The Guards Hotel Edinburgh * Military-Themed Stay

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The Guards Hotel Edinburgh Exterior photo

The Guards Hotel Edinburgh Interior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh

Close to the city center

Nice

6.8

6.2

/10

2.0

Loved by The Guards Hotel guests

Helpful staff

Clean rooms

Good location

Affordable hotel

"My friend and I had come to Edinburgh to go to see Joseph and we booked the guards hotel because it was right next to haymarket station."

Lynn from United Kingdom

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"Absolutely amazing location, right opposite Haymarket station and a stroll away from Princes Street etc."

CallaKat from United Kingdom

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"This hotel was worth the low price."

Lauren from United States

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3-star accommodation in Edinburgh with exclusive access to Scots Guards Club

Prime Location

The Guards Hotel is located in the west end of Edinburgh, a ten-minute walk from the city center. Guests have access to public transport via Haymarket Train Station, which provides links to the tram and Airlink 100 airport bus service. Nearby attractions include Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Accommodation Options

The hotel offers a range of room types, including singles, doubles, twin doubles, and a family-friendly Balmoral Suite. The Balmoral Suite features a king-size bed and sofa bed, accommodating up to three guests. Notably, the Windsor Castle room includes a four-poster bed and a bathroom with a roll-top bath and multi-head shower.

Bar Access

The Guards Hotel connects directly to The Scots Guards Club bar, allowing guests to enjoy a selection of drinks and meals conveniently. This bar offers a family atmosphere and is available for functions. The private entry door provides seamless access to the bar from the hotel.

Family-Friendly Facilities

Families are welcomed with a range of accommodations suited to various needs, including disabled access. The hotel includes a family suite designed for comfort, and a writing desk is available in every room. Additionally, there are communal irons and ironing boards for guest use.

Pet-Friendly Policy

The Guards Hotel is pet-friendly and allows dogs upon request. Having a dog-friendly policy ensures that guests can keep their pets close during their stay. This accommodation welcomes all guests and pets without compromise on comfort.

Highlights

Location: Ten-minute walk from city center

Rooms: Family-friendly Balmoral Suite available

Dining: Access to Scots Guards Club bar

Attractions: Close to Edinburgh Castle and Zoo

Pet-Friendly: Dogs welcome upon request

Must-do experiences

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden for a peaceful escape.
Try haggis at The Sheep Heid Inn, Scotland's oldest pub.
Visit the Camera Obscura for stunning views and fun illusions.
Explore the hidden gems of Dean Village, perfect for photos.
Don't miss the vibrant Stockbridge Market on Sundays for local treats.

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Triple Room
2 persons
13 sq. feet
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Heating
room details
Classic Double Room
2 persons
12 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
room details
Suite
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Fireplace
Heating
room details

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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

September 2026 - September 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

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

The Guards Hotel Location

1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh Nearby

Edinburgh Castle

20-minute walk

Historic fortress with stunning views, Scottish Crown Jewels, and rich history. Guided tours available.

National Museum of Scotland

25-minute walk

Diverse exhibits on Scotland's history and culture. Free admission and interactive displays for all ages.

Scottish National Gallery

20-minute walk

Home to an impressive art collection, including works by Van Gogh and Monet. Free entry.

Royal Mile

20-minute walk

Famed historic street with shops, eateries, and landmarks. Great for a leisurely stroll.

Arthur's Seat Hike

35-minute walk

Challenging hike to an extinct volcano with panoramic city views. Suitable for thrill-seekers.

Relaxation at The Meadows

25-minute walk

Expansive park perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor yoga sessions.

Le Petit Repas

1-minute walk

French bistro with a cozy ambiance, offering authentic dishes. Reservations recommended.

Dimitris

1-minute walk

Casual spot for delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Known for its fresh wraps and vegetarian options.

The Stand Comedy Club

12-minute walk

Popular venue featuring live comedy acts. Weekly events drawing both locals and tourists.

Usher Hall

15-minute walk

Historic concert hall hosting a variety of performances, from orchestras to rock shows.

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:

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Guards Hotel is appreciated for its convenient location, especially its proximity to Haymarket train station and tram stops, making city center access easy. Guests often highlight the comfortable beds and the availability of tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms. Some guests have noted that the decor appears a bit tired, but many find the location unbeatable and the price very reasonable, especially for Edinburgh. The rooms are big enough.

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Review score

Based on 883 verified reviews

6.2 /10

Nice

51 %

Recommend

Breakfast

9.5/10

Location

8.8/10

Facilities

6.5/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.9/10

Pros

Clean bedding

Cosy quilt

Quiet room

Adequate facilities

Excellent location

Cons

Broken bed frame

Leaking toilet

Liam from Ireland

Single

Standard Single Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 23, 2026

6/10

underwhelming stay due to maintenance issues

broken mounting unit uneven painting

the location was convenient for accessing public transport.

The room showed serious signs of neglect. The shower head's mounting unit was broken, requiring me to hold it constantly. a thin sheet of foam covered the mattress making it difficult to find a comfortable position. furthermore, i noticed that the walls had been painted unevenly, with a distinct line separating two different paint types.

0 Helpful

Mary from United Kingdom

Single

classic double room

4 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 17, 2025

8.7/10

convenient location near transportation

helpful staff ground floor convenient location

the staff was very helpful and accommodating i was assigned a ground floor room. the hotel's proximity to various eateries and shops added to its accessibility.

the room i stayed in showed signs of wear and could benefit from some updates for a more refreshed appearance.

Dining

9/10

there are many restaurants and bars located nearby the hotel offering various dining options guests can easily find places to eat within a short walking distance ensuring convenient access to meals and drinks.

