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How can we help?

Our Frequently Asked Questions are designed to make planning your stay as simple and stress-free as possible. It provides quick, clear answers to common queries about check-in and check-out times, facilities, apartment features, and local information, helping guests find everything they need in one place. Whether you’re staying for a short break or a longer visit, the FAQ page is there to give you helpful guidance and practical details so you can feel confident and well-prepared before and during your stay in Edinburgh.

Before You Book

What is an aparthotel?

An aparthotel is a type of accommodation that combines the comfort and space of a private apartment with the services of a hotel. Our guests at the Holyrood Aparthhotel have access to features like a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and separate bedrooms, allowing for a more flexible and home-like stay. Our aparthotel offer hotel-style amenities such as reception, housekeeping, and paid onsite parking making it a convenient option for both short visits and longer stays.

What’s the difference between an aparthotel and a hotel?

The main difference between an aparthotel and a hotel lies in space and facilities. A traditional hotel typically offers a single room with a bed, bathroom, and sometimes limited amenities or facilities, with a focus on short stays and convenience. In contrast, an aparthotel like the Holyrood Aparthhotel provides a more spacious, apartment-style setup, including a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and separate sleeping space, giving guests greater flexibility and a more home-like environment. While both offer services such as reception and housekeeping, aparthotels are especially suited to longer stays or travellers who want the option to cook, relax, and live more independently during their visit.

Are your apartments suitable for families or groups?

Aparthotels like the Holyrood Aparthhotel are an excellent choice for families and groups. Unlike standard hotel rooms, our apartments provide multiple bedrooms, separate living areas, and fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to relax, dine, and spend time together more comfortably. We offer a range of apartments suitable for families, accommodating up to five guests with the use of a sofa bed, and can provide cots and high chairs on request. For larger group stays of five or more apartments, full pre-payment is required, and cancellation terms may vary, so we recommend contacting us in advance to discuss your needs and ensure the best arrangement for your group.

What amenities are included in the apartments?

Each apartment at the Holyrood Aparthhotel features a fully equipped kitchen with appliances and utensils, a dining area, and a spacious living space, along with conveniences such as free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee facilities, a safe, an iron and ironing board, and a private bathroom. Guests also benefit from a 24-hour reception, laundry and dry-cleaning services, luggage storage, and secure paid parking. Additional services such as breakfast hampers are also available, making it especially convenient for families, groups, and extended stays.

Do all apartments have kitchens?

Each apartment at the Holyrood Aparthhotel features a fully equipped kitchen with appliances and utensils, and dining area.

Is there ironing facilities?

Irons and ironing boards are available in all of our apartments at the Holyrood Aparthhotel.

Is there Tea & Coffee making facilities?

All of our apartments at the Holyrood Aparthhotel are thoughtfully stocked with complimentary tea, instant coffee, and sugar, along with a cafetière.

Are there hairdryers in the apartments?

Each apartment at the Holyrood Aparthhotel is fitted with a hairdryer for your convenience.

Is there a safe in the apartment?

Each apartment at the Holyrood Aparthhotel is fitted with a safe for your convenience.

Are apartments accurately shown in the photos?

Images used are representative of the style and standard you can expect at the Holyrood Aparthhotel, however please note that we are currently undergoing renovations to a portion of our apartments, which means availability is limited for immediate stays. As a result, we are unable to guarantee that these specific units will be available during your visit. Please also be aware that each apartment is individually designed and varies in layout and décor, and therefore we are unable to guarantee allocation of a particular unit.

Is there a minimum stay?

Minimum stays may apply depending on the dates of your visit. These requirements can vary during weekends, peak periods, and seasonal high-demand times, as well as according to the specific rate or promotional offer selected at the time of booking at the Holyrood Aparthhotel.

Booking & Payments

How do I make a booking?

Bookings can be made directly through our website, by telephone, or via trusted third-party travel agents.

We also offer a Best Rate Guarantee when you book directly with the Holyrood Aparthotel. If you find your apartment available online at a lower price within 24 hours of making your booking, we will be happy to match it, provided the booking conditions are identical. To qualify, you must contact us within 24 hours of your reservation with full details of the website where the lower rate was found.

