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4.0-Rated Hotels Near Great Hall
Step into The Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle, where history whispers through the stone walls—flickering torchlight dances across ancient arches, and every footfall echoes with the legacy of Scottish royalty. This isn’t just architecture; it’s a living storybook. One brick, one tale, waiting for you to uncover it.
voco Edinburgh - Royal Terrace
Kildonan Lodge Hotel
Holyrood Aparthotel
Stewart by Heeton Concept – Aparthotel Edinburgh
Destiny Student - Holyrood (Brae House)
Classy Historic Edinburgh Apartment
Broughton Market Studios and Apartments
89 the Merchants- Chic Aparthotel by the House of Danu
Modern Two Bedroom Apartment
Adam Drysdale House
Bonnie Hotel
Stylish Modern Apartment
Cadell House Apt - Royal Mile
Elforma - Barony Suite
Grosvenor Suites
30 Castle Street Aparthotel
Luxury Modern Penthouse Private Rooftop
Joivy Amazing Location! - Lovely Rose St Apt in New Town
Royal Mile Apartments by Joivy
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Great Hall
The Balmoral Edinburgh is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from The Great Hall on St. Andrew Square. This luxury five-star hotel features elegant Victorian architecture, spacious rooms with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline, and a renowned Royal Tea Room serving traditional English afternoon tea.
Another excellent option is Cameron House, known for its exceptional service and award-winning French-inspired cuisine, along with a tranquil spa. Both hotels offer convenient access via footpaths and public transport, making them ideal for visitors exploring The Great Hall and surrounding historic sites.
The most convenient options are taking the Edinburgh Tram or walking. From major hubs like Edinburgh Waverley Station, the tram reaches St Andrew Square Stop in just 10 minutes, with a 3-minute walk to The Great Hall. Bus routes such as 20, 26, and 48 also stop nearby at "St Andrew Square".
Additionally, many attractions in central Edinburgh are within walking distance. The area around The Great Hall features pedestrian-only zones, making it easy to explore on foot. Cycling via Lo-Cycle bike-sharing is another eco-friendly and efficient alternative, especially for short trips across the city center.
Near The Great Hall, visitors can join live lectures and historical tours organized by the Edinburgh Festival, offering insights into Scotland’s rich oratory tradition and political heritage. During summer, the venue hosts classical concerts under its grand dome, featuring works by Bach and Mozart in an atmospheric setting.
The nearby Edinburgh City Library offers free exhibitions of rare manuscripts and interactive history workshops, ideal for families. For a taste of local life, head to the Old Town Market, where you can enjoy handmade Scottish scones, whisky tastings, and artisanal crafts. These authentic experiences provide a deep connection to Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural identity.
Staying near The Great Hall offers prime central location and immersion in Edinburgh’s rich cultural atmosphere. All hotels are situated within the historic Old Town, providing easy walking access to key landmarks such as the Parliament Building, Edinburgh Castle, and Royal Mile.
Many properties offer private guided tours led by expert historians, diving into Scotland’s parliamentary history and architectural significance. Some luxury hotels even feature private event halls, perfect for intimate dinners or business meetings. With shops, restaurants, and attractions just steps away, guests enjoy instant convenience—truly experiencing "one step, one scene" travel at its finest.
Yes! The Dome Restaurant, located adjacent to The Great Hall, is highly recommended for families. It offers well-balanced, kid-friendly meals such as Scottish haggis stew and homemade fish pie, complete with child-sized chairs and activity tables.
Another great option is The Royal Garden Café, nestled within Edinburgh City Park with scenic views of the castle. It serves simple sandwiches, warm soups, and healthy desserts—perfect for a relaxed family picnic. Both restaurants accept advance bookings and feature barrier-free access for strollers and wheelchairs.
On weekends, they often host children’s craft workshops, allowing kids to learn traditional Scottish skills while enjoying a safe, welcoming environment.
Use official platforms such as the Edinburgh Tourism Website, HopeGoo, or HopeGoo, searching for keywords like "Historic Centre Stay" or "Great Hall View Rooms," filtering results with ratings above 4.5 and verified guest photos.
