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4.0-Rated Hotels Near Nelson Monument
Climb to the top of Nelson's Monument, a striking white column perched on Arthur's Seat, and let the panoramic views sweep over Edinburgh like a storybook. This iconic tribute to Admiral Nelson isn’t just about naval glory—it’s your front-row seat to the city’s soul: the castle looming below, the Firth of Forth stretching into the distance, and the intricate weave of Old Town and New Town unfolding before you. Snap a photo from the summit and become part of the skyline’s legacy.
voco Edinburgh - Royal Terrace
Kildonan Lodge Hotel
Holyrood Aparthotel
Stewart by Heeton Concept – Aparthotel Edinburgh
Destiny Student - Holyrood (Brae House)
Classy Historic Edinburgh Apartment
Broughton Market Studios and Apartments
89 the Merchants- Chic Aparthotel by the House of Danu
Modern Two Bedroom Apartment
Adam Drysdale House
Bonnie Hotel
Stylish Modern Apartment
Cadell House Apt - Royal Mile
Elforma - Barony Suite
Grosvenor Suites
30 Castle Street Aparthotel
Luxury Modern Penthouse Private Rooftop
Joivy Amazing Location! - Lovely Rose St Apt in New Town
Royal Mile Apartments by Joivy
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Nelson Monument
The Smith Hotel, located just a 5-minute walk from Nelson's Monument on Castle Rock, offers exceptional value and proximity. Its modern Scottish-inspired design features panoramic windows with sweeping views of the city skyline and the monument itself. The rooftop restaurant, The Sky Bar, serves locally sourced Scottish cuisine with a view—perfect for sunset dining. Easily accessible via tram from Edinburgh Waverley Station or a 15-minute scenic walk, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and character.
The most convenient option is taking the Edinburgh Tram from Waverley Station to the "Castle Terrace" stop—just a 7-minute walk to Nelson’s Monument. For a scenic alternative, stroll up Princes Street from the city center, passing through the Royal Botanic Garden and St Giles' Cathedral, immersing yourself in Edinburgh’s historic charm. Several bus routes (including 30, 36, and 42) also serve the area, making it accessible for short trips and day visitors.
Climb to the viewing platform of Nelson’s Monument for a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Edinburgh’s Old Town and Castle Rock—especially magical at sunset. Pair your visit with a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle to explore Admiral Nelson’s legacy and naval history. During summer, the monument often hosts performances as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, offering open-air concerts and theatrical shows in a historic setting.
Edinburgh Castle Hotel is a top choice near Nelson's Column, just 1.2 km away with easy walking access. Located in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh, this hotel offers elegant Scottish-style rooms with modern amenities and panoramic views of Arthur's Seat and the illuminated Nelson's Column at night. Its prime position along the Royal Mile connects seamlessly to key attractions like Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle.
Another excellent option is Albert Square Hotel, situated directly beside the column, providing unmatched convenience with nearby bus routes leading to the city center and major sights. Both properties blend historic charm with contemporary comfort, making them ideal for travelers seeking authentic Edinburgh experiences without compromising on location or value.
A must-try experience near Nelson's Column is hiking the Arthur's Seat Trail, starting just below the monument. This 3-km path offers breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh City, the Firth of Forth, and distant hills—perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes when crowds are light and the atmosphere serene.
During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the area transforms into an open-air stage with live music, street performances, and pop-up art installations around the column, blending historical architecture with vibrant contemporary culture. For deeper insight, join a guided "Secret Stories of Edinburgh" tour, where local historians reveal lesser-known tales about Admiral Nelson, the tower’s symbolism, and its role in shaping the city’s identity—adding rich context to your visit.
The most convenient route from Nelson's Column to Edinburgh Castle is a 1.5-kilometer walk along the Royal Mile, heading north past St Giles Cathedral and the Old Town Market. The path is flat and well-paved, ideal for travelers with luggage, offering scenic views and frequent rest points along the way.
For those preferring less walking, take Bus 400 from nearby stops, alighting at "Castle Terrace" in just 8 minutes. With frequent departures and low fares, this service provides a comfortable alternative while still delivering direct access to the castle entrance. Whether you choose the historical ambiance of walking or the efficiency of public transit, both options ensure a seamless journey tailored to your travel style.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Nelson Monument
voco Edinburgh - Royal Terrace
We recently stayed at this charming hotel and couldn’t be happier with our experience—truly a standout choice for anyone visiting Edinburgh. From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel welcome with genuine warmth and attention to detail. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and we both enjoyed deep, restful sleep every night. What really stood out was the exceptional service. I wasn’t feeling well during our stay, and the team went above and beyond by delivering breakfast straight to our room—a small but deeply appreciated gesture that made a big difference. It’s clear they truly care about guest comfort and wellbeing. The terrace is a real highlight—perfect for enjoying your morning meal with a view of the surrounding greenery and natural light. It’s such a peaceful way to start the day, especially on a sunny morning. Plus, the location is unbeatable: just a short walk to the city center, or a quick 5-minute bus ride if you’d rather not walk. The lounge area is spacious and cozy, with soft blankets ready for guests who want to unwind with a book or a drink after a long day exploring. It’s thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home. Overall, this hotel delivers on every front—comfort, hospitality, and convenience. We’ll definitely be back when we return to Edinburgh!
Kildonan Lodge Hotel
Staying at Kildonan Lodge Hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day of exploring Edinburgh. The room itself was clean, quiet, and well-maintained, with a cozy atmosphere that made it feel like a home away from home. One of the biggest perks? Free parking on-site, which was a major plus for us as we arrived by car. The front desk staff were warm and welcoming, always ready to help with any questions or recommendations. Best of all, the hotel is just steps from a bus stop that runs straight into the heart of Edinburgh city center—getting around was so easy and stress-free. I also appreciated the little snacks provided in the room; it was a nice touch for a quick bite without having to leave the hotel. Overall, this place offers great value, comfort, and convenience. If you're visiting Edinburgh and want a peaceful, well-located base, this is definitely worth considering.
