Guestbook
We are absolutely thrilled to report that, since we started letting the Park Apartment over two years ago, the Garden Apartment from the start of 2007, and the Balfour Apartment since May 2008, we have received consistently excellent guest feedback and reviews, and excellent magazine and newspaper articles written about the accommodation.
However rewarding, we can assure future visitors to Pilrig House that we are not sitting back on our laurels feeling self-satisfied… our mission, always, is to maintain the very high standards we have worked so hard to establish.
We do hope that you enjoy, and take reassurance from, reading these typical examples from our Visitors’ Books (which you can read in full when you come, should you think we’re making them up!), and some totally independent reviews (all of which have been positive) sent in by previous guests to other websites…
Guests' Independent Reviews
29/05/08
Our ten-day stay in the Park Apartment at Pilrig House was delightful, made so by the warm hospitality of Philip and Debbie and the charm of the historic house. The attention to detail made the apartment a home from home for us. We will be return visitors!
John and Anais Glock, Austin, Texas USA
12/05/08
My husband and I have just returned from a week's stay at Pilrig House, April 23-30. We must share our enthusiastic comments about this extraordinary guest house and encourage anyone who visits Edinburgh to make this quiet, lovely oasis in the midst of this historic city their "home away from home". Debbie and Philip's gracious hospitality made our 40th wedding anniversary a celebration to remember--a bottle of chilled champagne, a card of well wishes, and fresh roses set the tone of our stay. Upon our arrival Debbie had also purchased food for our evening meal (at our request) and added a special dessert on her own. Debbie and Philip are the tourist's greatest assets; they will help in any way possible. Having an avid interest in history and literature, we found a gold mine in Philip's expertise as a guide to many spots we would not have seen on our own despite our best efforts as seasoned travelers. His anecdotes and knowledge of local lore are incomparable. Make a reservation at the beautiful accommodations of Pilrig House today!
Carol & Red Vermeire, Chicago, IL
08/05/08
Staying here was absolutely grand. The Pilrig House offers the best of modern conveniences but maintains it's old world charm. The best part about staying here is the hospitality. Debbie And Phillip are outgoing, friendly and extraordinarily catering to whatever comes up. We couldn't recommend a better place to spend your vacation in an amazing city.
Josh & Niki, Minneapolis MN
02/05/08
My wife and I spent three wonderful days in Edinburgh in February. Pilrig House was everything we had been hoping for. A great location led to traveling around the city being a snap. We can't express our appreciation to Philip and Debbie enough for their hospitality. Philip was nice enough to show us around the city upon our arrival. To those reading this who are seriously considering accomidations in Edinburgh; you need to stop and email Debbie and Philip right now. You'll be glad you did.
Brad and Sarah Weiser, Atlanta, GA, USA
11/01/08
I spent four nights at Pilrig House in the Garden Apartment in October 2007 and it truly was a magical experience. I knew it would be special but from the moment I walked through the front door the apartment exceeded all of my expectations. Absolutely everything was thought of right down to a torch on the keyring, perfect for coming home late at night. There was nothing more we could have asked for during our stay and the wonderful edition of two hosts so willing to share their knowledge of the area only adds to the experience. The photos do not do this wonderful apartment justice, you really do have to see it for yourself.
Sandra, Auckland, New Zealand
02/12/07
In February 2007, we had the unique pleasure of enjoying the extraordinary hospitality of Pilrig House's Debbie and Philip Martin. We are already looking forward to our next visit and will definitely be back at Pilrig House. Being able to enjoy such superlative accommodation in such a splendid city made our first visit to Edinburgh a truly memorable one. The apartment was immaculate and fully equipped - everything and more was at our fingertips and the beautiful city of Edinburgh was just outside our front door. Pilrig's central, albeit quiet location, in a park setting --made for quick and easy access to the surrounding city. We would urge all those looking for accommodation in Edinburgh to contact Pilrig House first - it is a cherished treasure in a remarkable city.
Robert and Lucia Stephenson, Toronto, Canada
09/30/06
Pilrig House was our home for five weeks this past summer, and, indeed, it truly was our home: the park, the waters of Leith, the Whisky Society, golf on the green, the gardens, gourmet supplies from Valvona and Crolla, and especially our hosts, Debbie and Philip. The flat came equipped with brilliant books to read, films to watch, compact discs to play while sipping tea and eating scones with triple cream. Debbie and Philip became our friends for life and made our stay memorable in so many thoughtful ways. Our nine-year old son, Mason, didn't want to leave and still talks about his experience at Pilrig House every day. We are looking forward to returning as soon as we possibly can.
