The Raeburn
"Establishing shot: What's the first thing you notice as you arrive? What are your initial impressions?Located in Edinburgh’s wonderfully bougie New Town, the Raeburn is a circa-1832 Georgian mansion restored to perfection and opened in 2014 with 10 rooms. Thanks to its off-the-tourist path location in Stockbridge and the pub's status as a buzzy place to drink, it's a great place to come if you want to experience what it would be like to live among Edinburghers. Initially, the facade is a bit imposing—it could easily be a setting for one of Lemony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events" escapades—but look a bit closer at the austere entrance and you'll find hints of playfulness (the curlicues around the lampposts, for example). In summer, the scene's a little softer, with folks enjoying drinks in the forecourt area as you approach the doors. Is there a story behind this place?The building has been a hotel before—its previous incarnation, complete with shared bathrooms, closed in 2006. It's also been a pub, as well as a Christmas-tree yard. Wow. Now, on to the rooms—what can we expect from the accommodations? Anything unique to any of the rooms, suites we should try to nab, and so on?The 10 rooms have a nice sense of place; tweed headboards cleverly complement tartan pillows and throws of the same color scheme. There’s a sense of playfulness in the design, too: Room Five, for example, has a wardrobe that opens into a dressing room. The beds are comfortable, though light sleepers might want to bring earplugs—you're above a bar, after all. In the morning, preloaded Bose iPod docks and espresso machines get you going. Luxe bathrooms have Arran Aromatics toiletries as well as GHD hair straighteners. Minibars are stocked with free sodas. How about food and drink? Where should we go? What should we order?The bar here has established itself as one of the best in Edinburgh, with excellent cocktails that draw both tourists and locals. The brasserie serves a range of British classics, and they're definitely worth trying at least once; the stylish, vintage space only seats 70, however, so call ahead if you're looking to book during primetime. Breakfast features a trendy menu—yes, there's avocado toast. How's the service?Staff is unfailingly helpful, with a wonderfully convenient 24-hour check-in for those arriving from far-flung destinations at odd hours. If you call when you land, they'll arrange a taxi transfer. Who else are you likely to see here?Mostly couples on a romantic mini-break. What's the surrounding area like? Anything worth seeing nearby? How far is it to Edinburgh's main sights?The Raeburn has definitely made itself part of the Stockbridge nightlife scene—and locals have thoroughly embraced it. There's plenty to do, see, and eat within walking distance, and Princes Street is about a 15-minute walk up a (steep) hill. Come here to feel immersed in a cool neighborhood scene—versus having a nightcap in yet another hotel bar packed only with tourists. Is there anything you'd change?The wonderfully charming library is unfortunately closed for private events quite often, meaning that there aren't too many common rooms beyond the seating outside. Anything else we should know before booking a stay here?There's free onsite parking—just be sure to call ahead. There are also barbecues for guests to use. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?This is a happening place where you can pretend you're a local, even for a night." - Krystin Arneson
