Unbelievable Edinburgh Gem: Cambridge House Awaits!
Unbelievable Edinburgh Gem: Cambridge House Awaits! - A Rambling, Rave Review
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from spending a glorious chunk of time at Cambridge House in Edinburgh, and I'm still buzzing. Forget the usual, sterile hotel review – this is gonna be a love letter, a rant, and a slightly disorganized ode to a place that genuinely surprised me. Consider this a highly subjective, and maybe a tad bit unhinged, account. Don't say I didn't warn you.
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- Keywords: Edinburgh Hotels, Cambridge House, Luxury Edinburgh, Accessible Hotels Edinburgh, Spa Hotels Edinburgh, Wi-Fi Edinburgh, Family-Friendly Edinburgh, Breakfast Included, Scottish Hospitality, Edinburgh Accommodation, Accessible Rooms, Luxury Getaway.
- Meta Description: Discover Cambridge House in Edinburgh – a stunning hotel combining luxury with genuine Scottish charm. This review covers accessibility, dining, amenities, and the overall experience. Find out if this is the perfect Edinburgh escape for you!
First Impressions: That Edinburgh Vibe
Getting to Cambridge House was a breeze – thank you, airport transfer! They've got it all sorted. The building itself? Gorgeous. Think classic Edinburgh architecture, all stone and imposing presence. The staff, bless their hearts, were immediately welcoming. Proper Scottish charm, not the fake, overly-slick kind. And the Lobby? Damn, beautiful.
Accessibility: Not an Afterthought! (Hallelujah!)
Okay, this is HUGE for me. I'm not a fan of hotels that say they're accessible but then you arrive and find a mountain of stairs and a lift that only works on Tuesdays. Cambridge House? Crushed it.
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yep, and not just the lobby. Ramps, elevators, the whole shebang. Made me actually relax.
- Accessible Rooms?: Excellent accessibility in the designated rooms – spacious and well-equipped. Bathrooms were a dream.
- Facilities for Disabled Guests: (Check!) They clearly care.
The Room: My Cozy Edinburgh Fortress
My room? Immaculate. Seriously, clean. Like, "could eat off the floor" clean.
- Available in All Rooms (and they mean it!): Air conditioning (crucial!), alarm clock (thank you, finally!), coffee/tea maker (essential!), free Wi-Fi (PRAISE!), hairdryer (a must!), in-room safe (always!), mini bar (tempting…), and a view that made my jaw drop. I had the deluxe room.
- The Bed?: Oh sweet heavens, the bed. Extra long, fluffy linens, blackout curtains that banished the Edinburgh sun (or, you know, what passes for sun). I slept like a log.
- The Bathroom: Separate shower and bathtub (luxury!), and a decent amount of space. (I am a bit of a space hog in the bathroom, admittedly). Toiletries were lovely.
- Minor Complaint: I would have loved a few more power outlets near the bed. I am constantly charging things. But honestly, that's a minor quibble.
Wi-Fi & Internet: Connected Without the Constant Annoyance!
- Free Wi-Fi in All Rooms!: (Victory!) Fast, reliable, and didn't require me to fill out a million forms. (More praise!)
- Internet Access (LAN): I didn't use it, but the option was there. Good for the more tech-savvy guest. This is good for Business travelers.
- Internet Services: all good.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: My Stomach Approved
Listen, I love to eat. And Cambridge House did not disappoint.
- Breakfast (the most important meal): Breakfast was included. A fantastic breakfast buffet (don't judge). Also, you can order breakfast in your room!
- Anecdote Time: The haggis, neeps, and tatties? Divine. Okay, I went a little overboard on the Scottish breakfast one morning. Let's just say I needed a power nap after. But worth it!
- Restaurants: The main restaurant served up some incredible dishes.
- Restaurant Anecdote: Had the seared scallops one night. Melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The presentation was beautiful.
- Poolside Bar: I didn't, but I saw it and it was amazing!
- Snack Bar: Handy for a quick bite or a cheeky afternoon treat.
- Room Service: (24 hours) Bless. Perfect for those late-night cravings. I have used this on more than one occasion.
Things to Do, or How I Found My Zen (Sort Of…)
- The Spa…: Okay, this is where Cambridge House really blew me away.
- Pool with a View?: Yes! Stunning. I spent about an hour just staring at the Edinburgh skyline from the pool.
- Sauna, Steamroom, Spa, and Massage: Amazing, I loved these.
