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Docked peacefully by the water, the SS Explorer isn’t just a ship—it’s a story frozen in time. This historic vessel speaks of sea journeys, exploration, and Scotland’s maritime legacy. Climb aboard, take in the views of the city skyline, and let your imagination sail beyond the present—into the golden age of adventure.
This luxurious apartment is centrally located in Edinburgh, just a 12-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Enjoy free WiFi, a city-view balcony, and a fully equipped kitchen for a comfortable stay. Popular landmarks like the National Museum of Scotland and the University of Edinburgh are within walking distance. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts or golf lovers, this place has it all! With a high rating of 4.7, don’t miss out on this gem!
Everything you need to know about The SS Explorer
Near the SS Explorer in Edinburgh, The Royal Edinburgh Hotel stands out with its prime location overlooking the Firth of Forth. Just a 10-minute walk from the ship’s dock, this luxury hotel offers panoramic sea views, elegant rooms, and a fine-dining restaurant serving traditional Scottish cuisine. Guests can enjoy complimentary parking and easy access to public transit, making it ideal for day trips. The hotel also hosts exclusive historical tours led by crew members, offering deep insights into the vessel’s century-long legacy as a symbol of Scottish maritime heritage.
Travel from central Edinburgh to the SS Explorer via the City Bus 201 or Edinburgh Trams to the Leith Waterfront stop—just a 5-minute walk to the dock. If driving, use Google Maps to navigate to "SS Explorer, Leith," where dedicated parking is available nearby. Multiple public car parks surround the area. Alternatively, the Edinburgh Tram system provides direct access, minimizing travel time. Visiting during early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid crowds and witness the stunning sunset over the Firth of Forth, enhancing your experience with a touch of Scottish serenity.
Near the SS Explorer, visitors can join guided historic maritime tours that reveal the ship’s rich past and legendary voyages. During summer months, the vessel hosts nighttime light shows and live music events, blending visual art with Scottish sea culture. Photography enthusiasts should visit at sunset to capture dramatic silhouettes of the ship against the shimmering Firth of Forth. Exclusive activities include limited-edition souvenirs and interactive cabin walkthroughs, offering an immersive journey into authentic 20th-century seafaring life.
Stay at The Balmoral Hotel, a five-star luxury hotel located just a 10-minute walk from the SS Explorer. Renowned for its Victorian-era architecture and opulent interiors, this iconic property offers panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth. Its prime location makes it ideal for exploring the historical significance of the SS Explorer and experiencing authentic Scottish culture. The hotel also provides exclusive guided tours and private access to nearby heritage sites, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and discovery.
Travel from central Edinburgh via 15-minute walk along Princes Street to Edinburgh Castle Square, then follow the Firth of Forth Promenade to reach the SS Explorer dock. Alternatively, take bus routes 300 or 400 to the "Ocean Terminal" stop—just a 2-minute walk away. For greater convenience, use Uber or Citylink Airport Shuttle, which offer direct drop-off within 8 minutes. Many hotels, including The Balmoral Hotel, provide complimentary shuttle services specifically for guests, ensuring hassle-free access to the vessel’s mooring area.
Near the SS Explorer, visitors can join immersive guided tours hosted by the Edinburgh Maritime Museum, uncovering the ship’s 19th-century cargo history and Scotland’s maritime trade legacy. Weekly harbor markets feature local artisans, fresh seafood stalls, and live folk music, celebrating coastal traditions. Guests may also book themed dinner events aboard the vessel, enjoying traditional Scottish cuisine in original cabins accompanied by live classical performances. All experiences are located in the heart of Edinburgh Port Area, directly adjacent to the SS Explorer, offering an authentic and unforgettable connection to Scotland’s seafaring heritage.
See what other travelers say about The SS Explorer
Simon was an exceptional host—warm, welcoming, and always ready to help. The rooms are beautifully designed with a perfect blend of charm and comfort, and they were spotless from top to bottom. Located just a short 5-10 minute cab ride from the Royal Mile, it’s incredibly convenient without being too close to the crowds. The neighborhood itself is so quaint and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing stay. I truly enjoyed every moment here and would absolutely come back. Highly recommend this gem if you're visiting Edinburgh.
