◀
▶
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 2 |
| Bathrooms | 1 |
| Sleeps | 4 |
| Apartment / Condominium | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| No Pets |
| No Smoking |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 51 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
Get the real scoop!
All reviews are written by verified travelers
Details
| Rental type | Apartment / Condominium |
| Minimum Stay | - |
| Bedrooms | 2 Total |
| Bathrooms | 1 Total |
| Sleeps | 4 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyNo Smoking allowedNo Suitable for childrenAsk Suitable for the elderlyAsk Wheelchair accessibleAsk |
Description from the manager
This gorgeous 4th floor apartment is situated in the heart of Edinburgh on the Royal Mile , 5 minutes to Princes Street and about 2 minutes from the Castle and 5 minutes to the Holyrood Palace. With views of Arthurs Seat and the High Street from the apartment. Climb the winding staircase to this beautiful apartment located in the middle of city centre Edinburgh. Located on the 4th Floor it is a perfect place for peace away from the bustle of the street below where a plethora of Edinburgh attractions, restaurants and bars are on your doorstep.
Please note that this apartment does not have a formal lounge as it has been setup as a bedroom...Read more
Amenities
Location
Advocate Suite, Royal Mile, 350 metres from Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh, Edinburgh & Lothians, Scotland
What's Nearby:
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: December 11, 2012 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
Overall Rating
ExcellentVery Good
Average
Below Average
Poor
-
Gemma
Stoke on TrentExcellent apartment in a superb location...
Left on 06/08/2012 for a stay in May 2012
We used this apartment as our base for the weekend when taking part in the Edinburgh marathon. It was in the perfect location, close to everything we could have required including a five-minute walk from the start line.
Excellent service provided at the meet and greet, no waiting around. The apartment was clean and spacious and ideal for our needs.
We would definitely stay here again and would recommend it to others wanting to stay in a central location to explore the city. -
beol
ZurichExcellent accomodation
Left on 03/04/2012 for a stay in February 2012
Everything was just perfect. We would go to advocate Suite Royal Mile again as soon as possible. It was great!
-
J
ButeExcellent al round
Left on 11/03/2011 for a stay in September 2011
This was a superb apartment right in the centre of Edinburgh. Nicely furnished and great value.
-
Joanna
LondonBest location in Edinburgh!
Left on 11/03/2011 for a stay in October 2011
This flat is the perfect spot to stay with a group of friends for a weekend in the city. 3 of us went to Edinburgh for some sightseeing and we could not have asked for a better location & "home base." It is right in the middle of the Royal Mile, which makes it so easy to walk to shops, restaurants, pubs, etc. Many reviews complain about the stairs and while they are tiring, you really only climb them 1-2 times a day b/c you are out & about in the city the entire time. Plus it helps you work off all of the food & beers :) Definitely recommend this place!
-
anonimous
CambridgeNice apartment in the centre mostly for young people
Left on 10/15/2011 for a stay in October 2011
The apartment is comfortable and very well fitted with things you might need. It is perfectly situated, the only down part is that you have to climb up with the luggages to the 5th floor on narrow stairs.
Overall rating is excellent, we had a great time their with friends.
Perfect for two young couples. -
ESPERANZA RODRIGUEZ
ESPAÑABuena Experiencia EN Edimburgo
Left on 10/06/2011 for a stay in September 2011
Merece la Pena alquilar Estos apartamentos POR la UbicaciÓN. Lo Peor es QUE Estan EN UN Cuarto sin ascensor Y la Escalera EN Caracol es Incomoda. Están Limpios Y Bien Equipados.
-
A. Fredriksen
Oslo, NorwayGood location, a bit cramped, but adequate and as advertised.
Left on 10/06/2011 for a stay in September 2011
Great location on The Royal Mile. Easy self check-in (key in box on site). Top floor location means quiet surroundings, but 83 steps make the apartment not suited for everyone. Clean kitchen with tableware and appliances in working order, bathroom with tub, clean. One bedroom and one bedroom/lounge (twin beds and a couch) with carpet, dark red wallpaper and small windows and somewhat sparse lighting make the apartment somewhat cramped, but this was described in the brouchure. Ome of two flat screen TVs (small) didn't work. Table with chairs in the kitchen serves as lounge area. Comfortable beds, clean linen and towels. Sufficient hot water. Good place to stay for exploring Edinburgh, but rather not if you plan to spend much time in the apartment.
