Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh - Boutique Hotel Review & Guide

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh is a boutique hotel in Edinburgh. This in-depth guide to Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh covers everything travellers need to know before booking, from rooms and amenities to the surrounding Edinburgh neighbourhood, nearby restaurants, and local attractions.

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG blends boutique luxury with Georgian elegance in Edinburgh’s New Town.

Read on for our full review of Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh, what makes Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh stand out among hotels in Edinburgh, and how to book Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh directly through ReelTrip.

Travellers searching for a stay at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh will find honest detail on rooms, dining, location, and value below. Whether you are visiting Edinburgh for business, a family break, or a weekend escape, this guide to Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh will help you decide if it is the right fit.

Photos of Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh

Browse the photo gallery below to get a feel for Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh, a boutique hotel in Edinburgh. Each image shows a different facet of Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh, from rooms and suites to communal spaces and the surrounding Edinburgh neighbourhood.

About Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG occupies several interconnected Georgian townhouses on…

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG occupies several interconnected Georgian townhouses on the corner of one of the city's most prestigious squares. When people ask where to stay in Edinburgh for a mix of historic character and modern energy, this is usually one of the first names mentioned. It is a substantial hotel that manages to feel like a series of private residences, avoiding the stiff formality you sometimes find in New Town grandees. This Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG review focuses on how the property balances its eighteenth-century bones with a very contemporary, relaxed approach to hospitality. It is a reliable choice for a city break in a capital that can often feel crowded, offering a bit of breathing room right in the centre of the action.

The physical experience of staying here centres on a central glass-topped courtyard known as The Garden. This light-filled space acts as the heart of the hotel, where guests linger over coffee or evening drinks regardless of the Scottish weather. The rooms themselves are designed with a thoughtful, eclectic touch, featuring velvet upholstery, curated bookshelves, and leather accents that feel more like a stylish apartment than a standard Edinburgh hotel room. You will find that the layout can be a bit of a labyrinth due to the nature of joining multiple old buildings together, but that adds to the sense of privacy. The walls are thick, and the windows often look out over the private gardens of the square or across the Firth of Forth in the distance. It feels substantial and sturdy, a place where you can actually get a proper night of sleep despite being a two-minute walk from the main shopping thoroughfares.

Location is really the strongest selling point for this property

Location is really the strongest selling point for this property. You are situated at the western end of George Street in the New Town, which is the more sophisticated, airy counterpart to the medieval Old Town. While the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are only a fifteen-minute walk away, you are tucked just far enough from the heavy tourist traffic to feel like a local. The surrounding streets are packed with independent boutiques, high-end restaurants, and classic pubs. If you fancy a change of pace, the walk down to the Water of Leith or the nearby Stockbridge neighbourhood offers a village-like atmosphere with weekend markets and botanical gardens. For those looking to go further afield, the tram stop at Princes Street is a short stroll away, connecting you directly to the airport in about thirty-five minutes.

What really sets this place apart is the focus on wellness and socialising without the usual pretension. The subterranean spa and gym are genuinely impressive for a city centre hotel, featuring a decent-sized pool and varied treatment options that feel like a proper retreat from the pavement pounding. Dining is another area where they have moved away from traditional hotel tropes. Instead of a stuffy dining room, Baba serves up Levantine-inspired dishes with bold flavours that attract a local crowd as much as the guests staying upstairs. It brings a certain buzz to the building that you do not always get in heritage properties. The service follows suit, being attentive but largely informal. They have a daily social hour in the early evening where they serve complimentary drinks, which is a great way to ground yourself before heading out for dinner. It is these small, practical touches combined with the impressive architecture that make it a standout choice for an Edinburgh stay.

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh Vibes & Highlights

Below is a breakdown of the standout features and atmosphere that define Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh for travellers comparing it with other hotels in Edinburgh.

Things to Know Before You Visit Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG

Price and value

Price and value

Rates at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG usually start around £161 per night, but you should expect that to climb significantly during the August Fringe Festival or over Hogmanay. When asking if it is worth it, you have to look at the sheer quality of the interiors. You are paying for a very polished, design led experience that feels more like a private club than a standard chain hotel. The nightly rate includes access to a genuinely good gym and a basement spa that is often cited as one of the best in the city. It is solid value for Edinburgh, especially when you consider that many five star spots in the Old Town charge double this for much smaller, stuffier rooms.