The Allport Family, Santa Monica, CA
09/22/06
It goes without saying (as you may see by reading the other comments) that Pilrig is wonderfully comfortable, beautifully styled and incredibly convenient to Edinburgh. But it offers so much more than that! What did we love about the apartment? Lazing on the window seat, watching the comings and goings in the park. Sitting on the sun warmed steps, with a cup of tea and a book. Lying in bed, in the dark, with the sash window open, listening to the wind in the tree, just beyond. Very long, luxurious baths, in the beautiful bathroom, using the lovely toiletries provided. The feel of that fantastic wooden floor on bare feet! The wonderful, welcoming, happy "feel" of the place. Above and beyond all else, the loveliest asset of Pilrig House Apartment is it's owners. Philip and Debbie are 100% dedicated to making their guests feel happy and welcome. They are extremely generous with their time and fascinating local knowledge. We owe them great thanks for, undoubtedly, one of the best holidays we have had. There is no question that we shall return.
Gill Oakley, West Midlands England
08/11/06
Dear Debbie & Phillip
Dwight, Julia, and I had a wonderful visit to Scotland and enjoyed so much staying at Pilrig House. The apartment was so bright and comfortable. It was so nice to arrive and find biscuits and coffee and tea available. We especially enjoyed the beautiful park just outside our front door. It was perfect for Julia's daily runs. Philip, thanks for the wonderful tour and your extensive knowledge of the history of the area. It was a wonderful vacation!! Joyce & Dwight
Joyce & Dwight Dare, San Antonio, TX
07/24/06
We have stayed in many self-catering places on three continents and this one is - without doubt - the finest of all. It is most attractively furnished and impeccably equipped. Debbie and Philip have thought of absolutely everything and are delightful hosts. We echo each and every one of the previous positive comments by other fortunate tenants. We spent a week at Pilrig House in June 2006 and wish we could have spent longer. The location is ideal as the parkside setting provides welcome tranquillity in the middle of this beautiful, but busy city yet it is just a few minutes' walk from the frequent bus service into town. Pilrig House is fascinating, given its illustrious history and Debbie and Philip give so generously of their time and knowledge. The membership in Edinburgh's Single Malt Society is a superb extra! We are recommending this spot to everyone we know and hope to return very soon.
Ann & David Murray, Guelph, Ontario
06/19/06
We are experienced travellers, used to the finer things in life... We had the absolute pleasure of staying three days at Pilrig House last month. (May, 2006) Wonderfully appointed, completely outfitted, warm hospitality, friendly hosts, convenient location, charmingly decorated...all in all, a pleasant surprise, and one place we'd recommend to anyone.
Lorin Dreyfuss, Rancho Mirage, California
06/19/06
This charming apartment facing an open park and within walking distance of Princes Street is an absolute oasis in the middle of Edinburgh! (Once there, it allows you to avoid driving your car through the traffic, if you are an American, like myself, and not comfortable with "fast-paced city driving on the left!) It is beautifully decorated, fully equipped, and a peaceful and cosy place to begin or end your vacation in Scotland. Your hosts, Debbie and Phillip, are informative, enthusiastic, friendly and readily available to make this your favourite stay. I will definitely be back.
Marjorie Malouk, Colorado Springs, CO
06/13/06
Debbie and Philip, Our vacation to England, Wales, Scotland and France was just wonderful. We stayed in 7 different establishments, from hotels to cottages to apartments to flats. Most were OK, and one or two were just satisfactory. However, one stood out as exquisite, that was Pilrig House. Please accept our highest praise for a lovely apartment, clean, beautifully decorated, comfortable beds, wonderful park setting etc., etc. Also our thanks to both of you for your kindness and help in making our Edinburgh stay perfect. While this was our first European experience with a rental of this type, we have rented many times in the US, and Pilrig ranks tops with us. Our very best to both of you and thanks again.
Warmest Regards
Carolyn and Jim Eitel, Thornton, Co USA
08/15/07
We've just returned from a lovely stay at the Garden Apartment in Pilrig House. The location is excellent, between the centres of Edinburgh and Leith, and we couldn't say enough about the luxury of the apartment, with all the treats on arrival and the lovely furnishings and views. Thank you Debbie and Philip, we'll be back!