The price match applies only to bookings made directly through our website, where the reservation is still within the cancellation period, and where the lower rate is available and bookable online at the time we verify it. The offer must be for the same apartment type, identical check-in and check-out dates, and the same booking conditions (such as breakfast inclusion or non-refundable terms).

Please note that this guarantee does not apply to group, corporate, wholesale, associate, or package rates, nor to travel agent promotions or third-party package deals, including basic bookings made via sites such as Booking.com. If you require any assistance, you can contact our reservations team by phone on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or by email at info@holyroodaparthotel.com

How can I sign up to your members list?

Join our members list and enjoy 20% off all future reservations. Sign up today to unlock exclusive savings, along with access to our best available rates and special perks designed to enhance your stay at the Holyrood Aparthotel available only when you book directly with us. You can join our members list by signing up here

Terms and conditions apply, including blackout dates and minimum stay requirements.

Our Best Rate Guarantee

If you find your apartment at the Holyrood Aparthotel available online at a lower price within 24 hours of making your booking, we will be happy to match it, provided the booking conditions are identical. To qualify, you must contact us within 24 hours of your reservation with full details of the website where the lower rate was found. The price match applies only to bookings made directly through our website, where the reservation is still within the cancellation period, and where the lower rate is still available and bookable online at the time we verify it. The offer must also be for the same room type, check-in and check-out dates, and identical booking conditions, such as breakfast inclusion or non-refundable terms. Please note that this guarantee does not apply to group, corporate, wholesale, associate, or package rates, nor to travel agent promotions or third-party package deals, including basic bookings made via sites such as Booking.com. If you require any assistance you can contact our reservations team by phone on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or by email at info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Can I amend or cancel my booking?

There are several ways to amend or cancel your booking at the Holyrood Aparthotel. First, please check your booking confirmation email to review the cancellation terms. If your booking is still eligible for changes or cancellation, you can proceed in a few ways. If you booked directly with us (rather than through a third-party travel agent), you can use the link in your confirmation email to amend or cancel your reservation, or click here.  Alternatively, you can contact our reservations team by phone on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or by email at info@holyroodaparthotel.com
for assistance. If you made your booking through a third-party provider, you will need to contact them directly to make any changes or cancellations. For more information, please visit our terms and conditions page

When will I be charged for my stay?

Prior to your arrival at Holyrood aparthotel, we will place a pre-authorisation on your credit or debit card for the value of the first night’s stay. This is taken approximately 24 hours before check-in. The pre-authorisation is not a charge; it is temporarily held by your bank to ensure sufficient funds are available in the event of a cancellation or no-show.

If you cancel your reservation after 16:00 GMT on the day prior to arrival, or fail to arrive, a cancellation fee equal to the first night’s stay will be applied in line with our policy.

The remaining balance of your reservation will be collected at check-in.

Security Deposit

On arrival, a further pre-authorisation of £50 per apartment will be taken as a security deposit. This is held to cover any incidental charges or damages that may occur during your stay. This is not a payment and will be released after departure, provided no charges are required. As with all pre-authorisations, release times may vary depending on your bank and can take up to 9–10 working days.

Please note that pre-authorisations will be released upon departure, provided no charges are incurred during your stay. Depending on your bank, this release may take 9–10 working days to appear in your account.

I haven't received a booking confirmation, what should I do?

If you have not yet received your booking confirmation for your stay with us at Holyrood Aparthotel, and you booked directly with us, please first check your junk or spam email folder, as confirmation emails can sometimes be filtered there. If you find it there, please mark future emails from us as “not junk” to ensure you receive all future correspondence.

If you are still unable to locate your booking confirmation, please contact our Reservations Team for assistance on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

If you booked via a third-party travel agent, please contact them directly to confirm your reservation details. Alternatively, our Reservations Team will also be happy to assist you using the contact details above.

What do I do if I lose my reservation number?

If you have misplaced your reservation number for your stay at Holyrood Aparthotel, please do not hesitate to contact our Reservations Team for assistance on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

If you booked through a third-party travel agent, we recommend contacting them directly to retrieve your booking details. Alternatively, our Reservations Team will be happy to assist you using the contact details above.

