The Sun Inn receives widespread acclaim for its idyllic location, excellent dining, and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled just outside Edinburgh, it offers guests a perfect blend of convenience and charm, with easy access to natural beauty and prominent cultural landmarks like Rosslyn Chapel and Dalhousie Castle. Though some guests note minor noise issues due to its road-side position, the inn's accessibility and peaceful setting overshadow these concerns.
The dining experience at The Sun Inn is a standout feature, especially the highly-praised breakfast. Guests rave about the variety and quality of the morning meal, describing it as tasty, plentiful, and served in a beautiful dining area. Despite occasional delays in service, the friendly staff ensure a positive dining experience. Dinner at the on-site pub restaurant also delights, offering excellent quality and value for money.
Rooms are generally well-received, with guests appreciating their comfort, attractive décor, and thoughtful amenities like mini fridges and pod coffee machines. Though some rooms could benefit from updates in terms of cleanliness and maintenance, the overall experience remains positive, with luxurious touches such as a hot tub and sauna enhancing the stay.
The inn's staff are frequently commended for their friendliness, professionalism, and accommodating nature, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The comfort of the beds is another highlight, with descriptions emphasizing their exceptional quality, though a few guests found them hard. Despite minor areas for improvement, The Sun Inn continues to impress guests with its luxurious escape, offering a memorable and tranquil retreat.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel, located just eight miles from Edinburgh, is a historic fortress offering a relaxing escape from city life in a serene, private parkland and wooded valley setting. Guests can enjoy Scottish hospitality while participating in noble sports like falconry and archery, relaxing in the oak-paneled library with a glass of whisky or exploring the castle estate. The hotel features 29 unique en-suite guest bedrooms, adorned with Scottish fabrics and period furniture, along with modern amenities like Egyptian cotton bed linen, flat-screen TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities. The Aqueous Spa offers rejuvenating treatments with Ytsara products, and the castle provides five impressive function and conference suites for business meetings and events.
Summary of reviews
Dalhousie Castle is a unique and historic castle hotel located near Edinburgh, surrounded by stunning scenery and beautiful grounds. While some guests found the location slightly far out from the city, the view from the hotel was lovely and the castle grounds were gorgeous. The breakfast and dinner received mixed reviews with some guests finding the food exceptional and others disappointed with the limited choice and poor organization. The themed rooms were a highlight for many guests, although some found certain areas lacking in detail and cleanliness. The staff received rave reviews for their exceptional service, although some guests encountered inexperienced or unhelpful staff members. The spa facilities were generally well-received, although some guests found them cramped or disappointing. Despite mixed feedback, the hotel is recommended for those who want to experience staying in a real-life castle with a magical atmosphere and authentic feel. It is a perfect choice for a romantic getaway, birthday, anniversary or just to spoil yourself and your loved ones.
The ESKBANK Hotel - Rathan House is lauded for its ideal location, comfortably nestled within picturesque surroundings that blend tranquility with accessibility. Its proximity to Edinburgh, complemented by convenient bus access, positions it as an excellent choice for those eager to explore the city without hassle. Additionally, the hotel is near local shops, restaurants, and the Pentland Hills regional park, offering various recreational opportunities.
Guests are welcomed warmly into a haven of hospitality where friendly hosts Ewan and Irene elevate the stay with their engaging personalities and depth of local knowledge. Their accommodating nature, including attention to dietary needs, and the welcoming presence of their dogs create a unique, homely environment. The staff's attentiveness ensures visitors feel both at ease and prepared for their adventures in and around Edinburgh.
The breakfast experience at Rathan House is a standout feature, with its unique and varied menu drawing significant praise. The convivial atmosphere around a large communal table fosters a sense of community, further enriched by Ewan's entertaining stories about Scottish culture. Guests enjoy a hearty and fresh start to their day, with options ranging from traditional Scottish fare to continental choices, all thoughtfully prepared.
Rooms at the hotel cater to comfort and convenience, consistently receiving high marks for cleanliness and well-considered amenities. The spacious accommodations—boasting lovely views of the garden and countryside—afford guests restful nights. While some beds and pillows may appear dated, they are generally comfortable, with adjustable warmth settings adding to the coziness. Cleanliness across the hotel is meticulously maintained, enhancing the inviting ambiance.
The hotel boasts ample, free, and safe parking, contributing to an effortless stay for those traveling by car. Despite some beds showing signs of wear, the accommodation maintains a generally high comfort standard. Remarkably dog-friendly, Rathan House offers an expansive garden for pets, and the presence of the hosts' dogs enriches the amicable atmosphere, making it a highly appealing choice for guests with furry companions.
Overall, The ESKBANK Hotel - Rathan House presents a compelling blend of strategic location, superb hospitality, and engaging amenities, making it a desirable destination for a weekend escape or a longer retreat.