-
KJ
ChicagoGreat condo, noisy location
Left on 08/07/2011 for a stay in July 2011
The condo was clean, roomy and nicely furnished. I have absolutely no complaints about the condo itself. It is very noisy in the front bedroom if you have the window open - High St has a lot of people traffic, especially early in the a.m. when the pubs close. If you close the window, it is a little better.
Trying to get up 4 stories with luggage on a winding stone staircase was no treat either but the condo was worth it. Travel light - that's my advise.
-
C.W. Church
Charlottesville, Va.A challenge to enter; no handbook for guidance or meet and greet
Left on 08/05/2011 for a stay in July 2011
Well located and nicely decorated, this apt. does not provide a meet and greet. That coupled with inadequate instruction on how to gain access and no manual inside on matters such as trash handling, how to exit, etc., made it frustrating at the outset. A call to the owner was very abrupt and not very satisfying. Edinburgh is spectacular, however, and we enjoyed the lovely city.
-
FC
DarlingtonOk for mountaineers!
Left on 05/12/2011 for a stay in April 2011
Yes, we were aware from reviews that there would be stairs but not how steep and awkward it would be to get to the front door when carrying luggage. Anyone with a back, knee complaints or who have a child in a buggy, or who are not at the peak of fitness please avoid.
The bedrooms were an ok size but only one had a wardrobe and there was no drawer space. The decor was a bit tired although the bed linen was clean. The kitchenwas a decent size for the apartment but needed some tlc and beware the overhead extractor as it nearly came off on my head!
The front bedroom was pleasant during the day but myy friend got a very limited amount of sleep due to the noise on the Royal Mile going on until all hours. She also found dirty bedding in a cupboard which was abit unsavoury!
Overall it was ok but that's about as enthusiastic as I can get.
Oh, our welcome Tea and coffee consisted of a half drunk pint of milk, 2 half used coffee jars and an empty box of tea. -
FG9
bordeauxbeautifull
Left on 05/12/2011 for a stay in April 2011
Logement parfaitement situe et tres propre et confortable.
Prévoir juste de monter les escaliers!! -
Joe Tibbetts
Birmingham UKExcellent value for money
Left on 04/17/2011 for a stay in March 2011
Excellent value for money. Excellent location. Friendly and helpful people. One of my better city centre trip experiences.
-
Michele Bicket
BuxtonA very enjoyable stay
Left on 04/05/2011 for a stay in March 2011
The service we received from Edinburgh Self Catering was excellent.
The advocate Suite is a very attractive apartment in the centre of Edinburgh. It has a lot of character. It is well equipped. We enjoyed it's excellent location. It is also very close to Waverley Station which was particularly convenient with good food shopping facilities.
It is on the fourth floor (six flights of stairs) which might be a drawback for anyone who is not very fit. It would not be ideal for anyone arriving by car - although we did have a car which required us to think carefully where we parked each day.
There were a few points which could be easily addressed and which would improve the rental experience for people staying at the apartment. There wasn't, for instance, quite enough hanging space for us (we stayed for six days) - more could be made available if cupboards were cleared of extra duvets and linen. Nor was there room to put clothes away. There were no chest of drawers. A couple of light bulbs had burnt out - but new ones were supplied so we could replace these. The dustbin lid was missing in the kitchen and needs replacing. The lock on the gate at the street end was broken and made us wonder about security. Ideally it should be fixed.
In spite of these small issues - we had a wonderful time and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. -
Geoff & Zoe
Sheffield, YorkshireWarm, comfortable and convenient.
Left on 04/04/2011 for a stay in March 2011
Very conveniently situated on the Royal Mile and very close to attractions, castle, etc. A bit of a treck up the spiral staircase, quite daunting at first but by the end of the week wasn't much of a problem at all (though the cycle chained to the stair rail was indeed a bit of a hindrance).
Access wasn't a problem, the apartment was very comfortable and well heated, and we soon found our way around everything.
We thought that the apartment would benefit from a "deeper clean" between people staying, we did get the impression that there hadn't been very much attention to detail spent in cleaning up after the previous people had stayed, nothing unpleasant, just a lack of "sparkle" and attention to the corners. The extractor hob/electric fitting in the kitchen appeared to need attention so we avoided it.
The apartment was well stocked and all of the items that we needed were mostly on hand (perhaps a few more pans and a couple of bedside cabinets would be an improvement).
No real complaints at all, the night time noise from the street was occasionally disturbing but not to any degree to spoil the stay.
We did enjoy our week at the apartment which was comfortable, warm, in a brilliant situation and fulfilled most of our requirements, we would happily stay again.
