Hotel Filters
<4.0-Rated Hotels Near Lauriston Castle
Village Hotel Edinburgh
Edinburgh Church Apartments
Montgomery Apartments - Stevensons
Joivy Ultra Luxe 3Br Home Near Princes St
Eagles Land
A Georgian Residence
Palmerston Suites
Edinburgh City Suites
Oxford - New Town Apartment
Joivy Quiet Mews Street Apartment in the Heart of Edinburgh
DreamhouseApartments Edinburgh Haymarket
Edinburgh Regency Guest House
No32 Hotel
Thistle Hotel
Ibis Budget Edinburgh Park
Braid Hills Hotel
Joivy at Vita Fountainbridge - Adults Only - Breakfast Buffet
The Hostel
Lets Edinburgh
Four Points by Sheraton Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Lauriston Castle
Near Lauriston Castle in Edinburgh, highly recommended options include Hotel Indigo Glasgow and The Castle Hotel. The former is just a 15-minute walk from the castle, offering modern rooms with rooftop dining and panoramic city views, while the latter features historic architecture with select rooms showcasing views of the castle’s turrets and the Scottish Highlands.
Both properties provide complimentary parking and airport transfer services, ensuring convenient access. For unique experiences, book a guided castle tour led by expert historians, exploring hidden tunnels and royal chambers dating back to the 16th century. Don’t miss the evening light event, where the castle is illuminated with dramatic lighting, creating an immersive medieval atmosphere—perfect for photography and cultural immersion.
The easiest way to reach Lauriston Castle from central Edinburgh is via Bus 27 or 48, alighting at "Lauriston Place" and walking 3 minutes to the site. Taxis or Uber take about 10 minutes, costing £15–£20. For eco-friendly travel, rent a CityCycle bike and ride along the Royal Mile Greenway, enjoying scenic views of Old Town and the crescent-shaped gardens.
Parking is limited on-site, but nearby areas like Southside offer short-stay spots—check real-time availability using the Parkopedia app. Weekends often feature art markets and outdoor concerts in the castle square, making it ideal to combine your visit with local cultural events and experience the blend of urban life and green space.
Lauriston Castle hosts several unique cultural events annually, including the Summer Classical Music Festival, held in the castle grounds featuring renowned orchestras performing works by Bach and Mozart. Outdoor seating and tea stalls create an elegant, immersive atmosphere.
The castle also offers historical reenactment tours, where visitors dress as 16th-century nobles, participating in court rituals, letter-writing workshops, and sword demonstrations to experience Scotland’s Renaissance era firsthand.
During Christmas, the castle illuminates a massive tree and hosts a costume market selling handmade ceramics, wool blankets, and traditional Scotch whisky. All events require advance HopeGoo—purchase combo tickets via the official website for discounted entry and exclusive guided access, blending education with entertainment.
Top scenic hotels near Lauriston Castle include Wyndham Edinburgh City Centre and Old Town House Boutique Hotel. The former features floor-to-ceiling windows offering direct views of the castle’s towers and Scottish hills, plus a rooftop bar perfect for sunset vistas.
The latter is nestled within Edinburgh’s Old Town alleys, with a courtyard combining ancient stone walls and contemporary greenery—morning light filters through trees onto cobbled paths. Both hotels are within a 8-minute walk of the castle and near the Edinburgh Subway Station, providing free luggage storage and travel concierge services.
Guests can book an early-morning castle tour during off-peak hours, allowing private exploration of historical chambers with fewer crowds, delivering a more intimate and memorable experience.
The top choice near Lauriston Castle is the Lauriston Castle Hotel, a beautifully restored 19th-century castle offering a unique historic castle stay. Each room blends period charm with modern comfort, and some feature panoramic views of the castle grounds and Edinburgh's skyline.
The hotel also boasts an elegant restaurant and bar, serving authentic Scottish cuisine in a refined setting. Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Edinburgh Airport via bus or taxi, it’s ideal for guests exploring the city and surrounding highlands.
Travelers can take Bus 23 or 36 from central Edinburgh, alighting at Hillside stop, then walk about 10 minutes to reach Lauriston Castle. For greater convenience, HopeGoo a taxi or Uber takes around 15 minutes and offers scenic views of west Edinburgh’s greenery.
Some tour operators also provide guided tours with private transfers, perfect for visitors seeking an immersive experience of the area’s history and architecture.
Near Lauriston Castle, visitors can enjoy several distinctive experiences: guided castle tours revealing its architectural heritage and aristocratic past; afternoon tea in historic halls, featuring homemade scones and fine pastries; and summer outdoor concerts and cultural festivals blending art and nature.
History enthusiasts may also join Victorian lifestyle workshops, where they can explore period home life, dress codes, and traditional crafts in an immersive setting.
Yes, Lauriston Castle Hotel is highly suitable for families, offering family-friendly rooms including interconnecting suites and child-friendly amenities like cribs and baby cutlery. The hotel features a secure courtyard garden and hosts engaging activities such as castle scavenger hunts and gardening workshops that educate children through play.
Its proximity to the Edinburgh Science Museum and Glasgow Botanic Gardens makes it a convenient base for family outings, ensuring a memorable and enriching trip.
Top photo locations near Lauriston Castle include the front façade with its Gothic spires and stone masonry, creating a dramatic backdrop; the fountain plaza in the castle gardens, lush with seasonal blooms and perfect for soft lighting shots; and the hilltop viewpoint overlooking the estate, ideal for sweeping panoramic photos.
Visit during early morning or golden hour for gentle light that enhances architectural details and adds a timeless aesthetic to your images.
