The Hotel Review: Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh
Review: Val Jones
The 5* Radisson Collection Hotel is in a central location in the old town of Edinburgh, sitting on the corner of the Royal Mile and George VI street, so you don’t have to walk far on the old cobbles before you come across famous Edinburgh Castle standing proud upon the rock. At the opposite end of the Royal Mile you’ll find Holyrood Palace – the official Scottish residence of the British Monarch since the 16th century. Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities, absolutely steeped in history.
The boutique feel of this hotel is welcoming and is decked in super-contemporary style interiors, stylish ice-white chairs and tables strategically placed in the lobby, some in front of the gas flamed wall mounted fire (our favourite spot) there was also a long table and chairs for large parties which seemed to work well, the partition into the bar was shelving giving both bar and lobby a more open aspect especially with the violet hued mood lighting.
Check in desk was three pod -like stations, where a friendly receptionist greeted us and process was smooth running, our room was ready so with an explanation of where it was and a quick demonstration on how to work the security aspect of the lift, we went on our way.
Our room was a Deluxe double on the (top floor) 5th floor, a real room with a view, a corner plot room featuring two luxe, comfy chairs, with a coffee table placed next to the full length windows. Light oak wood panelled floors ran throughout, with a colour scheme of cream, plum and gold, wooden stands and bedside lamps with vibrant coloured shades, the headboard was a deep purple velvet and bedding a crisp white contrast. Wall mounted prints with the same vibrant colours adorned the walls.We we had a great view of Edinburgh Castle and it was wonderful looking down the street towards the popular Grassmarket area with its history of livestock sales in times gone by, now a vibrant restaurant and bar district with plenty of character.
The in-room technology was good with a smart phone for our personal use, to take out and about giving complementary internet access whilst sightseeing.
A mini bar with drinks and snacks was available with complementary water, along with Nespresso coffee machine and a kettle with a range of teas.
The bathroom was chic with again plum walls, high-shine, ebony Mosaic floor and glittering grey mosaic tiles covered the huge walk- in monsoon shower. A selection of toiletries were provided with swish black gowns and matching slippers.
After settling and with almost everything being within walking distance we set off to explore. We found the old town had many wonderful places to spend our time, from traditional British pubs to bistros coffee shops, quaint shops to browse in and many historical spots to nip into. Just a short walk away was the new town and Princes Street with its many high street shops, but to be fair the new town is a lot more than shops with its own historical monuments, time worn pubs, fine-dining restaurants; plenty of atmosphere all round.
After a day of exploring the city we headed back to the hotel for a pre-dinner cocktail in the Epicurean Bar. My husband had a Passion Fruit Mojito and I had a French Lover, both cocktails were fantastic, mixed with expertise by the barman Lucio. There’s a distinct modern feel about the bar with marble effect table tops, leather seating surrounds both booths and individual round tables with smoked light bulbs hung over the tables.
We dinned in the hotel restaurant Cucina, (head chef being Andrew McQueen). Decked out with traditional tartan plaques on the walls. Foodie highlights were the Grilled Rib Eye Steak, served with Rocket Parmesan and Polent Chips. afternoon tea was an option along with pre-theatre dinner menu, after dinner we headed back to the bar for another one of those delicious cocktails
Overnight, this was city-sleeping at its best with absolutely no disturbance from the streets of Edinburgh. Our pillows were a bit soft so we asked for replacements and were then given a pillow menu and a prompt pillow delivery to our room. Breakfast was served in the Cucina Restaurant and although very busy, service was prompt, we both opted for the full Scottish breakfast with of course Haggis – which was delicious. There were lots of other options and of course as expected, the buffet choice was extensive including a whole Scottish Salmon.
Rates as per the following: Nightly rates at Radisson Collection Royal Mile Edinburgh start from £209 per night inclusive of breakfast. To make a reservation or for further information please contact +44 (0)131 2206666
radissoncollection.com