Hotel Filters
3-Star Hotels Near Martello Tower
Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End
Royal Overseas League Hotel
Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel
Historic View Apartment
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
Royal Scots Club
The Parliament House Hotel
Extremely central Quartermile apartment near Castle and University
Adria House
4KT
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre
Rose Street flat
Kick Ass Greyfriars - Adults Only - Hostel
The Haymarket Hotel
Sofia Rooms
McCrae's Bed and Breakfast
The St Valery
Edinburgh Nine
Ashgrove House
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Martello Tower
The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, located just 1.5 km from Martello Tower in central Edinburgh. Renowned for its historic elegance and exceptional service, it offers luxury accommodations and personal concierge assistance. Easy access via foot or short bus ride makes exploring the tower and nearby attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile convenient. Guests can also enjoy traditional Scottish afternoon tea and access to an on-site golf course, blending modern comfort with authentic Scottish charm.
The most convenient options are taking a local bus or renting an electric bike, both covering the 2.5-km route in about 15 minutes. For walking enthusiasts, a scenic 2.5-km hike along Falkland Road offers gentle slopes and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline and greenery. Though slightly uphill, the journey is rewarding with lush surroundings. Comfortable footwear and hydration are recommended. Nearby bike-sharing stations near the tower enhance mobility, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
Martello Tower, now part of the Edinburgh History Museum, offers guided tours revealing its role during the Napoleonic Wars and architectural design. Weekends feature reenactments of 19th-century military drills and living history exhibitions with period costumes and live demonstrations, providing an immersive experience. The observation deck offers panoramic views of western Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, combining natural beauty with historical significance—ideal for photographers. Some events require advance HopeGoo; check the official website for schedules.
The Old Bakehouse is a standout near Martello Tower, specializing in traditional Scottish cuisine using local ingredients like wild salmon, Highland beef, and craft beer. Their signature dish, **
Near Martello Tower in Edinburgh, The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, located just 500 meters away—within a 10-minute walk. This five-star hotel offers Victorian-era architecture, luxurious accommodations, and panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Highlands from its windows.
It also features an iconic Royal Afternoon Tea experience and guided tours that delve into the military history of Martello Tower. Another excellent option is The Witchery by the Castle, a boutique hotel nestled close to the tower with distinctive medieval stone walls and arched doorways, offering an immersive historical ambiance.
Both properties provide exceptional accessibility via bus or underground rail, making them ideal bases for exploring the historic site and surrounding Old Town areas.
For families visiting Martello Tower, Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre is an excellent choice, just 800 meters away—about a 12-minute walk. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a dedicated kids’ play area with safe, child-friendly facilities.
A unique feature is its interactive history scavenger hunt booklet, designed to engage children in learning about Martello Tower’s defensive systems and 19th-century military significance through fun challenges.
Nearby attractions include Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden and Princes Street Gardens, perfect for relaxed strolls with kids. The hotel also provides electric vehicle charging stations, ideal for eco-conscious families traveling with sustainable transport.
Walking from Martello Tower to Edinburgh Castle takes about 25 minutes (1.3 km) along Castle Hill Path, offering a scenic route rich in history and views.
First, pass by St Giles Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church in the heart of the Old Town, renowned for its stained-glass windows and bell tower—perfect for a quick visit.
Continue down Royal Mile, the bustling historic street lined with traditional Scottish shops, pubs, and souvenir stalls, ideal for soaking up local culture.
As you ascend toward the castle, enjoy sweeping vistas of the Firth of Forth and the city skyline. The final view of Edinburgh Castle’s red-brick fortress and towering battlements is breathtaking.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water—the path combines urban charm with natural beauty, making it a favorite among tourists and photographers alike.
Martello Tower is centrally located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, offering excellent access to public transit. The most convenient options include the Edinburgh Tram, which stops at West End Station, just a 600-meter walk away.
Alternatively, multiple city bus routes such as 45, 50, and X7 serve the area, with contactless payment and Oyster card compatibility for seamless travel.
For those who prefer walking, Martello Tower is within a 15-minute stroll of major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and St Giles Cathedral—ideal for leisurely exploration.
