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Featured Hotels Near Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat isn’t just a hill—it’s a legendary gateway to history. Believed to be the final resting place of King Arthur, this volcanic peak offers jaw-dropping views across Edinburgh’s skyline and endless green valleys. Hike to the summit, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a myth. Even if you don’t believe in legends, the sheer beauty will leave you speechless. Bring a jacket—the wind up here sings like an ancient tale.
InterContinental Edinburgh The George
Kimpton Charlotte Square
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, just steps from Princes Street and George Street, this hotel blends luxury with convenience. Rooms feature Smart TVs, premium linens, and complimentary treat boxes plus a fridge stocked with fresh milk. Dine at The Garden, an indoor courtyard serving everything from salads to Scottish cocktails, or savor Middle Eastern flavors at BABA’s mezze grill. Unwind with free access to the gym, pool, and spa (some treatments at extra cost). Perfect for business or leisure, it’s a 5-minute walk to Waverley Station and 7 miles from the airport—effortless connectivity!
The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxury hotel is just steps away from Princes Street, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. Whether you're on a business trip or a family vacation, it has everything you need. Unwind at the lavish spa, relax in the indoor pool, or enjoy a variety of dining options from fine dining to 24-hour room service. The Turkish bath and sauna are perfect for ultimate relaxation. Fitness lovers can explore the nearby golf course or rent a bike to tour the city in style.
Prestonfield House
This hotel is perfect for both families and business travelers! Just a few minutes' drive from the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Mile, it couldn't be more convenient. With a children's play area and babysitting services, you won’t have to worry about bringing the kids along. Relax at the rooftop terrace or garden, or treat yourself to a massage. In the evening, unwind at one of the four bars/lounges. The rooms are well-equipped with smart TVs and free WiFi, plus 24-hour room service for ultimate comfort. Don’t miss the complimentary full breakfast on weekends—it’s the perfect finishing touch!
The Balmoral Hotel
This luxury hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Edinburgh, just steps away from Princes Street and Calton Hill. Unwind at the spa with massages and treatments, or take a dip in the indoor pool. The sauna and fitness center are perfect for staying active. With 3 restaurants and 2 bars, plus 24-hour room service, you'll never go hungry. Rooms are equipped with minibars and smart TVs, and feature luxury toiletries for ultimate comfort. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel is the ideal choice!
Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxurious spa hotel offers a prime location to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site on foot. Wake up to breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle from your castle-view room. Spend your days strolling along the Royal Mile or shopping on George Street, then unwind at the renowned One Spa urban retreat, complete with a rooftop hydro pool. The Executive Lounge provides evening drinks and snacks for an elevated stay. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
Discover an urban oasis in Edinburgh's heart where heritage meets modern luxe! Rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows showcase stunning city views, while 50 units offer private gardens/balconies for alfresco relaxation. Sip through 200+ Scotch whiskies at Snug Lounge with expert guidance, or savor full Scottish breakfasts overlooking Calton Hill at Brasserie. Steps from shopping and tram stops, it offers laundry/BBQ/wedding services plus 50% off parking. As a 2024 award-winner, this sanctuary blends convenience with authentic Scottish hospitality—your perfect base for exploration!
Barony House 5 Star Boutique BK Direct
This 5-star boutique hotel in Edinburgh is just 1.9 km from the University of Edinburgh, offering a prime location. Rooms feature mountain-view terraces and allergen-free design, with some including kitchen facilities—perfect for families. Enjoy varied breakfast options to start your day right. The surrounding area offers plenty of activities, from hiking and skiing to golf. Plus, the kids' play area and game room ensure little ones are entertained. With free WiFi and convenient luggage storage, your stay will be both comfortable and hassle-free.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Located in the prime spot of Edinburgh city center, this hotel is your perfect choice! Just a short walk to Grassmarket and University of Edinburgh, making it super convenient! Enjoy the 24-hour fitness center and free WiFi to stay active and connected. With two restaurants on-site, including the Commons Club Restaurant, you’re in for a treat! Unwind at the bar after a busy day. Rooms feature minibars and smart TVs for a cozy home-away-from-home feel. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel has everything you need!
InnerCityLets - Royal Mile
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this hotel is a dream come true for travelers! Whether you're looking to showcase your skills at the bowling alley, sweat it out on the tennis court, or rent a bike to explore the city, this place has it all. Wind down at the bar in the evening and soak up the local nightlife. With its prime location near the Royal Mile, you'll have easy access to hiking and fishing spots. Rated a perfect 5.0, it's the ideal choice for your stay!
100 Princes Street
Experience luxury accommodation just steps away from Princes Street and George Street in the heart of Edinburgh! This hotel not only boasts a prime location but also offers 24-hour room service and à la carte breakfast to make your stay seamless. Whether you're here for business or leisure, the Tempur-Pedic beds and luxury toiletries promise a home-like comfort. After a busy day, unwind at the bar/lounge or take advantage of the dry cleaning service to refresh your wardrobe. Perfect for both work and play, this hotel has everything you need!
