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Hotels · Scotland, Edinburgh

Macdonald Holyrood Hotel

  • Price£100–£260/night (~$134–$348)
  • CategoryMid Range
  • Rating★ 4.2

Contemporary hotel with a leisure club and pool on Holyrood Road, near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Dynamic Earth and the Scottish Parliament.

Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is a contemporary hotel at 81 Holyrood Road, at the foot of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town, Scotland. Its location is among the most convenient for the eastern end of the Old Town: the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament, Dynamic Earth and the Scottish Parliament's neighbouring Holyrood Park are all within a few minutes on foot, and the full length of the Royal Mile up to Edinburgh Castle can be walked in about 20 to 25 minutes. Waverley station is about 10 minutes away. The building is modern, with a glass-fronted design that contrasts with the surrounding historic streets, and the interiors are contemporary rather than period-styled. Room types include Standard Doubles, Twin Rooms, Superior Rooms and Family Rooms, with typical nightly rates of about £100 to £260. The most notable amenity is a leisure club with a swimming pool, supported by a gym, which is relatively uncommon among Old Town hotels and appeals to families and to guests who want to relax after a day of sightseeing. A restaurant and bar provide breakfast and evening meals on site. The service character is that of a mid-range, family-friendly and business-friendly hotel, with a steady flow of conference and group guests as well as leisure travellers. Holyrood Park starts across the road, giving easy access to walking routes up Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags, and Our Dynamic Earth is a convenient option for families with children. The hotel is a practical choice for visitors who want a pool and modern comforts at the quieter eastern end of the Old Town, with easy access to the main historic sights on foot.

Practical information for Macdonald Holyrood Hotel · Last updated September 2026
Price £100–£260/night (~$134–$348)
Address 81 Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AU

Room types

  • Standard Double
  • Twin Rooms
  • Superior Rooms
  • Family Rooms

Amenities

  • Leisure club and pool
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Gym

Location

81 Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AU

55.9502, -3.1782 View on map

Highlights

  • Beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Scottish Parliament
  • Leisure club with swimming pool and gym
  • Short walk to Dynamic Earth and Holyrood Park
  • Restaurant and bar on site
  • Family Rooms and Superior Rooms

Tips for visiting

  • Walk up the Royal Mile to the Castle for a downhill return at the end of the day.
  • Check leisure club hours and any age restrictions for children before arrival.
  • Visit Holyrood Park early to climb Arthur's Seat before the crowds.
  • Book well ahead for August, when the eastern Old Town is busy.
  • Waverley station is about 10 minutes away for onward rail travel.

When to visit

Summer suits Holyrood Park walks, while the pool is a draw in cold and wet months. August festival weeks are busiest.

Accessibility

As a modern hotel it is likely to offer lifts and step-free routes, but visitors who need adapted rooms or pool access arrangements should confirm details with the hotel before booking.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Macdonald Holyrood have a pool?

Yes, it has a leisure club with a swimming pool and a gym.

What is nearby?

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament, Dynamic Earth and Holyrood Park are all close.

Is it suitable for families?

Family Rooms are offered, and the pool and nearby Dynamic Earth suit children.

How far is Edinburgh Castle?

The Castle can be reached on foot up the Royal Mile in roughly 20 to 25 minutes.

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Macdonald Holyrood Hotel

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