OK, I realize this review is 5 years late but better late than never. My wife and i stayed here for several nights in September 2003 on our 3-week tour of Scotland and loved it. The couple who run this B&B are EXTREMELY nice, as are most Scots. What a beautiful country...how could you not love it there? The neighborhood is quiet and safe. We don't roam around after dark much but we did take several long strolls alongside the water and visited a pub or two...mostly families with children and nothing much to see. The bus stop to Edinburgh is a block away, you catch it on one side of the street and it lets you off on the other side on the way back, about 20 minutes or so to the city center. Buy cheap "day return" tickets or "all day" passes. I have uploaded some pictures of Straven and the neighborhood, hope they help. Breakfast was typical Scottish fare, cooked, uncooked or both, take your pick....my wife loved the porridge, I wish we still remembered how to prepare it. Again. I must emphasize that the owners are very nice and helpful, the neighborhood is quiet and safe, prices are reasonable, transportation is cheap and easy.

The stay was fantastic. Mac was very hospitable and helpful. Gave some great sugggestions about Edinburgh and getting around. Did not get to meet Marian as we were there only one night, but by the breakfast we had, I am sure she's great too. Would recommend Straven to anyone looking for a good stay in Edinburgh!

We strongly recommend the Straven Guest House following our recent stay. Everything about the accomadation was first class. If we visit Edinburgh again we would certainly stay with Mac & Marian. Charlie & Carole Thomson.

Straven Guest House is on a quiet side street in the Portobello section of Edinburgh. The disadvantage of staying outside the city center was more than made up for by our warm and welcoming hosts, their attractive home, our nicely-appointed room, and delicious breakfasts. We would definitely stay here again!