The Guards Hotel Edinburgh Exterior photoThe Guards Hotel Edinburgh Exterior photoThe Guards Hotel Edinburgh Interior photo

THE GUARDS HOTEL, Edinburgh

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From$67 /night
Check-in
30Jul
Check-out
31Jul
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Details

1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh
-
Steps from the Water of Leith Walkway
Nice
6.8
6.2
/10
2.0
/5

Small hotel opposite Haymarket Station with Scots Guards affiliation

Rooms & Accommodation

The Guards Hotel offers a range of room configurations, including family rooms and rooms for disabled guests. Each room is set within a 19th-century listed building with characterful decor. The hotel provides non-smoking rooms throughout, ensuring a clean atmosphere.

Location & Transport

The hotel sits opposite Haymarket Railway Station, giving direct access to trains and trams. Edinburgh Castle is a 10-minute walk away, and Edinburgh Zoo is within walking distance. Bus links to the city centre and Edinburgh Airport run directly outside the hotel.

Military Heritage

The hotel is affiliated with The Scots Guards, reflected in the military-themed decor throughout the property. Guests receive exclusive access to The Scots Guards Club bar and function facilities. This themed setting is a direct connection to the regiment's history.

Family & Pet-Friendly Policies

Dogs are allowed upon prior request, making the hotel pet-friendly for guests traveling with animals. Family rooms are available, accommodating groups of various sizes. Staff can arrange Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo tickets and assist with other local attraction bookings.

Nearby Attractions & Services

The hotel is close to the EICC and a short walk from Princes Street's shops and restaurants. Local eateries and bars are concentrated in the surrounding West End area. Staff provide travel advice and can book tickets for major events like the Military Tattoo.

Highlights

Location: Opposite Haymarket Station, 10 min walk to Edinburgh Castle

Rooms: Family rooms, disabled-friendly rooms, non-smoking throughout

Heritage: Scots Guards military theme with exclusive club bar access

Pet Policy: Dog-friendly with prior request

Attractions: Walking distance to Edinburgh Zoo, Castle & Tattoo venue

“The Guards Hotel emphasizes value and location near Haymarket Station, making it practical for short stays in Edinburgh. As a listed building with Scots Guards affiliations, it has a distinct, historic character. I think its unpretentious, family-run atmosphere and proximity to transport links make it a good base for exploring the city.”
Hotel logo
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown

Select room type

Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive deals.
  • Triple Room
    2 persons
    13 sq. feet
    1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
    Heating
  • Classic Double Room
    2 persons
    12 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Heating
  • Suite
    2 persons
    20 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Fireplace
    Heating
Show all rooms

Check Availability & Prices

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location

General

  • No smoking on site
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping

Children

  • Cots

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Location

1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh
Explore the Local Area
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Edinburgh Castle
20 minutes' walk
Home to Scotland's crown jewels, this historic fortress offers stunning city views and guided tours throughout the year.
National Museum of Scotland
25 minutes' walk
A treasure trove of Scottish history and culture, featuring free admission and varied exhibitions for all visitors.
Scottish National Gallery
20 minutes' walk
Showcases masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 20th century in a beautiful setting, with free entry to many exhibitions.
Royal Mile
20 minutes' walk
Historic streets bustling with shops, eateries, and live performances, perfect for soaking in the city's culture.
Arthur's Seat Hike
35 minutes' walk
This thrilling hike leads to an ancient volcano with breathtaking panoramas of Edinburgh, suitable for adventurers.
The Meadows
25 minutes' walk
A lovely park ideal for relaxation, picnics, or yoga sessions amidst lush greenery, just a short walk away.
Le Petit Repas
1 minute' walk
A cozy café offering delightful French cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and warm service.
Dimitris
1 minute' walk
Casual dining with a Mediterranean twist, specializing in vegetarian options and delicious grilled meats.
The Usher Hall
10 minutes' walk
An iconic venue featuring a variety of performances from concerts to comedy nights, suitable for all ages.
The Bongo Club
15 minutes' walk
A vibrant nightclub known for eclectic music and arts events, perfect for those seeking nightlife excitement.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Edinburgh 23 min  ·  1.2 mi
  • Airports
    Edinburgh (EDI) 17 min  ·  7.0 mi
    Glasgow (GLA) 131 min  ·  54.0 mi
  • Train
    Haymarket Train Station 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Bus
    Bus stop 8 min  ·  2000 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-22:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
10

