The Witchery

The Witchery enjoys an almost iconic reputation in the city. It certainly boasts one of the more unique restaurant settings in Edinburgh to distinguish it from its competitors: a plum location adjacent to the Castle at the top of the Royal Mile and a high-gothic, Miss Havisham-like interior that enchants and spooks diners in equal measure. The Witchery has two dining areas, the original and darkly romantic sixteenth-century Witchery restaurant invites you in with its red leather booths, oak panelling and flickering candles; or alternatively, be transported outside to the fantastical Secret Garden, an open courtyard canopied by vines and intricate wooden carvings.

As much a destination as a place to eat, this outrageously theatrical restaurant at the top of the Royal Mile looks like a hectic cross between a church and a bordello – all lush leather and gilding, tapestries and oak carving. If you like your décor just as romantic but a little less darkly gothic, ask for a table in the Secret Garden. It's not necessarily the best cooking in Edinburgh, but it is (mostly) reliably Scottish (roast loin of Cairngorm venison), if occasionally slightly worrying (Witchery haggis, curried pineapple), and the service is as polished as the brass candlesticks.

Back in 1979 he opened The Witchery by the Castle in a rundown, 16th-century building on the Royal Mile. One of the first restaurants with rooms, its overblown extravagance set the benchmark for hedonistic style – and today is an antidote to the bland, beige boredom of so many boutique hotels. Tucked away inside a straggle of buildings, the sumptuous suites are darkly theatrical: the Armoury, Library, Inner Sanctum, Old Rectory, Sempill, Vestry – and the latest, Heriot.

A lovely restaurant just before the entrance to the castle is the Witchery. They do a cheaper set menu for lunch but is meant to be excellent and "scottish" food. Many pubs would serve just as nice food.

Dine amid the ghosts of Auld Reekie at Scotland’s most romantic hotel and restaurant, set in a collection of dramatic buildings dating back to 1595, and right at the gates of the castle. Lit by candlelight, the wood-panelled dining room is a swoonsome location to enjoy fittingly traditional dishes ranging from the Omelette Arnold Bennett to local haggis. Yes, it’s been some time now that the venue has been “resting on its (ancient) laurels”, with a growing army of critics that “just don’t get the hype” (especially since it’s “as expensive as ever!”), but for a special occasion for which expense be damned it takes some beating – as does the 600-bin-strong cellar, winner of many an accolade.

Celebrating over 30 years at the kitchen helm, The Witchery’s Head Chef Dougal Roberts has launched a special summer menu drawing on British and European cooking, showcasing the very best of local Scottish produce from the land and sea. For lunch, try the likes of Soupe au Pistou with summer vegetables, haricot beans and home-made pesto, or Smoked ‘Eddie’s Cure’ Salmon with warmed blinis, lemon jam and crème freche. Come dinner time, the a la carte pays homage to the local area, with East Lothian Lobster, Skye Langoustines and Cumbrae oysters, Scallops hand-dived in the icy waters off Orkney, served with langoustine bisque and black garlic.

The Witchery is often cited as Edinburgh’s best hotel, with a gothic medieval-style interior and a fascinating rich history dating back to the 1500s. The hotel’s award winning restaurant serves up afternoon tea that is fit for a prince, with stacks of plates crammed with unique sweet and savoury treats that you won’t be able to get enough of– quintessential Scottish delicacies like haggis, classic British cakes and sweet treats; you name it, it’s here. One of the more curious hotels and dining venues in the city, you won’t be able to stop raving about the Witchery’s accommodation, restaurant or afternoon tea.

Opened in 1979, this utterly unique, gothic hotel and restaurant takes its name from the thousands of people burned nearby for allegedly practising witchcraft. If you can look past that rather grim detail – and you should – then what you’ll get is a magical dining experience in one of the most interesting settings we’ve seen. Showcasing the very finest Scottish produce, The Witchery’s signature dishes include Oban native oysters, grown in the clear waters of Argyllshire; Isle of Mull scallops, served in their shells; Cairngorn venison with pickled pear and iron bark pumpkin.

Stepping inside the Witchery feels like crossing the threshold of Edinburgh Castle—except this hodgepodge of 16th-century townhouses sits in the looming shadow of its lofty neighbor. That’s exactly what owner James Thomson intended when he bought and renovated this restaurant-inn, now one of the most romantic hotels in Edinburgh. A staircase threaded through a stone turret leads to nine suites, all lavishly decorated with Gothic overtones—think tapestries, open fireplaces, roll-top baths, four-poster beds covered in dark velvet and brocade, and even a suit of armor or two.

