The Witchery by the Castle, Stirling Travel Guide

Name: The Witchery by the Castle
Address: 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NF, GB
Price range: 4
Rating: 4.4

4.4 (3247)

Experience timeless Scottish luxury and historic charm at The Witchery by the Castle, Edinburgh’s iconic fine dining and boutique hotel destination.

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The Witchery by the Castle

Nestled on Castlehill at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery by the Castle is a luxurious 5-star hotel and fine dining restaurant renowned for its atmospheric historic setting and exquisite Scottish cuisine. Housed in a collection of gothic buildings dating back to 1595, it offers opulent dining rooms, an award-winning wine cellar, and sumptuous suites, blending centuries of Scottish heritage with modern luxury.

A brief summary to The Witchery by the Castle

352 Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NF, GB
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Luxury
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Witchery by the Castle.

Reservations are essential, especially for dinner and during festive seasons, to secure a table in this popular fine dining venue.
Dress smartly to match the elegant and historic ambiance of the restaurant and hotel.
Try signature dishes like the Angus beef steak tartare and classic Scottish desserts such as the Caramelised Apple Tarte Tatin.
The Witchery does not accommodate children under 10 years old and limits party sizes to six guests to preserve its intimate atmosphere.
Explore the Witchery shop for exclusive gifts including single malt whisky and luxurious cashmere items.

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Explore The Witchery by the Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Witchery by the Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city center to Princes Street, then walk approximately 10 minutes uphill along the Royal Mile to Castlehill. Bus service runs every 10-15 minutes; a single ticket costs around £1.80.
Tram

Use the Edinburgh Trams from the airport or city center to Princes Street stop. From there, it is a 12-minute walk uphill to The Witchery. Trams operate every 7-10 minutes with tickets priced about £6 from the airport or £1.80 within the city.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Edinburgh and provide a direct route to Castlehill. The journey from the city center takes about 5-10 minutes, costing approximately £7-£12 depending on traffic.
Walking

From Edinburgh city center, a scenic 15-20 minute walk along the historic Royal Mile leads to The Witchery. The route includes cobblestones and some uphill sections, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

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Discover more about The Witchery by the Castle

A Storied Setting Steeped in History

The Witchery by the Castle occupies a unique position on Castlehill, right beside the iconic Edinburgh Castle, within a cluster of historic buildings dating back to 1595. This gothic ensemble forms the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, steeped in centuries of Scottish history and legend. The architecture and interiors reflect a bygone era, with oak-panelled walls, baroque décor, and candlelit rooms that evoke a mysterious and romantic atmosphere. The location itself is a gateway to Scotland’s past, making The Witchery not just a hotel and restaurant but a living piece of heritage.

Exquisite Culinary Traditions

The Witchery’s restaurant is celebrated for showcasing the very best of Scotland’s natural larder. Chef Douglas Roberts crafts menus that pay homage to classic Scottish dishes such as Tournedos Rossini, Glenfeshie Estate red deer, and the legendary Angus beef steak tartare. Seafood from East Lothian and the West Coast, game from the Highlands, and Scottish beef from the Borders feature prominently. The dessert menu delights with classics like Caramelised Apple Tarte Tatin and Valrhona Chocolate Torte. Complementing the cuisine is an award-winning wine cellar with over 600 bins, curated over four decades to offer an exceptional selection.

Atmospheric Dining Experiences

Guests can choose between the enchanting Original Dining Room, with its 16th-century oak panelling and flickering candlelight, and The Secret Garden Dining Room, known for its intimate and elegant charm. Both spaces provide immersive settings that transport diners to an earlier time, enhancing the sensory experience of the meal. Afternoon tea is also offered seasonally, adding a touch of tradition and indulgence. The Witchery’s ambiance is carefully maintained, with a policy excluding children under 10 and limiting party sizes to preserve the intimate atmosphere.

Luxurious Accommodation and Festive Charm

The Witchery’s five-star suites offer sumptuous luxury, perfect for romantic getaways or special occasions. During the festive season, the hotel transforms into a candlelit wonderland filled with warmth and seasonal décor, inviting guests to linger in the glow of Christmas magic. The Witchery also offers expertly curated festive hampers and a shop featuring exquisite gifts, including exclusive single malt whisky and fine Champagne, reflecting the timeless elegance of the establishment.

A Commitment to Quality and Local Sourcing

The Witchery prides itself on its relationships with local suppliers, including foragers, fishers, cheesemakers, and gamekeepers, ensuring the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. This commitment to provenance and seasonality is evident in every dish, supporting sustainable practices and celebrating Scotland’s rich culinary heritage.

An Iconic Edinburgh Landmark

For over four decades, The Witchery has been a landmark of fine dining and luxury hospitality in Edinburgh. Its unique blend of historical significance, atmospheric setting, and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit destination for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable Scottish experience.