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Destiny Student Group 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.
Destiny Student – Murano (Campus Accommodation)
Destiny Student - Holyrood (Brae House)
Destiny Student – Shrubhill (Campus Accommodation)
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
Destiny Student – Murano (Campus Accommodation)
Staying at Destiny Student – Murano was a fantastic experience! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short bus ride from campus, and right outside the hostel are supermarkets and plenty of restaurants, so grocery shopping and dining out are super easy. The room is small but perfectly functional, with a comfortable bed that made for a great night's sleep. I brought my own towel and toiletries, which worked out fine, but they also offer basic bath amenities at reception if needed. Compared to other expensive hotels in Edinburgh, this place feels like a breath of fresh air—affordable, clean, and well-located. If I’m back in town for university, I’d definitely choose this again. Highly recommend it for students or budget-conscious travelers!
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.
Destiny Student – Shrubhill (Campus Accommodation)
I stayed here for a week and was genuinely impressed with the overall experience. The place is clean, cozy, and well-maintained—exactly what you’d want from a student accommodation in Edinburgh. At first, the mattress felt a bit too soft, but I soon realized it’s a two-sided one, and flipping it made a noticeable difference. That little detail shows how thoughtful the setup is. The surrounding area is super convenient—there are plenty of shops nearby for groceries and essentials, and the kitchen is fully equipped with clean utensils and appliances, perfect for cooking your own meals. Public transport is just steps away: buses and trams run regularly, and it’s only two stops to the city center—ideal for exploring without hassle. The only minor downside is the sound insulation, which isn’t great—but honestly, that’s common across many UK hostels and guesthouses, not unique to this property. Overall, it’s a fantastic value-for-money option with a welcoming vibe and excellent location.
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.
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.
Princes Street Suites
Staying at Princes Street Suites was an absolute delight from the moment I arrived. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Edinburgh’s main attractions, including the Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat, with easy access to public transit. What truly amazed me was the building’s unique design: stepping into the basement via the elevator revealed a striking view of towering structures outside the window, almost like being in a modern urban landscape. Inside, the room was immaculate, well-equipped, and comfortable, with a cozy bed and a spacious bathroom. Everything matched my expectations—and then some. The overall experience was exceptional, and I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a convenient, stylish, and thoughtfully designed stay in Edinburgh, this is the place to be.
The Scotsman Hotel
I was originally booked into the Indigo Hotel in Edinburgh, but due to unexpected renovations and no prior email notification about room changes, I was redirected to The Scotsman Hotel at check-in—literally across the street. Honestly, I was frustrated at first, as it felt like a downgrade in both price and quality. But stepping into The Scotsman completely changed my mind. From the moment I arrived, the welcome was warm and genuine—the staff were attentive without being pushy, even offering a complimentary champagne upon arrival. My room was cozy and beautifully decorated, with a calming colour scheme that made it perfect for unwinding after a long day. I also appreciated how they went out of their way to explain all the hotel’s amenities, including their stylish cocktail bar. It’s a real gem with a classy vibe, though it closes early at 11 PM, which is a bit disappointing if you’re looking for a late-night drink. Overall, despite the initial stress, this stay turned out to be one of the best parts of my trip. Great location, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere—definitely worth staying at again.
Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre was a fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions, shopping streets, and restaurants. The room was spacious, modern, and very comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The only downside was the Wi-Fi connection, which was extremely weak and often unreliable. I ended up using my mobile data for most of the time. Despite that small issue, the hotel offers excellent value for money, great service, and an ideal spot for exploring the city. Highly recommended for travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort.
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
Staying at The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. What truly stood out was the outdoor terrace—overlooking the heart of Edinburgh’s skyline with stunning views that made every morning and evening feel special. The service was exceptional too—staff went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail, making us feel welcomed from the moment we arrived. Every interaction felt personal and thoughtful. This hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and charm, and it’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a memorable, high-quality stay.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Absolutely loved my stay at Apex Waterloo Place Hotel! The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk to all the main attractions. I was able to explore the city on foot every day without needing transport. The room was spotless, comfortable, and quiet—perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. The whole atmosphere felt clean and well-maintained, with a nice touch of modern elegance. For anyone visiting Edinburgh, this is a top choice. Great value, great comfort, and an unbeatable central spot. Would definitely book again.
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