Location is unbeatable for nightlife (Cowgate) and history (Royal Mile is just up the stairs)
Free hot buffet breakfast is a reliable money-saver in an expensive city
Modern soundproofing generally holds up against the rowdy street outside
Ātrs apskats: It's a clean, standard corporate hotel sitting directly on top of Edinburgh's rowdiest party street—bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper.
Pārskatīts: @itsemmalarson: I stayed here in January and it was the perfect cozy hideaway. The room was super warm, the bed was huge, and everything was spotless. I really appreciated the green initiative too. I'd definitely stay here again!
Viesis, kurš palika šeit, saka
The hype
Travelers love the value and breakfast but are often surprised by the steep uphill walk to the Royal Mile.
Reality check
Rooms are described as 'compact' and 'small,' and the 'city views' often just mean looking at the street or a wall unless you get a church-facing room.
You plan to stay out late enjoying the Cowgate bars and clubs
You are fit enough to handle steep hills and stairs daily
You prioritize free breakfast and modern plumbing over historic charm
Tīrība un apkope
8.2
Housekeeping: Generally consistent daily service, though some guests report missed dusting in corners.
Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are typically spotless with good grout lines, though isolated reports of slow-draining showers exist.
Maintenance: mostly good, but occasional reports of cracked tiles or worn silicone sealant.
Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, standard Holiday Inn white linens.
Odors & scents: Neutral smell; no lingering smoke or mustiness reported in recent checks.
Sleepability™
6.5VIDĒJS
VIDĒJS
0-4SKAĻŠ
4-7.5VIDĒJS
7.5-10KLUSS
Late-night revelers on Cowgate (shouting, singing)
Traffic and delivery trucks in the narrow street
Thin walls between rooms (neighbors hearing neighbors)
Pirms grāmatošanas
Noderīgi zināt
A new 'Visitor Levy' (tourist tax) of 5% starts July 24, 2026—bookings for stays after this date will incur the extra cost.
There is no fridge or safe in standard rooms.
Luggage storage is free if you arrive before check-in.
Ko ņemt līdzi
High-quality earplugs (essential for weekends)
Comfortable walking shoes (the cobblestones and hills are unforgiving)
Universal travel adapter (limited outlets in some older rooms)
Istabu asistents
Labākie ieteikumi
Rooms facing the rear or St. Patrick's Church (quieter, better views)
Top floor rooms to minimize overhead noise
Istabas, kurām labāk izvairīties
First and second-floor rooms facing Cowgate (maximum street noise)
Rooms near the elevator (high foot traffic)
Istabu pieprasījuma asistents – kopējiet un ielīmējiet
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor facing the back of the building or St. Patrick's Church to minimize street noise from Cowgate.”
BUJ un paslēptie paņēmieni
Viss, kas jums patiešām jāzina pirms grāmatošanas.
Is the hotel actually on the Royal Mile?
No. It is on Cowgate, which runs parallel but *below* the Royal Mile. You have to walk up a steep hill or stairs to get there.
Is there parking?
No on-site parking. Guests get a discount at NCP St Johns Hill (approx. £19/24h), about a 5-minute walk away.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, a free hot buffet breakfast is included for all guests, featuring sausages, eggs, beans, and continental options.
Does the hotel have a gym?
No. There is no fitness center on-site, but they offer discounted access to a nearby gym.
Is it safe at night?
Cowgate is very busy and generally safe due to crowds, but it can feel rowdy and intimidating to some due to the high volume of intoxicated people.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, the hotel is pet-friendly for a fee of £30 per pet per stay.
Insider padomi
✨
Use the 'South Gray's Close' stairs right next to the hotel for a shortcut up to the Royal Mile.
✨
Ask for a 'quiet room' note on your booking; staff know exactly which side of the building that is.
✨
The breakfast area gets mobbed between 9:00-10:00 AM; go before 8:30 AM for a peaceful meal.
5 lietas, kas jāzina pirms doties
💡The 'view' from many rooms is just the brick wall of the building next door.
💡The shower pressure is surprisingly good for a budget chain.
💡You can hear the bass from nearby clubs in the lower-floor street-facing rooms.
💡Housekeeping sometimes misses dusting high surfaces (top of wardrobes).
💡The Wi-Fi is fast enough for streaming, which isn't always a given in Old Town stone buildings.
Vietējā rokasgrāmata
Karte
Uzziniet, kur atrodas Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh Royal Mile un kas ir tuvumā.