Rooms

8/10

the classic double room was of a good size and included a kettle for making tea and coffee windows in the room could be opened for fresh air and the absence of air conditioning did not cause any issues given the quiet environment.

Service

9/10

the hotel staff displayed friendliness and helpfulness throughout my stay extra milk tea and sugar were promptly provided upon request for my tea indicating attentive service and the reception desk remained staffed between 10 am and 10 pm.

0 Helpful

henry from canada

Single

classic double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

6/10

stained carpets strange bathroom

The location was good. It was near the train station.

the room was really disappointing, specifically the stained carpets. the wardrobes were taped shut with what looked like basic tape. also, the bathroom layout was strange, with very limited space around the toilet.

0 Helpful

Alexander from United Kingdom

Single

classic double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 27, 2025

6/10

underwhelming stay near haymarket

outdated room cash only

the location near haymarket station was convenient enough.

The room was pretty shabby and felt outdated. i wasn't thrilled about the 'cash only' situation they sprang on me right before arrival. It felt a bit shady, and i wonder why they still request card details at the reservation. also, the receptionist was cute, but the facilities were disappointing.

0 Helpful

Leo from Germany

Single

Classic Double Room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 20, 2025

8.8/10

Convenient Stay Near Transportation!

helpful staff ground floor tea supply public transport

The staff members were EXTREMELY helpful . I received a ground floor room without even asking, so I did not need to use the stairs. I found extra tea, milk, and sugar upon request,. Public transport is near the hotel. I reached the tram and bus stops within two minutes.

The room seemed charming initially, but I noticed the carpet was a bit grubby.

Service

10/10

The staff was very friendly and helpful, providing assistance with directions, transport and were able to answer most questions regarding local attractions. Extra supplies like milk and sugar for tea were provided quickly upon request.

Location

9/10

The hotel is conveniently located near multiple transport options including a bus stop with frequent service, a tram line and a train station, each accessible within a short walk. Several restaurants are nearby offering a variety of dining choices.

Dining

8/10

A steakhouse called Los Amigos is located directly across from the hotel, great news for meat lovers, who can savor a special meal. Other restaurants are nearby, offering alternatives for dining experiences.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel offers convenient amenities such as wifi access in each room and offers assistance with luggage, where staff are willing to carry bags up to the rooms. These touches.

Rooms

8/10

The classic double room features a comfortable bed and a view of the garden, with tea and coffee making facilities, a nice touch. The room includes essential furnishings and a functional layout for a brief stay.

0 Helpful

Evelyn from Ireland

Couple

Classic Double Room

4 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: October 27, 2025

9.0/10

Convenient Location and Helpful Staff

friendly staff comfortable bed hot shower

The staff were very efficient, friendly, and professional. The bed was comfortable. It was a treat to have a hot shower and a bath.

Location

9/10

The location provides convenient access to public transport. Haymarket station is only two minutes away, while central areas are just a 15-minute walk. Buses run frequently to many destinations making it easy to explore.

Service

10/10

Staff are really helpful! extra milk, tea, and sugar were quickly provided when requested. The staff showed us how to use the swipe key, even carrying our cases up the stairs to our room and being very polite.

Facilities

8/10

The room included a double bed and usual facilities. Regular cleaning occurred twice making it tidy. A ground floor room was provided at my request and there are no lifts in the hotel.

0 Helpful

Edward from United Kingdom

Single

classic double room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: October 25, 2025

9.3/10

a amazing location respite

transport links excellent shower helpful staff

The hotel benefits from superb transport links. Haymarket station is only a short walk. the location provided convenient access to the city centre by tram and bus. the pressure and temperature of the shower were both excellent.

i found many stairs to navigate to reach my room, though staff did offer assistance with luggage.

Dining

9/10

Nearby, i found several restaurants offering good quality meals. specifically, i recommend los amigos for a 'special meal'. It is a true steak house. the food was AMAZING!!!

Service

10/10

The staff were friendly and helpful. They were a real asset to the hotel. kenny was particularly kind. He went upstairs with me and showed me around. i felt welcomed and cared for.

Location

9/10

the hotel is conveniently located near haymarket station, only one minute away on foot. accessing any part of the city was easy via trains, trams, and buses. it was a great base for exploring.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About The Guards Hotel

Is breakfast included with a stay at the hotel?

05 November 2024

Breakfast is not provided at the hotel.

Can luggage be stored at the hotel before checking in?

07 December 2024

Luggage can be stored at the hotel starting from 10:00. Check-in is available between 14:00 and 22:00.

Do the hotel rooms have their own bathrooms?

15 March 2025

All twin double rooms come with ensuite bathrooms.

Is there a place to securely store a mountain bike at the hotel?

20 April 2025

Bags or other luggage can be left securely in the reception office after check-in.

Is there access to an iron and ironing board during my stay?

22 May 2025

Communal irons and ironing boards are available on the landings of each floor for guest use.

Can guests access the hotel late at night?

18 June 2024

Guests who check in before 22:00 are given keycards that allow late-night access to the hotel.

Where is the nearest parking available?

13 July 2024

The closest car park is on Distillery Lane, which needs to be pre-booked via the Just Park App. Prices are £20 per day Monday to Friday, and £16 on weekends.

What is the approximate taxi fare from the airport to the hotel?

30 August 2024

A taxi from the airport to the hotel generally costs between £20 and £25.

Are there family-friendly amenities available at the hotel?

05 September 2025

The hotel is child-friendly and can provide high chairs and baby cots upon request.

Can food be brought to the hotel room from nearby cafes?

12 October 2024

Yes, food can be brought to the room, and cutlery and crockery can be provided upon request.