I have to admit that having an entire flat - a two-bedroom one, no less! - all to myself seems a little bit absurd. But, for a fraction of the cost of a hotel in the city centre (only £75 a night!), a stay at the self-catering Calton Apartments was well worth the money.
It's worth noting that when booking at these flats, you're committing yourself to a lot of legwork (or cab rides). After arriving into Edinburgh, you first have to make your way to this address to check in, sign off on paperwork, and pick up keys to the flat. Then, it's another five or ten minute walk down to the building itself, which is located at 44 Annandale Street. On a pleasant summer afternoon, that's no problem. I wouldn't recommend it in the thick of winter, though.
The flat I stayed in also offered generous amenities, including a full kitchen, welcome tea/coffee, a television and DVD player, the previously mentioned two bedrooms, and free wi-fi throughout. Listen carefully to the litany of directions on how to find the apartment, access it, and use its contents when you check in. Even so, I had to reference the tome of a flat manual to figure out some of the gizmos... like the hot water heater.
If you have a need to stay in Leith, Calton Apartments offers convenience and modest comfort at an affordable price. But I think it goes without saying that this is no George Hotel. read more