-
pattipat
BristolGreat location, very quiet .
Left on 03/01/2011 for a stay in February 2011
Situated on the fourth floor this apartment is not for the feint hearted! You have been warned. Disappointments//irritations: adjacent apartment's owner kept a bicycle chained to the top handrail the whole time we were there making it very difficult to pass and was a definite safety worry/hazard. Bed linen was not as clean as it should have been and we had to double up with spare linen on everything to feel comfortable. The crockery we used had to be rewashed (mugs were stained) and the kitchen food cupboard had not been cleared/cleaned from previous occupants. Would choose an apartment with a separate sitting room next time.
-
Carmel from London
LondonVery Good accommodation once you climb the stairs
Left on 01/27/2011 for a stay in December 2009
Location is excellent - right on the Royal Mile and only a short walk from the train station and Princes Street. The flat was warm (very welcome in the chill of Dec/Jan in Edinburgh) and great facilities.
Not suitable for people who have trouble with stairs - there are 5 sets of spiral stone stairs up to the top floor.
The flat was clean when we arrived and we had no problems finding the key as promised.
Overall a thoroughly enjoyable stay and booking the flat was easy with all questions answered promptly.
Highly recommended for those who want to be in the heart of the old town and are fit enough for the climb -
The Lodger
HighlandsBreathless
Left on 01/15/2011 for a stay in December 2010
Fantastically warm central Edinburgh accommodation during sub zero freeeze out.
-
Dunstan_in_GB
Great BritainA good alternative for business travel if you don't like hotels
Left on 12/23/2010 for a stay in December 2010
The flat I stayed in was in an absolutely central location on the Royal Mile. I had an outer key to what was probably once a majestic house, now a number of flats, and a key to my flat which was up a single flight of stairs.
The flat itself felt as though it had been the subject of Sarah Beany's "Property Ladder". Clearly a number of choices had been made about its layout, which broadly favoured the kitchen/dining/living area: the bedroom was in a very small windowless alcove, while the bathroom had "feature plumbing" and mirror tiles on three walls! There were some niggles - the shower screen didn't meet the bath, which effectively meant I couldn't use the shower; the blinds in the main room didn't reach the bottom of the window - but they were relatively minor (though worth fixing).
But this is insignificant against the main benefit: instead of feeling that you are existing in a hotel room, you feel as if you are actually living in the city - for the few days I was there, I had an address (not for receiving post, mind, but still an address where I was living). We are territorial creatures, and the hallway "good morning" to someone who lives in the same block as you dash for the bus is a million miles from the hotel receptionist's "good morning sir, shall I call you a cab".
So, if you've been round the corporate hotels in Edinburgh and fancy a change, give it a try. -
Elizabeth
Ottawa, CanadaPerfect Location for a lovely Edinburgh trip
Left on 12/09/2010 for a stay in November 2010
The location of this apartment absolutely could not be better! For only a few pounds more per night than a hostel we were able to get a huge upgrade in comfort. When the airport closed and we were unable to leave the country the apartment owner was very understanding and able to help us extend our stay. Highly recommended for any and all coming to Edinburgh!
-
Jim R.
Missouri, U.S.A.Great value for able-bodied adults.
Left on 12/07/2010 for a stay in November 2010
Caution: Be prepared to walk 86 steps up a spiral staircase to get to this apartment.
The location was wonderful, in close proximity to historical sites, shops, grocery stores, the library, and so forth. The kitchen was adequate, the beds were comfortable, and everything was clean. We were glad we stayed there. -
Tasha
LondonAn excellent cosy location!
Left on 12/06/2010 for a stay in November 2010
An excellent base for visiting Edinburgh, literally 5 mins walk to the Castle and the train station. We could not have found a nicer place to stay: cosy, clean and comfy with a lovely hot shower and full kitchen. I'd like to mention, I;ve seen some negative reviews complaining of an insurmountable staircase. Please don't be put off by this. The stairs are nothing at all and would only pose a problem perhaps for the elderly or disabled (or lazy!). Nothing bad to say about this place... in fact, wish we could have stayed longer!
-
K. MacAuslan
Surbiton, SurreyConvenient, comfortable and affordable
Left on 11/01/2010 for a stay in October 2010
Enjoyed our stay. Knowing we had the apartment to return to was a bonus. It was comfortable, sufficiently equiped and well located.
