Parliament House Hotel-Grassmarket Hotel-Motel One Princes St.

I haven’t stayed at Parliament House, so I can’t comment on the property from personal experience. But I have stayed twice right around the corner, at the Apex Waterloo Place, and could not have been more pleased with the location—in the New Town but just across North Bridge from the Old Town, and on an extension of Princes Street that is quieter and calmer than the rest of that busy street. Not to mention that it’s a stone’s throw from Howies, a restaurant that feels like home to me now.

When I planned my first trip to Edinburgh last year, I initially looked at places on the Grassmarket. I was glad I reconsidered after I got there and saw for myself what a crowded, buzzy, fun area it is. Blame my somewhat advanced age, but I prefer a location that’s pretty dead in the evening and promises a good night’s sleep!

I stayed 5 nights at the Parliament last September and like Nancy, really liked that area…close to Waverley and transit if needed, though Edinburgh is wonderfully easy for walking everywhere. And Howies! Reservations are a must…I ate there twice, and their haggis, if you’re so inclined, was excellent. The Parliament is off a main street and very quiet, helpful staff and the hotel itself is very charming and clean. From my windows I had a view of the ocean in the distance and a lovely row of 1700s houses with a path to Calton Hill and on the other side a very old cemetery. It felt like a beautiful and peaceful retreat yet close to everything I needed—I’d definitely stay there again.

I stayed the Grassmarket Hotel 10 years ago, so it has been too long for me to give a fair review. It was in a convenient location (short uphill walk to Royal Mile). Noise could be a problem if you have an early bedtime. We were there during the Edinburgh Festival and this was one of the less expensive options. I would stay there again assuming that current reviews are good.

Thanks Christa. Looks like the right choice for us. And I made reservations at Howie’s.

I stayed at Hotel Motel One Princes and loved it. Excellent location, clean, great views, and the windows were soundproof.