Staying at The Rutland Hotel & Apartments was an absolute delight! Located right in the heart of Edinburgh, it’s just a short walk from all major attractions—perfect for exploring the city on foot. The apartment-style rooms are spacious and well-equipped with everything you’d need, including a full kitchen, which made our stay so much more comfortable and convenient. The building is quiet and well-maintained, and the view from our room over the city was stunning, especially at night. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit. Being centrally located means you’re never far from shops, restaurants, or historic sites. It’s rare to find such a perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and value—this place truly stands out. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Jimmy and Fiona were absolutely wonderful hosts—warm, thoughtful, and genuinely attentive. Our room was spacious, beautifully decorated, and well-equipped with everything we needed. The breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and full of local touches that made it feel special. We were just a short bus ride from the city center, making exploring Edinburgh effortless. Their hospitality made the entire stay feel like coming home. I’d book again in a heartbeat—highly recommend this gem!
Absolutely loved this place! The host was incredibly friendly, the room was spotless and beautifully appointed, and the bathroom was both stylish and pristine—perfect for a restful night’s sleep. Everything was well-maintained, hygienic, and thoughtfully cared for. Breakfast options were excellent, and there are some great dining spots within walking distance—Earl Grange and Wee the Greek stood out as top picks. Plus, the bus stop is literally right outside the door, making it super easy to get into the city center. It’s such a convenient, welcoming stay with fantastic value. Highly recommend!
Staying at York Place Apartments was a fantastic experience. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions and public transit. The apartment is spacious, spotlessly clean, and well-designed with an open-concept kitchen and living area that feels airy and welcoming. I especially appreciated how the team reached out during our journey to check if an early check-in would help us—we were able to get in ahead of schedule, which made our arrival so much smoother. One bedroom is generous, featuring a king-size bed and two singles, while the second room is smaller but still functional with a double bed. The main bathroom is a standout—spacious with a shower, sink, and toilet, all in excellent condition. The sofa bed in the living area is a great bonus for extra guests. Overall, this is a top-tier choice for a quick city break. Clean, convenient, and thoughtfully managed—it’s clear the team cares about guest comfort. I’d definitely stay here again.
Staying at RÌGH Residences in Edinburgh was an absolute delight—perfect for a family of three with spacious, comfortable rooms that made our trip feel like home. Even though it's self-check-in, staff are always nearby and accessible via the in-room tablet if any issues arise. The kitchen has a great view, and the natural light floods in each morning, making the space feel bright and welcoming. The shower pressure is excellent, and the room’s modern, minimalist design really adds to the cozy vibe. We loved having access to the laundry room on the third floor and the lounge area on the first floor, where complimentary snacks, coffee, tea, and ice were provided daily—those pastries were especially delicious! The mini-fridge was restocked every day with drinks, milk, cookies, and bottled water. Kitchen amenities were fully equipped, which made cooking meals super convenient. Plus, the location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the train station. Breakfast was a highlight too; we opted for the veggie option, and it was fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Overall, this place offers incredible value, comfort, and convenience. If you're visiting Edinburgh, don’t miss out—this is one of the best stays we’ve had.
Our stay at 21212 Hotel was absolutely flawless. The room was stunning—spacious, beautifully decorated with refined taste, and offering a breathtaking view of the park. The overall atmosphere felt like stepping into a private Victorian-era mansion, with that timeless charm and elegance that’s hard to find elsewhere. Located in the heart of Edinburgh but surprisingly quiet, it’s perfect for exploring the city on foot without any stress. The staff were incredibly warm and attentive—always smiling, genuinely helpful, and made us feel right at home. This place truly has character, warmth, and sophistication all in one. If you're looking for a memorable escape in Edinburgh, this is the kind of hotel I’d recommend without hesitation.
Staying at Six Brunton Place Guest House was an absolute delight. Despite being a family-run property, the hosts were incredibly warm and attentive—always ready to offer local tips or help with travel plans. The atmosphere is wonderfully homely, with tasteful decor that blends charm and character throughout. The room was spotless, cozy, and beautifully appointed, making it feel like a true retreat after a day of exploring Edinburgh. Breakfast was exceptional—fresh, abundant, and thoughtfully prepared with a mix of local flavors and classic options. It’s rare to find such a personal touch combined with such high quality. This place truly stands out for its comfort, hospitality, and attention to detail. I’ll definitely be back.
I was completely surprised to find this was a guesthouse— the room was huge and incredibly well-equipped. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, from the modern furnishings to the fully stocked amenities. It's located just minutes from the city center, making it super convenient for exploring Edinburgh on foot or by public transit. The neighborhood is lively with great cafes and shops nearby. With such a spacious, comfortable stay at this price point, it’s an unbeatable value. I’ll definitely be returning and recommending it to friends.
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 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.
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