- Fitness Center: It's there… I mostly stayed in the spa. I've gone to the gym once since my trip, so maybe I won't be doing that again.
- Body Scrub, Body Wrap: (Did not indulge, because laziness) shrug
- Spa/Sauna: The sauna and the steam room… pure bliss. You could spend an entire week relaxing In the Spa.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe and Sound
- Anti-viral cleaning products? Yep. Good to know.
- Daily disinfection in common areas? They took it seriously.
- Hand sanitizer? Everywhere. (A must these days).
- Room sanitization opt-out available? I think they have this available.
- Staff trained in safety protocol? Totally. They seemed super relaxed about it. I was more anxious.
- Important: They had that COVID-19 cleaning program, I didn't feel it. I just enjoyed my stay.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Extras That Matter
- Concierge: Super helpful. Sorted out all my restaurant bookings and gave me some excellent tips on exploring Edinburgh.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was spotless every single day.
- Laundry service: (I used it, I'm not proud). Cleaned a whole suitcase of laundry.
- Luggage storage: They took care of my bags.
- Airport Transfer: Excellent.
- Food Delivery: (This is an important one.) They have this for when you don't want to go into a restaurant.
For the Kids (and For the Big Kids Too!)
- Family/child friendly? Definitely. Cambridge House seemed set up for families. I saw a lot.
- Babysitting service? Available!
Getting Around: Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy
- Car park (free of charge): Winner! Finding parking in Edinburgh can be a nightmare. Not here. (And they have a car power charging station!).
- Taxi service: readily available.
The Quirks and Imperfections (Because, You Know, Human)
Okay, so nothing is perfect. (And honestly, perfect is boring).
- The Elevator: Sometimes felt a tad slow. But hey, you're on holiday. Relax!
- My Room: Could improve with a few more power outlets.
Emotionally Speaking: Would I Go Back?
Absolutely, without a doubt, 100%. Cambridge House isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience. It's the kind of place that makes you feel pampered, relaxed, and genuinely cared for. If you're looking for an amazing Edinburgh getaway, book it. Seriously. Do it now. (And tell them I sent you… maybe they'll give me a discount next time…) Five stars. No. Ten stars. I'm already dreaming of my return.
Unbelievable Watukarung Escape: Sackstone Guest House Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups! You want a messy, real-life Edinburgh travel itinerary? Consider it done. Prepare for more meandering than a lost sheep in the Highlands, more opinions than a grumpy pub owner, and far more "Oh, crap, I forgot to…" than any professionally planned trip. This is my Cambridge House Edinburgh, warts and all.
Cambridge House Edinburgh: A Whirlwind of Whims and Whispers (and Probably a Few Tears)
Days 1-2: Arrival, Cobbles, and a Crumpled Map (and a Whole Lotta Jet Lag)
Day 1: Edinburgh, I'm Here (Eventually!)
- Morning (and by "morning," I mean when I finally unclogged my brain from the transatlantic flight from London): Land in Edinburgh. Okay, first hurdle: navigating the bloody airport. Seriously, why do they always put the baggage claim at the end of the universe? After collecting my tragically-tattily packed suitcase and a small panic attack that I’d left my passport at the airport in London, I'll attempt to find the bus to the city center. Pro-tip: download an offline map. You'll thank me later.
- Afternoon: Check into Cambridge House. (Pray it's as charming as the website promised, because sometimes those photos are lying. I’ve been burned before.) Let's hope the room, unlike my last hotel, doesn't smell vaguely of damp and regret.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: The Royal Mile. UGH. I hate crowds, but I love history. Dilemma! I'll trudge down, get lost in the narrow lanes (inevitably), and probably buy something ridiculously touristy that I'll regret later (a tartan scarf, anyone?). A quick peek at Edinburgh Castle from the outside because, let's be honest, paying for it today is just not happening.
- Evening: Dinner. I'm craving proper pub grub. Preferably something hearty, like a shepard's pie or a haggis - yes, I'm going to brave it, even if it looks a bit… well, let's just say, "unusual". The Sheep Heid Inn is supposedly nice, I'll get lost on the way, and in the end, will probably settle for pizza.
- Night: Passed out. Jet lag will smack me down like a drunk banshee any minute. (The good thing? I'll sleep through the inevitable ghost tour outside my window.)
Day 2: Ghosts, Graveyards, and (Maybe) a Brewery
- Morning: Okay, I'm going to try to get moving with a plan. Breakfast at the hotel if it's even remotely decent. Maybe a quick walk around the area, just to get my bearings.