Some hotels offer themed suites—such as "Parliament History Suite" or "Victorian Elegance Room"—featuring original fireplaces and antique furnishings, available for direct HopeGoo via their websites. Guests can also add extras like guided tours or afternoon tea packages to enhance the experience.
It's advisable to book at least two months in advance, especially during the summer Edinburgh Festival, when demand is high and availability limited. Early planning ensures access to premium accommodations with exceptional value.
The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from The Great Hall and offering stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the historic city skyline. This luxury hotel features Victorian-era elegance, spacious rooms with panoramic windows, and personalized butler service. Guests can enjoy an exquisite afternoon tea in the grand lounge, blending tradition with modern comfort.
Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh offers a more contemporary experience, situated within a 10-minute walk of The Great Hall. It boasts state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a premium fitness center, and direct access to the Royal Mile and the Scotch Whisky Experience. Its central location makes it ideal for both business travelers and tourists seeking convenience and quality.
Both properties provide exceptional accessibility, historical ambiance, and premium amenities, making them perfect bases for exploring The Great Hall and the heart of Edinburgh.
The most convenient station for accessing The Great Hall is Edinburgh Waverley Station, Scotland's largest railway hub. It connects major cities including London, Glasgow, and Aberdeen via National Rail services. After exiting the station, walk south along the Royal Mile for about 12 minutes to reach The Great Hall.
Local bus routes such as 300, 301, and 302 also serve the area, stopping near The Great Hall or Old Town Hall. For airport arrivals, the Airport Bus 200 runs directly to Waverley Station, taking approximately 30 minutes with minimal transfers.
Waverley Station is not only a transportation hub but also surrounded by restaurants, boutiques, and historic landmarks, offering travelers a rich pre-arrival experience in the heart of Edinburgh’s cultural district.
Near The Great Hall, don’t miss the Edinburgh International Festival performances held outdoors, where world-class theater and music companies showcase cutting-edge productions in open-air stages. A short 5-minute walk leads to the University of Edinburgh Library, housing rare manuscripts and ancient texts that reflect centuries of academic heritage.
Visit Old Town Square to enjoy live traditional Scottish bagpipe music daily, and savor local favorites like smoked salmon tartare or haggis pie at nearby eateries. Architecture enthusiasts should join a guided tour inside The Great Hall to explore its neoclassical design and its role as a 19th-century civic center.
On weekends, consider the Edinburgh Ghost Walk, a captivating night tour led by expert guides through shadowy alleys, revealing dark tales, criminal histories, and urban legends. These immersive experiences deepen your understanding of the rich cultural legacy surrounding The Great Hall.
Yes, Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre is a great family-friendly option located within walking distance of The Great Hall. It offers spacious family rooms with extra beds and cribs, a small indoor play area, free breakfast, and accessible facilities—perfect for parents traveling with children.
Another excellent choice is Hotel Indigo Edinburgh, just an 8-minute walk away, known for its creative themed rooms featuring interactive wall murals and story lights ideal for bedtime fun. The hotel hosts engaging family workshops such as "Scottish Folklore Storytime" and "Handmade Tweed Hat Making," allowing kids to learn local traditions through hands-on activities.
Nearby attractions include the Edinburgh Children’s Museum and the Royal Botanic Garden, both reachable within 15 minutes on foot. All accommodations offer safe shuttle services and parent-friendly policies, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for families.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Great Hall
voco Edinburgh - Royal Terrace
We recently stayed at this charming hotel and couldn’t be happier with our experience—truly a standout choice for anyone visiting Edinburgh. From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel welcome with genuine warmth and attention to detail. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and we both enjoyed deep, restful sleep every night. What really stood out was the exceptional service. I wasn’t feeling well during our stay, and the team went above and beyond by delivering breakfast straight to our room—a small but deeply appreciated gesture that made a big difference. It’s clear they truly care about guest comfort and wellbeing. The terrace is a real highlight—perfect for enjoying your morning meal with a view of the surrounding greenery and natural light. It’s such a peaceful way to start the day, especially on a sunny morning. Plus, the location is unbeatable: just a short walk to the city center, or a quick 5-minute bus ride if you’d rather not walk. The lounge area is spacious and cozy, with soft blankets ready for guests who want to unwind with a book or a drink after a long day exploring. It’s thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home. Overall, this hotel delivers on every front—comfort, hospitality, and convenience. We’ll definitely be back when we return to Edinburgh!
