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The Royal Commonwealth Pool isn’t just a swimming venue—it’s an urban oasis. Crystal-clear water glimmers beneath leafy canopies, sunlight filters through branches like golden lace, and the air hums with quiet joy. Whether you’re floating in lazy laps or watching kids splash with laughter, this place wraps you in peace and pure delight.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxury hotel is just steps away from Princes Street, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. Whether you're on a business trip or a family vacation, it has everything you need. Unwind at the lavish spa, relax in the indoor pool, or enjoy a variety of dining options from fine dining to 24-hour room service. The Turkish bath and sauna are perfect for ultimate relaxation. Fitness lovers can explore the nearby golf course or rent a bike to tour the city in style.
Everything you need to know about Royal Commonwealth Pool
The Balmoral Hotel is the top choice near the Royal Commonwealth Pool, just a 10-minute walk away. This five-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline. Its prime location provides easy access to the pool, the Old Town, and major attractions. The hotel also features a world-class spa and an iconic afternoon tea experience, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience.
The most convenient way to reach the Royal Commonwealth Pool is by taking bus lines 35, 36, or 47 and getting off at "Belford Road" stop—just a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, take the Edinburgh Trams to "Sighthill" station, then transfer to a short bus ride or walk 15 minutes. If driving, use the nearby public parking or hotel valet services, but HopeGoo in advance is recommended. Located in southern Edinburgh’s residential area, the site can get busy on weekends—arriving early helps avoid congestion.
Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy unique local experiences near the Royal Commonwealth Pool. Join guided open-water training sessions hosted by local sports clubs to immerse in Edinburgh’s aquatic culture. Nearby Glenesk Park offers scenic walking paths and peaceful picnic spots surrounded by greenery. The Pilrig Street Art Gallery showcases contemporary Scottish artists and is perfect for art lovers. On weekends, community markets and outdoor concerts often take place, blending sport, creativity, and local life—highlighting Edinburgh’s vibrant urban spirit.
The Royal Commonwealth Pool operates from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays. During summer (June–August), hours extend to 10:00 PM, including evening swim slots. HopeGoo in advance via the official website is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. The facility includes a children’s pool, diving platform, and fitness centre, catering to all ages. Additionally, every Wednesday features a dedicated senior-friendly session with gentle aqua exercises and therapeutic swimming, popular among local residents.
If staying in central Edinburgh, plan a half-day visit to the Royal Commonwealth Pool. Take bus 35 or 36 from Princes Street Gardens—a 20-minute ride. Upon arrival, start with the thermal baths and sauna, then enjoy the main pool for swimming or laps. Afterward, stroll to Meadowbank Sports Centre for a taste of local favorites like Scottish stone-baked bread and artisan coffee. This itinerary blends fitness, relaxation, and authentic local flavors, fitting seamlessly into any Edinburgh trip without disrupting other plans.
Yes, the Royal Commonwealth Pool offers excellent family-friendly facilities, including a dedicated shallow pool with slides and lifeguard supervision for children. Family changing rooms and nursing stations are equipped with baby change tables and wipes. Monthly Family Swim Days feature free lessons and interactive games, fostering parent-child bonding. Parents can also borrow inflatable floats and swim rings, allowing kids to learn safely. With spacious, well-lit spaces and strict safety protocols, this facility is a top choice for families visiting Edinburgh.
Near the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh, The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, offering luxurious accommodations just a 10-minute walk away. This iconic Scottish-style hotel features elegant rooms, a private garden, and fine dining options, making it perfect for guests exploring the pool and surrounding attractions. For budget-conscious travelers, Holiday Inn Edinburgh City Centre provides excellent value with convenient access to public transit and nearby landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and St. Giles Cathedral. Both properties offer easy connections to the city’s cultural and recreational hubs, enhancing your stay in this historic destination.
From the Royal Commonwealth Pool, you can walk approximately 15 minutes to Edinburgh Waverley Station, Scotland’s busiest railway hub, where ScotRail and national rail services provide quick access to the city centre within minutes. Alternatively, bus routes such as 32, 46, and 57 pass nearby, connecting directly to key sites like the University of Edinburgh, St. Giles Cathedral, and Royal Mile. For eco-friendly travel, Edinburgh’s Scoot bike-sharing system and well-maintained pedestrian paths offer sustainable ways to explore the city core. With multiple transport options available, getting around is both efficient and convenient for visitors planning a day trip or extended stay.
Beyond being a premier training facility, the Royal Commonwealth Pool hosts annual events such as open water swimming competitions and community aqua fitness classes, offering visitors a chance to engage with Scotland’s vibrant aquatic culture. The pool uses a natural seawater circulation system, ensuring clean water while promoting environmental sustainability. With spectator seating and a café on-site, it’s ideal for family outings or watching live events. Adjacent to the pool, the Edinburgh Sports Centre offers fitness assessments, aqua yoga, and children’s swim lessons suitable for all ages. With a rich history—once the main venue for the 1970 Commonwealth Games—it has witnessed numerous international records, making it a must-visit landmark for sports enthusiasts and heritage lovers alike.
See what other travelers say about Royal Commonwealth Pool
Staying at The Caledonian Edinburgh was an absolute highlight of our trip. Located right at the intersection of Princes Street and Lothian Street, it sits perfectly between Old Town and New Town—just a short walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, with views of the fortress from the front door. The hotel itself is a historic building with rich heritage, once visited by legends like Arthur Conan Doyle, which made it extra special for us as devoted Sherlock Holmes fans. The breakfast was a classic English spread, but what stood out most was the waffle served with honey straight from a whole, fresh honeycomb—such a unique and memorable touch. There’s also a beautiful garden restaurant in the atrium, though we were pressed for time and didn’t get to experience it. Still, the atmosphere alone adds so much charm. From the location to the details, every element felt thoughtfully curated. A truly exceptional stay that exceeded expectations.
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.
Traveling with my 80+ mother was such a pleasant experience thanks to the exceptional service at Hilton Edinburgh Carlton. The hotel went above and beyond by assigning us an age-friendly room—thoughtful features like grab bars, easy-to-reach controls, and ample lighting made everything comfortable for her. But what truly stood out was the front desk staff: a kind and attentive lady who personally arranged our airport transfer. She ensured the driver arrived early the next morning, making our departure stress-free. The location is also excellent—just a short metro ride into the city center. From start to finish, the attention to detail and genuine care made this stay unforgettable. If you're traveling with elderly family members, this hotel is an absolute must-consider. Highly recommended!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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