-
kelsi
Alamogordo, New Mexico USAGreat location and beautiful apt
Left on 10/03/2010 for a stay in September 2010
The advocate Suite was exactly as expected. Clean, convenient, very comfortable beds, beautifully decorated. The views from both bedrooms were wonderful. We did have a problem with electrics such as the Tv's weren't working upon arrival but sent an email to the owners and they fixed this immediately. My only real complaint, I guess, are the stairs leading up to the apt. They are stone spiral stairs which gave me a great workout. I would definitely stay here again due to great location, service, price, convenience, and very very comfortable beds.
-
Edinburgh addict......
LincolnTattoo Time
Left on 09/30/2010 for a stay in August 2010
Having grown up in Edinburgh it seemed too good to be true to rent an apartment on The Mile to stay in with friends who i was showing Edinburgh for the first time. Obviously august, with the Fringe and the Tattoo, is the best time to see Edinburgh but my 3 companions were in awe of the city, the sights and the excellent standrad and location of the apartment. Excellent.
-
Walter
Grub am ForstIt was perfect
Left on 09/24/2010 for a stay in August 2010
Appartment is very central. Pubs, restaurants, coffee bars are nearby. Check in, out without problems. Situated on 4. level - spiral stairs. Not the best for people who have problems with walking.
-
Genny and family
AustraliaReasonable
Left on 09/17/2010 for a stay in August 2010
Walking-up 10 flights of winding stairs was annoying with heavy suit-cases. No sitting room or reception to relax in. Very noisy main bedroom with the constant bands/shouting/screaming of drunken behaviour below in the Royal Mile. Fridge was dirty with hairs etc on bottom shelf. Annoyed on day of departure the cleaner turned up at 9.50am to do her job and started stripping the beds when we had barely finished our breakfast.
Response from Edinburgh Self Catering - 09/19/2010
Manager
It is very clear in the description that this property is on the 4th floor with no lift and that there is no formal lounge area. Therefore it should not be surprise on arriving at the property this is the case. It is unfair to criticise this when the situation is clearly described before a decision is made to book this property.
The comments on cleaning will be addressed and I can apoligise on the owners behalf. The cleaner should also not have started preparing the property for the next guests arriving that day until 10am, which is the maximum departure time in the terms and conditions accepted at the time of booking. This is a very short window of oppertunity to prepare several properties between guests departing and arriving.
-
Don't choose the Advocate for your Edinburgh stay!!
CanadaDisappointing accommodations
Left on 09/13/2010 for a stay in August 2010
There was no closet or armoire in the one bedroom. (Website said there was. ) Burnt out lightbulbs in every room. There are 6 flights of steep, narrow, winding stairs to get to the apartment. The entrance to the building was gated but never locked, so anyone had access to the building. The apartment is very dark. There were cracked and chipped dishes in the kitchen and pots and pans were not very clean. There was no dish or laundry soap, only 1 garbage bag for our 4 day stay. There is no grocery store nearby. There was difficulty getting hot water for showers, and no instructions in the apartment as to how to use the hot water switch. Good location, but overall rating would be 3.5 out of 10.
-
Queenie
cambridgean ideal place for young persons
Left on 07/15/2010 for a stay in June 2010
This place is great, the bathroom was clean, and beds were comfortable, the only problem was that we couldn't find the satellite/cable for our computers, but we still had a good time there.
-
Denver Traveler
DenverLove the City - but don't stay here.
Left on 07/12/2010 for a stay in June 2010
When we reserved this unit, we explained we were bringing our 70-year old mothers to Scotland. We were told the units were on the 4th floor - when in truth, the unit is at the top floor to which the only access is 6 flights of narrow, winding stairs you must traverse with heavy luggage, bags, or anything else you are carrying. There is no lift.
We were told the unit would be available at noon - we didn't arrive until 3 and the unit was still not ready (waiting on linens) - we rang the doorbell as instructed - but no answer - called the phone numbers given - no answer - finally just took our chances and found the cleaning lady who was kind enough to let us in the unit - that wasn't ready 3 hours after they said it would be.
Having a fridge with no freezer (so no ice, no frozen foods, etc.) was very frustrating. We were unable to enjoy any iced drinks - for americans this is pretty important - especially after trekking up the ridiculous amount of winding stairs to get into the place.
The site states Wifi available - but they don't tell you it's not free - and very sporadic - had to sit in a corner of the kitchen to get coverage - and had to pay for coverage - we did not pay for Wifi anywhere else we stayed this trip (Ireland and London)
The unit also is represented as a a two bedroom - when in fact it's a one-bedroom with a lounge they turn into a bedroom if needed. If you have more than 1 couple the lounge area becomes a bedroom, and thus no sitting room whatsoever. We had 4 people staying there - and the only place we could sit and hang out was the kitchen. If we wanted to watch TV - we had to lay on our beds to do so. Not comfortable or enjoyable - and deceptive in advertising.
