Sleepover: Holyrood apartHotel

A night in Edinburgh

Where is it?

On the evocatively named Nether Bakehouse, a cosy close between the Royal Mile and the Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh.

Describe the setting

A quick slip down a quiet alley and the tourist hell that is Edinburgh in August vanishes. Holyrood apartHotel is only a 10-minute walk from Waverley station.

Does it have a USP?

Holyrood is at the swish end of the apartment-hotel market. Forty-one two-bedroom, two-bathroom flats are decorated in classy, neutral tones, and each flat has a kitchen with cooker, dishwasher, microwave and laundry facilities. The comfy dining area/sitting room has a big TV and mini hi-fi, and a fresh basket of breakfast goodies will be delivered well before you wake up.

Comfort factor

Hardwood floors, tactile textiles, mood lighting and climate control. A perfect combination of hotel and apartment, the lounge area and entertainment centre definitely make this a more comfortable option than a standard hotel room. Internet and phone points are in most rooms, while kids will find the PlayStation indispensable. Daily maid service means you'll never have to make the bed.

What's in the bathroom?

One bedroom has a tiny en-suite tiled bathroom with shower, while the second has separate facilities with bath and shower in pale golden stone. One gripe, though: the all-purpose soap dispenser on the wall may be practical but looks tacky.

I'm hungry

There isn't a restaurant but there are plenty of dining options in the Old Town. Each room has a restaurant guide and a list of placesthat will deliver to your door.

What are the people like?

Business people, families in need of flexible space, couples on breaks.

Access for all?

The entrance and lobby have ramps, and there are ground-floor apartments equipped for wheelchair users.

What's the damage?

From £85 single in low season to £250 for four in high season, per night. Executive apartments from £160 per night, and swanky penthouse apartments from £250. Special weekend rates from £99 for two sharing.

Address?

The Holyrood ApartHotel, 1 Nether Bakehouse, off Canongate, Edinburgh (0131-524 3200; www.holyroodaparthotel.com).