Eden Locke, Accommodations review
Better late than never, I finally have gotten around to sharing a short synopsis of my accommodations in Edinburgh for those who may wish to visit someday!
Staying at Eden Locke: My Cozy Home Base in Edinburgh
Just two blocks off the tram stop on Princes Street, tucked behind what looks like the cutest little coffee and sandwich shop, you’ll find Eden Locke—a boutique aparthotel that’s part chic retreat, part secret clubhouse. The first thing you’ll notice? The warm, sweet smell of vanilla and hibiscus wafting out the entrance. Honestly, it’s like walking into a hug.
First Impressions
Inside, the vibe is *chef’s kiss*. To your left, a coffee bar stocked with baked goodies. To your right, a smiling reception team ready to make your life easier. Arrived early? No problem—they’ll hold your bags until check-in (4:00 p.m.). For this red-eye-flying, jet-lagged U.S. traveler, that was a major win.
Kirsty, who was a literal ray of sunshine, not only stored my bags but also texted me when my room was ready early. Bless her. My feet and I were so grateful.
Security That Feels Thoughtful, Not Overbearing
Your keycard does it all: it unlocks your room, the hallways, the elevator, and even the hotel entrance after hours. It’s a little thing, but as someone traveling solo, it made me feel extra safe and cared for.
My Room: The Eden Studio (AKA the Coziest Little Hideaway)
I booked the smallest suite, The Eden Studio, and let me tell you—it was love at first sight. Room 408 was cozy, modern, and so thoughtfully designed it felt like they’d read my mind. Here’s why it rocked:
Sweet Dreams: A Queen-sized bed with crisp white linens and a sound machine to drown out the world. (P.S. The blackout curtains were so effective I didn’t even need the eye mask everyone said to bring.)
A Kitchen That Does It All: Oven, microwave, toaster, stovetop, dishwasher, fridge, and even a hidden washer-dryer combo! It came with every utensil and dish imaginable, plus QR codes to teach you how to use everything.
Smart Storage: A divider that was also a closet with a safe, hairdryer, iron, earplugs, and plenty of space for my 12-day wardrobe.
Bathroom Heaven: Vanilla and hibiscus-scented toiletries (so dreamy I bought extras) and water pressure that could wake the dead.
The only thing missing? Nothing. No seriously. If I had to be super picky? Maybe a nightlight. The room was so blissfully dark that finding the bathroom at 2 a.m. felt like a scene from Mission Impossible.
Common Spaces That Feel Like Home
Downstairs in the lobby, Mavyn cafe had the perfect balance of cozy and cool. Whether I needed coffee, a snack, or a place to people-watch, it delivered. Bonus: the Wi-Fi was fast enough to stream anything.
Location, Location, Location
Eden Locke is smack in the middle of everything:
Transit: Waverley Train Station and the Princes Street tram stop were a five-minute walk, max.
Shopping & Eats: George Street and Princes Street had plenty of shops, and Rose Street was packed with pubs and restaurants.
Groceries: Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s were perfect for stocking the kitchen and less than a 10 minute walk away.
Sights Galore: I wandered to Dean Village, strolled the Royal Mile, and checked off everything from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Botanic Garden. (Pro tip: pack comfy shoes—I walked 108 miles in 12 days. Thank you, blister bandages from Boots- A pharmacy I was blessed to find.)
Final Thoughts
Eden Locke isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to be. Between the dreamy room, friendly staff, and perfect location, it felt like my own little corner of Edinburgh. If I could, I’d move in tomorrow. So, if you’re heading to this magical city, trust me—book Eden Locke. You’ll love it.
