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The most prestigious of Edinburgh’s old-school hotels, right in the heart of things on Princes St. Sports facilities and two great restaurants, Number One Princes Street and Hadrian’s brasserie.

Formerly home of the Scotsman newspaper, this solid building has been transformed into rather a stylish hotel, especially in regard to its leisure facilities, which feature a sleek, steel and granite pool. Well-appointed bedrooms, superbly situated (looking north over the New Town) and with a fine restaurant, Vermilion.

Three Georgian houses in the New Town, joined to form a smartly decked-out hotel. The Albany’s restaurant, Haldanes, is one of the main draws, with a reputation for great Scottish fare.

With its very formal Pompadour restaurant and the Cally Bar for shooting the breeze with friends, the Caledonian is something of an institution. Opulence, indulgence and great views at a price.

Looking rather pale and charmless on the outside, the Sheraton is nonetheless a fine hotel in terms of its facilities, especially the state-of-the-art health club. Good Italian and Scottish restaurants at hand, and in the locale of the West End business district.

Wonderfully peaceful setting, away from the hubbub. Décor reflects the Edwardian architecture, while the in-room facilities are up to the minute, with internet access, DVD players and e-TV. Luxurious bathrooms, with Molton Brown toiletries.

The Royal Terrace Hotel sits above much of Edinburgh, drinking in the views from its splendid garden terrace. Regal décor, sports facilities and whirlpool baths in most bathrooms.

Champagne and chocolates await each guest in this cocoon of romance. Bose sound systems and cable TV are the modern touches to otherwise antique-filled rooms. Only seven suites, but such decadence in Scotland must be rationed. For the restaurant, (see The Witchery by the Castle) .

The Georgian character of the Howard extends to the service, too, and every room comes with a dedicated butler to pamper you throughout your stay. The Atholl restaurant is on site for period dining, or have a full à la carte meal served in your room – by your own butler, of course!

Run by the same team as The Howard and Channings, The Bonham is the most chic of the three. Confident styling, using contemporary furnishings and the full gamut of communication and entertainment devices (fast internet access, DVDs etc). The restaurant tilts towards modern European.