Location and getting around

Location and getting around

The hotel sits on the corner of Charlotte Square in the New Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is some of the best Edinburgh hotel advice you will get: stay in the New Town if you want to actually sleep. While the Old Town is iconic, it is also loud and packed with tourists. From here, you are a two minute walk from George Street for high end shopping and about ten minutes from Princes Street Gardens. You can walk to Waverley Station in about fifteen minutes, though it is an uphill pull with luggage, so a five minute taxi is a better shout if you have heavy bags. On street parking is almost impossible and very expensive, so do not bother bringing a car unless you have to.

What the rooms are actually like

What the rooms are actually like

The first thing to know about the rooms is that no two are exactly the same because the hotel is made up of seven interconnecting Georgian townhouses. This creates a bit of a maze, so you might find yourself walking through several corridors and up small sets of stairs to reach your door. The decor is a mix of leather, velvet, and tweed, which feels modern rather than "shortbread tin" Scottish. Space is generally good, but the entry level rooms can feel a bit dark if they face the inner courtyard. One slight inconvenience is that the lighting systems in Kimpton properties can be a bit over-engineered. You might spend five minutes trying to figure out which switch turns off the floor lamp. The bathrooms are excellent, usually featuring big walk-in showers and high end toiletries that actually smell good.

Best time to stay

Best time to stay

If you want the best version of an Edinburgh city break, aim for May or September. The weather is relatively stable and the light over the Firth of Forth is beautiful. December is magical because the Christmas markets are just a short stroll away, but the hotel gets very busy with corporate parties. If you are looking for Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG tips, avoid the middle of August unless you are specifically here for the festivals. The city becomes incredibly crowded, and while the hotel is a sanctuary, the streets immediately outside will be heaving. For a quiet stay, mid-week in November or February offers the best chance of a room upgrade and a peaceful atmosphere in the Garden courtyard.

Who it is best for

Who it is best for

This is a dream spot for couples and slow travellers who appreciate good aesthetics and a central but slightly removed location. It is perfect for those who want a boutique feel with the reliability of a big brand like IHG. It is also very dog friendly, so it is a top choice if you are travelling with a pet. It is perhaps not the first choice for families with very young children, as the layout with all the stairs and heavy fire doors can be a bit of a faff with a pram. It is also not a "party" hotel, while there is a great bar scene, the vibe is more sophisticated cocktail than rowdy pints.

Things to be aware of

Things to be aware of

When considering where to stay in Edinburgh, you should be aware that the historic nature of these buildings means soundproofing can be hit and miss. You might hear a heavy footed guest in the room above you or the muffled sound of doors closing in the hallway. If you are a very light sleeper, ask for a room on a higher floor or one that does not face the street. The Garden is the central hub of the hotel where breakfast is served, and it is stunning with all the plants and glass roof, but it can get quite loud during peak times. Also, the lift access is a bit patchy due to the different levels of the townhouses, so if you have mobility issues, make sure you mention this when booking so they can put you in a room with easier access. What to expect is a high level of service, but it is "Kimpton style" service, which is friendly and informal rather than the traditional, stiff service you find at the Balmoral or the Caledonian.

Practical Information for Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh

Key contact details, check-in times, and useful facts for guests planning a stay at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh.

Address: 38 Charlotte Square

Check-in time: 15:00:00

Check-out time: 12:00:00

Things to do near Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG

Popular activities and attractions a short walk from Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG in Edinburgh:

• Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets — other (1.2 km)
• Underground Vaults Tour — other (1.2 km)
• The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting — other (1.2 km)
• Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour — other (1.2 km)
• Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour — other (1.2 km)
• Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Highlands Tour — other (1.2 km)

About This Location

A Sense of Place

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG occupies a commanding position on the edge of one of the most prestigious urban spaces in United Kingdom. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh, the property is a seamless integration of seven interconnecting Georgian townhouses, reflecting the architectural ambition of the late 18th century. Charlotte Square itself was designed by Robert Adam and serves as the crowning achievement of the New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its neoclassical symmetry and wide, orderly streets.

Staying here offers a profound sense of the Scottish capital's dual identity. To the north, the orderly grid of the New Town stretches toward the Firth of Forth, while just a short walk south, the medieval skyline of the Old Town rises sharply against the volcanic backdrop of Arthur's Seat. The atmosphere at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG is one of refined calm, where the sturdy sandstone exterior masks a contemporary, glass roofed courtyard that brings a sense of the outdoors into the hearth of the building. It is a location that feels both central and secluded, providing a quiet vantage point from which to observe the city's sophisticated cultural life.

The Surrounding Neighbourhood

The New Town is perhaps the finest example of Georgian town planning in the world, and Charlotte Square is its most celebrated address. The immediate area is characterised by grand facades, wrought iron railings, and private residents' gardens that offer a splash of greenery amidst the stone. This neighbourhood is the historic home of the Scottish Enlightenment, once populated by the city’s leading philosophers, scientists, and writers, and that intellectual heritage still lingers in the air.