What is your refund/security deposit policy?

At Holyrood Aparthotel, a pre-authorisation of £50 per apartment is required on a credit or debit card upon arrival. This is held as a security deposit to cover any incidental charges or damages that may occur during your stay.

Please note that this is not a payment; the funds are temporarily held by your bank and will be released upon departure, provided no charges are incurred. Depending on your bank, the release of funds may take 9–10 working days to appear in your account.

 

Are taxes included in the rate?

Yes, all rates at Holyrood Aparthotel are inclusive of taxes. This includes the Edinburgh City Visitor Levy, which applies to all visitors to the city.

The levy will come into effect for stays from 24 July 2026. Advance bookings made from 1 October 2025 for stays on or after 24 July 2026 will also be subject to this charge.

All our rates will continue to be shown inclusive of the Edinburgh City Visitor Levy and applicable VAT, so you can book with confidence and with no hidden charges.

What payment methods do you accept?

At the Holyrood Aparthotel we accept American Express, VISA, Master card and Maestro.

Pre Stay Payments

The Holyrood Aparthotel no longer issues proformas for telephone payments. Instead, we now use a secure “Pay by Link” system.

Guests wishing to make payment prior to arrival must request this at least 10 days in advance. To arrange this, please contact our team on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Are there any discounts available?

At the Holyrood Aparthotel, our members receive 20% off when booking directly with us.

You can join our members list by signing up here

By joining, you’ll unlock exclusive savings on future stays, access to our best available rates, and additional perks designed to enhance your experience at Holyrood Aparthotel—available only when booking directly with us.

Terms & Conditions apply, including blackout dates, minimum stay requirements, and availability. Seasonal promotions may also apply, each subject to their own terms.

Check-in, Check-out & Arrival

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in at Holyrood Aparthotel is from 15:00, and check-out is by 11:00. Please note that every guest staying with us is required to present a physical form of ID at check-in for security purposes.

Can I check in early or check out late?

Early check-in and late check-out at Holyrood Aparthotel cannot be guaranteed, but we will always do our best to accommodate requests where availability allows.

To request a late check-out, please contact Reception the day before your departure.

Is reception open 24 hours?

Reception at the Holyrood Aparthotel is open 24 hours a day for your convenience.

Can I store luggage before/after my stay?

Guests at the Holyrood Aparthotel may store their luggage with us free of charge. Please note that items are left at the owner’s risk, as luggage is not secured in a supervised storage facility.

Unfortunately, we are unable to store luggage for non-residents.

During Your Stay

Who can I contact if I need assistance during my stay?

Our team at Holyrood Aparthotel is available 24 hours a day at Reception and will be happy to assist you throughout your stay. Alternatively, you can contact us by phone on +44 (0)131 524 3200 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

We also provide a digital guest directory designed to help you make the most of your visit. It includes useful information about our services, apartment facilities and appliance instructions, as well as hotel policies and emergency contact details. You will also find recommendations for things to see and do in Edinburgh, along with access to discounted tickets for local tours and attractions.

You can access the guest directory here

Do you offer housekeeping or daily cleaning?

At Holyrood Aparthotel, we are committed to delivering the highest standards of service while remaining true to our environmental and social values.

To help reduce our environmental impact, we do not provide daily housekeeping as standard. This helps minimise water, energy, and linen usage, supporting a more sustainable future.

Should you require additional housekeeping services during your stay, our Front of House team will be happy to assist and arrange this for you upon request.

How do I request additional items or amenities?

If you require any additional items or amenities during your stay at Holyrood Aparthotel, please contact Reception. Our team will be happy to assist with requests such as extra towels, bedding, or other essentials.

Reception is available 24 hours a day to support you throughout your stay. Alternatively, you can contact us by phone on +44 (0)131 524 3200 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Is there WiFi in the apartments?

Yes, at Holyrood Aparthotel, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Do you offer breakfast options?

At Holyrood Aparthotel, guests can book a Bed & Breakfast rate which includes our breakfast hamper, available at £7.50 per person per day.

The hamper includes a selection of: bread, milk, orange juice, jams, cereals and muesli, butter, Walker’s oatcakes, cheese, and Scottish shortbread.

