
Everything you need to know about Holyrood Park
Recommended is Castle Rock Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from Holyrood Park, offering spacious family rooms and complimentary parking. Surrounded by greenery, it’s ideal for kids to explore nearby walking trails or enjoy picnics. Its proximity to the Princes Street subway station allows quick access to Edinburgh’s historic center, making it a top choice for family travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
From Holyrood Park, it’s a 10-minute walk to Princes Street Subway Station, where you can catch the Edinburgh Tram or bus routes 6 & 7 to reach downtown in just 15 minutes. Alternatively, the park has multiple bike-sharing stations, allowing a scenic 20-minute ride through the city’s historic streets, combining eco-friendly travel with stunning views of the Old Town.
Holyrood Park is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Enjoy open-air yoga sessions or summer concerts during the annual Edinburgh International Festival. The park features a children’s playground, running tracks, and a fishing pond, plus free bicycle rentals—ideal for exploring the lush landscape and scenic paths connecting to Arthur’s Seat.
Stay near Holyrood Park to immerse in Scottish heritage. Each summer, the park hosts the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Market, showcasing local artisans and street food. Just 500 meters away, Holyrood Palace offers guided tours through royal chapels and private chambers, providing a rare glimpse into British monarchy history—a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Yes, Royal Garden Hotel is a charming Victorian-style retreat nestled beside Holyrood Park, featuring private terrace rooms and a luxury spa. Guests can enjoy stargazing cocktails on the terrace, with views of Edinburgh Castle illuminated at night. The hotel also offers customized couple packages, including gourmet dinners and evening tours, creating a truly intimate and memorable experience.
Yes, Holyrood Park is well-suited for self-drivers. On-site parking options include St Andrew Square Car Park and the South Entrance Parking Garage, both equipped with 24/7 security and real-time space monitoring. From Edinburgh Airport, it’s a 25-minute drive via A901, with clear signage and recommended use of Google Maps navigation to avoid peak-hour traffic.
Recommended is The Royal Hotel Edinburgh, located directly opposite Holyrood Park’s main entrance, just a 3-minute walk away. The hotel offers spacious family rooms with baby cots, high chairs, and interconnected suites ideal for parents and children. Its prime location allows easy access to park trails, playgrounds, and nearby attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. With free parking, on-site Wi-Fi, and dedicated family concierge service, it delivers exceptional convenience and comfort for multi-generational travel. Guests also appreciate the quiet, tree-lined street setting that ensures a peaceful stay.
Start your day with a morning jog or bike ride along the scenic paths of Holyrood Park, enjoying views of the iconic Arthur’s Seat and the central fountain. Visit the nearby Palace of Holyroodhouse for a guided tour through Scotland’s royal history. Head to the Edinburgh Farmers Market for lunch, sampling local organic produce and artisan breads. In the afternoon, explore the majestic St Giles’ Cathedral, admiring its Gothic architecture and stained glass. End the day with a picnic in the park as the sun sets behind the castle skyline. All activities are within walking distance, making this itinerary effortless and immersive, perfect for experiencing Edinburgh’s blend of nature and heritage.
The Westin Edinburgh stands out for its unbeatable location—just a 5-minute walk from Holyrood Park—and features panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle from many guest rooms. The hotel boasts a rooftop garden, glass-enclosed dining area, and a modern fitness center. It’s within 10 minutes’ walk of both Edinburgh Bus Station and Princes Street Subway Station, providing seamless access to city attractions. Free luggage storage, multilingual staff, and complimentary breakfast enhance the guest experience. With its ideal mix of views, comfort, and transit connectivity, it’s a top choice for travelers seeking convenience without compromise.
Consider Heritage Hotel at Holyrood Park, a boutique property housed in a former aristocratic manor. Each suite is individually decorated with Scottish craftsmanship, featuring cozy lighting, deep soaking tubs, and private terraces overlooking the park’s lush greenery. The hotel offers private candlelit dinners upon request, crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy stargazing on the rooftop terrace or take a twilight stroll through the park’s pathways. Located just a 7-minute walk from the park entrance, this intimate retreat provides an elegant, secluded atmosphere perfect for honeymoons or anniversary getaways.
Visit Holyrood Coffee House, a charming independent café tucked just steps from the park entrance. Known for its traditional English afternoon tea set, it features premium teas from London-based brands, served with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and jam. The bright, airy interior with floor-to-ceiling windows offers a perfect view of the park’s fountains and pigeons. On weekends, they host themed events like ‘Scottish Heritage Day,’ complete with live folk music and traditional attire displays. This cozy spot combines authenticity, ambiance, and local flavor—ideal for a relaxing break between sightseeing.
Prime photography locations include the south lawn of the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the eastern stone bridge within the park. The south lawn offers dramatic compositions of the castle against rolling grass and trees, especially during golden hour. The bridge reflects the castle’s silhouette in the still water, creating striking mirror images—best captured at dawn with soft light and minimal crowds. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens for optimal results. Nearby St Giles’ Cathedral adds architectural depth to foreground shots. All these spots are within a 5-minute walk, offering photographers unparalleled access and flexibility for capturing Edinburgh’s natural and historical beauty.
See what other travelers say about Holyrood Park

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.

