Royal Mackintosh Hotel 'Book direct for best B&B rates'

Excellent location and great service with an authentic Scottish feel. Bar/lounge on-site. No, it is not the Ritz, but that is not what this American wanted on his trip to Dunbar and John Muir's birthplace. I also heard Dunbar is a great place for golfers who want and extended stay. But for me it was a perfect one-day trip for those arriving by train who are starting their Scotland trip in Edinburgh. My itinerary worked well, which was: Redeye flight arrived at EDI in the morning. To help avoid jetlag, I made my way from EDI to Waverly Station and caught the first train to Dunbar. A kind assistant at the train ticket kiosk helped me get the right ticket and pointed me to the right track. Train was on time, fast and efficient unlike Amtrak in the USA. Trains also run all day so no need to pre-book, which was helpful in case by international flight was delayed. I got off at Dunbar and walked the short path up the way to the Royal Mackintosh Hotel for an easy check-in. After washing up I walked "downtown" for an initial visit at the John Muir Museum and an early dinner. I went to bed early. The next day I enjoyed the delicious, hearty "Scottish Breakfast" at the hotel, then walked to the coast to visit the Dunbar Castle and Battery Ruins, before the incredible stroll with breathtaking views along "The Glebe" trail along the cliffs of Dunbar ending at the Winterfield Golf Club. I ended with one more long visit at John Muir Birthplace (Sylvia and other museum associates were so helpful, kind, and knowledgeable; THANK YOU!) before heading to catch a train back to Edinburgh in the late afternoon. Dunbar really is a gem. Yes, I went because it is the birthplace of John Muir. But it is so much more. With no need to rent a car and so many great sights in a walkable area, it is an ideal way to start your Scotland trip.

I loved the traditional look of this Hotel, like a classic mansion house. The Hotel is very central, it is less than ten minutes walk from train station. It also is right across the road from a main bus stop for services to Edinburgh and North Berwick. My room was very comfortable and it was easy to open the window. The shower was excellent, lovely hot water. I enjoyed my breakfasts, and I had one excellent evening meal. This was a great choice for me and I got a good deal because I booked direct and stayed for three nights. Highly recommended.

As per several of the other reviews.... Don't expect a modern, updated hotel. But do expect a really good deal and a comfortable welcoming venue. Yes, it does need a fair bit of work but it's mainly cosmetic. I think a fair few venue replies to older reviews suggest they are planning on updating but tbh I didn't see anything to suggest that. Prices very competitive..... Especially a great discount for solo travellers. Most hotels give a paltry allowance for single occupancy. Here it was great. Clean rooms. Comfy bed. Great shower with quality complimentary products. Really helpful friendly service from staff. Car park great though it only fits about 7 cars max. I was given great advice on the phone when called in advance and was allowed to leave car at 830am.....then get easy no stop train to Edinburgh before checking in later. Train station 5 minutes maximum walk. Great location for all amenities in the town. 8 mins max to harbour. When considering the time of year, nice town, proximity to everything and the service..... And of course the price.... It's the best VFM of anywhere I've stayed. Would recommend and will stay again when next visiting East Lothian as it's about a 3rd of the cost of Gullane/North Berwick hotels.

We stayed in Dunbar for a week and we ate here three times. The haddock and chips is possibly the best I have ever eaten (and I’ve eaten a lot of haddock and chips), the haggis parcels were wonderful, other dishes were great and the service was marvellous. In addition the restaurant is lined with panels taken from the ocean liner Mauretania in 1935. A piece of living history. A lovely place to find on our week exploring Edinburgh and the East coast of Scotland. Highly recommended.