We have stayed in numerous Vrbo type places all over the world - this is the only time and only accomodations we haven't been completely thrilled with.
Edinburgh is wonderful - but stay somewhere else.Response from Edinburgh Self Catering - 07/12/2010
Manager
It is disappointing that the Advocate Suit did not meet the expectations off the the guest. ESC only provides an enquiry and booking service for this property. However on behalf of the owners I must refute some of the issues raised.
At no time during the booking process was ESC advised that an elderly person was in the party as it would have been suggested to consider a property with less strenuous stairs. It is clearly stated in the description for the property that is on the fourth floor which I would presume would indicate there are stairs to climb, the fact that the fourth floor is the top one is meaningless.
Entry to all apartments is 14:00, early entry is entirely possible but cannot be guaranteed. This property does not have free wifi, it never has and has never been advertised as such. However all other properties on the website, with the exception of one other, do have free broadband/wifi included,. It would appear that as this person made their initial enquiry through VRBO, which externally advertises only two properties from the ESC which are fully managed and clearly states do have free wifi. This guest would have originally been wanting to book one of those properties but decided on the advocate Suite once directed to the actual ESC website, it therefore entirely possible that he assumed that all properties on the actual ESC site would have this service.
It is true that that the lounge in this property has been converted into a bedroom and there is no formal lounge but again this clearly stated in the description. This original concept was arrived at by the owners who decided to give people more sleeping options but charge it at the same rate as as a 1 bedroom property , as it is on the ESC site, it is the only one operates in such a manner. It has not mentioned that as a result four people stayed on the Royal mile of Edinburgh for only 80 pounds per night, 20 pounds per person. It would appear that this person wanted 5 star accommodation at, as their initial enquiry would have been for the property on VRBO (Parliament Sq 1, very highly rated on tripadvisor) but was only prepared to pay a very budget price. They made the booking in Dec 2009 at time when most of the ESC properties would have been available for their June dates. Again this is reflected in the ice box situation, the Advocate suite has a typical refrigerator with a small freezer area at the top. This guest was extremely disappointed that they did not have a complete ice compartment to make cocktails on a regular basis, as was the complaint I received by telephone.
I feel that these comments are entirely unjustified and unfair. An apology was provided for the cleaner running a bit late, these things happen. They were provided with a very nice apartment in the heart of the Old Town at an incredibly cheap price of only 80 pounds per night for four people. -
Debi Slater
SingaporeWhat went wrong?!
Left on 05/13/2010 for a stay in April 2010
I booked with Ed Self C Co as we'd previously stayed at their in Blair St appt and were highly satisfied with it.I wish the same could be said of our stay at Advocate Suite!We arrived at 14.15, the outer door was open so access up to the 'key under the mat' point of entry outside the appt was not an issue. Upon gaining access we realised that the appt had not been cleaned,bedding was piled high on unmade beds,rubbish in bins etc. I phoned the 5 mobile phone numbers given on the booking sheet as 'contact with the owners during our stay'. There was no reply on any of the numbers from Ms MacCallum. I left ansphone msgs asking her to call me back asap. We waited over an hour but still no reply. In desperation I phoned Glenn Ford. Again no reply but a recorded message gave another number (Dave Stewart's) Mr Stewart thankfully answered his phone and when we explained the problem kindly said that although it wasn't anything to do with him he would try and resolve the issue. He phoned back 30 mins later and said a cleaner would be at the appt at 5pm. Said cleaner duly came, left at 6pm and 4 hours after first arriving at appt we were able to unpack, shower and go for food. We returned to the apppt at 18.55. The service button at the base of the staircase didn't work and we were thus unable to get into the building. We had 30 mins before we were due to be at the meeting which was the whole point of our visit (I live in Singapore) I asked to the owner of the adjacent shop who, despite being in the process of locking up for the
night,used a stool and a pole to depress the latch and thus we were able to get up the stairwell and use the 1 key that we had for the appt door. Another round of calls resulted in Mr Stewart(again although it was nothing to do with him he made enquiries and called me back) telling me we should have been told there were 2 keys somewhere in the appt. Finding them made us 30 mins late for the meeting. No contact or apology from Ms MacCullogh. Still..... -
Celine
ParisCeline et Esther
Left on 05/13/2010 for a stay in April 2010
I meant to write to you immediately after we left cause we had a great great time in this charming flat.
