The Allan Ramsay Hotel Carlops, Carlops
About the Hotel
The Allan Ramsay Hotel is one of Scotland's oldest coaching inns, established in 1792. Nestled in the quaint village of Carlops, it retains 18th-century charm with antique decor and a cozy atmosphere. The hotel features one of the last remaining 'penny bars' in the UK, adorned with historic coins. Guests can explore nearby attractions including the Pentland Hills Regional Park and the historical Penicuik Tower.
Location
The Allan Ramsay Hotel is situated 18.5 miles from Edinburgh in the rural area of Carlops, offering scenic views and peaceful surroundings. It is within a 10-minute drive of notable sites like Penicuik Tower and Pentland Hills Regional Park. Free parking is available onsite, making it convenient for guests traveling by car. The hotel is also located in a historical district, enriching its cultural significance.
Rooms
All rooms at The Allan Ramsay Hotel include private en suite bathrooms, televisions, and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including large family rooms and a private apartment for groups. The apartment features a galley kitchen and its own entrance, accommodating up to six guests. Bathrooms come equipped with complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.
Eat & Drink
The hotel's restaurant serves an à la carte menu focusing on Scottish cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast daily, featuring freshly prepared dishes. The bar/lounge offers over 40 selections of Scottish malt whiskies and gins, providing a unique beverage experience. Lunch and dinner options are also available at the restaurant.
Leisure & Business
Guests have access to complimentary wireless internet and a picnic area for relaxation. The hotel hosts a daily complimentary reception for mingling with other guests. For group events, there are facilities suitable for pre-wedding parties and other gatherings. Local activities include golfing at Mortonhall Golf Course and winter sports at the Midlothian Snowsports Centre.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking lot
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Dining
- Breakfast
- Outdoor dining area
Children
- Cribs
Room features
- Sitting area
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Washing machine
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
Staying in the apartment next door to the pub restaurant was a mixed experience. The rooms were average, set in an old building with limited working surfaces. The proximity to the pub and communal TV room were not what I expected for a break away from people and noise, but the countryside setting was beautiful. Service was hit and miss, with a surly response from the overnight porter but other staff going out of their way to help. Dining offered tasty dishes left in the fridge, though ordering was unconventional. The location was ideal for exploring historic sites and natural beauty around Scottish Borders.
The inn is located in a peaceful area with beautiful pathways to walk along, making it ideal for exploring the historic sites in Scottish Borders and visiting Edinburgh. The rooms, though plain, are comfy and spotlessly clean, offering a tranquil atmosphere. The service provided by the hosts, who are passionate about the history of the area, is outstanding. The dining options are delicious and perfect for those seeking a traditional Scottish meal.
I stayed at the hotel for 2 nights, and overall, it was a mixed experience. The room I was given was the tiniest double room I've ever seen, with no kettle or TV, which was a downside as we came for a break away from people and noise. However, the communal room with a TV available for sharing was okay for one person. The service was probably what I liked the most, with helpful and attentive staff who were very friendly. The location was chock-a-block with beautiful pathways to walk along, full of local history, and centrally located, but the décor felt old-fashioned. The dining experience was made fresh and good quality, though limited in options. Overall, I had a decent stay, focusing on the positives.