Kimpton Charlotte Square occupies five interconnected Georgian townhouses on Charlotte Square in Edinburgh’s West End — one of the most architecturally significant squares in the city, designed by Robert Adam in 1791. IHG lists no size, weight or breed limit for pets here, and cats are accepted as well as dogs, so a Labrador, Golden Retriever, or Border Collie should be fine.
The hotel includes an indoor pool, spa, and gym in the room rate — unusual for Edinburgh, where spa access is typically charged separately. Charlotte Square itself is a private garden square accessible to residents; the hotel can arrange access for guests.
Location & Nearby Dog Walks
Kimpton Charlotte Square sits at the west end of George Street, the main spine of Edinburgh’s Georgian New Town. Princes Street Gardens — the long park below Edinburgh Castle — are a 5-minute walk downhill. The West Princes Street Gardens are quieter than the central section and connect to the Water of Leith Walkway, which runs 12 miles from Balerno to Leith through wooded riverside paths.
Inverleith Park (25 min walk north, or 10 min by taxi) is one of Edinburgh’s best off-lead parks — flat, large, and with a pond. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is directly adjacent to Inverleith and allows dogs on leads on the main paths. For a longer outing, the Water of Leith Walkway from the hotel end takes you through Dean Village — one of Edinburgh’s most photographed spots — in under 20 minutes on foot.
Dog Policy — No Published Size Limit
Kimpton Charlotte Square publishes no size, weight or breed limit, and accepts cats as well as dogs. IHG lists no pet fee or deposit for this hotel; confirm when booking. Dogs must not be left unattended in rooms. The hotel provides dog beds and bowls on request. Dogs are not permitted in the pool, spa, or restaurant.
Who It Suits
Kimpton Charlotte Square is the top choice for owners of medium or large dogs who want a genuine 5-star experience in central Edinburgh. If The Balmoral’s 20lb limit rules you out, this is the natural alternative — equally central, equally luxurious, and with no published weight limit. It also suits guests who want pool and spa access included in the nightly rate rather than as an add-on. Not the right choice if budget is a concern — look at Malmaison (£25/night, city centre) or Motel One Royal (EUR 15/night) instead.
Practical Tips
- No pet fee or deposit listed by IHG — confirm when booking
- No published size or weight limit — cats welcome too
- Dog beds and water bowls available on request at no extra charge
- Pool, spa and gym included in room rate — ask at check-in
- Charlotte Square private garden: ask concierge about access for guests
- Princes Street Gardens: 5-minute walk, dogs on lead
- Water of Leith Walkway: 10-minute walk to Dean Village entrance
- Nearest off-lead: Inverleith Park (taxi recommended, 10 min)
- No on-site parking — nearest NCP at Castle Terrace (15 min walk)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dog weight limit at Kimpton Charlotte Square Edinburgh?
IHG lists no size, weight or breed limit for pets at Kimpton Charlotte Square, so medium and large breeds such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers can stay. IHG also lists no pet fee or deposit; confirm when booking.
Is the pool included at Kimpton Charlotte Square?
Yes — the indoor pool, spa, and gym are included in the room rate at Kimpton Charlotte Square. Confirm what is included when you book.
How far is Kimpton Charlotte Square from Princes Street Gardens?
Princes Street Gardens are a 5-minute walk downhill from Charlotte Square via Young Street or Hill Street. Dogs are welcome in the gardens on a lead. The West Gardens section closest to the hotel is quieter than the central tourist area near the Scott Monument.