- Late morning: Greyfriars Kirkyard. I have a morbid fascination with old cemeteries. It's beautiful, creepy, and full of fascinating stories. I’ll probably get lost in the labyrinth of headstones, reading all the names. I’ll definitely spend way too long searching for Greyfriars Bobby (the loyal dog), and I'll probably get a little teary eyed.
- Afternoon: The Real Mary King's Close. This sounds truly promising. A chance to delve into the mysteries of Edinburgh's underground history and the dark life that was lived long ago.
- Late Afternoon: The Scottish Brewery Tour! Maybe I'll actually learn something about beer. Maybe I'll just drink beer. Either way, it sounds like a good plan. (Cross my fingers I don't embarrass myself by asking stupid questions about hop varieties.)
- Evening: Dinner and possibly another long, aimless walk. A jazz club. I don't know, I'm thinking it over, I'll decide when I'm hungry. It's always a good idea.
Days 3-4: Art, Arthur's Seat, and (Potentially) a Breakdown
- Day 3: Art & Heights
- Morning: National Gallery of Scotland? Maybe. If I can drag myself away from all the pubs. I'm not a huge art buff, but I love a good wander and I'm sure to be impressed by something.
- Afternoon: ARTHUR'S SEAT. Oh Jesus. I'm a creature of comfort, and I'm TERRIBLE at hiking. But everyone says it's worth it. I'll drag myself up that volcano, cursing the entire time, and hopefully the views are worth the inevitable aching limbs. If I can get to the top without face-planting, that's a win.
- Late Afternoon: Post-hike reward: tea and cake. Preferably a ridiculously large piece of carrot cake. I might even have a second piece, because I earned it!
- Evening: Trying to find a live music spot. Edinburgh is famous for its music scene, so I'm hoping to stumble upon some good tunes.
- Day 4: Shopping & Departure. (And a Last-Minute Panic)
- Morning: Shopping. I NEED to buy presents. I'm going to find some beautiful little shops and find a few things. I'm looking for something Scottish to take home.
- Afternoon: One last wander around the city, soaking in the atmosphere. I'm going to go back to the Royal Mile, and I'm going to try to take my time.
- Late afternoon/Evening : Departure. I'll probably have a massive panic about forgetting something important. Did I buy enough shortbread? Did I say goodbye to the bartender at that pub? Did I leave my passport at the airport? Okay. Deep breaths. Off to the airport.
Final Ramblings & Imperfections:
- Food: Okay, let's be honest, I'm probably going to eat a lot of carbs and drink a lot of beer. Expect a review of every pie I eat, and a detailed analysis of the best pub chips in Edinburgh.
- Emotional rollercoaster: This is important, too. Expect moments of pure bliss, moments of utter frustration, and probably a few moments of existential dread. I might cry. I might laugh. I might get lost and grumpy. This is real life, people!
- The "What I Forgot" List: Let's just assume I'll forget something important. Probably a charger, or a pair of socks. You've been warned.
- Transportation: I'm going to walk everywhere. No, I'm kidding! But I'm going to try to. Public transport is my nemesis. But Edinburgh is a very walkable city, so I should be fine.
- Flexibility: This is a rough guide. Life happens. Plans change. I’ll probably get completely sidetracked by a cool bookstore, a cute dog, or the siren call of a good whisky. And that's perfectly fine. The best travel experiences are often unplanned, right? (Or at least, that's what I tell myself when everything goes sideways.)
So there you have it. My completely imperfect, potentially disastrous, and hopefully hilarious Edinburgh adventure. Wish me luck… I'm going to need it.
Escape to Paradise: Kaya Hotel Tuy Hòa's Unforgettable Phú Yên Getaway
So, what *is* Cambridge House, exactly? Is it just... a house?
Well, yeah, it's a house. But calling it "just a house" is like saying the Mona Lisa is "just a painting." It's *so* much more. Think Victorian grandeur meets "ooo, I might trip on that rug!" Charm. Think plush velvet, creaky floorboards that whisper secrets, and maybe, just maybe, a resident ghost or two. (Just kidding, *maybe*… I swear I heard something last time…) It's a bloody gorgeous, slightly-worn, utterly charming slice of Edinburgh history.
Right, but like…what are the practicalities? Where is it? How do I *get* there? I'm useless with directions.