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Guards Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Guards Hotel benefits from a fantastic central location, very close to Haymarket train station and within walking distance of the city center. Many guests found their rooms spacious and appreciated the presence of amenities like a kettle with tea and coffee. Some rooms offer nice views, and certain guests have pointed out that the decor could use some updating. The proximity to transportation, including the tram and buses to the airport, is a definite plus.
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Review score
Based on 874 verified reviews
6.2 /10
Nice
51 %
Recommend
Breakfast
9.5/10
Location
8.9/10
Facilities
6.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.9/10
Pros
Central location
Friendly staff
Clean room
Easy transport
Cons
Tatty carpets
Missing bulbs
Unusable shower
Guest reviews
based on 874 reviews
6.2/10
based on 1758 reviews
6.8/10
Mark from United Kingdom
Single
Classic Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 04, 2026
9.0/10

convenient spot near transport

convenient location friendly welcome garden view
the hotel's location was very convenient near a tram stop. the welcome was friendly the staff explained everything clearly to me. the room was fine and everything worked well. the bed was comfortable and i had a view of the garden from my window.
the stairs were a little challenging with luggage because there is no lift.
Service
9/10
the staff were very helpful and obliging . they provided clear explanations upon arrival. their assistance.
Location
10/10
the hotel is close to transport links dining and attractions. this made exploring the city simple. the proximity to princess street via tram or walking was very convenient.
Dining
8/10
the room included tea and coffee making facilities. this allowed me to enjoy hot drinks in my room. many restaurants and bars were within a short walk of the hotel.
Rooms
9/10
my room was a reasonable size and clean. it had a comfortable bed and included wifi access. the quiet location contributed to a restful night.
0 Helpful
|
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Jessica from United Kingdom
Single
classic double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 19, 2026
6/10

a reasonably priced stay

convenient location working window broken dispenser heater issue
i had a room that included a kettle. windows did open too, i appreciate it. the location was convenient, it was fairly quiet.
the soap dispenser was broken , it was very hard to use. the room's wall heater did not work, i needed an alternative heater that took up space.
0 Helpful
Jennifer from United Kingdom
Single
Luxury Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 31, 2025
9.3/10

Cozy stay near Haymarket

helpful staff convenient transport clean room
I found the staff helpful . They provided extra milk and sugar when I asked. The bus and tram stops are conveniently close. Transport into the city was quick and easy. The hotel is located right opposite a highly recommended steak house called Los Amigos. I appreciated the very clean and tidy room.
The mattress felt too soft for my liking, and i sank into it uncomfortably.
Dining
9/10
The hotel is near a steakhouse called Los Amigos. I noticed it is directly across the street and is a good option. I could walk there in less than a minute. The restaurant appears to specialize in steaks.
Rooms
8/10
The room was very clean and tidy, which i appreciated. i also found a double bed inside, alongside all the expected amenities for a comfortable stay. The accommodation provided a pleasant environment.
Location
10/10
Transport to the city is simple. Bus and tram stops are within a short walk. Buses run every few minutes, and trams are available every six to seven minutes. The train station is also nearby, with trains departing frequently.
Service
10/10
The staff were excellent and exceedingly friendly. i found them helpful. When i needed extra milk, tea, and sugar, they supplied it promptly. This attentiveness significantly enhanced my visit.
0 Helpful
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Jack from United Kingdom
Single
Classic Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 14, 2025
8.5/10

Solid Stay Near Transport Links

convenient location public transport friendly staff hot water
The location proved convenient with its proximity to the tram. Public transport was easily accessible. I found the staff friendly. I had hot water.
The room was quite cold. They did supply some electric heaters.
Service
9/10
The receptionist was friendly and helpful. They attended to my requests quickly. The staff stored our luggage SAFELY when we arrived, GREAT.
Rooms
8/10
My room included a comfortable bed. Towels were provided in the room. There was even a kettle with tea and coffee. The room had electric radiators. The room had plenty of hot water.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel is in a central location right beside the tram. The hotel is near transport. There is a good pay long stay car park only two minutes away. This was a great bonus for me.
Dining
8/10
I was within walking distance of many restaurants. Lots of amenities were on the hotel's doorstep. I found a few nice dining options very close by. The area provided choices.
0 Helpful
|
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Elliot from United Kingdom
Single
Classic Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 05, 2025
9/10
cute guy comfortable bed clean bedding
The front desk staff greeted me warmly upon arrival. My Classic Double Room faced away from the main road so it was very quiet. Clean bedding and a comfortable bed ensured restful nights (I slept like a baby!).
The shower pressure was a little weak.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Guards Hotel
What is the location of The Guards Hotel in relation to Edinburgh Castle?
The hotel is located approximately 2 km from Edinburgh Castle.
Are there any attractions within walking distance from The Guards Hotel?
Attractions such as Edinburgh Zoo, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and Saint Mary's Cathedral are within walking distance.
What time is check-in and check-out at The Guards Hotel?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
What amenities are available in the guest rooms at The Guards Hotel?
Guest rooms feature free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and a writing desk.
What dining options are available at The Guards Hotel?
The hotel features an on-site lounge bar and is located near many restaurants, including Le Petit Repas and Dimitris, both 0.5 km away.
What facilities does The Guards Hotel offer for business travelers?
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and a comfortable environment for meetings and client lunches.
Is there a golf course available at The Guards Hotel?
There is a golf course available on-site for guests who enjoy golfing.
How far is The Guards Hotel from Haymarket Railway Station?
The hotel is located directly opposite Haymarket Railway Station.
Can families with children stay at The Guards Hotel?
The hotel accommodates families and provides options for different room configurations.
What languages does the staff at The Guards Hotel speak?
The staff primarily speaks English.

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