To order your breakfast hamper, please speak with our Reception team upon arrival or add it as an enhancement when making your reservation on our website.

If you have any dietary requirements, please contact us in advance so we can ensure the items included in the hamper are suitable for your needs. You can contact us by phone on +44 (0)131 524 3200 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Is there a gym and what are the opening hours?

No, the Holyrood Aparthotel does not have a gym on the property.

Do you offer bike storage?

No, the Holyrood Aparthotel does not offer on-site bike storage facilities.

Are the apartments noisy?

Due to our central location, some level of external noise is unavoidable at Holyrood Aparthotel. However, we are continually working to enhance guest comfort and improve the overall experience.

Are there laundry facilities?

Some apartments at Holyrood Aparthotel are equipped with a washer/dryer. For longer stays, availability can be checked at the time of booking or upon request.

We will always do our best to accommodate guest requirements; however, this feature cannot be guaranteed in all apartments.

What if something is broken or requires maintenance?

Our Maintenance Team at Holyrood Aparthotel works daily to maintain and improve the standards of our apartments, ensuring the best possible guest experience.

If you encounter any issues during your stay, please report them to Reception and we will address them promptly.

Do showers have curtains to prevent water spillage?

Some bathrooms at Holyrood Aparthotel feature glass panels, and we are continually working to improve water containment in these areas to enhance guest comfort.

Is breakfast included?

Not all rates at Holyrood Aparthotel include breakfast. We offer both Bed & Breakfast rates and room-only options, and breakfast can also be added at any point during your stay.

Our breakfast hampers are available for £7.50 per person per day and include: bread, milk, orange juice, a selection of jams, cereals and muesli, butter, Walker’s oatcakes, cheese, and Scottish shortbread.

To order your breakfast hamper, please speak with our Reception team upon arrival or add it as an enhancement when booking via our website.

If you have any dietary requirements, please contact us in advance so we can ensure the hamper contents are suitable for your needs.

Are the apartments clean on arrival?

Yes — at the Holyrood Aparthotel, we maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the property. If anything does not meet your expectations, please notify Reception immediately so we can address it promptly.

Do you have a digital guest directory?

The Holyrood Aparthotel provides a digital guest directory to help you make the most of your stay.

It includes useful information about our services, apartment facilities and appliance instructions, as well as hotel policies and emergency contact details. You will also find recommendations for things to see and do in Edinburgh, along with access to discounted tickets for tours and attractions.

You can access the directory here

Location & Getting Around

Where is the Holyrood Aparthotel located?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is ideally located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, just off the famous Royal Mile. Positioned at the lower end of this iconic street, it sits within the Holyrood area — a district known for its rich history and proximity to some of the city’s most important landmarks.

The aparthotel is only a short walk from major attractions including the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament Building, and the dramatic landscape of Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park. It is also conveniently close to Edinburgh Waverley Station, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by train.

Overall, the location offers a perfect balance of historic atmosphere and central convenience — placing guests within walking distance of Edinburgh’s key sights, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while still enjoying a slightly quieter setting at the foot of the Royal Mile.

How far is it from Edinburgh Airport?

Holyrood Aparthotel is approximately 8 miles (13 km) from Edinburgh Airport, with a journey time of around 20–25 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic.

Guests have several convenient transport options to choose from. A taxi or private transfer offers the fastest and most direct route, providing a door-to-door service. The Edinburgh Tram is a reliable option, taking around 45–55 minutes in total, including a short onward walk or taxi from central city stops. Alternatively, the Airlink 100 airport bus provides a frequent and cost-effective service into the city centre, from which the hotel is a short walk or taxi ride away.

For added convenience, you can also pre-book a transfer with our partner Welcome Pickups

How do I get to the property from the Airport?

Holyrood Aparthotel is approximately 8 miles (13 km) from Edinburgh Airport, with a journey time of around 20–25 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic.

Guests have several convenient transport options to choose from. A taxi or private transfer offers the fastest and most direct route, providing a door-to-door service. The Edinburgh Tram is a reliable option, taking around 45–55 minutes in total, including a short onward walk or taxi from central city stops. Alternatively, the Airlink 100 airport bus provides a frequent and cost-effective service into the city centre, from which the hotel is a short walk or taxi ride away.

