Hercule Poirot would be right at home in this gloriously opulent five storey hilltop Victorian villa with its four private guestrooms.

Crammed with gleaming antiques and collectables, and replete with tessellated tiles, ornate mirrors and ‘black boy’ palms, Franklin Villa evokes the days in the latter part of the 19th century when it first opened as a guesthouse to high society.

But while guests who stay here may be treated to claw baths, four poster beds, a billiard room and a lounge with writing desk and Chesterfields, 21st century amenities feature too - a 20m heated lap pool, flat screen TVs and a DVD player in each room, a gym and a fully equipped kitchen for guest use.

On most Sunday mornings, a splendid high tea is available on the top deck (with magnificent city views) in two sittings – 10.30am and 2pm – with tea served by waitresses in French Maid outfits.

While breakfast is not provided, there are tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms and West End’s café precinct is only a five minute walk away. Alternatively head up the hill to Dornoch Tce for a casual breakfast at Cantina or a delicious organic one at the more upmarket Mondo Organics.