Shalimar

The scent of spices drifts through the hallways of this Victorian terraced house turned guest accommodation, a world away from canvas and guy ropes but still very much a base for exploring Scotland's capital.

Shalimar offers both traditional guest house rooms and a camping pod for those wanting something between four walls and the open air, making it a decent shout for couples or small groups who can't agree on indoor versus outdoor sleeping. You're firmly in Edinburgh here — close enough to the city's festivals, castle-crowned skyline, and Arthur's Seat rambles that you can treat this as a urban stopover rather than a countryside escape. Dog owners will need to ask ahead, and the same goes for anyone hoping to light a fire.

Expect a hybrid experience: the pod gives you a taste of camping without the full commitment, while guest house rooms offer proper beds and a roof overhead. It's open all year, so useful for Hogmanay visits or August Fringe madness when every other bed in the city is booked. The vibe skews practical rather than pastoral — think stepping stone for sightseeing, not a destination in itself.