Eleven Stafford Street, Edinburgh Review

Staying at Eleven Stafford Street in Edinburgh felt like discovering one of the city’s best-kept secrets, a boutique, luxury self-catering haven that blends elegant design, warm touches, and an unbeatable location. Tucked away in the heart of the city, just moments from some of Edinburgh’s most iconic streets, it strikes that rare balance between feeling quietly exclusive while still being wonderfully accessible. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just another stylish property; it was a beautifully curated place to stay that truly enhanced our time in the city.

The exterior has an understated charm, the kind that makes you instantly believe you’ve chosen well. Set back on a peaceful street just off the buzz of the West End, Eleven Stafford Street is ideally positioned for exploring Edinburgh on foot. Whether we wandered towards Princes Street, the cobbled lanes of Dean Village, or the cafés and boutiques of the city centre, everything felt effortlessly close. Yet every time we stepped back inside, we were greeted by a sense of calm that made it feel like our own private retreat.

During our stay, we experienced the Rothesay Room on the lower floor, a compact space, but undeniably a cleverly designed room. Although small, the room is beautifully executed. Every inch feels purposeful, with thoughtful layout choices and high-quality finishes that make it feel sophisticated rather than limited. It’s the sort of room that reminds you that luxury isn’t about scale; it’s about detail.

The interiors throughout the property are gorgeous, with a cohesive design aesthetic that carries from the communal areas to the individual rooms. Think contemporary warmth with subtle Scottish touches, soft lighting, plush textures, and an overall sense of understated luxury. The Rothesay Room maintained this elegance but also had an almost cocoon-like comfort, perfect for winding down after days spent exploring the city. Everything we needed was there, from the beautifully made bed to the well-appointed bathroom and those small but significant details that show real care in the guest experience.

"A beautifully designed sanctuary in the heart of Edinburgh that feels both luxurious and warmly personal."

Despite the property not being manned 24/7, the service we received was genuinely impressive. There are staff on site at selected times, and we were fortunate to arrive while they were present. The welcome was warm and genuine, exactly the kind of hospitality you hope for but often don’t always get in self-catering accommodation. Our luggage was taken straight to our room without hesitation, a gesture we appreciated far more than expected after a long journey. It made the check-in feel personal and effortless, reinforcing that blend of independence and attentive service that Eleven Stafford Street does so well.

What stood out most during our stay was how private and peaceful everything felt. Even with its central location, the property is remarkably quiet. The communal spaces are calm and beautifully maintained, and we often felt as though we had the entire place to ourselves. It’s an ideal option for those who want the boutique hotel feel but with the space and freedom of self-catering. Whether slipping out early for a morning walk or returning late in the evening, we always felt completely at ease, as though the property had become a temporary home.

There is also a real sense that everything has been thought through with the guest in mind. From the quality of the furnishings to the clever use of space and the subtle touches of luxury, it’s clear that the design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about comfort. Even the smaller Rothesay Room felt indulgent, proving that size doesn’t dictate experience. We found ourselves settling in almost immediately, appreciating both the beauty of the space and the practicality of how it functioned.

Eleven Stafford Street is the kind of place that lingers with you after you leave. It captures the essence of what makes Edinburgh so appealing: elegant, welcoming, full of charm and character, and effortlessly stylish. It offers all the benefits of a high-end hotel, beautiful interiors, attentive help when you need it, and a brilliant location, while also giving you the freedom and privacy that only luxury self-catering can offer.

For anyone seeking a stay that feels personal, and perfectly placed within the city, Eleven Stafford Street is difficult to beat. Our time in the Rothesay Room proved that even the smallest spaces can deliver a memorable experience when designed with intention and care. The warmth of the welcome, the refined interiors, the peaceful atmosphere, and the unbeatable location all combine to create a stay that felt truly memorable.