This was the best location ever although we did not realize it at first. On maps it looks central but we had no idea just how close to things until we walked around. There is a big square area with lots of history right in front (read about it before you go) and toward the center of it and to the right are many steps that lead you straight to the entrance of Edinburgh castle. We were also 5 minutes walking to the museum, royal mile, st. Giles church and less than 2 minutes walking to Greyfriar’s Kirk (read the story of Greyfriar’s Bobby). All in all we fell in love with the apartment and the steps up to it were no problem for our 5 year old to climb up. The only note of caution is that if you are a light sleeper there are pubs around the square so there will be noise but we were so tired after a day out that we were not bothered plus its vacation, experience life as it is for the locals. :)