The Edinburgh Grand, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Edinburgh
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxurious hotel is just a short walk from George Street and the Royal Mile. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a fitness center, free WiFi, and concierge services to make your stay seamless. After a busy day, unwind at the bar/lounge with a refreshing drink. The rooms feature kitchens with full-sized refrigerators and ovens, offering a home-like comfort. With express check-in, dry cleaning services, and more, it’s perfect for both business trips and family getaways.
W Edinburgh
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxe hotel blends contemporary design with Scottish heritage. Stay in uniquely styled rooms and suites that exceed expectations! The rooftop terrace offers 360-degree views of the city, perfect for enjoying innovative dishes at SUSHISAMBA or sipping craft cocktails at the cozy Joao’s Place bar. Whether you're here for business or leisure, take advantage of the fitness center, spa, and meeting facilities. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it’s your ideal base to explore Edinburgh’s vibrant culture. Book now for an unforgettable stay!
23 Mayfield
This quintessentially British gem is your perfect Edinburgh base! Nestled in tranquil gardens just moments from University of Edinburgh and National Museum of Scotland. Enjoy luxurious en-suite bathrooms, courtyard views with cityscapes, free WiFi, and select rooms even feature game consoles. Road-trippers will love the complimentary parking. Unwind at their charming bar or mingle in the shared lounge. With luggage storage and tourist info desk, every detail is curated for seamless journeys - whether for business or leisure under the Scottish skies.
94DR
This holiday home is a hidden gem in Edinburgh! With 6 bedrooms, private parking, and free WiFi, it's perfect for groups or families. The garden and courtyard are ideal for BBQ nights, and the game room adds extra fun. Just an 18-minute walk to the University of Edinburgh, and close to Arthur's Seat and the National Museum of Scotland. Rated 5 stars, it’s the ultimate base for your Edinburgh adventure!
Central New Town Apartment
This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a 15-minute walk to Georgian House and Princes Street Gardens. The luxurious apartment comes with all the essentials, including free WiFi, laundry facilities, and a fully equipped kitchen. For travelers, there’s even a 24-hour airport shuttle for hassle-free transfers. The stylishly decorated rooms feature a 32-inch LCD TV and DVD player, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Whether for business or leisure, this place is an excellent choice!
Gleneagles Townhouse
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a 4-minute walk from the train station, this hotel offers 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. Relax at the fitness center or sauna, and enjoy British and Scottish cuisine with vegetarian options available. Rooms feature private bathrooms, and nearby attractions include the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Theatre. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers!
The Queens View
This luxurious apartment is centrally located in Edinburgh, just a 12-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Enjoy free WiFi, a city-view balcony, and a fully equipped kitchen for a comfortable stay. Popular landmarks like the National Museum of Scotland and the University of Edinburgh are within walking distance. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts or golf lovers, this place has it all! With a high rating of 4.7, don’t miss out on this gem!
Gorgeous Royal Mile Mansion Apartment
This luxurious apartment is perfectly located in the heart of Edinburgh, just minutes away from the Royal Mile and the Scottish Storytelling Centre. The uniquely decorated space features a fully-equipped kitchen with a large fridge, oven, and microwave, making your stay super comfortable. Enjoy free WiFi and a flat-screen TV for entertainment. The 24-hour airport shuttle makes travel hassle-free, while convenient amenities like express check-out and laundry facilities add extra ease to your trip. It’s the ideal home away from home!
Waterfront Penthouse
This luxurious apartment is located in Leith, Edinburgh, just a 10-minute drive from Princes Street and the Edinburgh Playhouse. Enjoy the stunning views from your private balcony and relax with free WiFi and a communal TV area. The fully-equipped kitchen includes a large fridge and oven, perfect for home cooking. With free self-parking and luggage storage, your stay couldn’t be more convenient. The plush bed ensures a good night’s sleep, making it the perfect choice for your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Arthur's Seat
The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, offering panoramic views of Arthur's Seat and the Edinburgh skyline from its luxurious rooms. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Arthur's Seat trailhead, this five-star hotel combines historic elegance with exceptional service. For a more contemporary option, Hotel du Vin & Bistro blends modern design with local charm, providing excellent access to the city’s heritage and hiking routes. Both properties are well-connected by public transit, making them ideal bases for exploring the area.
Walk down the Royal Mile from Arthur's Seat—about 1.5 km and a 20-minute stroll—to reach central Edinburgh, passing landmarks like St. Giles' Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle. For a quicker option, take the Edinburgh Trams from the nearby Edinburgh Castle Station, which reaches the city center in just 10 minutes. Numerous bus routes (e.g., 4, 5, 6) also serve the area, offering flexible and efficient access to key attractions.
Hiking to the summit of Arthur's Seat offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth—best enjoyed early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture golden light. Afterward, relax at Calton Hill, an ideal spot for sunset viewing. Some guided tours even offer nighttime explorations, blending folklore with ecological insights for a memorable adventure. Photography enthusiasts should visit during spring for wildflowers or autumn for vibrant foliage, both offering stunning visual backdrops.
