Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh occupies a converted Victorian asylum on Bristo Place in Old Town. The building’s unusual past gives the hotel a distinctive character absent from chain properties — exposed stone walls, original features, and roll-top baths sit alongside modern amenities. Dogs over 1 year old are welcome at £20 per night. Dogs are not permitted in the dining areas.
Greyfriars Bobby’s statue — Edinburgh’s most famous canine landmark — is a 5-minute walk away on George IV Bridge. The Meadows, one of the best off-lead dog walking parks near the city centre, is a 10-minute walk south. George Square Gardens are nearby for a quick morning walk before breakfast.
Location & Nearby Dog Walks
Hotel Du Vin sits on Bristo Place, a short walk south of the Royal Mile and directly adjacent to the University of Edinburgh campus. The location is quieter than the tourist-heavy closes of the High Street, with wider pavements and less foot traffic — easier to manage a dog. Greyfriars Kirkyard, the historic cemetery associated with Greyfriars Bobby, is a 4-minute walk and worth a visit with your dog (dogs on lead).
The Meadows is the standout nearby walk — a large open park with wide grassed areas, tree-lined paths, and plenty of space for dogs to run. Most of The Meadows allows dogs off-lead; check the current signs on arrival as seasonal grazing restrictions occasionally apply in parts. In late April, the cherry blossom along Middle Meadow Walk is one of Edinburgh’s most photographed sights. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat are a 25-minute walk east for a longer outing.
Dog Policy — Age Restriction
Hotel Du Vin requires dogs to be over 1 year old. This is an age restriction rather than a size or weight limit — adult dogs of any breed are welcome as long as they are at least 12 months old. The policy is designed to ensure dogs are house-trained. Dogs are not permitted in the restaurant or bar dining areas; they are welcome in guest rooms and, on request, certain ground-floor areas. If you have a puppy under 1 year, Motel One Edinburgh Royal has no age restriction and charges just £5/night.
Who It Suits
Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh suits couples or solo travellers who want Old Town character and a boutique feel without paying 5-star prices. The roll-top baths, French bistro atmosphere, and proximity to Greyfriars Bobby and The Meadows make it a strong choice for a 2–3 night city break with a well-behaved adult dog. Not suitable if your dog is under 1 year old, or if on-site restaurant access with your dog matters — try The Dunstane Houses instead, where dogs can join you in the conservatory.
Practical Tips
- Pet fee: £20 per night including VAT
- Dogs must be over 1 year old — no puppies
- Dogs not permitted in restaurant or bar dining areas
- Elevator access to upper floors
- The Meadows: 10-minute walk south — mostly off-lead permitted
- Greyfriars Bobby statue: 5-minute walk — dogs on lead in kirkyard
- Nearest vet: Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, approx. 1.5 miles
- Parking: NCP St James Quarter (10 min walk, approx. £20/day)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can puppies stay at Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh?
No — Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh only accepts dogs over 1 year old. The policy excludes puppies regardless of size or breed. If you have a dog under 12 months, Motel One Edinburgh Royal has no age restriction and charges £5/night.
How far is Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh from The Meadows?
The Meadows is approximately a 10-minute walk south from Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh. It is one of the largest open dog-walking areas near the city centre, with wide grassed areas and tree-lined paths. Most sections allow dogs off-lead — check signs on arrival.
Is Greyfriars Bobby near Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh?
Yes — the Greyfriars Bobby statue on George IV Bridge is a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Greyfriars Kirkyard itself is open to visitors with dogs on a lead. It’s a natural stop on any dog walk from this hotel.