For added convenience, you can also pre-book a transfer with our partner Welcome Pickups

Is public transport accessible?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is very well connected and easily accessible by public transport, making it a convenient base for exploring Edinburgh. Located in the city centre at the foot of the Royal Mile, the hotel is just a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station, the city’s main rail hub, which provides direct links across Scotland and the wider UK. Several key bus routes stop nearby, offering frequent services across the city, while Edinburgh Trams and the Airlink airport bus can be accessed from nearby city centre stops within a short walk or taxi ride. This excellent connectivity means guests can easily reach major attractions, shopping areas, and Edinburgh Airport without the need for a car, with most of the city’s highlights comfortably accessible on foot or via direct public transport links.

What is the closest train station?

Edinburgh Waverley Train Station is the closest station to Holyrood Aparthotel, located just a short walk from the property.

As Edinburgh’s main railway hub, Waverley offers direct services to major cities across Scotland and the UK, including London, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, Dundee, and Newcastle, making it easy to travel both nationally and regionally. The station is also well connected to local rail services across the Lothians and surrounding areas.

If you need to purchase train tickets, you can book them here

Is it near the Royal Mile?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is located at the eastern end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, just a short walk from Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament. This prime location places guests at the quieter, more historic end of the Royal Mile, while still within easy walking distance of its famous landmarks, shops, restaurants, and attractions. It offers an ideal base for exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town, with the city’s key sights right on the doorstep.

Is it near Princes Street?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, close to the historic Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace. While it is not directly on Princes Street, it is still within easy walking distance of the city’s main shopping and transport hub. Princes Street is approximately a 10–15 minute walk away, making it very convenient for guests to explore both the Old Town and New Town areas of Edinburgh. Its central location provides a great balance between historic surroundings and easy access to the city’s key attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Do you have parking and is it paid or free?

The Holyrood Aparthotel offers on-site, chargeable parking located to the rear of the property. Parking is available at a rate of £20 per day, from 15:00 to 11:00 the following morning. Availability outside of these hours is subject to demand and cannot be guaranteed. Please note that parking is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Edinburgh also operates a Low Emission Zone (LEZ). For more information, please visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk

Policies & Accessibility

What is your child policy?

Children of all ages are welcome at Holyrood Aparthotel; however, all guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Travel cots are available for infants, subject to availability. If you require one, please contact our team in advance and we will be happy to assist.

 

What is your Environmental Policy

We recognise that our operations at Holyrood Aparthotel have an environmental impact, and we are committed to reducing this wherever possible. We continuously strive to improve our sustainability practices in line with best industry standards, and we encourage our team, suppliers, and guests to support us in making environmentally responsible choices.

You can view our full environmental policy here

What is your Privacy Policy

The Holyrood Aparthotel takes the privacy of our guests extremely seriously. You can view our full privacy policy here

What is your Cookie Policy

The Holyrood Aparthotel takes the privacy of our guests extremely seriously. You can view our full Cookie policy here

What is your Anti Corruption & Bribery Policy

The Holyrood Aparthotel takes anti-corruption and anti-bribery matters extremely seriously. You can view our full policy here

What is your Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity Policy

The Holyrood Aparthotel takes Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity matters extremely seriously. You can view our full policy here

Are pets allowed?

Unfortunately, we do not accept pets at Holyrood Aparthotel.

Do you have accessible apartments?

The Holyrood Aparthotel has a limited number of accessible apartments available. We currently offer two DDA-compliant apartments, both of which are two-bedroom twin/double units.

If you have any specific accessibility requirements, please contact our team so we can discuss your needs and ensure we allocate the most suitable apartment for a comfortable stay. You can contact us by phone on +44 (0)131 524 3200 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

What is your cancellation policy?

If you cancel your reservation at Holyrood Aparthotel after 16:00 GMT on the day prior to arrival, or fail to arrive, a cancellation fee equal to the first night’s stay will apply. This is in line with our cancellation policy, and the pre-authorisation is taken 24 hours prior to arrival.

