Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, Cheval Old Town Chambers offers an exquisite blend of luxury, comfort, and history. It is a well known fact that Chevel Old Town Chambers is my favorite place to stay in the UK, possibly in all of Europe. That’s a pretty big statement to make but I’m willing to be bold here. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or a special occasion, this upscale aparthotel provides an unforgettable experience. Here’s a detailed review of why Cheval Old Town Chambers should be your top choice for accommodation in Edinburgh.
Location, Location, Location
Prime Spot in the Old Town: Cheval Old Town Chambers is ideally situated just off the Royal Mile, one of the most famous streets in Edinburgh. This prime location means you’re within walking distance of major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and Holyrood Palace.
Cockburn Street is directly behind the Cheval and there is easy access down to the street via steps. Sam and I really liked walking down to Cockburn Street to eat breakfast in the morning (more about that later).
P.S. If you’re looking for help planning a trip to Edinburgh, check out my newest post: The Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh, Scotland HERE.
Convenient Access: The hotel is easily accessible from Edinburgh Waverley Station, making it a convenient base for travelers arriving by train. Additionally, its central location means you’re surrounded by an array of shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Accommodation Options
A Range of Apartments: Cheval Old Town Chambers offers a variety of apartments to suit different needs and preferences, from studio apartments to spacious three-bedroom penthouses. Each apartment is designed with a focus on luxury and comfort, featuring modern amenities and stylish decor.
Last visit we stayed in a Deluxe One Bedroom Apartment with Balcony which we were more than happy with. Our apartment had a large living room/kitchen/dining area, a large, modern bathroom and a bedroom with a king size bed. The balcony was large and overlooked Edinburgh. We really liked coming back to the room after dinner to enjoy a glass of wine on the balcony.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort: Many apartments boast original features like exposed stone walls and wooden beams, blending the building’s historic charm with contemporary design. High-end furnishings, fully-equipped kitchens, and spacious living areas ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Family and Pet-Friendly: The aparthotel is family-friendly, offering apartments with multiple bedrooms and extra amenities for children. Pets are also welcome, making it a perfect choice for those traveling with their furry friends.
Exceptional Amenities
Fully Equipped Kitchens: Each apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. This is particularly convenient for longer stays or for those who prefer the option of home-cooked meals.
Modern Conveniences: Enjoy the convenience of modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious toiletries. Some apartments also feature private balconies with stunning views of the city.
Fitness Center: Stay active during your stay with access to the on-site fitness center, equipped with a range of exercise machines and free weights.
24/7 Concierge Service: The attentive and knowledgeable concierge team is available around the clock to assist with any needs, from booking restaurant reservations to arranging transportation and providing local recommendations.
Dining and Culinary Delights
Self-Catering Freedom: The fully equipped kitchens provide the freedom to cook your own meals, and the nearby local markets and grocery stores offer a variety of fresh produce and ingredients.
Local Dining: If you prefer dining out, the Old Town is home to a plethora of dining options. From traditional Scottish pubs to fine dining restaurants, you’re spoilt for choice. Notable nearby options include:
- The Witchery by the Castle: A lavish dining experience with a menu focused on traditional Scottish fare.
- Ondine: A highly acclaimed seafood restaurant offering fresh and sustainably sourced dishes.
- Howies Victoria: A cozy spot known for its delicious Scottish cuisine and warm ambiance.
- Deacon Brodie’s Tavern: A classic pub offering traditional dishes in a historic setting.
Breakfast Options: Cheval offers breakfast hampers that can be delivered to your apartment. These hampers include a selection of pastries, fresh fruit, juices, and other breakfast essentials
- Laila: Located on Cockburn Street, Laila is serving up waffles, egg dishes and pittas. Don’t forget your Lucky Charm coffee! Laila is open for dinner and has some pretty tasting looking cocktails- we only enjoyed breakfast there, though.
Nearby Attractions
Edinburgh Castle:
Just a short walk from Cheval Old Town Chambers, this iconic fortress offers stunning views of the city and a deep dive into Scotland’s history.
St Giles’ Cathedral:
Located on the Royal Mile, the magnificent cathedral is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and rich history.
Holyrood Palace:
The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, this historic palace is at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle.
National Museum of Scotland:
A short stroll away, this world-class museum features exhibits on natural history, science, and Scottish culture and history.
Princes Street Gardens:
These beautiful gardens provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. They are perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Scott Monument:
Climb to the top for fantastic views over the city. The Scott Monument is a Gothic monument is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s greatest writers.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Stop:
The nearest stop for the Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is on Market Street, just a few minutes’ walk from Cheval Old Town Chambers. This convenient tour allows you to explore the city at your own pace and includes stops at all major attractions.
I highly recommend The Royal Ticket from Edinburgh Bus Tours. This ticket gives you 48 hour hop on hop off bus access plus admission to Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia. I like a good hop on hop off bus tour as it gives you access to major attractions without having to worry about transportation. In this case, the Britannia and some of the other Edinburgh attractions, are quite far away from Old Town. I don’t think we would have made it out to Britannia had we not purchased the hop on hop off tour.
If you plan on seeing Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia, then I would definitely consider The Royal Ticket as the admission price of all three attractions alone is almost the cost of the ticket. In addition to the three main attractions mentioned, your Royal Ticket also gives you access to three hop on hop off routes which pretty much gets you anywhere you want to go in Edinburgh. In my opinion, the Edinburgh hop on hop off tour is one of the best valued tours in Europe.
Tips for Your Stay
Booking in Advance: Cheval Old Town Chambers is a popular choice, so it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and festival times. Click here to book!
Request a High Floor: For the best views of Edinburgh, request an apartment on a higher floor. The cityscape views are breathtaking, particularly at sunset.
Utilize the Concierge: The concierge team is a valuable resource for making the most of your stay. They can provide personalized recommendations and assist with any arrangements you need.
Explore the Surroundings: Take time to wander the narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town. You’ll discover hidden gems, historic closes, and charming cafes that give Edinburgh its unique character.
Escape the City: Check out my post: The Best Day Trips from Edinburgh HERE.
Final Thoughts
Cheval Old Town Chambers offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, history, and modern comfort in one of Edinburgh’s most coveted locations. Whether you’re in the city for a short visit or an extended stay, this aparthotel provides an exceptional home away from home. With its prime location, luxurious accommodations, and outstanding amenities, the best place to stay in Edinburgh is, by far, Cheval Old Town Chambers.
Have you stayed at Cheval Old Town Chambers in Edinburgh? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
