Eden Locke
"Set the scene for us. What's your first impression as you arrive at the hotel?Inside the doors of Eden Locke's austere Georgian exterior is a hip, pastel space that won't rest until you Instagram it—not surprising, given that NYC-based architecture firm Grzywinski+Pons is behind the design. The lobby is mint green, with intensely trendy details (brass and marble shelves, about a million potted plants, modern wicker chairs) that soften into a friendly, welcoming cafe-bar space populated by day with a young crowd clicking away at laptops. Think of it as your dream Airbnb, but run by pros. That's unexpected. Is there a good story behind this place?Locke has aparthotels in Manchester and London, in addition to this Edinburgh property, and all of them focus on welcoming spaces that are equally friendly to staying in and going out; solo travelers and groups; and work and play. Artist residencies, yoga classes, running clubs, and social events draw in locals, as well. Sounds like a good time. So what are the rooms themselves like? What can we expect from accommodations?George Street is one of Edinburgh's swankiest thoroughfares, and the rooms here are a wonderful haven after a day shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Designed in sherbet pastels with brass accents, the 72 Scandi-influenced rooms are smaller than you might expect, but space is used intelligently. Much like residential apartments, a room divider separates the sleeping and living spaces. Wifi is gloriously fast, and there's an Apple TV for before-bed Netflixing. Rooms also have fully equipped kitchens, complete with Pukka tea, milk, and cocktail shakers. Perfect. How are the food options on site? Should we stay in for a meal or venture elsewhere?Stock your private kitchen with groceries or head to the downstairs cafe for a smoothie, juice, cup of third-wave coffee, or locally baked pastry. In the evenings, the space morphs into Edinburgh's first "Pure Bar," meaning each spirit must be fine enough to drink neat. How's the service?In-house staff is available around the clock for whatever you need, though you're otherwise left alone. Housekeeping comes around daily. It's time to get out of the hotel. What will we find in the surrounding area?New Town's strictly planned streets can seem aloof with their Georgian architecture, and you might walk right by Eden Locke if you weren't looking out for the small brass nameplate and welcoming chairs outside. The hotel works hard to make itself a part of the community through wellness, cocktail, and music events designed to mix tourists with locals. Stay here if you want the reassurance that comes with a professionally run property but the autonomy (and kitchens) of an Airbnb. Is there anything you'd change?No—it's lovely. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?Absolutely—it's a great location, it's dedicated to creating a unique guest experience, and it has beautiful design." - Krystin Arneson