Holyrood Aparthotel
The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Holyrood Palace and right on Royal Mile, making it super convenient to explore Edinburgh on foot. The city is small enough that most attractions are within walking distance, which is a big plus. The apartment was spacious and well-equipped with everything we needed, including full kitchenware—perfect for cooking meals and doing laundry. Right outside the door, there’s a Tesco supermarket and a Chinese convenience store, so grocery shopping is super easy. The air conditioning works really well, keeping the room cool even during warmer days. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful—they came up to the room when I had trouble using some of the equipment, which was much appreciated. As for breakfast, it’s just basic items bought from the local supermarket, so I’d suggest skipping the included breakfast and heading out to grab something fresh and affordable yourself. Overall, this place offers great value, comfort, and convenience—definitely a top choice if you’re visiting Edinburgh.
Stewart by Heeton Concept – Aparthotel Edinburgh
Staying at Stewart by Heeton Concept was a fantastic experience! The hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the train station, which is very convenient if you're arriving by rail—especially with luggage. I appreciated the baggage storage option when we arrived early; it made our day much smoother. The room was spacious and well-designed, with a full kitchenette including a washing machine, induction hob, and oven—perfect for self-catering and long stays. It felt like home away from home. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout, making check-in and any questions easy to handle. Great location, excellent facilities, and a really welcoming vibe. Definitely my top pick in Edinburgh and I’d stay here again without hesitation.
Destiny Student - Holyrood (Brae House)
This little gem in Holyrood is surprisingly well-equipped for a student hostel. The moment you step into your room, make sure to grab any essentials you need—like the small packets of salt and pepper provided for cooking. The kitchen is fully stocked with utensils, pots, and a spacious fridge, though the oven and stovetop were a bit tricky to figure out. Still, with just a microwave and kettle, I managed to heat up pre-cooked meals and cook fresh veggies—everything looked so much better than expected on the plate, and it made the meal extra satisfying. There’s also a self-service laundry facility where you can pick up detergent from reception (I brought my own, so didn’t use it—no idea if there’s a fee). Perfect for longer stays—you don’t need to pack too many clothes. Plus, the front desk can arrange a taxi to the station, which made my journey stress-free. Overall, this place delivers great value and comfort, especially for travelers who want convenience without breaking the bank.
Adam Drysdale House
The bus access was incredibly convenient—no transfers needed to get here. Although there's no on-site front desk, communication via the platform was prompt and efficient. Unfortunately, there's no luggage storage available at the property, but they provided a link to an external site that worked perfectly for holding our bags until check-in time. What truly stood out was the apartment itself—it exceeded all expectations. The space was beautifully renovated, stylishly decorated, and incredibly comfortable. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, making it a delightful stay. Highly recommend this hidden gem in Edinburgh.
Cadell House Apt - Royal Mile
Our stay at Cadell House Apt - Royal Mile was absolutely delightful. The location couldn’t be better—it’s perfectly positioned right in the heart of Edinburgh, within walking distance of all major attractions, shops, and restaurants. We appreciated how easy it was to explore the city without relying on transport. The apartment itself is spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable, offering a true home-away-from-home vibe. The hosts were incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout our visit—always ready to assist with recommendations or local tips. While a few minor updates would enhance the experience (a little TLC here and there), these small details didn’t take away from our enjoyment. Overall, this is a fantastic choice for travelers who value convenience, comfort, and a personal touch. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh!
30 Castle Street Aparthotel
The location was absolutely perfect—right across from the castle with breathtaking views! Walking to Rose Street and Princess Street was such a pleasant experience, with charming cafes and boutiques just steps away. The apartment itself was spacious, well-equipped, and offered a true home-away-from-home feel. Everything about this stay was top-notch—from the convenience of being in the heart of Edinburgh to the cozy, modern vibe of the unit. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay. Definitely returning next time!
Royal Mile Apartments by Joivy
Our stay at the Royal Mile Apartments by Joivy on High Street, Edinburgh, started with high hopes but quickly turned into a frustrating experience. From the moment we entered the apartment, we noticed a strong musty smell coming from the bathroom—when we opened the door, we discovered heavy black mold growing on the walls and tiles. The issue wasn’t limited to the bathroom: stains were visible throughout the living room and bedroom—on the carpet, sofa, curtains, and even the wall behind the bed. Furniture was damaged too—broken table, holes in the wall, and missing picture frame trim. We reported all issues immediately via the platform and gave permission for staff to come check while we were out. But when we returned, nothing had been done. We kept following up daily—multiple messages sent, no response. By day 3, we were unable to use the bathroom at all due to the unsafe conditions caused by the mold. Even cleaning the shower drain didn’t help—the smell remained. We tried DIY solutions but lacked proper mold removal products. We reported again on November 6th (6:45 PM), asked if someone would come by by 8 PM, then followed up the next morning and again at 1:30 PM—only to be told they’d already been there, assuming we’d left because our belongings weren’t visible. That made no sense—we’d barely moved anything. We asked for confirmation they actually visited number 9, but received no reply. On November 8th, we sent another message expressing clear dissatisfaction, especially since we’d already paid £110 for cleaning fees—yet still no acknowledgment. By November 9th, we checked out. No communication, no apology, nothing. We even tried reaching out again on December 8th through their website contact form—no response. The only positive? The location is excellent—walking distance to major attractions and great transport links. But overall, this was a disappointing experience. For the price, you expect basic cleanliness and maintenance. Unfortunately, that was completely lacking. Not recommended.
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.
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.
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