The location was perfect and the place was really neat and comfortable.
It was clean and pretty. We all love it.
Many thanks from us.
Best wishes
Celine -
Laura
DublinAmazing Location
Left on 05/04/2010 for a stay in May 2010
Location was perfect-right on the Royal Mile. Very
central and easy to get around. Apartment was
beautiful and exactly as described. No problems
accessing the apartments, just follow the clear
instructions provided. Very much enjoyed our stay-
definitely would stay here again. Keep in mind though
that the only way to access the apartment is by
climbing 5 fights of spiral stairs so may not be
suited to some travelers. -
Jules
Stafford, StaffsBrilliant but too many steps and no lift!!!
Left on 05/03/2010 for a stay in April 2010
Everything was really really good, photos were very aaccurate to the apartment. The only problem was there was 87 steps in a spiral(we counted!) to get to the top where the apartment was. By the time we got to the top we were out of breath and dizzy from going round and round!!! We are all quite young and fit too!!! When we got there, We also werent sure which apartment we were meant to go in as there were 6 along the spiral staircase.
Apart from that, the apartment is right in the centre of the royal mile,considering this it wasnt noisy either. The apartment was clean and tidy and we would defintly recommend it to young and fit people, it would be useless for pushchairs and older less mobile people. It was a lovely apartment and we enjoyed our time there! -
Sheena
Aberdeenshire, ScotlandIt was very nice
Left on 04/01/2010 for a stay in March 2010
This apartment is beautiful and has a fantastic shower! However wouldnt recommend if you have a small child, you would have difficulties carrying up pushchair as there is a spiral staircase.
-
Van Coetzee
Collyweston, UKExcellent Location
Left on 03/11/2010 for a stay in March 2010
The service we have recievd was excellent. We could not have asked for a better location as it does not get more central than this! unfortunately parking does not come with this property, however there were public parking nearby. (slightly expensive though)
The property had two good sized rooms and was decorated tastfully. The property would have benefitted from a slightly larger kitchen/ entertainment area...
If you dont like stairs this one is not for you as it was at right at the top of a very long spiral staircase. Fortunately we are fit and young so it didnt bother us. -
Mercè
BarcelonaBeautiful appartment in the center of the old town
Left on 02/03/2010 for a stay in January 2010
Beautiful apartment nicely decorated. The rooms are big enough and confortable. The kitchen is big and well equipated, we took advantage of it and even invited some friends for dinner!
The location could not be better, just in the center of the old town, with an easy access to almost everywhere.
The appartment is in the top floor and we would have appreciated a litf to arrive there after a long day walking but I think that's almost impossible to get if you want a flat in the old town!
The only problem we had was the noise of the truck's loading and unloading works early in the morning. The appartment is located in a pedestrian area of the Royal Mile and there's no traffic noise during the day, but the trucks arrive very early with the replenishments for the shops/pubs and if you are a light sleeper, as I am, they wake you up. -
J & A
YorkPerfection
Left on 02/02/2010 for a stay in January 2010
The apartment was amazing i would highly reccomend it to anyone. Was right the centre of the main road with everything you need at the most a 10 min walk away. The apartment was beautiful, the stairs were a bit of a killer but were worth it when you got to the top! There was a slight mix up when we first arrived with the apartment not being ready but this was soon resolved. Had a fantastic and would most certainly go back!!!!!
-
Visit Xmas 2009
BelfastXmas 2009
Left on 01/04/2010 for a stay in December 2009
The Advocate Suite was handy for eating out,The Outsider restaurant highly recomend.Downside we found the Suite a bit cramped for two couples but ok for one.With two couples you have no living area,as it is used as the other bedroom.
-
Gem '09
LondonGem on the Royal Mile
Left on 01/04/2010 for a stay in December 2009
The Advocate Suite is a great apartment, well proportioned for up to 4 people, very well decorated and comfortable. Beds were a pleasure to sleep in. Soundproofing great. Location is really the best with easy access to everything. As per all other reviews I have read on this apartment the only downside is the 4 flights of spiral staircase you have climb to reach the apartment. Generally okay but with suitcases can be quite difficult - I would recommend this be mentioned when advertising the apartment as this would not be suitable for children or the Elderly. Saying all of this I dont think though that any apartment on the Royal Mile would have a lift and you would be posed with the same problem. Overall rating 4.7 out of 5.
-
jayceemi
Seattle WAGreat location!