Okay, directions. Fine, I'll try. Cambridge House is nestled in the heart of Edinburgh - *somewhere* near the Meadows. Trust me, you want to walk. Edinburgh is a walking city anyway! Honestly, Google Maps is your friend. Just... be prepared for a bit of a climb. Edinburgh isn't exactly flat, you know? And after a few days of exploring? Your legs will *feel* it. Worth it tho!
What's actually *in* the house? I hope there are comfy beds.
Oh, the beds are… *adequate*. Honestly, I've slept worse. They're not like, cloud-nine luxury, but they're proper beds, with proper duvets, and clean sheets. Which, after a long day climbing hills and dodging tourists, is all I ask! The rooms themselves? Stunning. Huge windows (look out for those, they're like portals to the Old Town), original fireplaces – you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. But don't expect a TV in every room. Embrace the disconnection, you're on vacation!
Okay, so what *about* the food? Is breakfast included? And will I starve? Because I get *hangry*.
Breakfast *is* included, thank the heavens! And it's a proper Scottish breakfast, too! Think: sausage, bacon, eggs, beans, the whole shebang. Don't expect Michelin star levels, but it's solid, hearty, and sets you up perfectly for a day of exploring. There's always toast and cereal, and coffee. Lots and lots of coffee. Just... be prepared for a bit of a crowd if everyone decides to eat at the same time. That one morning, I swear, I thought I was in a food fight! But hey, everyone's in the same boat, and it all adds to the charm of the experience.
Anything I should worry about? Any hidden fees? Any *gotchas*?
Right, the *gotchas*. Okay, things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's an old building. Like, *really* old. So, the heating could be a tad… temperamental. Pack an extra jumper, just in case. Secondly, the stairs. There are *a lot* of stairs. Like, think you're fit? Think again! If you're not up for climbing, this *might* not be the place for you. Third, the internet is… let's say, "spotty." Embrace the digital detox! Finally, and this is important: those creaky floorboards? They creak. Loudly. Every. Single. Night. Especially when someone's trying to sneak to the loo after a few too many pints. (I've been 'that someone' myself. Sorry, other guests!) You'll get used to it... or you'll start wearing noise-cancelling headphones.
So, would you recommend it? Be honest! Would you actually stay there again?
Look, let me be brutally honest. Yes. Absolutely, unequivocally YES. I'd go back in a heartbeat. Sure, it's not perfect. It's not a sterile, corporate hotel. But that's precisely why it's brilliant. It's got character, it's got history, and it's got a certain *je ne sais quoi* that you won't find in a chain hotel. It's like staying in a slightly eccentric but utterly lovable Great Auntie's house. Sure, she might have a few quirks, but she'll feed you well, tell you some amazing stories, and make you feel completely at home. If you're looking for a genuine Edinburgh experience, a place with soul, stay here. Just promise me you'll appreciate those creaky floorboards. They're part of the magic!
Is it good for families, or more for couples? What about solo travelers?
Actually, Cambridge House is surprisingly versatile. I saw a family with kids there last time, and they seemed to be having a blast. The kids loved the big rooms, like a proper adventure! Couples would adore it, with the cosy atmosphere and romantic setting. And, surprisingly, even solo travelers could feel at home. It’s the kind of place that fosters a sense of community, you might bump into someone at breakfast and chat. You will also be able to do your own thing. I could easily see myself staying there on my own and loving it. It isn't too formal.
What about parking? Is it a nightmare? I hate parking.
Parking in Edinburgh? *Shudders*. Honestly, it's a nightmare everywhere. Cambridge House is no exception. There's street parking, but it’s usually competitive, or you will have to pay. Be prepared to circle. Seriously, embrace public transport! It's much easier and you can enjoy the city. If you *must* bring a car, be patient, bring change for the meter...and pray!
I once spent a solid hour and a half circling trying to find a spot. Ended up parking about a mile away. By the time I got my bags in, I needed another holiday.
Okay, the "charm" is starting to wear on me. What if something goes *wrong?* Like, REALLY wrong?
Alright, fair point. Let's be realistic. Stuff happens. The staff are genuinely lovely, but this isn't a massive luxury hotel with a battalion of staff on call. If something major goes wrong, they'll do their best, but it might take a bit of time. That said, the atmosphere is intimate enough that you'll quickly feel like you can just ask for help. And, you know, part of the adventure is embracing a bit of imperfection. So,Smart Traveller Inns
Cambridge House Edinburgh United Kingdom
Cambridge House Edinburgh United Kingdom