John Breslin, Galway, Ireland
07/24/07
We stayed in the Garden Apartment and it was a fabulous break. Debbie and Phil couldn't have been more welcoming and they really did think of everything, including guided tours of Edinburgh. The property itself was immaculate and so peaceful. The accommodation was equipped with everything you could possibly need. We wanted to stay much, much longer. We loved sitting watching the squirrels right outside the window, we could have been in the middle of the country not within walking distance of a major city centre! It was a fantastic, enjoyable break and we hope to return very soon. Truly a fantastic place to stay.
Lorna and Graham Oliver, Sunderland
07/20/07
We stayed at Pilrig House from 11 to 17 July. It was great. Apart from the facts mentioned above (the welcome, the chocolates, the coffee and tea, the whisky, the flowers, the fruit (!)) there were the owners. Debbie and Philip really try to do their utmost to ensure a pleasant stay. They are extremely helpful and kind. The house is a treasure; it's charming and an invitation to relaxation.
Gerrit Reijnders, Groningen / The Netherlands
07/16/07
What can I say! What a treasure of a place to stay in! Our trip to Edinburgh in June was for my daughter's wedding and we wanted somewhere special to stay for the occasion. We couldn't have asked for more (except perhaps better weather!). This place is really a home from home and the attention to detail is incredible. The 'personal touches' were amazing, fresh fruit, chocolates, shortbread, whisky, fresh flowers... the list goes on! Pilrig Park gives the feeling that you are in the countryside, yet you are only a 10- minute bus ride from the city centre with its beautiful historic buildings and all the attractions of this marvellous city! Secure car parking is a real benefit as you can safely leave your car and take advantage of the excellent public transport without the hassle of driving! I will certainly recommend this beautiful apartment to anyone looking to visit Edinburgh!
Michele Cole, Atherstone Warwickshire
07/13/07
Words fail me in describing how wonderful our stay was in this incredible garden apartment. From the moment we arrived we felt as though we were home. All the comforts were provided from fresh flowers and chocolates to milk and fruit. Maps and brochures of things to see and do in Edinburgh as well as personal recommendations made our stay perfect. Debbie and Phillip were more than just hosts - they became friends. We recommend this apartment to everyone we meet and can't imagine staying anywhere else in Scotland!
Roxana Smith, Colorado Springs, CO
07/10/07
We had a wonderful time staying at the garden apartment. Everything was carefully thought of, from the tasteful decoration and comfortable surroundings to delicious biscuits and useful welcome information. It was great to walk out through the garden and the park feeling as though we were residents of Edinburgh and even imagining going back in time to the days of previous residents! The only thing we would have changed would be to have stayed for longer. Edinburgh is a great city to wander in, and has so much fantastic art and architecture, we needed more time to soak it all in. We'll be back!
Katy Beinart, Oxford, UK
07/05/07
Our stay at Pilrig Garden Apartment was really enjoyable. Debbie and Philip went out of their way to make us feel welcome, and gave us lots of useful advice to help us navigate around Edinburgh. The apartment is in a beautiful setting, tastefully decorated and really is fully equipped! All of the extra touches made the apartment feel like a home rather than rented accommodation - fresh flowers, luxury toiletries, strawberries, ground coffee, organic milk and shortbread, not to mention an alarm clock at the bedside. Our 3 and 4 year-old sons had lots of space to play with their toys and watched some of the DVDs provided. The private, secure parking enabled us to leave our car and take the bus (bus stop around the corner) when we knew public transport would be an easier option to driving. All in all we certainly had a pleasant stay in Pilrig Garden Apartment.
Sara Campbell, Castletown, Caithness, Scotland
07/03/07
I cannot say I have had a similar experience as a guest in any type of accommodation - Pilrig House is tops! The house itself is a fascinating piece of history, having been built from the ruins of an old fort nearby. The owners, Debbie and Philip, became instant friends and provided far more than our every need - fresh strawberries and tasty scotch were left for our arrival! The house is outfitted with all the travel guides, maps, and all else you could ever want. We were even treated to a guided tour of Edinburgh. We'll be back for sure!
Peter Schaefer, Utah
02/05/08
My wife and I spent three wonderful days in Edinburgh in February. Pilrig House was everything we had been hoping for. A great location led to travelling around the city being a snap. We can't express our appreciation to Philip and Debbie enough for their hospitality. Philip was nice enough to show us around the city upon our arrival. To those reading this who are seriously considering accommodations in Edinburgh; you need to stop and email Debbie and Philip right now. You'll be glad you did.
