Sleepover: The George

A bed for the night in Edinburgh

Where is it?

Slap bang in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town, on George Street.

Describe the setting

Unbeatable position on what has become the city's premier shopping street. And the new development at St Andrew's Square is only a hop, skip and a jump away, so head for Harvey Nichols, the largest outside London. Looking for royalty? The Opal Lounge is where Prince William hangs out with Edinburgh's élite. Made up of interconnecting buildings designed by Robert Adam in 1780, The George opened its doors in 1880 and has been packing them in ever since. All 195 rooms are traditionally decorated, conjuring up the feeling of a bygone era. Request a room at the top and you will be rewarded with views of either the Firth of Forth or Edinburgh Castle. Staff are friendly and helpful.

Does it have a USP?

For years its main claim to fame was housing all the stars playing at the Edinburgh Festival. The George also hosted the Edinburgh International Television Festival until that moved to the International Conference Centre.

Comfort factor?

Has seen been better days. The beds and bathrooms are comfortable enough, but need redecorating.

What's in the bathroom?

Not a lot. Shampoo, conditioner and bath gel. Nice fluffy white towels as standard, but the bathrooms are in the main, very 1970s.

I'm hungry

Carvers restaurant cannot be beaten - but expect buffet-style food. Le Chambertain restaurant, which serves a fusion of French and Scottish cuisine, offers excellent value for money. Opt for the Taste of Scotland menu and try dishes such as Cullen Skink, followed by oven-baked chicken breast, stuffed with black pudding and cabbage. Two courses are £17.79 and three courses £21.95.

What are the people like?

Mostly business executives, visiting Americans, and Brits on a weekend break.

Local interest?

This is Edinburgh, so there is enough sightseeing on offer to keep you busy for weeks.

What's the damage?

Leisure rates start at £92 per room including breakfast, based on two sharing.

Access for all?

Good disabled access in the public spaces and a few of the first floor bedrooms in the old wing are suitable for

wheelchair users.

Address?

InterContinental The George Edinburgh, 19-21 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2PB (0131-225 1251; www.edinburgh.intercontinental.com).

British Airways (0870-850 9850; www.ba.com) offers returns from Heathrow to Edinburgh from £59.