Yes, during summer months—typically June to August—Lauriston Castle hosts nighttime illumination events, featuring vintage-style lighting that transforms the castle into a dreamlike landmark. These evenings include guided night tours with storytelling and live music performances, immersing visitors in Scottish legends.
Some events offer stargazing dinners under the open sky, combining gourmet meals with local wines, making it a truly magical experience for couples and history lovers alike.
The breakfast at Lauriston Castle Hotel features locally sourced ingredients, offering a rich English breakfast with freshly baked bread, artisanal jams, smoked salmon, and regional ham. The standout dish is the castle-exclusive scone, served with seasonal preserves and clotted cream—soft, sweet, and perfectly textured.
All ingredients come from nearby farms, emphasizing freshness and sustainability. Meals are served in the grand hall with a roaring fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows, evoking the elegance of a royal breakfast experience.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Lauriston Castle
Village Hotel Edinburgh
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.
Palmerston Suites
The family-friendly suite was spacious enough for our group of four, offering plenty of room to move around without feeling cramped. Its location is unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk to the train station and a short 8 to 10-minute stroll to the high street. Whether you're catching a train or exploring local shops and cafes, everything is within easy reach. The hotel itself felt clean, quiet, and well-maintained, making it a perfect base for our stay in Edinburgh. Highly recommend for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in a central spot.
Edinburgh City Suites
The location is perfect—just a short walk from many of Edinburgh’s top attractions, and literally steps away from tram and bus stops, making it super easy to explore the city or head to the airport without needing to worry about rain or long walks. The apartment-style layout is ideal for longer stays, offering plenty of space and a home-like feel. The unit was spotless, secure, and well-maintained, with thoughtful touches like a washing machine (no dryer, but drying racks were provided—very practical). It’s quiet, comfortable, and had everything we needed for both short getaways and extended trips. Great value, great vibe, and definitely a place I’d stay again.
Edinburgh Regency Guest House
I stayed at Edinburgh Regency Guest House during a really tough time, and I can't recommend it for anyone. The staff were polite enough, but the owner clearly doesn’t care about guests’ wellbeing. The rooms are extremely run-down — peeling paint, worn-out furniture, and poor maintenance everywhere. I found signs of rodents and even had worms come out of the shower tray, which was deeply unsettling. I was told it wasn’t harmful to my kids, but how can you trust that when the place is so neglected? There were also uninvited individuals staying there, and my children witnessed and overheard disturbing things — completely unacceptable for a family-friendly space. The owner claims he’d never live in these conditions with his own family, but if that’s true, why allow such a place to operate this way? It’s clear money is the only priority here. This isn’t just a bad stay — it’s unsafe, unsanitary, and utterly disappointing. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone, especially not with children.
No32 Hotel
The room at No32 Hotel was beautifully designed with a modern, stylish touch—super comfortable bed, crisp linens, and high-quality towels made for a relaxing stay. The entire property feels freshly renovated and impeccably clean throughout. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service—they truly made us feel at home. Located just a 5-minute walk from Haymarket tram stop, it’s super convenient for getting around Edinburgh. Plus, there are some excellent cafés nearby and the hotel’s own bar is a real highlight—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. We had such a great experience that we’re already planning to return.
Thistle Hotel
The Thistle Hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from the Christmas market, Princess Street, and Royal Mile. The convenience of being steps away from all the main attractions made our stay incredibly enjoyable. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit, though we did have to leave the key at reception during check-out since no one was available. That said, it didn’t take away from the overall excellent experience. The hotel is safe, quiet, and well-maintained—ideal for travelers who value comfort and location. I’d highly recommend this place for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Braid Hills Hotel
The Braid Hills Hotel offers a fantastic location—perfect for exploring Edinburgh without needing to worry about parking. We took the bus into the city centre, which was super convenient. The hotel itself is clean and well-maintained, even if it has a bit of vintage charm with its slightly worn character. That said, it’s part of what makes the place feel unique and welcoming. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay. It’s not flashy, but it delivers great value and a genuine local vibe. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a comfortable, authentic experience in Edinburgh.
Joivy at Vita Fountainbridge - Adults Only - Breakfast Buffet
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.
The Hostel
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.
Lets Edinburgh
Staying at this apartment was a disappointing experience despite the convenient location in Edinburgh city center. We were assigned to unit 3 in block 4, and while the view from the bedroom window overlooking Haymarket station was nice, everything else fell far short of expectations. The entrance was dark and filthy, with poor lighting making it hard to navigate. The apartment itself felt neglected—cleaning was inadequate, kitchen units were damaged, and walls had visible cracks that were only patched without repainting. There were burn marks on the bedroom cabinet, peeling paint on furniture and light switches, and basic fixtures like the bath plug were missing entirely. The bathroom radiator was rusty and grimy, floor tiles were cracked, and even the plates were chipped. It’s clear this place hasn’t been properly maintained or inspected in years—possibly not since the early 2000s. We requested a price reduction due to the condition, but our request was firmly denied. While the local agent handling key collection was polite and helpful, they had no authority to fix any issues. Overall, the quality doesn’t match the price, and unless you’re looking for a budget option with very low standards, I’d strongly advise against booking here.
Four Points by Sheraton Edinburgh
Staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Edinburgh was an absolute highlight of my trip to Scotland. The value for money is outstanding—especially considering the level of service and amenities offered. Upon check-in, I was upgraded to a larger room and received a complimentary breakfast for two, featuring a delicious continental spread. The hotel's location is ideal: just a short taxi ride or quick metro transfer from all major attractions, including the historic Old Town, Royal Mile, and museums. Friendly staff, clean rooms, and a great atmosphere made this stay truly memorable. If you're visiting Edinburgh, this is definitely a top pick—I'd stay here again in a heartbeat.
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.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations