"Leith's most characterful address"
The Malmaison Edinburgh occupies a converted seamen's mission on the Leith waterfront, and the building gives the hotel a sense of place that most city-centre properties can only approximate. Leith has changed considerably in recent years — it's now one of Edinburgh's most interesting neighbourhoods — and this hotel sits at the heart of it.
The rooms carry the Malmaison signature: dark, moody, and more comfortable than the aesthetic might suggest. The beds are large, the showers are good, and the whole thing is maintained to a high standard. The building's original features — exposed brickwork, high ceilings — give the rooms a character that a purpose-built hotel couldn't replicate.
The brasserie is a solid option, particularly for dinner — the menu leans towards the classic end of things, executed reliably and without pretension. The bar is well-stocked and the staff are knowledgeable. Breakfast covers the essentials competently, though it's worth noting that Leith has some excellent cafés within walking distance if you want to explore.
The location is the main draw for those who know Edinburgh well. You're away from the tourist concentration of the Old Town, but the city centre is a short tram or taxi ride away. The Shore — Leith's waterfront strip of restaurants and bars — is on your doorstep, and it's one of the best places to eat in Edinburgh.
Worth knowing
- Distinctive building with genuine character
- Excellent location on the Leith waterfront
- The Shore's restaurants and bars are on your doorstep
- Rooms are comfortable and well-maintained
- Good value compared to equivalent Old Town options
Bear in mind
- Not a central Edinburgh location — factor in travel time
- Brasserie is reliable rather than exceptional
- Parking can be tricky in Leith
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