Brad and Sarah Weiser, Atlanta, GA USA
08/05/08
Staying here was absolutely grand. Pilrig House offers the best of modern conveniences but maintains its old-world charm. The best part about staying here is the hospitality. Debbie And Phillip are outgoing, friendly and extraordinarily catering to whatever comes up. We couldn't recommend a better place to spend your vacation in an amazing city.
Josh & Niki, Minneapolis MN
12/05/08
My husband and I have just returned from a week's stay at Pilrig House, April 23-30. We must share our enthusiastic comments about this extraordinary guest house and encourage anyone who visits Edinburgh to make this quiet, lovely oasis in the midst of this historic city their "home away from home". Debbie and Philip's gracious hospitality made our 40th wedding anniversary a celebration to remember - a bottle of chilled champagne, a card of well wishes, and fresh roses set the tone of our stay. Upon our arrival Debbie had also purchased food for our evening meal (at our request) and added a special dessert on her own. Debbie and Philip are the tourist's greatest assets; they will help in any way possible. Having an avid interest in history and literature, we found a goldmine in Philip's expertise as a guide to many spots we would not have seen on our own despite our best efforts as seasoned travellers. His anecdotes and knowledge of local lore are incomparable. Make a reservation at the beautiful accommodations of Pilrig House today!
Carol & Red Vermeire, Chicago, IL
Garden Apartment Visitor Book
Thank you! It was a prefect stay – and we hope not our last. ‘‘Pilrig’’ is a new & important word in our vocabulary. Debbie and Philip, you have two more fans!
Solveig & Philip Reeker, Washington/Baghdad
Stopped off here to break our journey home from Skye – what a fantastic find! We have stayed in many self-catering cottages, etc. – this is by far the nicest in every way. Everything is perfect. It’s been a pleasure to meet you both. What Philip doesn’t know about Edinburgh isn’t worth knowing. Nothing was too much trouble. See you soon!! A really big THANK YOU.
Marilyn & Steve Horley, Surrey
Characterful, comfortable, peaceful, with every home comfort carefully thought out… a self-catering to be very proud of Debbie and Philip. Edinburgh visits in future will be planned around availability of your self-catering. Thanks a million.
Doreen Ross and Chris Wateling, Nairnshire, Scotland
Wow – we have had the most remarkable time! Thanks for your unmatched hospitality. You have made our trip very meaningful.
Conrad & Roxana Smith, Colorado
It’s been so relaxing – just wish we were staying longer! What a wonderful place to celebrate my birthday – very memorable.
Imran & Katy, Oxford
Thank you for making this special apartment even more special Debbie & Philip… Great place, luxurious and easy to get to Edinburgh city centre!
John & Josephine, Galway, Ireland
Very quiet. Very friendly. Very comfortable.
Kim and Janice Dorsing, Oregon, USA
Philip and Debbie are the best hosts anywhere! So much to say in so little space… great accommodation, supportive hosts who care, charming and entertaining… we’ll be back! We also are very sad to leave. Thank you.
Mike and Sheila Wood, Michigan, USA
We have had a wonderful time in Edinburgh and we are already making plans to come back. A large part thanks to your generosity and hospitality Debbie and Philip – the flat is just perfect, everything you could want… you have been so kind, and we have felt very much at home – thank you so much.
Tony Lynch/Julie-Anne Lee, Wellington, New Zealand
Thank you for a wonderful stay. The apartment was so clean and charming. Debbie & Philip couldn’t have been more helpful and generous.
Shaun & Jack Berkey, USA
Wonderful accommodation, very friendly, warm welcome and most enjoyable stay. Very sad to leave.
Gavin, Veronica and Catherine McDonnell, Belfast, Ireland
Thanks for your fabulous hospitality! You really have made us feel very welcome and the attention to detail is much appreciated. We look forward to staying here again soon.
Lorna and Graham Oliver, Sunderland
Had a thoroughly enjoyable and hectic time! This place is absolutely beautiful! We will certainly recommend to friends and family. Ideally situated.
Michele and Ralph Cole, Warwickshire, England
Katarina and Henrietta say this is fantastic. We have had a stay that will be fondly remembered in years to come. Scotland and Pilrig are a second home. Thank you Philip and Debbie for everything.
