Hotel Review: Cheval Old Town Chambers, Edinburgh

Tucked off the Royal Mile around three historic 'closes' - narrow medieval passageways - and with the main entrance opposite St Giles' Cathedral, these apartments are in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Set back from the busy, and touristy, Royal Mile, they are central but not in the bustling throng. Waverley Station is a ten-minute walk. The 12th-century St Giles' Cathedral is opposite, Mary King's Close preserved 17th-century street is next door, and the mighty castle is a five-minute walk up the Royal Mile.

By car: drive from Carlisle in 2 hours 30 minutes and Leeds in 4 hours 20 minutes. Paid public parking is available nearby for £17.60 per day.

By train: reach Edinburgh Waverley from London in 4 hours 30 mins, and from Bristol in 5 hours 45 mins. Book trains to Edinburgh.

By plane: Edinburgh Airport (35-minute drive).

The apartments are spread around several tall, stone-built tenement buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Interiors, by contrast, are sleek and airy - wood floors, bold-coloured sofas, designer lighting - while still respecting the quirky architecture. The decoration is modern but fuss-free creating a relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere.

As well as a sleek, fire-warmed lounge, there's a swish shop stocking wine, whisky and posh chocolates plus smart Sottish gifts such as scarves and candles. The basement 24-hour gym is big and well-equipped; personal trainers are available. Deliveries, whether from restaurants or supermarkets, will be whisked from Reception to your room.

• Restaurant
• Gym
• 24 hr Concierge
• Shop
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Offering a wide range of rooms, from open-plan and one, two or three bedrooms, to penthouse suites and a three-floor townhouse. Some have apex ceilings, others open beams - all feel refreshingly individual even though they share the same sleek, fuss-free design. Bathrooms (most with a bath as well as a shower) are bright with monochrome tiling.

Room types: Open Plan, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom, The Townhouse,
Three Bedroom, Penthouse

Key amenities: fully equipped kitchen, living area, hairdryer, toiletries, TV, safe, free Wi-Fi

All apartments have fully kitted-out kitchens - from oven and microwave to pizza-cutter and Dualit accessories - but if you don't fancy rustling up supper, Luckenbooths, which shares the ground floor, has a simple but popular all-day menu of hearty dishes with a Scottish flavour, perhaps whisky-glazed smoked salmon followed by Tweed valley burger or pork belly with Stornoway black pudding and potato terrine.

Luckenbooths: ground floor bar and restaurant. Breakfasts include the full Scottish and avocado and eggs on toast. Mains celebrate seasonal Scottish flavours. Open daily 7am - 11pm. Mains from £12.