Kingsknowe Railway Station is Edinburgh’s gentle secret—a charming, compact hub framed by quiet neighborhoods and tree-lined streets. Just one moment on its platform can fill your soul with the serenity of small-town charm.






Everything you need to know about Kingsknowe
Located just south of Edinburgh city center, Kingsknowe offers a peaceful retreat close to natural beauty and cultural attractions. The Kingsknowe Hotel is a top choice—this charming Victorian-era building blends historic charm with modern comforts, featuring spacious rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a full Scottish breakfast. Its convenient location provides easy access to public transit, with a 5-minute walk to bus stops leading directly to Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street.
Guests enjoy proximity to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Arthur's Seat, perfect for scenic hikes or morning walks. The hotel also offers free parking and personalized travel tips, making it ideal for visitors seeking both tranquility and city accessibility. Experience authentic Scottish hospitality in a serene, leafy neighborhood.
Yes, Kingsknowe is surrounded by excellent family-friendly attractions. Just a 10-minute drive away is the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, home to over 10,000 plant species and featuring a dedicated children’s discovery garden with interactive trails and nature play areas—perfect for young explorers.
A short hike from Kingsknowe leads to Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh’s iconic volcanic hill. With well-marked paths and panoramic views of the city skyline, it’s ideal for families seeking adventure and fresh air. The climb takes about 30–40 minutes, offering rewarding vistas from the summit.
Along the way, families can stop at local cafés like The Coffee House at the Gardens, serving healthy snacks and hot drinks. A weekend trip combining nature, history, and delicious food makes for a memorable Scottish family experience.
Travel time from Kingsknowe to central Edinburgh ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The most convenient option is taking bus routes 50, 51, and 57, which stop near the area and provide direct access to Princes Street, Waverley Station, and St Andrew Square.
For greater flexibility, taxis or ride-sharing services (like Uber) are readily available, costing approximately £10–15. Self-drive travelers can use the nearby M8 motorway entrance, which connects quickly to major city attractions.
Parking is also accessible throughout the neighborhood, with ample public spaces and road-side bays. Whether for business or sightseeing, Kingsknowe offers efficient connectivity to Edinburgh’s heart, balancing convenience with ease of access.
Yes, Kingsknowe boasts several hidden culinary gems. The Old Mill Café, housed in a restored 19th-century mill, offers artisanal pastries, seasonal desserts, and specialty coffee in a tranquil, rustic setting—ideal for a relaxing afternoon break.
Another standout is Hillside Bistro, renowned for its creative British cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Try their smoked Scottish salmon or slow-cooked beef rib, paired with an expertly curated wine list for a refined dining experience.
For a taste of community life, visit the Kingsknowe Farmers’ Market (held monthly), where local producers showcase fresh produce, handmade cheeses, and baked goods. These venues not only deliver exceptional food but also reflect the warmth and authenticity of this vibrant South Edinburgh neighborhood.
See what other travelers say about Kingsknowe

The breakfast buffet was exceptionally well-rounded and delicious—plenty of options and great quality. The location is perfect for exploring the city on foot, with major attractions just a short walk away. The staff were incredibly helpful, responsive, and genuinely friendly throughout our stay. Being an adults-only property added to the peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway without distractions. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are top priorities here. Highly recommend this charming hotel for anyone visiting Edinburgh.

Perfect spot for a weekend getaway whether traveling solo or with a group of friends. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Edinburgh, surrounded by great dining options and walking distance to all major attractions. The hostel itself is spotless and well-maintained, with a friendly, welcoming vibe from the moment you step in. I arrived late on Friday night, and Rayna, who was at reception, kindly paused her dinner to check me in, show me to my bunk, explain the rules, and give me a quick tour of the facilities—so thoughtful and warm-hearted. I’d forgotten my UK plug adapter, and instead of making me stress, both Rayna and Sarah let me charge my phone securely at the front desk. Huge plus! The bathrooms were clean, had consistent hot water, and even though the hostel was full, there were enough facilities that we never had to wait in line. The staff made the whole experience special—genuine, helpful, and always ready to chat. I loved the atmosphere, the community feel, and the attention to detail. This isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a real home away from home. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh.

Staying at Belford Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Edinburgh! The place is incredibly clean and comfortable, with a standout feature being the spacious and immaculate restroom—definitely one of the best I've ever used in a hostel. The atmosphere is welcoming, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the location is perfect for exploring the city center by foot or public transit. I loved the cozy vibe, great amenities, and how well-maintained everything felt. It’s rare to find such a high-quality budget stay, and I’d absolutely recommend this place to any traveler looking for comfort, cleanliness, and value. Would book again without hesitation!