Yes, several family-friendly hotels surround Arthur's Seat. Holiday Inn Edinburgh City Centre offers spacious family rooms, kids’ play areas, and easy access to hiking trails. The Edinburgh Grand Hotel provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with on-site dining and comfortable lounges perfect for families. Nearby walking paths are clearly marked and include gentle, stroller-friendly sections. Parents can safely explore nature while enjoying Edinburgh’s rich cultural offerings, making it an ideal destination for multi-generational travel.
Beginners should start from the Smithy's Field Path on the southern side, known for its gentle gradient and well-maintained trail. The 1.8 km route takes about 45 minutes and features clear signage and resting platforms along the way. Starting near Edinburgh Zoo, visitors can combine the hike with a zoo visit for added fun. This path has moderate foot traffic and excellent safety, making it the ideal entry point for first-time hikers.
Edinburgh Castle Hotel is a top choice offering panoramic views of Arthur's Seat and the surrounding city skyline. Located just a 5-minute walk from the summit, this historic hotel blends traditional Scottish architecture with modern comfort. Its rooftop terrace provides unobstructed vistas of Castle Rock and the Royal Mile, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Another excellent option is The Albert Hotel, situated in the heart of Old Town, with easy access to walking trails and scenic viewpoints. Both properties offer high-quality amenities and are ideal for travelers seeking convenience and breathtaking scenery. Book early during peak seasons to secure the best rooms with view.
For an authentic experience, consider staying in a boutique guesthouse along the Royal Mile, many of which feature private balconies overlooking the hill. These accommodations often include personalized service and local insights, enhancing your exploration of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks.
Walking from Arthur's Seat to the city center takes about 10 minutes via the Royal Mile, a historic pedestrian street that runs through Old Town. This route offers scenic views of St. Giles' Cathedral and charming cobblestone alleys. For public transport, buses 30, 42, and 47 stop near Princes Street, just a 5-minute walk from the base of the hill. The Edinburgh Trams system also connects directly to the city center—board at St. Andrew Square Station, which is only 8 minutes by foot from Arthur's Seat. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available nearby, especially during evening hours. All options provide seamless access to major attractions like Edinburgh Waverley Station, shopping districts, and cultural venues, making it easy to explore the city in a single day.
Near Arthur's Seat, visitors can enjoy several unique cultural experiences: guided tours of Edinburgh Castle, including the legendary Stone of Destiny and royal regalia; immersive Scottish bagpipe performances held on weekends at the castle square; and the Royal Mile Heritage Walk, where local historians reveal hidden stories behind old buildings. During the annual Edinburgh International Festival, the area becomes a hub for live theatre, music, and street art. For a deeper dive, join the "Medieval Edinburgh Explorer Tour," which leads guests through secret alleyways and underground tunnels beneath the city. Additionally, seasonal events like the Edinburgh Light Festival project dynamic light shows onto the castle walls, creating a magical atmosphere visible from the hilltop. These experiences blend history, art, and nature in unforgettable ways.
Yes, Edinburgh Castle Hotel is highly recommended for families, offering spacious rooms with extra beds, baby cots, and child-safe amenities. The hotel features a dedicated playroom with interactive historical exhibits, allowing kids to learn while having fun. The Albert Hotel also caters to families with special packages including free breakfast and discounted museum tickets. Both hotels are located within a 5–8 minute walk of Arthur's Seat, ensuring safe and easy access for children. Unique family programs include the "Junior Knight Adventure Quest," where kids complete themed challenges to earn a mini-trophy. Nearby attractions like Edinburgh Zoo and the National Museum of Scotland are perfect for combining a full-day outing. With convenient access to green spaces and engaging activities, these hotels make exploring Edinburgh enjoyable for all ages.
The best times to visit Arthur's Seat are early morning (6:30–8:00 AM) and late afternoon (5:30–7:00 PM). Early mornings offer soft lighting, misty valleys, and fewer crowds, ideal for photography and peaceful walks. Late afternoons provide golden-hour illumination across Castle Rock and the cityscape, creating dramatic shadows and warm hues. Winter afternoons (December–February) on clear days offer exceptional visibility, with views stretching to the Firth of Forth and distant hills. Avoid midday (10:00 AM–3:00 PM) when sun glare and large tourist groups reduce the experience. For nighttime enthusiasts, the Edinburgh Castle Lights show begins at 7:30 PM, projecting animated stories onto the castle walls—visible from the hilltop. These moments deliver unforgettable visual impact and atmospheric depth.
Start your day at Arthur's Seat with a sunrise hike to the summit for breathtaking views. Descend via the Royal Mile, stopping at St. Giles' Cathedral to admire Gothic architecture. Enjoy lunch at a riverside café on Princes Street, sampling traditional Scottish dishes like haggis and whisky-infused desserts. In the afternoon, tour Edinburgh Castle, focusing on the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Return to the hilltop in the late afternoon for another ascent to catch the golden hour light. End your day with a whisky tasting at a historic pub in Old Town and enjoy live bagpipe music. For added adventure, book a guided Underground City Tour or a ghost walk through medieval alleyways. The entire itinerary covers approximately 3 km of walking, blending nature, history, and culture—perfect for a memorable and immersive day in Edinburgh.
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