Left on 01/02/2010 for a stay in December 2009
We loved the location. Right on the Royal Mile. The flat was comfortable, clean and cozy. It had everything we needed for our stay in Edinburgh.
-
J Nolan
Orlando, FloridaThe heart of the Royal Mile
Left on 11/06/2009 for a stay in October 2009
I can't even begin to express my delight with the Advocate Suite. It was beautiful and perfectly located. The entrance is in the pedestrian section of the Royal Mile and a quick jaunt down the hill to Waverly Train Station. While I highly recommend this place to most, I do not recommend it to anyone with knee or breathing problems. The flat is on the top floor (beautiful views!) which means at least five flights of stairs in a winding stairwell. The beds are very comfortable and the perfect ending to a day full of sight seeing. I would definitely stay there again!
-
Piqua41
Shaker Heights, OhioWell Located and Renovated
Left on 11/01/2009 for a stay in October 2009
My friend and I enjoyed our stay in the Advocate Suite flat on the Royal Mile for four nights in early October, 2009. PROS: The flat is right in the thick of the action on the Royal Mile, yet not noisy, partially because it's up five very steep flights of stairs. The flat is modernized and beautifully painted. The kitchen is bright and has a washer/cooker (what I call the UK's washer/dryers). The TVs work. No wireless but there's a Starbucks about 200 yards down the Royal Mile for that. The hot water heater for the bathroom delivers plenty of hot water and you don't even have to flip a switch. We'd definitely stay here again, but CONS: I'd prefer to have the keys delivered in a better fashion than stuck under the mat outside the front door. Gaining access to the stairs at the bottom was a problem, because "pushing the button for maintenance", which was our instructions, did absolutely nothing. Our party seemed to be stranded and none of the contact phone numbers given us by Edinburgh Self-Catering worked. Luckily, after about 20 minutes of buzzing and praying a resident of another flat in the building would happen by, we noticed the locked door was slightly ajar. We were in luck - but no thanks to Edinburgh Self-Catering. The next day, a maintenance man for the building berated us for breaking the lock. We had to protest our innocence, as we didn't even have a key to "break" the lock on the first floor door. All we were doing was presing buttons. All in all, a good experience at a pretty good price.
Response from Edinburgh Self Catering - 11/02/2009
Manager
Sorry to read that you had difficuly obtaining access to the property and did not tinge your stay in Edinburgh to much. I would like to make clear that Edinburgh Self Catering do not operate in this manner for the properties that are fully managed & operated by ESC, which is the majority of the properties on the site. For those a "meet & greet" policy is operated. Guests are met at the apartments to give access, show how things operate like tv's and answer any general questions. ESC only provides a booking & enquiry service for the Advocate Suite. However I will ensure that the owners of the property review their procedure for access to this property to see if it can be improved.
-
Libbydink
SurreyGreat central location, good accommodation but lots of stairs!
Left on 08/18/2009 for a stay in July 2009
The accommodation was overall a lovely place to stay but there were a few issues. One was the accessibility. The flat is stated to be on the third floor, but one doesn't usually think of going up 84 spiral steps as being a third floor! It's very high up! This brings great views but removes some of the benitits for the location as you don't feel like "popping" back for things. There were no curtains in the Master bedroom which was annoying. Nice use of mirrors though to make the most of the light during the day. Could use some instructions for using the washer-dryer!
-
rdouglas
North Richland Hills, TexasThe Gathering
Left on 08/09/2009 for a stay in July 2009
We enjoyed our stay very much. It was a very nice apartment. It does need to be emphasized though how difficult a climb it is to get to the apartment. It is 75 narrow steps up a circular stairway. Not veryone could make the climb, especially with heavy luggage.
We were also disappointed that the advertisement indicated that there was wireless access and there was none. When we called, and got two different owners, we were told that it never had any and that it did but that it didn't work well so they took it out.Response from Edinburgh Self Catering - 08/09/2009
Manager
Yes it would perhaps be prudent to emphasise the amount of actual stairs to climb to the Advocate apartment. It was also the owners choice not to provide broadband access at this apartment, the only one on the website.
-
profdr
Solon, OhioOk, but not as advertised
Left on 06/04/2009 for a stay in April 2009
A nice place. Nice inside. Clean. Nice furniture. Great location.
But downsides:
-advertised as having WIFI. Did not have it; I called the landlord and was told, "No, the flat does not have wireless," without apology or alternative.
-could not figure out how to work with clothes washer. No instructions in the flat. I called the landlord and was basically told to use it like any other washer & drier. In that I had called for help, it was not self explanatory.
