The Bridge Inn at Ratho

If, like us, you tend to associate canalside inns with narrowboats neatly moored outside with England, prepare to be surprised by this Central Scotland hideaway. Just seven miles from Edinburgh, and even closer to its airport, sits a heritage inn in the conservation village of Ratho, overlooking a stone bridge. This multi-award-winning inn sits on the south bank of the Union Canal, which runs from the remarkable Falkirk Wheel to Edinburgh city centre. From here, you can take boat trips out towards Linlithgow, cycle along the canal into Edinburgh or even hike east to pick up the John Muir Way long-distance walking trail.

The good news is that you don't have to fight for a waterfront view as each of the inn’s four individually designed guest rooms overlooks the canal. Named after famous, if not notorious, characters with links to Ratho, the double rooms feature flatscreen TVs, hairdryers, free wifi and tea and coffee-making facilities while each remaining a little different. One, Bonnington, has an opulent four-poster bed, you'll find a brass bedstead in Bryce and simple with predominantly white decor in Burke. The largest room, Baird, which can also be set up as a twin room, has a free-standing bath. Breakfasts are superb, with a generous full Scottish featuring black pudding and potato scones, although American pancakes make a tasty alternative.

Downstairs there's a proper local pub feel as the inn is at the heart of the community with a terrace overlooking the canal for dreamy summer evenings and cosy fires inside for the depths of winter. The menu is well above standard pub grub, dishing up seasonal favourites made with locally sourced ingredients, all beautifully presented with excellent, friendly service.

There is a top selection of Scottish ales on tap, as well as cider and bitter for that quintessential canalside experience. A family-friendly place, kids will enjoy the large wooden playboat in the sizeable canal-side beer garden, which also has a covered area for dining. Then there's The Bridge Inn Container Bar, which is open for drinks in summer.