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Step into Slateford, and you’ll discover a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Edinburgh—far more than just a shopping district, it’s a living, breathing urban tapestry. Old-world charm meets modern flair: cozy cafés spill out onto cobbled streets, vibrant street art pops from every corner, and the air hums with creativity. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind design piece or sipping a perfect flat white in a quiet nook, this is where Edinburgh feels most alive. Look up at the weathered facades—they’ve seen decades of stories unfold. Slateford isn’t just a place on the map; it’s a feeling of warmth, belonging, and quiet joy.
Everything you need to know about Slateford
For a premium stay near Slateford, The Balmoral Hotel is ideal—just a 5-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle and offering panoramic views of the Scott Monument and Princes Street Gardens. This five-star luxury hotel blends Victorian elegance with modern comfort, featuring spacious rooms, an award-winning spa, and traditional afternoon tea. Complimentary shuttle service connects guests to major attractions, making it perfect for travelers seeking both convenience and heritage-rich experiences in central Edinburgh.
It takes about 15 minutes on foot from Slateford to Edinburgh Castle, passing through scenic Princes Street Gardens—a safe and pleasant route. For faster access, take local buses (e.g., routes 10, 24) or use the Edinburgh Trams, alighting at Haymarket Station and walking just 8 minutes. The area enjoys excellent public transport connectivity, making it highly accessible—ideal for travelers with luggage or mobility needs seeking a seamless journey between neighborhoods and iconic landmarks.
Near Slateford, visitors can explore the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the National Museum of Scotland, both offering guided tours on Scottish history and biodiversity. Weekends feature vibrant outdoor art markets showcasing local ceramics, fashion, and hand-painted artworks. Literature lovers should stroll along the Writer’s Walk near the Scott Monument, immersing in the legacy of Romantic-era authors. These experiences blend nature, creativity, and heritage, highlighting Edinburgh’s rich cultural diversity and artistic spirit.
Near Slaterfield, Edinburgh, the top choice is The Balmoral Hotel, offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle just a 10-minute walk away. This luxury hotel features Victorian-era architecture, spacious rooms with private balconies, and panoramic vistas of the Scottish Highlands. Guests enjoy access to a world-class spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant, blending historical charm with modern elegance. Conveniently located near Edinburgh’s main bus terminal and tram lines, it ensures easy access to all cultural attractions and shopping districts within Slaterfield and beyond.
The most convenient way to travel from Slaterfield to Edinburgh city centre is via the Edinburgh Tram, which stops at Waverley Station in just 15 minutes. Alternatively, take local buses such as routes 30 or 32, which pass through major commercial and cultural landmarks, ideal for sightseeing. For a scenic option, walking along the Royal Mile takes about 20 minutes southward into the heart of the city. Many nearby hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services—check in advance to save time and energy while exploring key attractions around Slaterfield and the historic core.
Near Slaterfield, visitors can explore the Old College of the University of Edinburgh, immersing themselves in Scotland’s academic heritage. Strolling through St Giles' Cathedral Square offers a chance to admire stunning Gothic architecture. During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, outdoor performances bring global talent to life in vibrant street shows. Additionally, local whisky tasting tours in historic cellars allow guests to sample limited-edition Scotch whiskies. These experiences blend history, art, and regional tradition, highlighting Slaterfield’s role as a cultural hub within Edinburgh.
Yes, several hotels near Slaterfield are family-friendly, including Holiday Inn Edinburgh City Centre, which offers family rooms, dedicated children’s play areas, and free breakfast. Many provide kid-friendly activities such as craft workshops and castle tours. Their proximity to attractions like Edinburgh Zoo and the Royal Botanic Garden makes them ideal for family visits. All properties feature barrier-free access and child-safe facilities, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for travelers of all ages.
Yes, Slaterfield offers numerous photogenic locations: the Edinburgh Castle's stone walls silhouetted against morning mist, the intricate Gothic spires and stained-glass windows of St Giles' Cathedral, and the colorful facades along Royal Mile with lively street performers. The best time to capture dramatic shots is during golden hour atop Castle Rock, where light enhances the cityscape. Don’t miss Princes Street Gardens—its fountains, sculptures, and manicured lawns create elegant backdrops. These iconic spots frequently appear in travel magazines and social media, making them must-visit photo destinations.
Some hotels near Slaterfield provide free parking, such as Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre and ibis Edinburgh City Centre, though reservations are recommended. Due to narrow streets in central Edinburgh, staying near metro stations or large car parks is advised to avoid parking difficulties. While premium hotels may not offer free parking, they often secure discounted rates. For self-drive visitors, using the City Parking App helps locate real-time availability. Many hotels also provide valet parking, enhancing convenience for guests arriving by car.
Near Slaterfield, the Oxford Street Bar District offers a vibrant mix of independent pubs and live music venues, perfect for an energetic night out. Along Royal Mile, jazz bars and whisky specialist lounges provide intimate, immersive experiences for those who enjoy refined evenings. For festive vibes, join outdoor parties during the Edinburgh International Festival or enjoy impromptu performances at Castle Square. These spots are easily accessible, often feature late-night drink deals, and are ideal for discovering the dynamic nightlife scene of Edinburgh.
See what other travelers say about Slateford
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!
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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