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Accor Group Hotels Near Underbelly Cowgate
Underbelly Cowgate is the beating heart of Edinburgh’s nightlife—nestled in a historic alleyway, this vibrant space blends craft cocktails, spontaneous gigs, street food, and late-night charm. It’s more than a bar; it’s a cultural crossroads where spontaneity meets soul, and every visit feels like discovering something new.
Novotel Edinburgh Centre
This hotel is the perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and the vibrant shopping district, its location couldn’t be better. The hotel features 180 modern rooms, all equipped with free Wi-Fi and satellite TV for a comfortable stay. Relax in the indoor heated pool or stay active at the fitness center. Traveling with kids? No worries—the hotel offers a children’s play area and kid-friendly meals to keep them entertained. For business needs, there are 5 flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 80 people. End your day with modern cuisine and signature drinks at the themed restaurant and bar—a perfect way to unwind!
Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Underbelly Cowgate
Near Underbelly Cowgate in Edinburgh, The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh stands out as a top choice. Located just a 5-minute walk away, this historic boutique hotel blends Victorian architecture with modern amenities. Guests enjoy complimentary train transfers to Edinburgh Waverley Station, ensuring seamless travel. The rooftop The Terrace Restaurant offers panoramic views of Castle Rock, perfect for dining with a view. Surrounded by independent pubs and art venues, the area pulses with local culture—ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and convenience.
Walk along Castlehill from Underbelly Cowgate—it’s just a 10-minute stroll to Edinburgh Castle. This route winds through the heart of Old Town, showcasing medieval stone walls and narrow alleyways rich in history. Alternatively, take Bus 23 or 8, alighting at "Castle Street"—just a 3-minute walk to the castle. For the best experience, visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy stunning views of the fortress bathed in natural light against the city skyline.
Near Underbelly Cowgate, immerse yourself in improvisational theatre performances and underground bar nights—key highlights during the Edinburgh International Festival. Local artists often stage experimental shows and immersive productions in intimate venues. Along The Royal Mile, discover iconic spots like The Witchery and The Balmoral Bar, offering rare Scotch whiskies and live folk music. At night, the area glows under vintage streetlamps, evoking 18th-century theatrical grandeur—perfect for experiencing Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural soul firsthand.
The Elephant House Hotel is one of the top choices just a 5-minute walk from Underbelly Cowgate. Located in the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, it features authentic Scottish stone architecture with modern amenities including free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Its prime location offers easy access to cultural venues, restaurants, and scenic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
Another excellent option is Staycity Aparthotels Edinburgh City Centre, situated right in the Cowgate district. This aparthotel provides spacious studio and apartment-style rooms with fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and living areas—perfect for families or extended stays. It’s only a 3-minute walk to Underbelly Cowgate, making it ideal for attending live shows or exploring local nightlife.
The area is renowned for its vibrant underground arts scene, street performances, and cozy pubs. Staying here allows visitors to immerse themselves in Edinburgh’s hidden cultural energy and enjoy spontaneous entertainment throughout the night.
Yes, both The Elephant House Hotel and Staycity Aparthotels Edinburgh City Centre offer exceptional transport access. Located just a 3–5 minute walk from Underbelly Cowgate, they’re surrounded by major bus routes and within walking distance of the Edinburgh Trams station, connecting directly to the city center and Edinburgh Airport.
The tram system runs frequently, especially on weekends and during festivals, with a journey time of about 10 minutes to the airport. Both hotels provide secure parking (subject to availability) and bicycle storage, catering to travelers who prefer eco-friendly or flexible travel options.
Additionally, guests receive complimentary walking tour maps and local guides that highlight key attractions, enabling seamless exploration. This makes the area ideal for those seeking effortless connectivity while immersing in the historic charm of Old Town Edinburgh.
Underbelly Cowgate is a hub of underground creativity, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe each summer. It hosts independent theatre troupes, stand-up comedians, and experimental performance artists from around the world, offering immersive and often improvised shows.
Beyond formal performances, the Cowgate area is packed with intimate bars and art spaces like The Wee Playhouse and The Stand Comedy Club, which regularly feature comedy workshops, improv nights, and avant-garde performances. Visitors can join a nighttime street performance tour, wandering through hidden venues to experience Edinburgh’s raw, grassroots artistic spirit.
Many nearby hotels partner with local cultural groups to offer exclusive City Explorer Packages, including discounted tickets, guided backstage tours, and limited-edition memorabilia—allowing guests to dive deep into the city’s alternative creative heartbeat.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Underbelly Cowgate
Novotel Edinburgh Centre
I've stayed at Novotel properties in Switzerland and France before, and always had a positive experience—so it was natural to choose this one again during my visit to Edinburgh. The location is unbeatable: right in the heart of the city, with major attractions just a short walk away. The room was clean and comfortable, the atmosphere pleasant, and the staff helpful throughout. That said, the price is definitely on the higher side. Edinburgh is a compact city, and moving just a bit further from the centre can cut accommodation costs by half. I originally planned to extend my stay for another night, but when I checked online in the afternoon, the platform showed availability. However, upon arrival, they claimed there were no rooms left. I returned early the next morning, only to be told the same thing. In the end, I switched to another hotel just 800 meters away—same quality level, but prices were half as much. Even after factoring in a few Uber rides, the total cost was still significantly lower than staying here. While Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers excellent service and convenience, if you're budget-conscious or value flexibility, there are smarter options nearby that deliver better value without sacrificing comfort.
Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket
Staying at Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket was an absolute pleasure. As a well-known chain, the hotel delivers consistent quality—clean rooms, modern amenities, and friendly staff. The location is unbeatable: just a 10-minute walk to Haymarket Station, making it super easy to hop on the subway for quick access across the city. The airport tram stops right outside the station, so getting to the airport is seamless—just a 15-minute ride with no transfers needed. Plus, major attractions like St. Giles Cathedral and the Royal Mile are all within a 10-minute walk, perfect for exploring on foot. There’s also a bus stop right in front of the hotel, connecting you to key sights without hassle. Whether you're here for sightseeing or business, this hotel offers excellent value, great convenience, and a stress-free stay.
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.
Leonardo Edinburgh Haymarket
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.
The Roseate Edinburgh
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.
Princes Street Suites
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.
The Scotsman Hotel
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.
Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
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.
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
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.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
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.
Village Hotel Edinburgh
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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