Month: December 2023

Wander off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a shadowy alleyway, drawn by the sounds of a fiddle and tin whistle and stumble into a tiny pub absolutely buzzing with locals drinking whisky and swaying along to Scottish folk songs. That is the real magic of Old Town that exists down its captivating close and wynds just waiting to be discovered…

Why Stay Overnight in Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town

Centuries of Scottish history collides with modern vibrancy in Edinburgh’s magical Old Town located right along the iconic Royal Mile leading up to Edinburgh Castle.

Staying overnight allows you to fully experience Old Town’s enduring allure across spaces steeped in everything from royal intrigue to literary legends.

Wake up just footsteps from top landmarks like lively Grassmarket square, getting in there before the tourist crowds arrive. Soak in gorgeous views of Edinburgh Castle, plus the cityscape, and become enveloped in the past by unwinding at a historic pub that’s existed for centuries. As darkness falls, make your way through shadowy lanes following enchanting strains of Celtic violins guiding you to an underground folk music session tucked away somewhere off the Cowgate.

Not convinced to book one of the Old Town’s distinctive and storied accommodations? Here’s more reasons why staying right in the heart of Edinburgh matters:

Walkability – With your lodgings set right in the Old Town, you’re centrally positioned near all major attractions without relying on public transportation.

After Hours Access – By staying in the beautiful old town, you have the unique perk of having major sites practically all to yourself early morning or late evening when tourist doors are closed.

Total Immersion – Days start early and run long during Edinburgh’s lively summer festivals. Minimise travel times by staying steps from all the action. During Christmas, when days are short, not needing to travel far gives you more time to immerse yourself into what the city has to offer.

Quaint Atmosphere – Cobblestone streets, stone tenement architecture and narrow walkways immediately envelope you in all the old world allure.

Explore Top Old Town Areas

Edinburgh’s Old Town stretches along several charming yet uniquely vibed districts. Here’s a breakdown of top areas to consider when booking your Old Town accommodations:

Royal Mile – This bustling main thoroughfare features prime sightseeing as well as bountiful shops, restaurants and nightlife options. Stay central to all the action while still just minutes from Edinburgh Castle.

Cowgate and Grassmarket – South of Royal Mile, these interconnected enclaves offer lively nightlife, street performers and festival events within enclosed village-style settings. Guesthouses and apartments are nestled along old cobbled walkways to provide quietude after playing.

Canongate – This historic 16th century area stretches below the Royal Mile down to the majestic Holyrood Palace providing a departure from the touristy centre into a quieter setting near the iconic Scottish Parliament building.

Knight Residence by Mansley is situated just 0.6 miles from Princes Street and 0.4 miles from Edinburgh Castle, really close to the Grassmarket area, giving you the proximity to all major attractions in the Old Town.

Tips for Booking Your Old Town Accommodations

Follow these tips for an amazing stay:

• Location, Location – Carefully consider your ideal vibe and sightseeing priorities when booking. Opt central for a lively atmosphere or quieter suburbs for seclusion.
• Confirm Amenities – Double check any must-have amenities like WiFi, parking, breakfast, early check-in are included before reserving.
• Manage Expectations – Temper expectations by reading reviews and understanding the average room size for historic buildings can be quite small. Focus instead on location, charm and views.
• Book Early For December and August – Reserve rooms 4-6 months out if visiting during iconic Edinburgh Festivals in August and one of the best times of the year – Christmas and Hogmanay.

Top Things to See and Do in Edinburgh’s Old Town

Beyond marvelling at the iconic Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral, here are top things to see and do just steps from your Old Town accommodation:

• Explore centuries of Scottish history at the National Museum of Scotland
• Descend into creepy underground vaults with one of the the Old Town Ghost Tours
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of Edinburgh
• Sample over Scotch whiskies at one of the Old Town’s whisky bars
• Wander the Royal Mile checking out tartan shops, tea rooms, restaurants and historic pubs

With so much to uncover beyond Edinburgh’s already captivating Royal Mile and major landmarks, staying overnight immersed in Old Town is really a must. You’ll delight in its endless walkability revealing colourful streets abundant with culture, attractions, cosy pubs and mediaeval intrigue hidden down its old world wynds and closes that can’t be experienced anywhere else.