For full details of our terms and conditions, please visit here

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us on +44 (0)131 524 3200 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

How do I raise a complaint?

If you would like to raise or discuss any concerns regarding your experience at the Holyrood Aparthotel, please contact our team and we will respond as soon as possible to address the issue with you directly.

You can reach us on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or by email at info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Can I leave feedback after my stay?

Yes, we welcome all feedback about your experience at Holyrood Aparthotel. Whether positive or negative, guest reviews are extremely valuable to us as they help us continuously improve our service.

Please feel free to contact our team on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com
Alternatively, you can also leave a review via the travel agent or booking platform you used to make your reservation.

Stay Types

Do you offer corporate rates?

Yes, we offer corporate rates at the Holyrood Aparthotel. If you would like to discuss corporate bookings or set up a corporate agreement, please contact our team on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Can I book for groups?

We offer group bookings at the Holyrood Aparthotel. For reservations of more than five apartments, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

To confirm a group booking of five or more apartments, full pre-payment for the entire stay is required. Please note that our standard cancellation policy does not apply to group reservations, and cancellation terms may vary depending on the number of apartments and length of stay.

We therefore recommend contacting us prior to making a reservation so we can discuss your requirements in detail and provide the most suitable terms. Please contact our team on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com

Do you offer long-stay discounts?

Depending on the length of stay at the Holyrood Aparthotel, we may be able to offer additional discounts on a case-by-case basis.

If you are interested in an extended stay, please contact our team on +44 (0)131 560 2064 or email info@holyroodaparthotel.com and we will be happy to discuss your requirements.

Do you offer exclusive member rates or discounts?

Yes our members list and enjoy 20% off all future reservations. Sign up today to unlock exclusive savings, along with access to our best available rates and special perks designed to enhance your stay at the Holyrood Aparthotel available only when you book directly with us. You can join our members list by signing up here

Terms and conditions apply, including blackout dates and minimum stay requirements.

Things To Do

What are the best things to do near the Holyrood Aparthotel?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is ideally located for exploring some of Edinburgh’s most iconic attractions. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the historic Royal Mile, which leads directly to Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town’s famous closes and cobbled streets. On your doorstep are the Scottish Parliament and the striking Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the King in Scotland, as well as Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, offering some of the best panoramic views of the city.

Guests can also easily access the National Museum of Scotland, the many restaurants and bars along the Royal Mile, and the vibrant St James Quarter for shopping and dining. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or scenic walks, there is plenty to see and do just moments from the hotel.

If you would like to book tickets for attractions, you can access discounted rates through our partner TourDesk here

Is the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle within walking distance of the Holyrood Aparthotel?

Both the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are within easy walking distance of the Holyrood Aparthotel.

The Royal Mile is just a few minutes’ walk away and begins at the eastern end near Holyrood Palace, extending through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town all the way up to Edinburgh Castle. The walk from the hotel to Edinburgh Castle typically takes around 15–20 minutes on foot, following the Royal Mile uphill through some of the city’s most famous streets, closes, and landmarks. This makes the hotel an excellent base for exploring both attractions entirely on foot.

What outdoor activities can I do near the Holyrood Aparthotel?

There are lots of fantastic outdoor activities just a short walk from the Holyrood Aparthotel, thanks to its location right next to Holyrood Park. One of the most popular things to do is climb Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering panoramic views over Edinburgh and the surrounding coastline. If you prefer something more relaxed, you can explore the gentler walking routes through Holyrood Park, including scenic paths around Salisbury Crags, Hunter’s Bog, and Dunsapie Loch, all offering beautiful views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

You can also enjoy a peaceful walk or cycle along Queen’s Drive, which loops around the park and provides easy access to different viewpoints without the need for a steep climb. The Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace are also nearby, making it easy to combine sightseeing with outdoor exploring. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a gentle nature walk, or simply some fresh air and open space in the heart of the city, there are plenty of outdoor options right on your doorstep. If you would like to book tickets for attractions, you can access discounted rates through our partner TourDesk here

What are the best cultural and historic attractions near the Holyrood Aparthotel?

