The hype
Travelers universally praise the rooftop views and the high-end room amenities, often calling it the most stylish stay in Edinburgh.
Market Street Hotel ghj
$250-450/ night
Book this if You want a design-forward sanctuary right in the center of the action, where the minibar is free and the reception greets you with champagne.
Why People Love It
- The 'reverse hotel' layout puts the reception and bar on the 7th floor for killer views immediately
- Complimentary minibar restocked daily with local goodies
- High-spec room tech including Dyson hairdryers and GHD straighteners
Quick Take: A sleek, Scandi-Scottish fortress that feels like a refuge from the tourist chaos of the Royal Mile, even though it's literally next door.
Reviewed by @Abigailswanson: I found the perfect base for exploring Edinburgh. Being right next to the Royal Mile was so convenient, but I honestly didn't want to leave the room. The free minibar and that cozy fireplace made my stay feel incredibly special and indulgent.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Some guests in lower-floor rooms ('Artist's Vista') were disappointed by the street-level noise and lack of privacy compared to the upper floors.
- You appreciate high-end grooming tools like Dyson dryers in your room
- You want to be 30 seconds from the train station but feel miles away
- You love a rooftop bar scene that feels exclusive but welcoming
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable daily service; guests consistently report rooms being 'spotless' and 'pristine'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling stone basins and showers; no reports of mold or grime in recent audits.
- Maintenance: Feels brand new; high-quality fixtures mean very few 'broken' complaints.
- Linens & towels: Premium Egyptian cotton sheets and fluffy towels; no signs of wear or stains.
- Odors & scents: Fresh and neutral; wood floors prevent that musty hotel carpet smell.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Faint rumble from Waverley Station (only if windows open)
- Footsteps from the rooftop bar if you are on the 6th floor
Before you book
Good to know
- Reception is on the 7th floor, not the ground floor — take the elevator up immediately
- There is no on-site parking, but you get a 20% discount at the nearby APCOA Waverley Station garage
- Breakfast is served in the rooftop Nor' Loft and includes excellent a la carte options
What to pack
- Walking shoes — the hotel is central but Edinburgh is hilly and cobbled
- A rain jacket — the 'Vista' rooms have binoculars for watching the weather roll in
- Smart casual outfits for the rooftop bar — it's a local hotspot
Room Genie
Best picks
- Vista Room (High Floor) — guarantees the iconic skyline views over the Old Town
- Roomy Bath — if you want a soaking tub (standard rooms only have showers)
Rooms to avoid
- Artist's Vista on the 2nd/3rd floor — views are of the street/gallery wall, less privacy
- Rooms directly under the Nor' Loft kitchen (ask to be away from the bar footprint)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a 'Vista' room on the highest possible floor, ideally away from the footprint of the Nor' Loft bar to ensure quiet. A view of the Scotsman building or Old Town skyline would be fantastic.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a gym at Market Street Hotel?
No, there is no fitness center on-site. Guests are encouraged to use the city's hills for exercise or find a nearby day-pass gym.
Does the hotel have parking?
Not on-site. Guests use the Edinburgh Waverley Station Car Park (APCOA) nearby, with a discount available via reception.
Is the minibar actually free?
Yes, the minibar is complimentary and restocked daily with water, juice, milk, and sometimes beer/snacks.
Can I bring my dog?
No, the hotel has a strict no-pets policy, with exceptions only for registered service animals.
What is the breakfast like?
It's a high-quality mix of buffet and a la carte hot dishes served in the rooftop lounge with panoramic views.
How close is it to the train station?
It is literally across the street from the Market Street exit of Edinburgh Waverley Station — less than a 2-minute walk.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The hotel offers a 'Champagne on arrival' service — don't skip it, it sets the tone.
- ✨
Accessible rooms feature vibrating alarm pillows — a thoughtful touch for hearing-impaired guests.
- ✨
The 'Nor' Loch' stone wall in the entrance pays homage to the loch that used to exist right where the hotel stands.
5 things to know before you go
💡The entrance is discreet and feels like a side door; the real 'lobby' experience is 7 floors up.
💡The wooden shutters in the rooms are custom-designed to mimic the Old Town's window fixtures and block light perfectly.
💡You get fresh milk in the fridge for your coffee, not those terrible UHT plastic pods.
💡The bathroom mirrors have a 'magic' lighting setting that is incredibly flattering.
💡It's one of the few hotels where the 'single' or 'cozy' rooms don't feel like an afterthought, just a smaller version of luxury.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Market Street Hotel ghj is located and what's nearby.