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.

I was completely surprised to find this was a guesthouse— the room was huge and incredibly well-equipped. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, from the modern furnishings to the fully stocked amenities. It's located just minutes from the city center, making it super convenient for exploring Edinburgh on foot or by public transit. The neighborhood is lively with great cafes and shops nearby. With such a spacious, comfortable stay at this price point, it’s an unbeatable value. I’ll definitely be returning and recommending it to friends.

Staying at Princes Street Suites was an absolute delight from the moment I arrived. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Edinburgh’s main attractions, including the Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat, with easy access to public transit. What truly amazed me was the building’s unique design: stepping into the basement via the elevator revealed a striking view of towering structures outside the window, almost like being in a modern urban landscape. Inside, the room was immaculate, well-equipped, and comfortable, with a cozy bed and a spacious bathroom. Everything matched my expectations—and then some. The overall experience was exceptional, and I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a convenient, stylish, and thoughtfully designed stay in Edinburgh, this is the place to be.

I was originally booked into the Indigo Hotel in Edinburgh, but due to unexpected renovations and no prior email notification about room changes, I was redirected to The Scotsman Hotel at check-in—literally across the street. Honestly, I was frustrated at first, as it felt like a downgrade in both price and quality. But stepping into The Scotsman completely changed my mind. From the moment I arrived, the welcome was warm and genuine—the staff were attentive without being pushy, even offering a complimentary champagne upon arrival. My room was cozy and beautifully decorated, with a calming colour scheme that made it perfect for unwinding after a long day. I also appreciated how they went out of their way to explain all the hotel’s amenities, including their stylish cocktail bar. It’s a real gem with a classy vibe, though it closes early at 11 PM, which is a bit disappointing if you’re looking for a late-night drink. Overall, despite the initial stress, this stay turned out to be one of the best parts of my trip. Great location, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere—definitely worth staying at again.

Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre was a fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions, shopping streets, and restaurants. The room was spacious, modern, and very comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The only downside was the Wi-Fi connection, which was extremely weak and often unreliable. I ended up using my mobile data for most of the time. Despite that small issue, the hotel offers excellent value for money, great service, and an ideal spot for exploring the city. Highly recommended for travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort.

Staying at The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. What truly stood out was the outdoor terrace—overlooking the heart of Edinburgh’s skyline with stunning views that made every morning and evening feel special. The service was exceptional too—staff went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail, making us feel welcomed from the moment we arrived. Every interaction felt personal and thoughtful. This hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and charm, and it’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a memorable, high-quality stay.

Absolutely loved my stay at Apex Waterloo Place Hotel! The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk to all the main attractions. I was able to explore the city on foot every day without needing transport. The room was spotless, comfortable, and quiet—perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. The whole atmosphere felt clean and well-maintained, with a nice touch of modern elegance. For anyone visiting Edinburgh, this is a top choice. Great value, great comfort, and an unbeatable central spot. Would definitely book again.

Staying at The Balmoral Hotel was an absolutely unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the location was perfect—just a five-minute walk to Calton Hill, and everything else in the Old Town, Rainbow Street, and Royal Mile was within easy reach. The hotel itself feels like a living piece of history, with elegant architecture and timeless charm. I couldn’t help but stop by room 552—the door painted a striking purple, which added such a unique touch. It’s said that J.K. Rowling found inspiration here while writing the final book in the Harry Potter series, and it’s easy to imagine why. The views from the windows are breathtaking, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. If you’re looking for a blend of luxury, history, and convenience in Edinburgh, this is the place to be. Highly recommended.

This was our first visit to Edinburgh, and we absolutely fell in love with the city—and especially with the Boatel, 'Wee Sisters'! From the moment we arrived, everything impressed us: the prime location just steps from the heart of town, the spotless cleanliness, the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the fully equipped kitchen that made cooking a breeze. The TVs were clear, the beds comfy, and the little touches—like fresh flowers and thoughtful amenities—made the stay feel extra special. It was so convenient, relaxing, and truly unique. Huge thanks to Natalie and her team for creating such a memorable experience. We’ll definitely be back!

From the moment we arrived, the warm hospitality at Kimpton Charlotte Square made our stay in Edinburgh truly special. A huge shoutout to Brian from the concierge team—he was absolutely outstanding! Not only does he speak seven languages fluently, but his knowledge of local spots and genuine kindness made every interaction a pleasure. Whether it was recommending hidden gems or helping with last-minute travel plans, he went above and beyond with a smile. His professionalism and personal touch turned what could’ve been just another hotel stay into an unforgettable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, combined with the charming atmosphere of the hotel, made this place feel like home. I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for warmth, style, and exceptional service—truly a standout in Edinburgh.

Staying at Hotel du Vin Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center, with excellent access to public transport, shops, and restaurants. I loved how easy it was to explore everything on foot. The hotel itself has a charming, elegant vibe with thoughtful details throughout. Staff were friendly and attentive without being overbearing. It’s rare to find such a great balance between comfort, style, and convenience. I’d happily return and recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
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