Edinburgh's historic Abbey Strand reawakens after 500 years - with a bit of help from Prince Charles

Since the 16th century, some of Edinburgh's most colourful characters have passed through the doors of the Abbey Strand buildings, from medieval monks and royal courtiers to debtors hiding from the law.

500 years later Abbey Strand opens its doors once again, – this time as beautiful serviced accommodation.

The team at Abbey Strand has worked with HRH Prince Charles on the newly restored exterior of the Abbey Strand buildings which sport a pale-pink facade.

The exterior colour of the buildings, which was produced using traditional methods, was chosen by The Duke of Rothesay - The Prince of Wales’s title when in Scotland, who is known for his interest in heritage buildings and, as Chairman of The Royal Collection Trust, is closely involved with the project.

The restoration work was undertaken as part of Future Programme, a major programme of investment by The Royal Collection Trust to improve the visitor experience at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

House Manager, Freya Spargo, today welcomed the first guests to Abbey Strand Apartments at Holyrood after a two year renovation which has seen the building’s former inhabitants, from Mary, Queen of Scots’ courtiers to the Italian composer Domenico Corri and essayist Thomas De Quincy, become the inspiration behind nine beautiful, bespoke, studio, one and two bedroom apartments.

Located at the foot of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, on the doorstep of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official Scottish residence and immediately opposite the Scottish Parliament, Abbey Strand Apartments at Holyrood are right in the heart of Edinburgh’s rich history.

The apartments feature historic fireplaces and original stone walls, blended together with all the essentials of luxury 21st century living; quirky windows alongside top of the range appliances, historic painted ceiling beams alongside deeply cushioned sofas, and Abbey Strand’s very own reading nook.

The apartments also overlook a new public physic garden, inspired by some of the earliest recorded gardens at the Palace and as part of the building’s renovation, the ground and first floor have been transformed by Royal Collection Trust into a Learning Centre for school groups, families, and adults visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Abbey Strand Apartments at Holyrood are operated by Lateral City Apartments and are the third property in its portfolio, joining The Edinburgh Grand and Old Town Chambers - both of which also offer beautiful, five-star accommodation with the same blend of heritage and contemporary style and elegance.

Gavin MacLennan is general manager of the Lateral City Apartments collection said: “It’s fantastic to see the building re-imagined and coming to life again for a new generation of people who love Edinburgh.

"At Abbey Strand guests can enjoy Edinburgh’s history, its culture and be excited about its future. These walls are steeped in history and have interesting stories to tell. Staying in these apartments will be a completely unique experience.

“We have been working closely with Royal Collection Trust to ensure everything is perfect, from capturing the history and heritage of the building through to the experience of the guests when they arrive. This is a special place and we’re looking forward to sharing its stories with our guests.”

Bookings can be made online and prices start from £199.00 per night.