The Witchery by the Castle Shortlist*

Fall under the thrall of this dramatic restaurant-with-suites by the gates of Edinburgh Castle, where bewitching candlelit rooms, secret doors, and plenty of nooks and crannies fill the conjoined 16th- and 17th-century buildings. It is owned by James Thomson (see Prestonfield, Edinburgh, Shortlist entry); Jacquie Sutherland is the manager. Astonishing and atmospheric – think tapestries, painted ceilings, antique candlesticks, even a suit of armour – the two dining rooms serve theatrical splendour with their modern Scottish menus. The sumptuous, Gothic-style bedrooms carry on in the same vein. Most are swathed in antique velvet drapes and gold-laced brocade; a tapestry-lined entrance leads into the Turret Suite, whose lucky residents will find a collection of stags’ antlers, an oak-panelled bathroom and exceptional views over the city’s rooftops. A bottle of champagne is presented on arrival; in the morning, a breakfast hamper is delivered to the room. 2 dining rooms (the Witchery and the Secret Garden). Free Wi-Fi. Background music. Terrace. No children under 18. 9 suites. Per room B&B £325–£395. Dinner £55.