Book your stay in the Knight Residence by Mansley to explore Edinburgh with the comfort of your own home with your own kitchen, living space, parking slot and friendly staff ready to help 24/7.

Christmas in London is nothing short of magical. Especially if you choose to stay in one of the most Christmassy neighbourhoods in London – Mayfair. Stepping outside each day into the charming wonderfully decorated cobblestone streets perfumed with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, you get to live out your own Dickensian festive fairy tale.

From iconic markets and shows to discovering hidden local gems, Christmas in London offers endless festive cheer. And the upscale Mayfair neighbourhood makes for the ultimate home base to experience it all.

Indulge in Classic Christmas Markets and West End Shopping

In addition to the major, well known Christmas markets and iconic shopping areas like Carnaby Street all of which are covered in most London guides, uncover a handful of local favourites while staying at Mansley Mayfair serviced apartments… and live your best Christmas life like a local!

Take a stroll through London’s “best kept secret” – Shepherd Market. Nestled just north of Curzon Street minutes away from Mansley Serviced Apartments sits the quaint pedestrian area known as Shepherd Market, transformed into a true hidden gem at Christmastime. Twinkling string lights criss-cross overhead as you browse the boutique shops and art galleries bedecked in festive trimmings showcasing unique jewellery, ceramics, clothing and home goods. Stop into one of the cosy pubs made warm and lively on cold nights with roaring fireplaces, snacks and winter cocktails. Shepherd Market’s intimate village-like atmosphere accompanied by local carolers and buskers sets it apart from the more bustling Christmas markets and fanfare found elsewhere in Mayfair and central London. Meandering through with packages and hot cider in hand make for memorable glimpses into life as a local.

And once you’ve enjoyed the secret Shepherd Market, head back to your own home from home!

The diversity of options for Christmas shopping in London can’t be beat. Just beware of getting carried away on the mulled wine and Christmas treats!

Luxury Hotels vs. Serviced Apartments for Christmas in London

While extravagant hotels like The Savoy, The Ritz and Mandarin Oriental excel in five star hospitality and dining, staying at a high end Mayfair serviced apartment often outshines even luxury hotels when it comes to space, amenities, and creating a magical holiday home experience.

Mansley Mayfair serviced apartments offer an unrivalled local living experience. These high end residences, often converted from former townhomes unique to Mayfair, come staffed with amenities rivalling hotels. From the concierge desk and friendly members of staff are onsite, to housekeeping and luxury toiletries they deliver exceptional service. Yet with separate living spaces, stocked kitchens, and room to entertain, these serviced apartments unlock intimacy and convenience perfect for couples and solo travellers.

Discover Unique Local Christmas Happenings as a Londoner Would

Whilst staying at you local “home”, enjoy the more obscure, quirky Christmas happenings in London that only insiders would know about:

Skating at Somerset House Late Night Adults-Only Takeover – Typically families flock to the gorgeous Somerset House ice rink, but insiders know that a few nights a week after 10 PM only adults are allowed for a magical late night skating experience under the stars without kids.

12 Days of Christmas Pub Crawl – Wishing to get to know a handful of great London pubs? This guide is for you. Follow the lyrics of a timeless carol and discover a new pub every day. Or maybe you’d like to visit them all in one day belting out classics like “Deck the Halls” and “Jingle Bells” alongside your fellow Christmas crooners.

Columbia Road Christmas Wednesdays – Taking place on Wednesdays leading up to Christmas, this festive gathering attracts a lot of locals hunting for fragrant Christmas greenery and unique stocking fillers. Enjoy singing Christmas carols? Look out for the crowd led by the vicar of St Peter’s Church Bethnal Green and join them in this festive fellowship activity.

By veering off the beaten path you’ll be rewarded with quintessential Christmas magic unlike anything you’ll experience back home.