A Night Fit for Royalty: Experiencing Luxury in the Shadow of Edinburgh Castle

Opulent Dining and Unforgettable Stays at The Witchery 

If you’re looking for a unique and breathtaking hotel near Edinburgh Castle, allow us to exceed your expectations. Perfectly located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery will whisk you away to a bygone era as the shadow of the iconic Edinburgh landmark adds to the enchanting feel of our hotel and restaurant. 

Imagine yourself nestled in the warm glow of our historic dining rooms atop the iconic Royal Mile or spending a night in the embrace of our gothic suites, transporting you back through time with the whispers of Edinburgh’s past weaving around you. Sip Champagne as you feast on award-winning food, bursting with delicate flavours, and soak up the romantic atmosphere of The Witchery. Wind down for the night in your four-poster bed, draped in grander and finery as the bustle of Old Town ebbs away, allowing time for relaxation. 

Our Regal Neighbours: Royal Connections on Castlehill

Edinburgh Castle is steeped in centuries of rich history, playing an important part in Scotland’s past, and we’re thrilled to be their esteemed neighbours. Set on top of volcanic rock and dominating the skyline of Edinburgh, the castle was the site of many important historic events of the past such as the death of Queen Margaret of Scotland, the Wars of Scottish Independence and the birth of James VI of Scotland. 

Within those walls, much of Scotland’s history was forged, much of it dark as executions were carried out and plots to overthrow and betray were laid out. Today, the castle stands as a testament to Scotland’s history and can be visited daily where you can discover Scotland’s history and view pieces of the centuries gone by. 

Things to Do at Edinburgh Castle

There is lots to do when you visit Edinburgh Castle to fill your day with history. See the Crown Jewels, where you can view the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain. The crown was made for James V, who first wore it at the coronation of Queen Mary of Guise in 1540. Mary Queen of Scots was the first to be crowned using the new crown and sceptre together, in 1543. From there, make your way to the Great Hall and soak up the wonders of Medieval Scotland where state dinner and grand banquets took place. Visit the three museums at the castle and learn more about Scotland's history at the Scottish National War Museum, Regimental Museums and the National War Museum. To find out more and plan your trip to the castle, visit the Edinburgh Castle website.

The Witchery - Our Rich History

Few restaurants in the world date back as far as the phenomenal medieval buildings housing The Witchery. Created by James Thomson in 1979, Scotland’s most esteemed independent hotelier, The Witchery came to life and has since become one of Edinburgh’s most loved hotels and restaurants. 

At the historic heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, we’re now in our fifth decade, taking our name from the hundreds of women and men burned at the stake as witches on Castlehill during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. It is reputed that more witches were put to death on Castlehill during the reign of James VI than anywhere else in Scotland. 

The Witchery occupies a substantial sixteenth-century building, Boswell's Court, named after a former resident, James Boswell, the uncle of Dr Johnson's biographer. It has been in continuous occupation for over four centuries, latterly as committee rooms for the Church of Scotland and as the Rectory of a nearby church. Castlehill has always been at the very centre of Scottish history; The Palace of Mary de Guise, mother of Mary Queen of Scots, stood on the opposite side of the street, a site since home to the Scottish Parliament and adjacent to some of The Witchery's luxurious suites in historic Sempill's Court. 

Centuries of history make up the enchanting experience that awaits you when you stay or dine with us - an experience that you will cherish forever as you live like royalty for a night. 

Fit For a King (Or Queen): Exuberant Fine Dining Near Edinburgh Castle

Step into The Witchery and be transported into our world of romance, exquisite flavours and unmatched ambience. Antique candle holders bathe our dining rooms in a warm glow while intricately painted ceilings and wooden beams set the scene for your dining experience in Edinburgh Old Town. 

The Original Dining Room will exceed your expectations for a regal dining experience. Adorned with rich baroque décor that exudes timeless elegance, this historic space, with its ancient oak panelling and tapestries will leave a lasting impression. Settle in on our iconic red leather booths and let us spoil you for a magical evening. 

The Secret Garden is as elegant as it is awe-inspiring and renowned composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, captivated by the charm, once asked, "Could this be the prettiest restaurant ever?". The jewel in the crown of The Secret Garden is undoubtedly its resplendent painted ceiling. Reflecting typical Scots vernacular style, it draws inspiration from the famed Rossend Castle ceiling, now housed in the National Museum of Scotland. This masterpiece portrays imagery from the tarot alongside angels with bagpipes, casting an otherworldly and truly unique atmosphere. With a wall of floor-to-ceiling that leads onto a private terrace with topiary-filled urns for dining in the warmer months, the Secret Garden is a beautiful spot for Afternoon Tea, Lunch or an indulgent dinner near Edinburgh Castle. 

Described by NI Travel News as “the most spectacularly atmospheric dining destination in Edinburgh”, we showcase Scotland’s natural larder working with local suppliers to present delicious dishes to your table. From succulent Scottish lobster and langoustines to perfectly aged Angus beef steak tartare, our menu pays homage to dishes that have stood the test of time, all served with an extensive selection of fine wine - a winner of the rare and esteemed AA Wine Award to perfectly complement your meal. 

Living Like Royalty:  An Unforgettable Stay

Described as one of the seven wonders of the hotel world by Cosmopolitan, The Witchery is home to just nine uniquely luxurious and fabulously theatrical suites that will leave you feeling like royalty. Named The UK's Most Romantic Hotel by Big7Travel, there is no place more magical for a hotel near Edinburgh Castle.

Our suites offer an unparalleled sense of romance, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable stay. Indulge in the intimate ambience, where passion is woven into every corner, allowing you to create cherished memories with your loved one. Whether you stay in the Old Rectory, our largest suite with views of the Royal Mile, or opt for the cosy Library suite with its dramatic book-filled bathroom with its hidden secret door and heavily draped bed, or pick The Inner Sanctum, the very first suite created by James Thomson, there is a suite to suit everyone. Each one is decadent, and enchanting and will sweep you away in our realm of pure magic and utter opulence. Learn more about our gothic suites on our website, and book your bucket-list stay in Edinburgh at The Witchery, where today’s magic is tomorrow’s memories.