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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.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, just steps from Princes Street and George Street, this hotel blends luxury with convenience. Rooms feature Smart TVs, premium linens, and complimentary treat boxes plus a fridge stocked with fresh milk. Dine at The Garden, an indoor courtyard serving everything from salads to Scottish cocktails, or savor Middle Eastern flavors at BABA’s mezze grill. Unwind with free access to the gym, pool, and spa (some treatments at extra cost). Perfect for business or leisure, it’s a 5-minute walk to Waverley Station and 7 miles from the airport—effortless connectivity!
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxury hotel is just steps away from Princes Street, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. Whether you're on a business trip or a family vacation, it has everything you need. Unwind at the lavish spa, relax in the indoor pool, or enjoy a variety of dining options from fine dining to 24-hour room service. The Turkish bath and sauna are perfect for ultimate relaxation. Fitness lovers can explore the nearby golf course or rent a bike to tour the city in style.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this hotel is a dream come true for travelers! Whether you're looking to showcase your skills at the bowling alley, sweat it out on the tennis court, or rent a bike to explore the city, this place has it all. Wind down at the bar in the evening and soak up the local nightlife. With its prime location near the Royal Mile, you'll have easy access to hiking and fishing spots. Rated a perfect 5.0, it's the ideal choice for your stay!
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.
See what other travelers say about Underbelly Cowgate
From the moment we arrived, the warm hospitality at Kimpton Charlotte Square made our stay in Edinburgh truly special. A huge shoutout to Brian from the concierge team—he was absolutely outstanding! Not only does he speak seven languages fluently, but his knowledge of local spots and genuine kindness made every interaction a pleasure. Whether it was recommending hidden gems or helping with last-minute travel plans, he went above and beyond with a smile. His professionalism and personal touch turned what could’ve been just another hotel stay into an unforgettable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, combined with the charming atmosphere of the hotel, made this place feel like home. I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for warmth, style, and exceptional service—truly a standout in Edinburgh.
Staying at The Caledonian Edinburgh was an absolute highlight of our trip. Located right at the intersection of Princes Street and Lothian Street, it sits perfectly between Old Town and New Town—just a short walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, with views of the fortress from the front door. The hotel itself is a historic building with rich heritage, once visited by legends like Arthur Conan Doyle, which made it extra special for us as devoted Sherlock Holmes fans. The breakfast was a classic English spread, but what stood out most was the waffle served with honey straight from a whole, fresh honeycomb—such a unique and memorable touch. There’s also a beautiful garden restaurant in the atrium, though we were pressed for time and didn’t get to experience it. Still, the atmosphere alone adds so much charm. From the location to the details, every element felt thoughtfully curated. A truly exceptional stay that exceeded expectations.
We stayed in a stunning, spotless apartment on Queen's Street for a week and couldn’t have been happier. The location was perfect—right in the heart of the New Town, just steps away from grocery stores, shops, and an amazing variety of restaurants. Each of us had our own private bedroom, so we had plenty of space to unwind in the evenings without feeling cramped. After a full week of exploring Edinburgh’s historic streets and walking everywhere, our group unanimously agreed that staying on the New Town side was the best decision. It made everything so much easier and more enjoyable. The apartment was clean, well-equipped, and offered a real home-away-from-home vibe. We’d definitely book again if we return to the area—highly recommend this stay!
This hotel is truly exceptional—perfectly situated in the charming Stockbridge neighborhood of Edinburgh. It’s close enough to walk to all the top attractions, yet peaceful and quiet away from the tourist crowds. The staff go above and beyond with their warm hospitality and attention to detail, making you feel right at home. Every interaction was thoughtful and genuine. I’ve stayed in many hotels across the UK, and this one stands out for its combination of location, comfort, and service. I’d absolutely stay here again if I ever return to Edinburgh—highly recommend for anyone looking for a memorable, stress-free experience.
Staying at BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh was an absolute delight from start to finish. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming—every interaction felt personal and genuine. What truly sets this place apart? You can see adorable dogs roaming around the space, adding a unique, cozy vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. The room itself was stylish and comfortable, and the beer selection was outstanding—especially their own craft brews, which were fresh, bold, and absolutely delicious. Location-wise, it’s perfect: everything you’d want to explore in Edinburgh is just a short walk away, whether it’s historic sites, local shops, or scenic spots. I even took a nostalgic stroll down my old school route, reliving memories from student days—it made the whole trip extra special. If you’re looking for a fun, quirky, and well-located stay with great vibes and unbeatable value, this is the spot. Definitely coming back.
Staying at Linton Collection - Blackfriars Lofts in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and impeccably clean, with high ceilings that made the space feel airy and luxurious. For the price, it’s an incredible value—far better than expected. What really stood out was the location: right behind the hotel is the lively bar street, so going out for drinks or dinner in the evening was super convenient. I didn’t need to go far for a good night out—just step outside and you’re surrounded by great options. The neighborhood is quiet yet walkable to everything central, making it perfect for both relaxation and exploration. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, from the layout to the attention to detail. I’d absolutely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Absolutely delighted with my stay at this charming apartment! Though it’s a bit on the higher end, every penny was worth it—comfort, cleanliness, and location all exceeded expectations. The room was immaculate, with crisp white towels and a spotless bathroom, making me feel truly at home. Everything I needed was available: a fully equipped kitchen meant I could cook my own meals—a real plus for saving money and enjoying fresh food. Located right in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, it’s just a 3-minute walk to Royal Mile, so exploring the city’s top attractions was effortless. The self-check-in process was smooth, and the staff were friendly and helpful whenever needed. With such a central location, great amenities, and a cozy, well-maintained space, this is one of the best stays I’ve had in Scotland. Highly recommend for travelers who value comfort and convenience.
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.
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