Located in the historic Grassmarket area at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, this independently-owned hotel offers comfortable rooms with castle views, a popular restaurant and bar, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Grassmarket is one of Edinburgh's liveliest areas with excellent pubs, restaurants, and a weekly market.
The Grassmarket Hotel is an independently-owned hotel at 94–96 Grassmarket, at the foot of Edinburgh Castle in the historic Old Town. The Grassmarket is one of Edinburgh's oldest public spaces, with a history as a livestock and goods market dating to the 15th century, and the hotel occupies a building that reflects the area's character as a hub of trading, tavern life, and public spectacle over many centuries. Edinburgh Castle rock rises dramatically above the hotel, and some of the upper rooms offer direct views of the castle walls — among the most atmospheric hotel views in Scotland. The hotel's 40-plus rooms are individually styled with references to the neighbourhood's history, combining exposed stonework, warm lighting, and traditional Scottish materials with modern fittings and comfortable beds. The range spans compact Standard rooms to the Castle View rooms on upper floors, which are in higher demand given the outlook they provide towards the castle. The ground-floor restaurant and bar is a popular destination for hotel guests and neighbourhood regulars alike. The menu leans into Scottish comfort food — haggis with neeps and tatties, Scottish beef, seasonal soups, and locally caught fish — served in a convivial atmosphere with good Scottish ales and an adequate selection of malts. The bar is particularly lively in the evenings, especially at weekends when the Grassmarket area fills with visitors and locals. The surrounding neighbourhood offers some of Edinburgh's most enjoyable independent bars, restaurants, and weekly street market activity. Victoria Street, which curves up from the Grassmarket's western end, is one of the most photographed streets in the city. The Royal Mile, the National Museum of Scotland, and Greyfriars Kirkyard are all within a comfortable walking distance. The hotel's Grassmarket location provides a genuine sense of being embedded in Edinburgh's Old Town rather than simply adjacent to it.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Room service
Location
94-96 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JR
Highlights
- Edinburgh Castle views from some rooms
- Grassmarket location
- Historic atmosphere
- Good bar and restaurant
- Walking distance to all Old Town sights
Tips for visiting
- Request a Castle View room when booking; the upper-floor rooms facing north-east offer spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle, especially when the castle is floodlit after dark.
- Victoria Street, immediately adjacent to the hotel, is one of Edinburgh's most photogenic streets and is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books — best visited in the early morning before crowds build.
- The Grassmarket's outdoor market operates on Wednesdays and Fridays; mornings are the best time to browse fresh produce and artisan crafts.
- The Cowgate runs directly below the Grassmarket and is Edinburgh's main live music corridor; guests who enjoy nightlife will find numerous bars and venues within two minutes on foot.
- The climb from the Grassmarket to Edinburgh Castle esplanade takes 10–15 minutes via the West Bow; the approach through the old closes is part of the experience.
Accessibility
The Grassmarket Hotel occupies a historic Old Town building where some areas involve steps and uneven floor surfaces typical of Edinburgh's medieval architecture. The hotel has limited accessibility adaptations due to the historic building's constraints. Guests with mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hotel before booking to discuss suitable room options and access arrangements.
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Frequently asked questions
Does The Grassmarket Hotel have rooms with Edinburgh Castle views?
Yes, a number of upper-floor rooms facing the castle rock offer direct views of Edinburgh Castle's walls and turrets. These Castle View rooms are in a premium category and should be specifically requested when booking.
Is The Grassmarket Hotel a good location for exploring Edinburgh?
The Grassmarket is one of Edinburgh's most centrally placed Old Town addresses, within a 10-minute walk of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the National Museum of Scotland. Princes Street and the New Town are approximately 15 minutes on foot.
Is the Grassmarket area noisy at night?
The Grassmarket and adjacent Cowgate are Edinburgh nightlife districts, particularly at weekends. Guests who are sensitive to noise may find Friday and Saturday evenings disruptive; the hotel team can advise on quieter-facing rooms.
Does The Grassmarket Hotel have parking?
The hotel does not have its own car park. Edinburgh's Old Town has restricted parking; the nearest multi-storey car park is on Castle Terrace, approximately five minutes' walk from the hotel.
Can non-guests dine at The Grassmarket Hotel?
Yes, the ground-floor restaurant and bar welcomes walk-in diners and drinkers. Reservations are recommended for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings, when the Grassmarket area is particularly busy.