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3-Star Hotels Near The SS Explorer
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.
Best Western Kings Manor Hotel
Royal Overseas League Hotel
Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel
Historic View Apartment
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
The Abbey Residence
Kingsley Guest House
Royal Scots Club
The Parliament House Hotel
Extremely central Quartermile apartment near Castle and University
Adria House
Hotel Ceilidh-Donia
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre
Rose Street flat
Kick Ass Greyfriars - Adults Only - Hostel
Sofia Rooms
The Cameron Bed and Breakfast
McCrae's Bed and Breakfast
Edinburgh Nine
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about The SS Explorer
Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel
Our final night at Fingal - A Luxury Floating Hotel was absolutely perfect after two nights on the Royal Mile. The moment we arrived, the staff made us feel instantly welcome—friendly, attentive, and genuinely warm without any pretense. It’s rare to find a place that feels so personal and relaxing, yet still luxurious. The accommodation itself was outstanding: clean, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable. We loved the peaceful atmosphere and the unique floating experience—it’s unlike anything else in Edinburgh. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a quiet escape from the city buzz, this hotel delivers. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for something special and memorable.
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
Staying at Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh was an absolute delight. Located right on Princes Street, it's just a short walk from Scott Monument and offers stunning views of the castle and railway station from the windows. Despite being in the heart of the city, the street is surprisingly quiet—perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. The room itself was spacious and immaculately clean, with thoughtful touches that made the stay feel luxurious. I loved having breakfast while watching the light rail pass by and catching glimpses of the castle—such a unique and memorable experience. The hotel also offers convenient luggage storage if you're rushing to catch a train, which is a huge plus. With a little more reasonable pricing during peak season, this would be an ideal choice for any traveler looking for comfort, location, and charm in Edinburgh.
Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. The hotel is exceptionally clean, with a modern and welcoming atmosphere throughout. Located just steps from the city center, it’s incredibly easy to explore Edinburgh on foot—shops, restaurants, and attractions are all within walking distance. The room was compact but well-designed, with a comfortable bed and excellent lighting. Staff were friendly and helpful, offering great local recommendations. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers excellent value and a pleasant stay. Highly recommend!
Kingsley Guest House
We absolutely loved our stay at Kingsley Guest House in Edinburgh. The location is quiet yet incredibly convenient—just steps from multiple bus stops, making it easy to explore the city without hassle. Alan and Alison were warm, welcoming hosts who made us feel right at home, and we even got to meet their lovely little companion, Mr. Tom. Our room was perfectly sized with a modern bathroom, ample closet space, and a cozy bed that promised a restful night’s sleep. Breakfast was a highlight—Alan happily prepared exactly what we wanted, showing great flexibility and attention to detail. Within a 10-15 minute walk (or short bus ride), we found a variety of restaurants and grocery stores, so getting essentials or enjoying local eats was effortless. Everything about this B&B felt thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. We’d return in a heartbeat—highly recommended!
Royal Scots Club
Staying at the Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh was an absolutely delightful experience. This historic property doubles as a private members' club, giving it a unique charm and old-world elegance that’s hard to find elsewhere. Our standard double room was spacious and well-appointed, featuring a comfortable large bed and a modern bathroom—despite being located on the basement level, it felt quiet and serene. The dining room was truly elegant, serving excellent meals for both dinner and breakfast with attentive service. The staff at reception were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. While the area is peaceful and slightly off the main tourist trail, it’s still within easy reach of key attractions. It’s rare to find such a refined atmosphere combined with genuine hospitality—this place feels like stepping into another era. Highly recommended for travelers seeking something special.
The Parliament House Hotel
Booked a king-size room with a quiet, non-smoking request—perfect for a peaceful stay. Despite some language barriers during check-in, the front desk staff were incredibly thoughtful and accommodating. They even offered to store my luggage and personally escorted me to the room. Everyone I met was warm and friendly, making me feel truly valued. As soon as I stepped into the room, I was blown away—the cleanliness was outstanding, the décor was fresh and modern, and the calming blue-green color scheme instantly made me feel at home. The space felt thoughtfully designed, cozy yet elegant, with attention to every little detail. It was exactly what I was looking for: a serene retreat in Edinburgh. This was one of the best stays I’ve had, and I’ll definitely come back. A huge thumbs up to the team!
Hotel Ceilidh-Donia
Staying at Hotel Ceilidh-Donia was an absolute delight! This charming property feels more like a cozy countryside villa than a typical hotel, with authentic British elegance in every detail. The breakfast is a standout—beyond the usual options, you can choose from five chef-prepared dishes made fresh daily, which made mornings truly special. Located just 3 km from Edinburgh Train Station and within walking distance of the city center, getting around was effortless. I walked everywhere, and it was incredibly convenient. The owner was genuinely courteous and full of charm—he even pulled out a box of over a dozen international plug adapters when I realized I’d forgotten mine! We both laughed about it. Plus, there’s a peaceful little park right next to the hotel, perfect for a morning stroll. This place offers such a warm, personal touch and incredible value—you’ll want to come back again.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre
Staying at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly well-located just a short walk from the train station, making travel into and out of Edinburgh seamless. It’s also within easy reach of major attractions, especially Calton Hill—just a few minutes away, offering stunning views of the city. The room was spotless, neatly arranged, and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The bed was cozy, the bathroom was modern and clean, and the air conditioning worked perfectly. What stood out most was the front desk staff—they were friendly, professional, and always ready to help with local tips or any request. Their warm hospitality made a big difference. This place offers excellent value for money and is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Kick Ass Greyfriars - Adults Only - Hostel
Kick Ass Greyfriars is absolutely spotless—hands down one of the cleanest hostels I’ve ever stayed in. From the moment I arrived, I felt completely safe and welcome. The bathrooms were immaculate, fresh, and well-maintained, which made a big difference to my overall comfort. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in a breeze and going out of their way to ensure we had a great stay. The location is fantastic—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions and local cafes. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends and family, this place is a no-brainer. Clean, welcoming, and well-run—definitely a top choice for anyone visiting the city. I’ll be back.
Edinburgh Nine
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.
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.
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