Hotel Filters
3-Star Hotels Near Lauriston Castle
Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End
Martin's Guesthouse
B&B Edinburgh
Morningside Apartment
4KT
Merchiston Residence
The Haymarket Hotel
Edinburgh Home From Home
Ascot Garden Guest House
The St Valery
Ashgrove House
No32 Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - City West
Spylaw Bank House
Craigievar Guest House
Thistle Hotel
Ibis Budget Edinburgh Park
hub by Premier Inn Edinburgh Haymarket
22 Chester Street
Destiny Scotland -The Malt House Apartments
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
Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End
Staying at Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End was a real highlight of my trip. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center and within easy reach of public transport. While the sofa bed does take up a bit more space when unfolded, it didn’t affect my comfort at all. The breakfast options were simple but fresh and delicious—especially when I made my own waffles in the room, which turned out surprisingly tasty! There’s a great little Chinese restaurant and a supermarket right nearby, making daily essentials super convenient. Yes, the booking price was a bit on the higher side, but everything else—the cleanliness, staff friendliness, and overall vibe—made it totally worth it. I’d definitely stay here again.
Martin's Guesthouse
I wish Martin's Guesthouse were a hidden gem so we’d have the chance to return next year—because we absolutely loved it. From the moment we arrived, we felt truly welcomed and well taken care of. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the rooms are clean and cozy, and the breakfast is delicious and generous. What truly sets this place apart is the genuine kindness and attention to detail from the host—something that stands out even in Scotland’s already excellent B&B tradition. It’s not just a stay; it’s an experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Merchiston Residence
The Merchiston Residence is one of the most comfortable and cozy apartment-style stays I've ever experienced in Edinburgh. Its smart layout transforms a classic building into a modern, welcoming space without losing its charm. Perfect for a family getaway, it truly captures the essence of city living with a personal touch. I stayed here years ago and had such a great time that I wanted to return—only to find it temporarily closed. That’s really disappointing. I genuinely hope they reopen soon, because this place deserves to be back on the map as one of Edinburgh’s top urban retreats.
Ashgrove House
Staying at Ashgrove House was an absolute delight. The building itself is stunning, with a timeless charm and plenty of space throughout. We appreciated the front parking area—very convenient for those arriving by car. Our room, located at the back, was modest in size but perfectly adequate and impeccably clean. The bedding felt luxurious, and both the room and bathroom were spotless. Breakfast in the dining room was generous and delicious—served warm and full of fresh ingredients. Our host was incredibly welcoming and personable, making us feel right at home. It was a wonderful two-night getaway, and I can’t recommend this place highly enough. Thank you for such a memorable stay!
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.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - City West
The room was spacious and offered a lovely view from the window—perfect for morning coffee with a scenic backdrop. Just steps away is a large supermarket where I could easily pick up water, snacks, and everyday essentials without needing to go far. The hotel’s front door has direct access to bus stops, making travel around Edinburgh super convenient as long as you check the route direction. What truly stood out was the front desk staff—so helpful and welcoming! When I asked if they could lend me a spoon for instant noodles, the receptionist immediately handed me a full set of cutlery with a smile. That little gesture made my stay feel much more personal and thoughtful. Clean, well-located, and staff who genuinely care—this is exactly what makes a great experience. Highly recommend this Holiday Inn Express for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
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.
hub by Premier Inn Edinburgh Haymarket
The check-in process was smooth and fully self-service, which saved us a lot of time. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay—always ready to assist with any questions. Staying here during the Christmas period for under £400 per person was an incredible value, especially considering the location and quality. Being just a short walk from Edinburgh’s city center and close to public transport made exploring the area so convenient. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped. Overall, this was one of the best stays I’ve had in Edinburgh—great price, excellent service, and unbeatable convenience. I’d definitely book again and recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
22 Chester Street
Staying at 22 Chester Street was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk to the tram stop, making it super easy to explore Edinburgh. Our room was spacious, beautifully decorated, and spotlessly clean, with a modern bathroom that felt luxurious. The host was incredibly friendly and even allowed us to store our luggage for the day, which made our travel plans so much more relaxed. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered. This place offers incredible value and charm—definitely my top pick in Edinburgh and I’ll be back without hesitation.
Destiny Scotland -The Malt House Apartments
Staying at The Malt House Apartments was an absolute delight during my visit to Edinburgh. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Castle, Usher Hall, and Princess Street, making it super convenient for exploring the city on foot. I also appreciated how close it was to Haymarket Railway Station, which made my departure stress-free. The apartment itself was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, with a cozy atmosphere that made it feel like home. Perfect for a weekend getaway or even a longer stay. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a great base in central Edinburgh. Truly a gem!
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.
The Roseate Edinburgh
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.
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