Kildonan Lodge Hotel
Staying at Kildonan Lodge Hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day of exploring Edinburgh. The room itself was clean, quiet, and well-maintained, with a cozy atmosphere that made it feel like a home away from home. One of the biggest perks? Free parking on-site, which was a major plus for us as we arrived by car. The front desk staff were warm and welcoming, always ready to help with any questions or recommendations. Best of all, the hotel is just steps from a bus stop that runs straight into the heart of Edinburgh city center—getting around was so easy and stress-free. I also appreciated the little snacks provided in the room; it was a nice touch for a quick bite without having to leave the hotel. Overall, this place offers great value, comfort, and convenience. If you're visiting Edinburgh and want a peaceful, well-located base, this is definitely worth considering.
Holyrood Aparthotel
The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Holyrood Palace and right on Royal Mile, making it super convenient to explore Edinburgh on foot. The city is small enough that most attractions are within walking distance, which is a big plus. The apartment was spacious and well-equipped with everything we needed, including full kitchenware—perfect for cooking meals and doing laundry. Right outside the door, there’s a Tesco supermarket and a Chinese convenience store, so grocery shopping is super easy. The air conditioning works really well, keeping the room cool even during warmer days. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful—they came up to the room when I had trouble using some of the equipment, which was much appreciated. As for breakfast, it’s just basic items bought from the local supermarket, so I’d suggest skipping the included breakfast and heading out to grab something fresh and affordable yourself. Overall, this place offers great value, comfort, and convenience—definitely a top choice if you’re visiting Edinburgh.
Stewart by Heeton Concept – Aparthotel Edinburgh
Staying at Stewart by Heeton Concept was a fantastic experience! The hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the train station, which is very convenient if you're arriving by rail—especially with luggage. I appreciated the baggage storage option when we arrived early; it made our day much smoother. The room was spacious and well-designed, with a full kitchenette including a washing machine, induction hob, and oven—perfect for self-catering and long stays. It felt like home away from home. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout, making check-in and any questions easy to handle. Great location, excellent facilities, and a really welcoming vibe. Definitely my top pick in Edinburgh and I’d stay here again without hesitation.
Destiny Student - Holyrood (Brae House)
This little gem in Holyrood is surprisingly well-equipped for a student hostel. The moment you step into your room, make sure to grab any essentials you need—like the small packets of salt and pepper provided for cooking. The kitchen is fully stocked with utensils, pots, and a spacious fridge, though the oven and stovetop were a bit tricky to figure out. Still, with just a microwave and kettle, I managed to heat up pre-cooked meals and cook fresh veggies—everything looked so much better than expected on the plate, and it made the meal extra satisfying. There’s also a self-service laundry facility where you can pick up detergent from reception (I brought my own, so didn’t use it—no idea if there’s a fee). Perfect for longer stays—you don’t need to pack too many clothes. Plus, the front desk can arrange a taxi to the station, which made my journey stress-free. Overall, this place delivers great value and comfort, especially for travelers who want convenience without breaking the bank.
Adam Drysdale House
The bus access was incredibly convenient—no transfers needed to get here. Although there's no on-site front desk, communication via the platform was prompt and efficient. Unfortunately, there's no luggage storage available at the property, but they provided a link to an external site that worked perfectly for holding our bags until check-in time. What truly stood out was the apartment itself—it exceeded all expectations. The space was beautifully renovated, stylishly decorated, and incredibly comfortable. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, making it a delightful stay. Highly recommend this hidden gem in Edinburgh.
Cadell House Apt - Royal Mile
Our stay at Cadell House Apt - Royal Mile was absolutely delightful. The location couldn’t be better—it’s perfectly positioned right in the heart of Edinburgh, within walking distance of all major attractions, shops, and restaurants. We appreciated how easy it was to explore the city without relying on transport. The apartment itself is spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable, offering a true home-away-from-home vibe. The hosts were incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout our visit—always ready to assist with recommendations or local tips. While a few minor updates would enhance the experience (a little TLC here and there), these small details didn’t take away from our enjoyment. Overall, this is a fantastic choice for travelers who value convenience, comfort, and a personal touch. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh!
30 Castle Street Aparthotel
The location was absolutely perfect—right across from the castle with breathtaking views! Walking to Rose Street and Princess Street was such a pleasant experience, with charming cafes and boutiques just steps away. The apartment itself was spacious, well-equipped, and offered a true home-away-from-home feel. Everything about this stay was top-notch—from the convenience of being in the heart of Edinburgh to the cozy, modern vibe of the unit. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay. Definitely returning next time!
Royal Mile Apartments by Joivy
Our stay at the Royal Mile Apartments by Joivy on High Street, Edinburgh, started with high hopes but quickly turned into a frustrating experience. From the moment we entered the apartment, we noticed a strong musty smell coming from the bathroom—when we opened the door, we discovered heavy black mold growing on the walls and tiles. The issue wasn’t limited to the bathroom: stains were visible throughout the living room and bedroom—on the carpet, sofa, curtains, and even the wall behind the bed. Furniture was damaged too—broken table, holes in the wall, and missing picture frame trim. We reported all issues immediately via the platform and gave permission for staff to come check while we were out. But when we returned, nothing had been done. We kept following up daily—multiple messages sent, no response. By day 3, we were unable to use the bathroom at all due to the unsafe conditions caused by the mold. Even cleaning the shower drain didn’t help—the smell remained. We tried DIY solutions but lacked proper mold removal products. We reported again on November 6th (6:45 PM), asked if someone would come by by 8 PM, then followed up the next morning and again at 1:30 PM—only to be told they’d already been there, assuming we’d left because our belongings weren’t visible. That made no sense—we’d barely moved anything. We asked for confirmation they actually visited number 9, but received no reply. On November 8th, we sent another message expressing clear dissatisfaction, especially since we’d already paid £110 for cleaning fees—yet still no acknowledgment. By November 9th, we checked out. No communication, no apology, nothing. We even tried reaching out again on December 8th through their website contact form—no response. The only positive? The location is excellent—walking distance to major attractions and great transport links. But overall, this was a disappointing experience. For the price, you expect basic cleanliness and maintenance. Unfortunately, that was completely lacking. Not recommended.
City Retreat Edinburgh ApartHotels
Our stay at City Retreat Edinburgh ApartHotels was truly disappointing. The only redeeming feature was the shower, but everything else fell short. The room had a strong musty smell, and it felt visibly unclean—dust on surfaces, grime on the floor, and even the bedding seemed worn. It's located in a basement unit with steep, narrow stairs that felt eerie at night, especially since the outdoor light wasn’t working. Despite notices about noise and respecting guests above, we were repeatedly woken up by loud noises from the floor above. The wallpaper was peeling off in several spots—something I’ve photographed for proof. Overall, this place failed to meet basic standards of cleanliness and comfort. The housekeeping team needs urgent improvement, and the building clearly needs renovation. This experience ruined our trip to Edinburgh. If you're looking for a decent stay, avoid this property.
DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre
Staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of the city, just steps away from major attractions and public transport hubs. I found it incredibly convenient to explore Edinburgh on foot or by train. The staff were warm, professional, and always ready to help. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, well-prepared, and varied, with both classic English options and international choices. Everything was delicious and served with a smile. From the comfortable rooms to the thoughtful touches, this stay exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Leonardo Edinburgh Haymarket
Staying at the Leonardo Edinburgh Haymarket was a fantastic experience overall. The room was larger than expected, featuring a comfortable sofa that made it feel more like a home away from home. Cleanliness was excellent—everything looked fresh and well-maintained. The in-room amenities were thoughtful: a capsule coffee machine and a fridge made mornings easy and convenient, especially for that quick caffeine fix. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—just a short walk to the train station and within easy reach of major attractions. There are plenty of restaurants and cozy bars nearby, so dinner and drinks are never an issue. The only downside is the cabinet above the tea station—it has a sharp corner that could easily cause injury if you’re not careful. It’s definitely a safety concern, especially when moving around with luggage or in low light. A simple fix like adding a soft edge cover would go a long way. Otherwise, this hotel offers great value and a welcoming atmosphere.
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