Lochrin Rooftop Bar offers rare castle views without the Old Town crowds
Vibrant, communal lobby with foosball and deep sofas that actually encourages hanging out
Modern, industrial-chic design that feels like a high-end adult hostel (in a good way)
Quick Take: A fun, loud, and visually loud hotel that prioritizes social vibes over quiet nights and closet space.
Reviewed by @scotland_sidebyside_:ย I had the best time exploring Edinburgh with my dachshunds! Staying at the Moxy made it so easyโthey were treated like VIPs. We even took them on a boat trip to Inchcolm Abbey and the open-top bus. It felt amazing not to leave them behind.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
The hype
Travelers love the energetic staff and rooftop views but are divided on the 'dorm-room' style minimalism.
Reality check
The 'fun' atmosphere means noise travels, and the breakfast buffet often runs out of items during peak times.
You travel light and live out of your suitcase
You enjoy working from a lively lobby with a cocktail in hand
You want a modern gym and a rooftop bar onsite
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
Housekeeping: Generally excellent. Daily service is standard, though some guests report missed refills on coffee pods.
Bathroom hygiene: High marks. Grout is usually sparkling, though the small size means steam builds up quickly.
Maintenance: New property feel (opened ~2021), so peeling paint and broken fixtures are rare.
Linens & towels: Crisp and fresh, though the towels can feel a bit thin compared to luxury brands.
Odors & scents: Lobby smells of the signature Moxy pink perfume (sweet/floral); rooms are generally neutral and fresh.
Sleepabilityโข
6.5MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
Footsteps from upper floors (thin ceilings)
Hallway chatter due to heavy doors slamming
Street noise on lower floors facing the main road
Before you book
Good to know
Check-in happens at the bar, and you get a free cocktail (usually a 'Got Moxy' with gin/tea).
There is no room service, but a 24/7 'Grab & Go' station sells snacks and drinks.
Ironing is done in a communal 'Ironing Room' โ there are no boards in standard rooms.
What to pack
Earplugs for the thin ceilings
Packing cubes (since you'll likely be living out of your suitcase)
A steamer (to avoid the trek to the communal ironing room)
Room Genie
Best picks
Moxy Lookout Queen (Top Floor) for the best chance of a castle view and no footsteps above you
Rear-facing rooms for a quieter night away from street traffic
Rooms to avoid
Rooms near the elevators (high foot traffic)
First-floor rooms facing the street (pedestrian noise)
Room Request Genie โ copy & paste
โI would love a 'Moxy Lookout' room on the top floor to avoid overhead noise. If that's not possible, a rear-facing room away from the elevator would be great.โ
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there parking on site?
No. The hotel has no garage. Guests often use 'YourParkingSpace' apps or nearby lots; ask the front desk for a discount validation (sometimes ~ยฃ12/night) at check-in.
Does the hotel serve breakfast?
Yes, a continental buffet for ~ยฃ16. Reviews suggest it's decent but can get chaotic and depleted by 9:30 AM.
Is it close to the Royal Mile?
It's about a 15-20 minute walk to the Grassmarket and Castle area. Not right on the Mile, but very walkable.
Are the rooms pet-friendly?
Yes, very. They have a 'Sir Woofchester' dog menu and charge a pet fee of around ยฃ18.90 per night.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a small but modern 24-hour fitness center with pink punching bags and basic cardio gear.
Can I store my luggage?
Yes, there are free lockers for luggage storage if you arrive early or leave late.
Insider Tips
โจ
The 'Ironing Room' is actually a fun photo op with neon signs, not just a utility closet.
โจ
Motion-activated under-bed lighting is a lifesaver for midnight bathroom trips.
โจ
The rooftop terrace has heaters, so you can enjoy the castle view even in chilly Edinburgh evenings.
5 things to know before you go
๐กThe 'closet' is literally just a few pegs on the wall and a wire mesh grid.
๐กYou have to use your personal cell phone or the Marriott app to contact the front desk.
๐กThe bathroom doors are often frosted glass sliders that don't lock or seal sound well.
๐กThere is a hidden 'cinema' corner in the lobby that plays black-and-white movies.
๐กThe shower pressure is surprisingly strong for a budget-chic brand.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge is located and what's nearby.