and luxurious with a great view, required climbing steep stairs each time. The reception staff were extremely helpful despite some room allocation issues. However, there were reports of dirty rooms and a subpar breakfast experience.
Rooms
7.0
The massive room was luxurious with a wonderful view, but the three flights of steep stairs to negotiate were a hassle.
Service
6.0
Despite some issues with room allocation, the reception staff were extremely helpful, with particular praise for Mary. However, reports of dirty rooms detracted from the overall service.
Location
9.0
The hotel's location was fantastic for exploring Edinburgh, being centrally situated near key attractions like EDB Waverly station and the city center.
Dining
5.0
The dining experience fell short with limited choices, particularly for vegans, and subpar breakfast options.