The stay was absolutely fantastic! The residence is spotlessly clean with all the essentials you'd need—great beds, functional furniture, and excellent soundproofing that made for a peaceful night's sleep. The staff were incredibly welcoming and always ready to help with any request, making the whole experience feel personal and stress-free. Located just steps away from the university, it’s super convenient for commuting via public transit. Plus, there are plenty of cafes, grocery stores, and local spots nearby. I can’t recommend this place enough—it’s perfect for students looking for comfort, convenience, and value. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I’m in Edinburgh!

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.

Staying at The Roseate Edinburgh was a truly memorable experience. While it didn’t stand out dramatically over our previous night’s accommodation, the unique charm of being housed within a historic castle made all the difference. The atmosphere is quiet and serene—perfect for unwinding after a busy day exploring the city. Rooms were clean, well-appointed, and surprisingly peaceful, with excellent sound insulation. The surrounding area is pleasant too—cozy cafés, local shops, and easy access to public transport make getting around hassle-free. It’s not just a place to sleep; it feels like stepping into a story. Great value, great location, and an unforgettable stay overall.

Staying at the Britannia Edinburgh Hotel was a pleasant surprise, especially since it’s a bit outside the city center—though that’s actually one of its biggest perks. The hotel is tucked away in a quiet area with a large park right next door, perfect for morning walks. My parents loved strolling through the fresh air each day, and the peaceful vibe made our stay feel like a real retreat. A short walk takes you to Dean Village, which has such a charming, rural feel compared to the bustling city. The room itself was unremarkable but comfortable—nothing fancy, but clean, well-maintained, and had all the essentials. It’s not flashy, but it works perfectly if you’re after a calm, relaxing base. Plus, getting into the city by public transport is easy. Overall, this place offers a great balance between tranquility and convenience—ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds without sacrificing accessibility.

Staying at Village Hotel Edinburgh for three nights was an absolute delight. The location is super convenient—just a short metro ride into the city center, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The room was spotless, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful sleep every night. I especially appreciated the 24-hour fitness center—it's well-equipped and perfect for early morning workouts or late-night sessions. The on-site bar has a cozy, inviting vibe with soft background music, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The common areas are clean and well-maintained, adding to the overall pleasant atmosphere. With its great value and excellent amenities, this hotel stands out. I’d definitely return and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a comfortable, lively stay.

Since traveling to Europe has been a bit risky lately, I decided to go for the next best thing—Scotland. The Piries Hotel is perfectly located near Haymarket Station, just a short walk into the heart of the city, with trams and buses nearby. That said, the room was extremely basic and not at all what I expected when booking. It was also quite noisy because it’s situated right at the base of the stairs leading up to the upper floors. To make matters worse, the hotel charged me twice for the same stay—six weeks apart. I’ve reached out via phone and email, but they’ve refused to respond or explain what went wrong. Honestly, despite the great location, I can’t recommend this hotel under any circumstances. I’ve traveled extensively around the world and have never experienced anything like this before. It’s hard to believe this happened, and I’m left wondering if this is a common issue or just an isolated incident.

The location is unbeatable—everything worth seeing in Edinburgh is just a short walk away, from the castle to historic streets and museums. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service and genuine attention to detail. I felt welcomed from the moment I arrived. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly comfortable—perfect for a relaxing stay after a day of exploring. Cleanliness, convenience, and hospitality all at top level. This is exactly the kind of hotel I’d recommend to anyone visiting Edinburgh, and I’ll definitely be returning.

I truly miss this hotel—it was such a gem! Sure, the building feels a bit dated and the corridors can be a little maze-like, but the breakfast absolutely blew me away. It easily outshined what many higher-rated luxury hotels serve. The location is unbeatable—just a 3-minute walk from Haymarket train and tram station, with access to at least 20 bus routes. You’re never far from anywhere in the city. And on top of all that, it was incredibly affordable—seriously one of the best values I’ve ever experienced. This place felt like an old lady who’s lost her spotlight but still carries grace and warmth. I’m genuinely excited to see what the new building will bring, hoping they preserve the soul and charm that made it so special.

The location of City Rooms Edinburgh is excellent—very convenient for getting around the city by metro. The bed was comfortable, which was a plus. However, during our five-day stay, the room was never cleaned at all—even the bathroom remained untouched. The carpeted floor was another issue; it’s hard to keep clean and feels unhygienic. It’s disappointing, especially considering the price. I wouldn’t recommend this place, and if I ever return to Edinburgh, I’ll definitely look for a different hotel.
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