-the apartment is at the top of winding stairs, five levels. The climb up may pose a challenge for some people. -
Mani
MidlandsGORGEOUS APPARTMENT IN EDINBURGH
Left on 06/04/2009 for a stay in November 2008
What a place to stay,right on the Royal Mile,minutes away from the castle. Everything thing about this appartment is Fab with a capital F.
-
Edinburgh
LondonMemories
Left on 06/01/2009 for a stay in May 2009
What a lovely flat, took energy to climb the 4 or so flights of stairs but
it was worth it once we got there. In the heart of the Royal Mile,
perfect position to visit the castle and be a tourist but also easy to get
away from the crowds. Comfortable, stylish and perfect for a weekend.
Thank you! -
Amy
NewcastleClean, modern and affordable
Left on 05/28/2009 for a stay in September 2008
Myself and 3 other friends travelled to Edinburgh to attend a wedding. We had very little time left to find accommodation until a friend recommended us to check out this apartment. Having looked at the price for the 2 night stay (£45), we were not expecting anything spectacular. Though the photos on the website is what attracted us to choose the advocate suite, we weren't too sure how the real thing would match up.
When we arrived, we were faced with a long walk up a spiral staircase to the apartment. Very tiring with suitcases. On entering the apartment, we were pleasantly surprised how similar it actually looked to the photos. The place was compact but was sufficient. Place was clean and a well maintained.
The apartment was nicely presented and we all had a good night's sleep. However, the chiming of the clock just outside, did wake us in the morning. Other than that, not very noisy, unless there are drunks outside.
Overall, a very pleasant stay...in fact, I would have happily stayed a few more nights. Highly recommended! -
bronzinthekeys
Islamorada, Florida KeysAMAZING LOCATION STEEPED IN HISTORY!!!!!
Left on 05/28/2009 for a stay in June 2008
The location is utterly amazing!! Smack dab on the Royal Mile between Edinburgh and Holyrood Castles!You are within walking distance of virtually everything!This Advocates Close building may have been built in 1034 and retains classic structural elements but it's amenities down to the gourmet kitchen, flatscreen tv's (yes plural, tv's) and heated towelbars are all strictly 21st century! Spotlessly clean, well equipt and furnished!Decadently comfortable, white, puffy, goose down bedding!! Why spend twice the money on a crappy hotel room w/bed and closet sized bath, when you can immerse yourself in history and live like a local. A much better way to travel and be a part of the community. The Albanach, directly across the street had a fantastic haggis (a tourist must), fish chowder, and fish cake. Ask for Hannah, who is a breath of fresh air and I am a picky restaurant owner!! I can't wait to return. I would stay here again in a heartbeat! Edinburgh was the highlight of our 3 wk trip across the UK!!!The only negative I could possibly say is it would not be suited for someone in a wheelchair and the small window in the bdrm facing the Mile could use something (shade,curtain)to block the nearly all night summer light!! ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!! Do yourself a favor and by all means stay here!!!!!!!
-
Amy
NewcastleClean, Comfortable, Affordable
Left on 05/27/2009 for a stay in September 2008
Myself and 3 other friends travelled to Edinburgh to attend a wedding. We had very little time left to find accommodation until a friend recommended us to check out this apartment. Having looked at the price for the 2 night stay (£45), we were not expecting anything spectacular. Though the photos on the website is what attracted us to choose the advocate suite, we weren't too sure how the real thing would match up.
When we arrived, we were faced with a long walk up a spiral staircase to the apartment. Tiring with suitcases. On entering the apartment, we were pleasantly surprised how similar it actually looked to the photos. The place was compact but was sufficient. Place was clean and the cupboards even had the old school game 'pictionary' to keep us entertained.
The apartment was nicely presented and we all had a good night's sleep. However, the chiming of the clock just outside, did wake us in the morning. Other than that, not very noisy, unless there are drunks outside.
Overall, a very pleasant stay. Highly recommended! -
michaeld
OxfordshireGreat
Left on 05/27/2009 for a stay in July 2008
Really excellent. Great location, great flat, clean and in very good condition. Quite a few stairs to climb, vut well worth it.
Also Consider
FlipKey has rentals in over 11 destinations around the world:
-
Saint Andrews cabins
33 rentals from $47/night -
Glasgow vacation rentals
22 rentals from $90/night -
Helgoland vacation rentals
26 rentals from $29/night -
County Londonderry vacation rentals
28 rentals from $58/night -
Bernese Oberland vacation rentals
4 rentals from $79/night