Just steps from the front door, George Street offers an array of high end boutiques, refined bars, and upscale dining options housed in converted banking halls. Unlike the bustling, tourist heavy Royal Mile, the streets surrounding Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG feel lived in by locals who appreciate the finer details of urban life. Walking through the neighbourhood, one notices the subtle shifts in light on the honey coloured Craigleith stone and the long vistas that lead down toward the sea at Leith. It is an area that encourages slow exploration, where every corner reveals a hidden mews or a perfectly preserved doorway from a bygone era.

Things to Do Nearby

The central location of Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG ensures that many of the city’s most significant cultural landmarks are within a ten minute walk. Directly across the square sits Bute House, the official residence of the First Minister of Scotland, while the Georgian House museum offers a fascinating glimpse into upper class life in the late 1700s, complete with original furnishings and period decor.

For those seeking green space, West Princes Street Gardens is a short stroll away, providing a lush valley between the New and Old Towns with unparalleled views of Edinburgh Castle. Art enthusiasts are perfectly placed to visit the Scottish National Gallery on the Mound, which houses a world class collection of European and Scottish art. For a more contemporary experience, the independent galleries of Dundas Street are nearby, showcasing the work of modern Scottish artists. Food and drink are central to the local experience, with the historic Oxford Bar, a favourite of author Ian Rankin, situated just a few streets over on Young Street, offering a traditional atmosphere away from the modern crowds.

How This Property Fits the Destination

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG mirrors the evolution of Edinburgh itself, respecting its historic bones while embracing a modern, cosmopolitan outlook. The way the property connects several distinct townhouses reflects the organic growth of the New Town, creating a labyrinthine interior that feels like a private discovery. The central glass walled courtyard, known as The Garden, acts as a social hub that mimics the communal spirit of the city’s many private squares and gardens, providing a year round sanctuary regardless of the unpredictable Scottish weather.

The interior design often references local textiles and craftsmanship without falling into tartan clichés, ensuring the aesthetic feels grounded in the region. By repurposing these historic buildings for modern hospitality, the property helps preserve the architectural integrity of Charlotte Square while ensuring it remains a vibrant, functioning part of the city rather than a static museum piece. This balance of heritage and contemporary comfort is exactly what many travellers seek when booking through Reeltrip, as it provides an authentic connection to the destination's past and present.

Who This Location Suits Best

This specific corner of the New Town is ideal for culture seekers and history enthusiasts who want to be immersed in Edinburgh's architectural grandeur without being in the middle of the busiest tourist thoroughfares. It is a perfect base for solo travellers and professionals who appreciate a sophisticated environment and proximity to the financial district and the Scottish Parliament.

Couples will find the romantic, atmospheric streets of the New Town particularly appealing for evening walks, while food lovers will benefit from being within walking distance of several Michelin starred establishments and innovative modern Scottish kitchens. Those who enjoy urban hiking will appreciate the easy access to the Water of Leith Walkway or the climb up Calton Hill for sunset views. It is a location for the discerning traveller who values quiet elegance, historical context, and the ability to explore the city’s most iconic sites on foot.

Final Thoughts

Staying at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG offers more than just a central bed in a famous city, it provides a genuine immersion into the Enlightenment spirit of Edinburgh. The property serves as a bridge between the grand neoclassical visions of the 18th century and the creative, forward looking energy of the modern Scottish capital. Whether you are watching the mist roll over the Firth of Forth from a nearby viewpoint or retreating into the quiet sanctuary of the hotel's courtyard, the experience is defined by a sense of permanence and grace. It is a place where the history of the United Kingdom feels tangible, yet the comforts are entirely of the moment, making it one of the most compelling places to stay in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh

Where is Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh located?

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh is located at 38 Charlotte Square, in the heart of Edinburgh. The full address and directions to Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh can be found in the practical information section above.

How much does it cost to stay at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh?

Rooms at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh typically start from £161 per night, depending on the season, room type, and length of stay. Prices for Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh can rise during peak travel periods in Edinburgh.

What are the best things to do near Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh?

Guests staying at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh are well placed for the top attractions in Edinburgh. The nearby restaurants and activities lists above show what is within easy walking distance of Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh.

Is Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh good for families?

Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh accommodates a range of travellers, including families. Check the rooms and family options section for specifics on family rooms and extra-bed policies at Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh.

How do I book Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh?

You can book Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh directly through ReelTrip using the booking link below. ReelTrip offers verified rates and real traveller video reviews for Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh.

Book Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG Edinburgh

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