Autumn and Halloween inspire thoughts of rich reds, oranges and browns, with oak, leather, stone and dark nights lit by candles that enlarge gothic shadows, with the smells of grills and game. If you’re dining for romance in the autumn, choosing a restaurant with the name The Witchery is quite apt and it will not disappoint. Created in 1979, its historic buildings date from 1595 and with James Thomson OBE, Scotland’s best-known hotelier and restauranteur and an ambassador for Scottish tourism running the romantic show, you’re in good hands with your cordial courting.

The Witchery is a subtle reminder of Edinburgh’s gruesome history – its name comes from the nearby site on which hundreds of women were burned at the stake, accused of practising witchcraft. Macabre history aside, the 16th-century building boasts an opulent, gothic-style dining room, with jewel-toned tapestries and walls adorned with intricately carved oak panels. The menu is rife with Scottish delicacies: Oban oysters, locally raised beef, and smoked salmon from the cold waters of Loch Duart.

I have to admit, it has been many years since I ate at The Witchery (hence no photos) but it is an absolute institution in Edinburgh and definitely one to add to your list. Housed in a Medieval building just near the gates of Edinburgh Castle, stepping inside the Witchery is like stepping back in time. The restaurant has been around since 1979 and its name comes from the hundreds of men and women who were burned at the stakes, as witches, on Castlehill during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Located at the top of the Royal Mile, the 5-star exceptionally rated Witchery Hotelis a fine hotel indeed. Tucked away in a collection of historic buildings at the gates to Edinburgh Castle, the wonderfully unique Edinburgh abode offers beautiful baroque surroundings and first-class accommodation. Offering just nine exclusive and indulgent suites, everyone is as opulent and glamorous as the next with four-poster beds, roll-top baths for two, and plenty of quirky charm.

Hotel phone: +44 131 225 5613 Opulent all-suite boutique hotel with a bewitching gothic décor in the center of Old Town. The suites remind you of medieval royalty with their luxurious and dark fabrics, drapes, and furnishings as well as large bathrooms with bathtubs, all of which is complemented with modern amenities like Bose speakers and TVs. The amazing on-site restaurant is a must-visit and most attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops are within walking distance.

Footsteps from Edinburgh Castle, the Witchery restaurant and hotel reside in a building dating back to 1595. A bewitching night garden twinkling with fairy lights greets you on arrival and for dinner, it’s a descent down ancient stone steps to a dining room of medieval splendour illuminated by candelabra. Each of the decadent eight bedrooms continues the medieval theme with rich oak panelling, four-poster beds with thick curtains and walls draped with tapestries.

The Witchery has two dining areas, both magical and atmospheric. Whether you choose the darkly romantic sixteenth century Witchery, with its rich red leather booths, oak paneling and flickering candles, or the wonderful Secret Garden, an open leafy courtyard festooned with vines and intricate wooden carvings, you are guaranteed a memorable evening. The restaurant showcases the best of Scottish produce, locally sourced and cooked with care and attention.

For other food-with-a-view options try The Witchery - a gothic style destination restaurant, modern Asian cuisine at Chaophraya or enjoy a post-retail foodie fix at the Harvey Nichols Forth Floor Restaurant. Head back to the city centre for your final Michelin Star establishment at Number One on Princes Street - the inhouse restaurant of the grand Balmoral Hotel and a subterranean haven of sirloin, sweetbreads and a decadent nine course tasting menu.

For those traveling from afar to experience the enchantments of Edinburgh, The Witchery is the ideal destination for your Valentine’s escape. Dating back to 1595, The Witchery is part of a collection of historic buildings situated at the entrance of Edinburgh Castle. Immersed in centuries-old history, this hotel and restaurant are truly magnificent, with opulent suites and a lavish dining experience offering a tantalising seasonal menu.

The Witchery by the Castle in Edinburgh’s old town is world-famous for being not only a great place to eat but one of the most visually stunning restaurants in the city. Over five decades old, The Witchery is a Scottish institution for charm, atmosphere and romance. Whether you’re in the stunning oak-panelled dining room or sitting among the candles in the Secret Garden, you can’t help but fall in love in and with this restaurant.

Also located on the Royal Mile, The Witchery is often described as Edinburgh’s best kept secret – and for good reason. Based just a hop, skip and jump away from Edinburgh Castle, the restaurant is steeped in history and cosy atmosphere – the perfect setting for a small dinner gathering. Their (award-winning) a la carte menu is served all day, made all-the-more special by the fresh Scottish lobsters, langoustines, beef and lamb.

For openers, we should say that you don't go to this eccentric Edinburgh institution for the food. You might have a great meal (stick to the set menus), you might have a mediocre meal, but that's hardly the point. This decadent pair of rooms—the original dining room and a newer secret garden—carved out of a 16th-century merchant's house on Castle Hill is a place for wild seductions or, at the very least, archly romantic trysts.

