The Resident Edinburgh Review: Boutique Hotel in Edinburgh’s West End

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland’s capital and searching for a boutique hotel with both comfort and convenience, The Resident Edinburgh often comes up as a top contender. Located in Edinburgh’s West End, this stylish property promises luxury touches, a central location, and thoughtful in-room amenities. But does it really deliver? Here’s my honest review after a 5-night stay.

Quick Facts

• Hotel: The Resident Edinburgh

• Location: West End, short walk to Princes Street & Dean Village

• Room Reviewed: Standard Double (£258/night)

• Pros: Modern design, kitchenette, quiet, central location

• Cons: Ground floor rooms lack light/views, limited room size, no on-site restaurant

Location: Central and Walkable

The Resident Edinburgh is set in the West End, just a short walk from Princes Street, Edinburgh’s New Town, and the picturesque Dean Village. The area is packed with pubs, shops, and restaurants, and you can reach Old Town in about 20 minutes on foot.

If you’d rather save your steps, the number 37 bus stops nearby on Queensferry Street and takes you straight along Princes Street. You can easily tap in with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a contactless card, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.

Nearby Highlights

Staying at The Resident Edinburgh puts you within walking distance of some lovely spots:

• Dean Village – A hidden gem with storybook charm, perfect for a morning or evening stroll.

• Princes Street Gardens – Scenic views of Edinburgh Castle from the Ross Fountain.

• Princes Street Shopping – From M&S to designer shops, plus plenty of cafés and pubs nearby.

First Impressions: Contemporary Boutique Style

The hotel is relatively new, with a modern, stylish lobby that feels more like a chic city apartment than a traditional hotel. There’s no restaurant or bar on-site, but the lobby lounge is comfortable for meeting up with friends or relaxing. Guests are also treated to a complimentary glass of wine between 5–6 pm, a thoughtful little perk.

Rooms: Compact but Well-Designed

I stayed in a Standard Double Room, which is the most affordable option at around £258 per night. While the room was well-designed, I was placed on the ground floor in a room with no view whatsoever. My window looked out onto a dumpster-filled alley, leaving the space dark with very little natural light. When I asked about moving, the only alternative offered was a

paid upgrade, which wasn’t in my budget for a 5-night stay.

That said, the room itself was surprisingly nice:

• Bathroom – Small but stylish, with floor-to-ceiling stonework, a rainfall shower, and Molton Brown toiletries in mandarin clary sage. (Tip: UK hotels rarely provide washcloths, so pack your own if you’re used to them.)

• Dressing Table – A unique touch just outside the bathroom, which was convenient for getting ready.

• Kitchenette – The highlight of my stay. Equipped with a microwave, Nespresso machine, kettle, mini fridge, dishes, and cutlery, it made self-catering easy. With Marks & Spencer and Tesco Express close by, it was simple to stock up on snacks and quick meals.

  
  

Despite its alley location, the room was surprisingly quiet. The bed was comfortable, and while compact, the space didn’t feel cramped for a solo traveler. Couples may find luggage storage a bit tight, but it’s manageable.

Pricing: Affordable for Edinburgh, But With Caveats

At £258 per night for a Standard Double and around £375 per night for a Junior Suite, The Resident is on the more affordable side of boutique hotels in Edinburgh. However, if you’re paying in CAD or USD, the exchange rate can make the total add up quickly.

It’s also worth noting that according to the hotel's own response in a Tripadvisor review, only about a third of rooms have a view, so if you’re hoping for an Edinburgh Castle vista, your chances are slim unless you book a suite.

Final Thoughts: Is The Resident Edinburgh Worth It?

Overall, The Resident Edinburgh delivers on convenience and comfort, but not every room offers the boutique charm you might expect. My biggest disappointment was the ground floor location with no view or natural light, which felt lackluster given the price point.

If I stayed again, I’d consider upgrading to a Junior Suite, the only category that advertises a view—but at £375 per night, I might also explore other boutique hotels in Edinburgh.

For solo travelers who value a kitchenette and central location, this hotel can be a smart choice. Just be sure to request a higher-floor room when booking to avoid the pitfalls of a ground-level stay.

What's your favorite hotel in Edinburgh?