Hotel Review: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, Edinburgh

On smart George Street where you'll find some of the city's favourite bars, restaurants and shops, and overlooking Charlotte Square (pretty, green and private). Princes Street is a few steps away, so great for buses too, with a tram stop less than a five-minute walk away. Don't miss The Dome - a former bank converted into one of the city's favourite watering holes - easily spotted by its grand entrance (and sensational decorations at Christmas).

By plane: flights from London to Edinburgh take 1 hour 25 minutes. The hotel is a 25-minute drive. Paid on-site parking available. Book flights to Edinburgh.

By train: 4 hours 30 minutes from London. The hotel is a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley. Book trains to Edinburgh.

Tastefully unconventional, this is a design-led hotel full of pleasing vignettes in the public areas and confident use of rich colour and quality furnishings. There is an impressive amount of decorative detail and inviting areas in which to relax and enjoy it.

Too wet to borrow a real bike? Head to the fitness room for a Peloton session before moving on to the steam room, sauna and a swim in the 12-metre pool. Or forget healthiness and get stuck into your tuck box of Scottish goodies. Wonderfully helpful staff will happily provide a toothbrush if you've forgotten yours.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Spa
• Wellness suite
• Pet-friendly
• On-site parking
• Free Wi-Fi

After the hurly-burly of downstairs, the bedrooms are peaceful havens of muted, calming colours and smart, tasteful furnishings. You might find a leather headboard and a tweedy armchair; perhaps some panelling with a few (interesting) second-hand books negligently arranged. Bathrooms combine Edwardian fittings and generous rainfall showers.

Room types: Essential, Deluxe, Premium, Suite, Junior Suite, King Suite, The Townhouse Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, tea and coffee facilites, yoga mat, TV, free Wi-Fi

BABA is grill-led, offering Middle Eastern food with the occasional hint of a Scottish accent; it's all about small plates and shared feasting dishes creating a convivial candle-lit atmosphere. In the Garden Room, you'll find relaxed fine dining at Aizle - an extraordinary culinary journey.

BABA: Middle Eastern/Scottish fusion restaurant and bar. Mezze and charcoal grill. Open daily, from midday.

Aizle: fine dining restaurant. Seasonal ingredients, themed menu. Open Wed-Sun, 5-8:30pm. 6-course menu costs £85.