The Witchery by the Castle

Nestled at the gates of Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile, The Witchery by the Castle is a sumptuous blend of gothic fantasy and historical reverence. Established in 1979 by restaurateur James Thomson, it occupies Boswell's Court, a 1595 merchant’s house named after John Boswell, an eccentric physician and uncle to Dr. Johnson’s biographer. The building’s history includes time as a Church of Scotland rectory and committee rooms.

The name 'The Witchery' pays homage to the hundreds accused and executed for witchcraft on Castlehill during the 16th and 17th centuries under King James VI. It is reputed that more witches were put to death on Castlehill during his reign than anywhere else in Scotland.

The interiors are a maximalist’s dream: candlelit dining rooms with oak paneling, gilded ceilings, antique tapestries, and velvet-draped four-poster beds. The restaurant features two dining spaces—the Original Dining Room and the Secret Garden—both renowned for their romantic atmosphere and fine Scottish cuisine, including dishes like Lobster Thermidor and Scotch Beef Ribeye.

The Witchery offers nine opulent suites, each uniquely decorated with gothic flair. Notable suites include The Library, with a secret bookcase concealing a bathroom, and The Turret, accessed via a spiral staircase and offering rooftop views of Edinburgh.

Celebrated as one of the most romantic hotels in the world, The Witchery has hosted celebrities and dignitaries, offering guests an immersive experience into Edinburgh’s rich and dark history.