Edinburgh Backpackers

Edinburgh Backpackers is at 65 Cockburn Street, the winding, curved street that links Waverley station with the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town. The street is known for independent shops, record stores, cafes and small bars, and the Royal Mile, St Giles' Cathedral and the Scottish Storytelling Centre are a minute or two uphill. Waverley station is about five minutes downhill, which makes arrival by train, tram or airport bus particularly easy, and Princes Street and the New Town are across the valley. The hostel occupies a stone building typical of the Victorian-era Cockburn Street, and it offers a sociable, budget-friendly base. Accommodation consists of dormitories of various sizes with lockers, and guests share bathrooms. A self-catering kitchen lets travellers cook their own meals, and free Wi-Fi is available. There is no on-site restaurant, pool or gym, but cafes, bakeries and pubs lie outside the door. Staff generally provide information on walking tours, Highland day trips and local events, and common areas encourage guests to meet fellow travellers. The clientele is mostly solo backpackers, young travellers and small groups. Rates run from about £20 to £70 per night depending on dorm size and season, with peaks in August and at Hogmanay. The central location means some noise from the street and from nearby bars, so earplugs are useful. Visitors arriving with luggage will find the walk from Waverley short but steep. The hostel is a good fit for those who value an excellent position, independent-shop atmosphere and low prices rather than amenities.