Fraoch House

Fraoch House is in a Victorian building on a quiet, residential street that retains its old-fashioned feel. The B&B’s decor has classic style with a fresh, occasionally cheeky, twist. The woodwork is ornate and beautifully restored, and the spectacular wallpaper is vintage-ish. Period chandeliers, lovely sconces, stained and etched glass windows, and a pristine mosaic tile entryway floor add to the feeling of stepping back in time. This isn't a twee bed and breakfast with dusty tchotchkes lying around. Everything has been carefully chosen by the charming, hands-on owner and shares his quirky sensibility, including a metal stag’s head wearing ski goggles hanging over the stairs, and a ceramic Scottish terrier that keeps watch over the upstairs hallway. The breakfast room is spacious and posh-looking, with black leather chairs, white linen tablecloths, and beautiful photographs displayed on the walls. Even the computer workstation makes an impression, with a swath of retro wallpaper. The back garden is small but has a lovely little lawn with a table and chairs for a break outside, perhaps with some buttery Scottish shortbread. Fraoch House is a warm, relaxed, living work of art, and tends to draw couples seeking romantic Edinburgh getaways. 

Fraoch House is located on a side street of busy Leith Walk, the longest street in Edinburgh, lined with bars, pubs, restaurants, and shops. The B&B’s immediate surroundings include a number of inns and guesthouses, as well as private residences; the street is quiet and has a timeless feel. Its location is great for exploring the harbor and the north end of the city, but all of Edinburgh is accessible via bus, which stops just outside the front door. A 10- to 15-minute ride (or 15-minute walk) takes guests to all of the city’s major tourist attractions and the Edinburgh city center.

Rooms at Fraoch House are spotless and spacious, and decorated in a striking Victorian-modern mashup. Details include throw pillows depicting '40s pin-ups, brass beds, stylish wallpaper, and flocked and velvet fabrics. The colors are rich and saturated; the mood is relaxed and comfortable. All rooms -- a single, a twin, and seven doubles -- have private bathrooms, but two of these are located in the hallway. Bathrooms are luxe, with lots of marble and stylish fixtures; some have beautiful shower/tub combos. Amenities include coffee/tea facilities, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, hairdryers, and free toiletries. Noise is minimal, but sensitive guests should request rooms at the back of the property. Some rooms have garden views. 

Fraoch House offers a daily Scottish breakfast cooked to order in a stunning dining room that feels more like a special restaurant than a B&B. Vegetarian and special diets are accommodated, and the owner prepares breakfast for guests departing early. There's a DVD lending library in the lobby for guest use, and a guest computer in a charming business center that actually looks inviting. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, but guests in the basement-level room should be aware that the signal is spotty there.