Stephen, Katerina, Henrietta, Staffordshire/England & Helsinki, Finland
We really enjoyed our stay in Edinburgh. Monique and I used to do walking trips in England, during which we met quite a lot of wonderful and friendly hosts at the various bed and breakfasts we stayed at. You have positioned yourselves at the top of the premier league of the ‘best hosts’.
Gerrit and Monique Reijnders, Holland
Park Apartment Visitor Book
Rolls Royce accommodation combined with the wonderful Edinburgh attractions made this a superb break.
Sue & John, Wiggan, Lancs
The best self-catering apartment ever! Such painstaking attention to all possible comforts, and charming hosts. Lovely. Thank you.
Chris & Frank Wallace, Ardnamurchan
How do you improve on perfection? The Ritz isn’t as good as Pilrig House! Hotels are so impersonal. The flowers, the fruit, the candy made us feel like family at Pilrig.
Magical – a word to describe Pilrig House. If I ever run away they shall find me here! Thanks for a great adventure Debbie & Philip. There are no words to describe what you have created for your visitors.
Debbie Osmond, Columbus, Ohio
Our first visit to Scotland was extremely delightful and much of this was due to the welcome we received from Debbie & Philip. Pilrig House was a great location and a home away from home for us.
David and Barbara Howell, NC, US
It is with a heavy heart we leave you this day. Our stay here has made all the difference to us… most delicious of all, you sweet Debbie & Philip. Every entry in this book speaks volumes – we lodgers ones of so many, but you… 2 in a million. Much love, good cheer, we raise our glasses to you until that day we shall meet you again. PS The apartments were fabulous too!
Jude, Rex, Adam Blumenthall, Durham, NC, USA
Thank you for everything. It’s the best place in the world. We had an incredible holiday here. You are the BEST.
Tania, Sasha, Lana Bulatova, Moscow, Russia
The attractive and comfortable apartment was made even more enjoyable by the help and friendliness of Debbie and Philip. It was a special treat to stay in the home which was purchased by my 5th great-grandfather in 1718, and continuously occupied by him and his descendants until 1941.
Ray (and Sandra) Balfour, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
Delightful accommodation – all mod cons combined with the grace and charm of a bygone age.
Ann and Brian Tasker, Pembrokeshire
Thank you so much for a special, memorable 2 weeks here. Such a restful and unique place to explore Edinburgh during the Fringe! Would love to come back.
Milton Chen & Ruth Cox, San Francisco, US
We concur with all previous guests on warmth, cosiness and attention to detail in the apartment. I could have holed up here for a week and missed the exquisite city of Edinburgh.
Deb Gibson, Santa Barbara, CA
We have enjoyed the flat so much – so very comfortable and charming, and with absolutely everything one could want – to say nothing of the hospitality of you both. Pilrig House has come a long way from the 1700s, when my great, great, great, great, great grandfather, James Balfour lived here.
Bob and Sue Huggard, Toronto, Cananda
Exquisite – the apartment, the treats, the hosts and Edinburgh itself – a fabulous finale for our trip to Scotland! Many thanks.
Emer O’Gallagher, The Netherlands
Such a unique and thoughtfully equipped place to stay, we really couldn’t have asked for more.
Steve Kingsman & Vicky Fellowes, Surrey
A haven of peace, tranquillity and cultured living in a busy city. Brilliant! We had a wonderful time and will certainly be back!
Chris and Yolanda McClintock, Northern Ireland
We are glad we discovered Pilrig House and Philip & Debbie. The house is so interesting and the apartment has been made so comfortable. Staying here has been a real treat.
June and Graham Stockholm, Gloucestershire
Thank you for allowing me to stay in such wonderful accommodation. Your attention to detail made this a home away from home. My favourite part has been watching the wildlife from the window. It has been a pleasure staying here.
Sarah Kiesel, Melbourne, Australia
A really delightful apartment – cosy and super-comfortable. Add in Debbie and Philip’s hospitality, our stay in Edinburgh could not have been better.
Arden and Jacquie Kleinman, London
Thank you for you wonderful hospitality. We especially appreciated your thoughtfulness when you helped us with our ‘late arrival’. As others have noted in these pages, you have made Pilrig House ‘special’ with your warmth, humour, great tips and helpful advice. Your insights are matched with your attention to detail making our apartment comfortable, homey, special…
Janice Pound, Winnipeg, Canada
When is a self-catering flat a home? When you’re at Pilrig House! Every detail is attended to…
Rob & Luccia Stephenson, Toronto, Canada