Lateral City: The Old Town Chambers

The Old Town Chambers (part of The Lateral City Group) may be a familiar name to our TLE readers as this summer we were invited to the celebration of the luxury self-catering apartments being awarded their 5 star status.

This time our visit is as a privileged guest of one of their three penthouse suites for an overnight stay in the beautifully festive city of Edinburgh. Read on to find out whether we think they are deserved of their five star status.

Booking

A confirmation email was sent immediately after I had confirmed my stay date with the reservations team; useful information including directions and a unique security code for access to reception and check-in details all provided. A good start was then followed up with a reminder email closer to the time of our arrival.

Arrival

I am familiar with the location of the hotel, however for those who are paying their first visit I do recommend reading the pre-arrival email that provides details of how to find The Old Town Chambers reception as it is well hidden – although I must say that this off the beaten track location is most definitely part of its charm and a little preparation certainly outweighs what the charismatic location has to offer.

Also, please note for the less mobile guests there are a lot of steps if accessing via Warriston Close alternatively entering from the Royal Mile and down Roxburgh’s Court maybe an easier route.

Check-in was 3pm which suited us and for guests arriving earlier than this time there is an option to arrange earlier check-in or if this isn’t possible the concierge will take care of luggage until your apartment is ready.

The quaint little close in which the reception is located is highly contrasting to the modern access of reception (via digital entry code) with tinted glass frontage. Despite the contrast the subtle set up merges surprisingly well into its old worldly setting.

Reception is warm, inviting and stylishly presented in a modern Scottish way; the actual operational side of the reception area is cleverly hidden away by sliding doors in what could appear (to the unknowing eye) as a cupboard which actually makes reception feel like the entrance hall of a modern Scottish Manor.

Welcome

Greeted by an extremely pleasant receptionist we were escorted to our suite with details of layout, operational and admin info explained on the way. Through a heavy door we entered the suite with a global off light to our left, cloakroom area in front and a beautifully crafted wooden staircase leading to the main living quarters we were ready to commence our evening of luxury.

The Penthouse

Upon entering the main living area you are immediately presented with a stunning view of the city as one of side of the room is floor to ceiling glass sliding doors and overlooks Princes Street and the Gardens. It was dark when we arrived and as the Edinburgh Christmas markets are up and running in their full glory the view was a spectacle of beautiful lights illuminating the skyline.

High quality wooden flooring paved the way, with bespoke furniture, all following the modern Scottish style, defining each of the areas (kitchen dining, living, reading area) in the open plan space. The sizeable balcony overlooked the city below and we even braved the freezing temperature (glass of red in hand) just to take in the view laid out before us.

Two bedrooms and a bathroom (with Jack and Jill doors) were located off the main living area. The master bedroom presented a large ensuite and double ended bath with its own view of the city too. Heavenly!! And if the view wasn’t enough to keep you pleased then a slim-line wall mounted TV presented an alternative. The huge bed with firm cushions was a cosy and extremely comfortable haven for the night.

Wardrobe included motion sensor lights with the usual toiletries (Cow Shed brand), hair drier, iron, trouser press and even GHD straighteners were available upon request.

The kitchen facilities were immaculate with every utensil provided to ensure a comfortable stay – be it for one night only or for a longer period. The Nespresso coffee machine was a personal favourite with a selection of coffee pods for the most discerning coffee pallet.

We had considered dining out, however to make the most of our one night stay we brought a succulent steak pie from Crombie’s (a local premium butcher) and chilled out in front of the large wall mounted TV.

Had we chosen to dine out and not been familiar with the area I have to say that the leather bound guide book was one of the most comprehensive I have ever encountered and as a local I can confirm that every recommendation made is a highly respected one; with a few of the closer restaurants offering a discount or complimentary glass of Prosecco for guests.

Lateral city have also invested in some items you simply don’t find in average accommodation; zone lighting, smart TV’s, custom made furniture, sound systems and high specification bathrooms and kitchens – this place oozes quality and thoughtful design.

Check Out

I was up early (no rest for the wicked) I connected my laptop to the complimentary Wi-Fi, sipped on my strong coffee and set to work for the morning enjoying the daylight view of the cityscape; Balmoral Hotel to the right and Edinburgh Castle to the left.
As the clock struck 11am and not a second before I left my little overnight haven to take on the real world once more.
Check-out was as friendly and as easy as check-in had been.

Cost

The two bedroom penthouse (which sleeps 6 – sofa bed pulls out) in which we stayed was £388.00 for the night. Prices are seasonal and vary so for further details

Ideal For

Couples wanting to enjoy some Edinburgh romance, families who want some space and the comforts of home and friends who want a central base without feeling like they’re living on top of one another.

Access is quite tricky so consider carefully if you have mobility issues.

Conclusion

As I often say it is the attention to detail that sets apart the high class establishments from the standard and the attention to detail here has been done through a magnifying glass. I would whole heartedly recommend The Old Town Chambers – in fact I want to move in!!

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