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. The hotel accepts dogs up to 35kg, making it the most generous size limit of any 5-star central Edinburgh hotel on this list. A Labrador, Golden Retriever, or Border Collie will have no issues here.
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 — Most Generous in Central Edinburgh
Kimpton Charlotte Square accepts dogs up to 35kg (approximately 77lbs) — the highest weight limit of any 5-star hotel in central Edinburgh. Most competitor luxury hotels cap dogs at 9–10kg. The pet fee is on request and confirmed at booking; Kimpton properties globally typically charge £25–£35 per night. 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 four times the size allowance. 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 (£20/night, city centre) or Motel One Royal (£5/night) instead.
Practical Tips
- Pet fee on request — confirm amount and any deposit at booking
- 35kg size limit — confirm your dog’s weight when booking to avoid issues at check-in
- 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
What is the dog weight limit at Kimpton Charlotte Square Edinburgh?
Kimpton Charlotte Square accepts dogs up to 35kg (approximately 77lbs). This is the most generous size limit of any 5-star hotel in central Edinburgh. Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and most other medium-large breeds are welcome. The pet fee is confirmed on request at 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. This is unusual for Edinburgh luxury hotels, where spa access is typically an additional charge of £20–£40 per session.
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.
