3 John's Place Townhouse, Edinburgh Review

From the moment we arrived at 3 Johns Place in Leith, it was clear we had chosen somewhere impressive, a place where thoughtful luxury meets the unmistakable character of Edinburgh’s waterfront district. Before we even stepped inside, the quiet street and beautifully presented exterior set the tone for the stay. It felt like the kind of place that has been designed for guests who value both style and comfort, offering a polished home-from-home experience in one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Leith itself adds so much character to a stay here. With its mix of waterfront views, independent restaurants, and the unmistakable creative energy that runs through the area, it offers a completely different feel from central Edinburgh while still being wonderfully connected. We loved being able to wander down to the harbour within minutes, stopping at cafés or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of life by the water. And whenever we wanted to head into the city centre, getting there was easy and quick.

During our stay, we had the pleasure of experiencing the Whalebone Room, a beautifully presented space that immediately felt welcoming. It has been styled with a careful eye, using soft tones, natural textures, and thoughtful lighting to create a truly calming atmosphere. The room feels contemporary and intimate, with subtle nods to Leith’s maritime heritage woven into the design in a refined, understated way.

"Staying here felt like discovering a calm, beautifully designed hideaway in one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant districts."

The Whalebone Room offered far more space than we expected, with a generous layout that felt open, comfortable, and thoughtfully arranged. As one of the property’s larger rooms on the upper levels, it features plenty of seating and beautifully considered furnishings that strike the perfect balance between style and practicality. The bed was wonderfully inviting, the bathroom finished to an impressive standard, and the harmonious design throughout made it incredibly easy to settle in and unwind after exploring the surrounding area.

The balance between privacy and personal service at 3 Johns Place works extremely well. While the property isn’t staffed around the clock, we happened to arrive while a member of the team was onsite, and the welcome we received set such a positive tone. Warm, attentive, and genuinely helpful, they made sure our luggage was taken straight to our room, something we appreciated more than we expected after a day of travelling. It was a small gesture, but one that made the experience feel thoughtful and polished.

The communal areas reflect the same high standard as the individual rooms. Everything is immaculate, tastefully decorated, and subtly luxurious without feeling formal. Even when other guests were around, the atmosphere remained peaceful, as though the layout encourages everyone to enjoy the space quietly and respectfully. It is clear that the property is maintained with a great deal of care.

The location is one of the property’s greatest strengths. Leith is known for its food scene, and we found ourselves spoiled for choice every day. From Michelin-star restaurants to independent bakeries and relaxed waterfront pubs, everything we could want was within strolling distance. Coming back to the calm and comfort of the Whalebone Room after evenings out in such a lively neighbourhood made the stay feel balanced and wonderfully restorative.

What stood out consistently during our time at 3 Johns Place was how naturally luxurious the experience felt. Nothing was over the top or forced. Instead, the comfort, the design, and the little thoughtful touches came together in a way that felt genuine and easy. We never felt rushed or crowded, and every return to the property felt like stepping back into our own private sanctuary.

By the time our stay came to an end, we felt a real fondness for both the Whalebone Room and the surrounding area. It offered the perfect mix of character, comfort, and quiet indulgence. For anyone wanting a luxury self-catering stay that offers something a little different from the city centre, 3 Johns Place is a truly exceptional choice. We left already planning our next stay, which says everything about the experience.