James Thomson’s The Witchery by the Castle is the most spectacularly atmospheric dining destination in Edinburgh. Now in its fifth decade, the stunning décor, legendary food and award-winning wine list have ensured The Witchery by the Castle has become a much loved Edinburgh institution. Dine in the rich baroque surroundings of the original oak-panelled Witchery or among the elegant candle-lit charms of the Secret Garden.

This legendary restaurant is often at the top of people's culinary bucket list and deservedly so. Named after the thousands of witches that were burned at the stake on Castlehill this romantic and opulent restaurant is a delight for the eyes. Tapestries line the walls with oak panelling saved from a fire at St Giles Cathedral, deep red leather seats, gilded ceiling and antique church candles complete the scene.

If it’s a romantic meal in a magical setting you’re after then The Witchery is just the place for you. Situated just below the entrance to Edinburgh Castle at the top end of the Royal Mile, The Witchery offers mouth-watering dishes showcasing the best of Scotland’s produce. With a worldwide reputation for its outstanding dining experience, it is popular with loyal locals, celebrities and visitors to the city.

The magic of candlelight dinners lies in the ability to transform a meal into an experience. At The Witchery, each of our tables is adorned with delicate candlelight, casting a warm and intimate glow that complements the opulent surroundings. As you settle into the sumptuous surroundings, the flickering flames create an atmosphere of romance and sophistication, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NFTel: 0131 225 5613Website: https://www.thewitchery.com/. The Witchery by the Castle is a luxurious and romantic restaurant located in Edinburgh's Royal Mile in a historic building just steps from Edinburgh Castle. The Witchery by the Castle is known for its elegant and intimate atmosphere, with cosy corners, candlelit tables, and plush furnishings.

The Witchery by the Castle is more than a hotel; this is an experience in luxury and completely unique. The Witchery doesn’t have hotel rooms as such, it has “suites,” and only nine of them, so it’s intimate and quiet in addition to being sumptuous. The interiors of all the rooms are wonderfully gothic, and you can choose to stay in The Library, The Armoury, The Guardroom, or even The Inner Sanctum!

The evening saw us attend the beautifully spooky and gothic establishment The Witchery. We sat in the Secret Garden, there was more natural light than the restaurant and it was decorated beautifully with red, white and pink flowers, long white candle sticks and lace. The food on the menu is the same as the restaurant, although you can have afternoon tea in the Secret Garden too.

The Witchery is a unique and dare we say, slightly magical, dining venue situated a short walk from Edinburgh Castle. It has been delighting tastebuds for many years and has gained an outstanding reputation for providing superb cuisine using only the best seasonal produce. Scottish seafood, lamb, game and a legendary Angus beef steak tartare feature on an inspirational menu.

This offering isn’t just about the price, but what visitors experience for their money. The Witchery is one of Edinburgh’s finest restaurants, where visitors dine in beautiful surroundings. Most people on a budget think it’s simply too expensive, but for those who want a slice of five-star luxury at relatively reasonable prices, consider the two-course lunch menu for £34.50.

If you would like to experience fine dining with theatrical ambience then the Witchery By The Castle is the perfect place. You can sit in the rich baroque surroundings of the original oak-panelled Witchery or among the elegant candle-lit charms of the Secret Garden. The three-course pre- or post-theatre menu is a reasonably priced £27, while the two-course is just £22.

Situated in a collection of historic buildings at the gates to Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is open all day from noon until 10.30pm (last reservation) for both Witchery residents staying with us and guests. Step into our enchanting 16th-century oak-panelled and candlelit Original Dining Room or immerse yourself in the elegant charms of The Secret Garden Dining Room.

From Perthshire’s pastures to one of Edinburgh’s stateliest squares, Gleneagles’ first urban outpost has brought the architectural wow factor to the capital. The magnificent listed building was originally home to the British Linen Company and then the Bank of Scotland. Its ornate façade is decorated with Corinthian columns and topped with eye-catching sculptures.

At the top of the Royal Mile, beneath the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, is The Witchery. Located in a boutique hotel on Castlehill, which can only be described as romantically gothic, the atmosphere is simply unmatched. Right in line with Scotland’s long and complicated history of witches, The Witchery is decorated with candle-lit charms and lavish baroque details.

Just off the Royal Mile and nestled in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is Edinburgh’s most atmospheric dining option. Now in its fourth decade, the restaurant has become something of a landmark of Scottish fine dining. The food is good but the setting is better – with sumptuous upholstery and dark wooden seating offset by soft candlelight.

The Witchery by the Castle showcases the best of Scottish produce (Photo: The Witchery by the Castle). A fascinating restaurant found near the gates of Edinburgh’s iconic castle, The Witchery by the Castle is named after the hundreds of women burned at the stake just outside Castlehill. The decor of the restaurant is gothic enough to match its namesake.

