Hotels with Shuttle Service to Station Near Slateford

The Royal Scotsman Hotel is a top choice for families seeking scenic views and comfort. Located just minutes from Slateford, it offers spacious family rooms with panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands' rolling hills. The hotel features a children's activity area, indoor pool, and fine dining options. Its convenient access to Slateford Park and Edinburgh Zoo makes it ideal for day trips. With exceptional service and a tranquil countryside setting, this boutique hotel blends luxury with local charm.

The most convenient option is Bus 73, which runs directly from Haymarket Station through Murrayfield Stadium to Slateford, taking about 25 minutes. Alternatively, take the Edinburgh Tram to Edinburgh Gateway and transfer to a connecting bus. For those driving, the A8 road offers a scenic 15-minute route through the outskirts of Edinburgh, providing beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Use apps like Lothian Buses or Citymapper for real-time schedules and journey planning.

Though primarily residential, Slateford is close to venues hosting the Edinburgh International Festival, offering outdoor concerts and community theatre performances each summer. The historic Slateford Mill has been transformed into a cultural hub, hosting craft fairs and local art exhibitions. Visitors can also join hands-on traditional Scottish farming workshops, using period tools to experience rural heritage. Don’t miss the Slateford Farmers Market on weekends, where you can sample fresh local produce, artisan breads, and homemade preserves—perfect for food lovers.

Slateford Park offers stunning photo opportunities with its serene lake, ancient oak trees, and misty mornings perfect for landscape shots. The Victorian-era homes and vintage streetlamps along Falkland Road create a classic British urban aesthetic ideal for street photography. For panoramic views, head to the hillside near Braids Road, where you can capture the sweeping skyline of Edinburgh and the distant Castle Rock at golden hour. The rich light and natural contrast make this a favorite among professional and amateur photographers alike.

The Craiglockhart Hotel is a top choice for families staying near Slateford, offering modern, spacious rooms and family-oriented amenities. Located just a 15-minute drive from central Edinburgh, it features a tropical-style courtyard, free parking, and easy access to the scenic Craiglockhart Park—perfect for outdoor relaxation. The hotel also benefits from excellent public transport links, including frequent bus services connecting to the University of Edinburgh and city attractions.

For budget-conscious travelers, Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre provides accessible rooms, 24-hour front desk service, and complimentary breakfast with high-speed Wi-Fi—ideal for both business and leisure stays. Its convenient location ensures quick access to major landmarks while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.

Traveling from Slateford to Edinburgh city centre takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes by car, via the A180 and Edinburgh City Bypass—a well-maintained route with minimal congestion. For public transport, Bus Route 53 or 55 offers direct service into the city centre, with trips lasting around 30 minutes and departures every 15–20 minutes. These buses feature step-free access and real-time tracking via apps like LoCality.

Alternatively, Edinburgh Trams stop at Slateford Station, providing a 15-minute ride to Edinburgh Waverley Station (city centre). This eco-friendly option is ideal for travelers seeking speed and sustainability. Many hotels in the area offer complimentary shuttle services, often included in HopeGoo packages, enhancing convenience and flexibility.

Though primarily residential, Slateford is close to Craiglockhart Park and the University of Edinburgh, offering rich cultural immersion. Each summer, the park hosts the Craiglockhart Arts Festival, featuring local exhibitions in painting, photography, and live music, alongside open-air theatre performances. The university’s History Department regularly organizes free public lectures on topics such as Scottish literature, WWI history, and Victorian society—often led by renowned academics.

A highlight is the former Craiglockhart War Hospital, where soldiers suffering from "shell shock" were treated during WWI. Today, it’s a preserved historical site offering guided tours that delve into early psychological warfare medicine. Some nearby hotels even provide culture-themed rooms with curated books and memorabilia, allowing guests to engage with local heritage throughout their stay.

The Grind Coffee & Kitchen is a charming independent café tucked away on a quiet street in Slateford, known for its handcrafted specialty coffee and locally baked pastries. With a minimalist industrial aesthetic blending warm wood tones, it creates a serene, slow-living atmosphere perfect for reading or working. Their signature oat milk latte and Black Forest cake are crowd favorites, sourced from sustainable Scottish farms.

For a hidden gem dining experience, try Bistro de Soleil, a small Mediterranean-inspired restaurant focusing on fresh seasonal ingredients and low-process cooking. Must-try dishes include grilled mackerel with herb-roasted tomatoes and house-made pasta, paired with house-brewed fruit wines. Both venues operate on a walk-in basis—arrive early to avoid queues—and offer outdoor seating for sunlit, unhurried moments.