International visitors may opt for the Edinburgh HopeGoo Bus Tour, which provides flexible sightseeing with onboard audio guides, offering detailed insights into Martello Tower’s military past and the city’s evolution.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Martello Tower
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.
Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel
Our final night at Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel was absolutely perfect after two nights on the Royal Mile. The moment we arrived, the staff made us feel instantly welcome—friendly, attentive, and genuinely warm without any pretense. It’s rare to find a place that feels so personal and relaxing, yet still luxurious. The accommodation itself was outstanding: clean, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable. We loved the peaceful atmosphere and the unique floating experience—it’s unlike anything else in Edinburgh. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a quiet escape from the city buzz, this hotel delivers. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for something special and memorable.
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
Staying at Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh was an absolute delight. Located right on Princes Street, it's just a short walk from Scott Monument and offers stunning views of the castle and railway station from the windows. Despite being in the heart of the city, the street is surprisingly quiet—perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. The room itself was spacious and immaculately clean, with thoughtful touches that made the stay feel luxurious. I loved having breakfast while watching the light rail pass by and catching glimpses of the castle—such a unique and memorable experience. The hotel also offers convenient luggage storage if you're rushing to catch a train, which is a huge plus. With a little more reasonable pricing during peak season, this would be an ideal choice for any traveler looking for comfort, location, and charm in Edinburgh.
Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. The hotel is exceptionally clean, with a modern and welcoming atmosphere throughout. Located just steps from the city center, it’s incredibly easy to explore Edinburgh on foot—shops, restaurants, and attractions are all within walking distance. The room was compact but well-designed, with a comfortable bed and excellent lighting. Staff were friendly and helpful, offering great local recommendations. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers excellent value and a pleasant stay. Highly recommend!
Royal Scots Club
Staying at the Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh was an absolutely delightful experience. This historic property doubles as a private members' club, giving it a unique charm and old-world elegance that’s hard to find elsewhere. Our standard double room was spacious and well-appointed, featuring a comfortable large bed and a modern bathroom—despite being located on the basement level, it felt quiet and serene. The dining room was truly elegant, serving excellent meals for both dinner and breakfast with attentive service. The staff at reception were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. While the area is peaceful and slightly off the main tourist trail, it’s still within easy reach of key attractions. It’s rare to find such a refined atmosphere combined with genuine hospitality—this place feels like stepping into another era. Highly recommended for travelers seeking something special.
The Parliament House Hotel
Booked a king-size room with a quiet, non-smoking request—perfect for a peaceful stay. Despite some language barriers during check-in, the front desk staff were incredibly thoughtful and accommodating. They even offered to store my luggage and personally escorted me to the room. Everyone I met was warm and friendly, making me feel truly valued. As soon as I stepped into the room, I was blown away—the cleanliness was outstanding, the décor was fresh and modern, and the calming blue-green color scheme instantly made me feel at home. The space felt thoughtfully designed, cozy yet elegant, with attention to every little detail. It was exactly what I was looking for: a serene retreat in Edinburgh. This was one of the best stays I’ve had, and I’ll definitely come back. A huge thumbs up to the team!
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre
Staying at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly well-located just a short walk from the train station, making travel into and out of Edinburgh seamless. It’s also within easy reach of major attractions, especially Calton Hill—just a few minutes away, offering stunning views of the city. The room was spotless, neatly arranged, and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The bed was cozy, the bathroom was modern and clean, and the air conditioning worked perfectly. What stood out most was the front desk staff—they were friendly, professional, and always ready to help with local tips or any request. Their warm hospitality made a big difference. This place offers excellent value for money and is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Kick Ass Greyfriars - Adults Only - Hostel
Kick Ass Greyfriars is absolutely spotless—hands down one of the cleanest hostels I’ve ever stayed in. From the moment I arrived, I felt completely safe and welcome. The bathrooms were immaculate, fresh, and well-maintained, which made a big difference to my overall comfort. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in a breeze and going out of their way to ensure we had a great stay. The location is fantastic—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions and local cafes. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends and family, this place is a no-brainer. Clean, welcoming, and well-run—definitely a top choice for anyone visiting the city. I’ll be back.
Edinburgh Nine
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.
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!
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.
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