This restaurant makes our list for two reasons: 1) it offers a very atmospheric dining experience, and 2) it is close to Edinburgh Castle. Their website reads The Witchery is the “most spectacularly atmospheric dining destination in Edinburgh.” We think that’s enough reason to make our Coolest Restaurants in Edinburgh list, wouldn’t you agree?

Surely one of the country’s most romantic destinations, The Witchery is an ancient and dramatic building at the gates of Edinburgh Castle. Filled with antiques, draped beds and roll-top baths, the castle offers the ultimate romantic getaway. Inside, there are two lush suites above the restaurant that are accessed via a winding stone staircase.

The Witchery is located right alongside Edinburgh’s historic castle, and is probably the most atmospheric setting you can imagine for a city dining experience. Enjoy legendary Angus beef steak tartare, fresh-from-the-coast seafood platters and must-try haggis among heavy tapestries and ornate wooden beams. Castlehill, The Royal Mile, EH1 2NF

Our buffet journey begins with a touch of opulence at The Witchery by the Castle. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Edinburgh Castle, this historic restaurant is a haven for those seeking an extraordinary dining experience. Their Sunday buffet is a highlight, featuring an array of delectable dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Possibly the most unusual accommodation choice on the list, the Witchery makes a point of showcasing its Gothic décor and its nine unique ‘theatrical suites’. Hidden around the corner from Victoria Street, its Secret Garden restaurant is an irresistible treat tucked in a historic courtyard secluded within the Old Town’s ancient buildings.

On the approach to the famous Edinburgh Castle sits one of the most spectacular and atmospheric restaurants in the city: The Witchery. The award-winning menu is packed with Scottish produce including Scottish lobster, game, Angus beef and haggis. The Secret Garden dining room, once an old school yard, is lit almost entirely by candles.

James Thomson opened The Witchery in 1979 and has been offering fine dining to customers ever since. Indulge yourself with a luxury dining experience, hidden below the entrance to Edinburgh Castle and next to the Scotch Whisky Experience. This restaurant offers fabulous dining, in a stunning setting of oak panelling and candlelight.

The dining spot has become an Edinburgh institution thanks to the decadent, gothic décor and an ever-changing menu built around the finest local Scottish produce. It's also a restaurant steeped in gothic history, with the late 16th century building standing on the site where many women were burned at the stake as witches.

£££ I Upscale/Fine Dining I Scottish Food I Historic I Michelin Star. The Witchery is located in the heart of the historic ambience of Edinburgh where the gates open to the Castle. This restaurant holds a sixteenth-century design in its dining room and has an elegant Secret Garden room, which is dreamy.

The Witchery by the Castle is a unique stay in the heart of Edinburgh. With nine lavishly decorated suites, this boutique hotel offers an experience unlike any other. Sleep in four-poster beds in suites that are thoroughly adorned with period decorations, ranging from guard uniforms to painted ceilings.

Located in in the heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, The Witchery’s Secret Garden restaurant offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. The restaurant is entirely lit by candles. Its dark wood panelling, beamed ceiling, and beautifully decorated tables create a very romantic ambience.

Dating back to the 16th century, this gothic, wood-panelled, candle-lit space is ideal for impressing a date. It’s seriously romantic, and the food is mighty fine. It led the way for the revival of fine dining in the city and if you stick to the set menu it won't break the bank.

Elegance meets history at The Witchery, steps from Edinburgh Castle. Known for sumptuous Scottish fare, you’ll dine in the intimate comfort of tapestries and oak-paneled walls. Try the local favorite, haggis, for an authentic taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage.

The Witchery – Edinburgh’s most famous restaurant and the ultimate treat for an Edinburgh foodie. Located in a 16th century building right by the Castle, it can’t be beat for its candlelit and historic atmosphere. Thankfully the food matches the hype.

The Witchery in Castlehill is renowned for its fine dining in a spectacular Gothic space. Dine by candlelight in the Secret Garden dining room, bask in the lavish atmosphere and enjoy award-winning food and drink. Photo: David Cheskin

Edinburgh is such a beautiful city with iconic views, so making the most of the sights is key during your stay. My favorite areas in Edinburgh are Old Town and New Town. Both of these are centrally located in the heart of the city.

Well, one of Scotland’s most famous restaurants The Witchery is just for you. Be warned: pre-booking is an absolute must. In the shadow of the castle, you couldn’t get a more enchanting setting for such a glorious eatery.

The Witchery by the Castle is one of the quirkiest hotels in Edinburgh. It might be the most interesting accommodation in the city. This accommodation is actually most famous for its restaurant.

I've been asked 100s of times to head down to the Witchery By The Castle in Edinburgh and review their restaurant. It's also a luxury hotel... this is going to be a very interesting video!