4 reasons why the Kimpton Charlotte Square is the most romantic hotel in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s charm is so idyllic, it’s been a muse to writers for centuries. It’s only fitting that this is where the Kimpton Charlotte Square sits, a serene hideaway, full to overflowing with everything needed for a romantic escape. I recently stayed two nights there on a wedding anniversary tour of Edinburgh where I found four reasons why this hotel is the most romantic in the city.
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1. The fanciful atmosphere
Close your eyes and imagine a scene from a classic piece of literature (one of the cheerier volumes). What you dreamed up likely comes very close to the Kimpton Charlotte Square. A wicker basket props up black Mary Poppins umbrellas next to a stately Georgian door. Red bicycles fitted with silver bells patiently wait for their next outing on a herringbone tile floor. A dancing fire in a massive stone fireplace warms the room and the mood. A couple chats animatedly in the library and garden greenery weaves its way from the outdoors in, bringing a taste of a summer garden with it. This was what greeted us as we explored the common rooms on our first night. Even story settings don’t get as romantic as this.
On our second night, we decided to take a dip in the indoor swimming pool. There’s nothing like a spontaneous swim, taken purely for fun (with no attempt to get a workout in) to bring up memories of the exciting first rush of love. Do try it.
2. A historic New Town setting
When the day draws you and your love outside, Edinburgh is at your feet, literally. Kimpton Charlotte Square is in New Town (built between 1767 and 1890 while Old Town is medieval). Shops full of Harris Tweed tartan handbags and beautifully packaged shortbread biscuits, plus one-of-a-kind treasures are two to ten minutes away on foot. Edinburgh wasn’t bombed as badly as London was during WW2, so the gorgeous period architecture is laid out in unbroken ribbons along the city’s cobbled streets. The baked goods in Edinburgh are second-to-none. If you’ve never tried chocolate and caramel-topped millionaire shortbread, you haven’t lived. Don’t miss out; it will transform your expectations of dessert forever. Cabs or buses are plentiful when it’s time to go to Old Town. Or, if you don’t mind a very scenic walk, Old Town can be reached in about 20 minutes on foot. As you’re bound to get distracted constantly by fabulous shops and scenery, plan for more.
3. Absolutely delicious food
Discovering a tin full of goodies in the room was my first delightful foodie surprise. Rich chocolate bars and well-chosen savoury snacks fed my habit of late-night snacking on both nights of our stay. Even better was dinner on our second night. We ate our fill at BABA, a restaurant that feels like the best version of a Middle Eastern bazaar. BABA is a vibrantly hued maze of open areas that buzz with conversation, and intimate tables framed with heavy velvet curtains, made for a quiet meal. My hummus and pita bread was so wonderful, I nearly skipped to dessert. I’m glad I didn’t though, as the cod with grilled celeriac and cashews was tender and flavourful. My husband had the pork with red pepper ketchup, feta cheese and banana chilies, which he must have loved as he cleaned his plate.
For variety, there are two other restaurants on-site, Aizle (featuring a six-course tasting menu) and The Garden, a scenic, light-filled café that serves coffee and sandwiches until 3 PM.
4. A room that is as comfortable as it is beautiful
After dinner and a day of exploration, I craved a hot shower and soft bed. I got both in our beautiful one-bedroom partitioned suite that overlooked the front steps of the hotel and Charlotte Square beyond. The suite’s sitting room and bedroom are separated by a partial wall under a high ceiling. Of all the room’s brilliant décor, I liked the drawing of wily rabbits best — its outright whimsy juxtaposed nicely with the downy velvet drapes and refined upholstered sofa. The super king bed’s duvet was so nice — crisp, spotless, and had just the right weight. Snuggling under it while watching TV and reliving our day surrounded by a beautiful room full of beautiful things was wonderful and terribly romantic.
As I write this, I want to go back and package up the room to bring home and make ours, but I suppose the fantasy needs to stay in Edinburgh where it fits to tailor-made perfection.
My recommendation
The Kimpton Charlotte Square is a fantastic hotel in a city that falls in my top three world-wide. I particularly recommend the hotel to couples looking for a romantic getaway as it is the most romantic hotel in Edinburgh. Tip: For access to the best selection of room types and seasonal specials, book directly on Kimpton Charlotte Square’s official website.
It wasn’t until I caught sight of the building that I realised I had been a guest of the hotel before, years ago. At that time it had another name. I am delighted with the improvements Kimpton has made. I liked the hotel very much before, but it is even better now, particularly in the areas of interior design and cuisine. Kudos to Kimpton!
Appreciation
My gratitude to Naomi Cameron of 3x1 for expertly arranging my time at the hotel. Thank you, Naomi! You’re a credit to your company.