Holyrood Aparthotel is ideally located for exploring some of Edinburgh’s most important cultural and historic attractions, all within easy walking distance. Just moments away is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official royal residence in Scotland, and the striking Scottish Parliament Building, which showcases modern Scottish architecture at the foot of the Royal Mile. From here, you can easily step onto the Royal Mile itself, a historic street that runs through Edinburgh’s Old Town and is lined with landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral, traditional closes, museums, shops, and historic buildings.

A short walk uphill leads to the world-famous Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock with panoramic views across the city and a rich royal and military history.

For museum lovers, the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street is also nearby and offers extensive collections covering Scottish history, world cultures, science, and technology.

Guests can also explore the Museum of Edinburgh, located on the Royal Mile, and the fascinating Surgeons’ Hall Museums, which showcase one of the most significant medical collections in the UK.

Together, these attractions place Holyrood Aparthotel in one of the most culturally rich and historically significant areas of the city, making it an ideal base for discovering Edinburgh’s heritage on foot. If you would like to book tickets for attractions, you can access discounted rates through our partner TourDesk here

What are the best things for families to do near the Holyrood Aparthotel?

There are lots of brilliant family-friendly things to do near the Holyrood Aparthotel, all within easy walking distance, making it a great base for travelling with children.

Just outside the hotel is Holyrood Park, a huge open green space where families can enjoy fresh air, picnics, and gentle walks. Older children often love the adventure of climbing part of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers amazing views over Edinburgh, while easier paths around the park are ideal for younger kids and buggies.

At the bottom of the Royal Mile you’ll find Dynamic Earth, an interactive science centre with hands-on exhibits, a 4D cinema, and immersive displays about volcanoes, space, and the natural world—perfect for a fun and educational family visit.

You are also just a short walk from the Royal Mile, where families can explore street performers, souvenir shops, historic closes, and easy sightseeing up to Edinburgh Castle. Nearby attractions such as the National Museum of Scotland offer free entry and engaging exhibits that are great for children of all ages.

With its mix of outdoor space, interactive attractions, and historic sites all close by, the area around Holyrood Aparthotel is ideal for a relaxed and entertaining family stay in Edinburgh. If you would like to book tickets for attractions, you can access discounted rates through our partner TourDesk here

What are the best things for groups to do near the Holyrood Aparthotel?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is perfectly placed for group activities in Edinburgh, with many of the city’s best experiences just a short walk away. Groups can start by exploring the nearby Royal Mile, where guided tours, ghost walks, historical attractions, and lively bars and restaurants make it ideal for shared experiences and evenings out. Just moments from the hotel is Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, offering group-friendly hikes and scenic walking routes with panoramic views over the city—perfect for photos and outdoor adventure.

For something more interactive, Dynamic Earth is right next door and provides an immersive, hands-on experience that works especially well for group visits, from corporate outings to friends and family trips. Groups can also easily visit Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland, all within walking distance, offering rich history and culture in a compact area.

For a more social experience, the surrounding area is filled with restaurants, pubs, and venues suited to group dining and celebrations, particularly along the Royal Mile and nearby Old Town streets. With everything so close together, the area around Holyrood Aparthotel is ideal for groups wanting a mix of culture, history, outdoor activities, and nightlife all within easy reach. If you would like to book tickets for attractions, you can access discounted rates through our partner TourDesk here

What are the best things for couples to do near the Holyrood Aparthotel?

The Holyrood Aparthotel is perfectly located for couples looking to enjoy a romantic break in Edinburgh, with a wide range of memorable experiences right on the doorstep. Just a short walk away is Holyrood Park, a beautiful natural setting ideal for peaceful strolls, picnics, or a scenic hike up Arthur’s Seat, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views over the city. The nearby Royal Mile offers a charming atmosphere for wandering hand-in-hand through historic streets, hidden closes, and cosy cafés, all leading up towards Edinburgh Castle. Couples can also enjoy a visit to the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, or spend an evening exploring the Old Town’s intimate restaurants, wine bars, and traditional pubs. For something more relaxed, nearby viewpoints such as Calton Hill provide especially romantic sunset views across Edinburgh. With its blend of scenery, history, and atmosphere, the area around Holyrood Aparthotel offers plenty of special experiences for couples to enjoy together. If you would like to book tickets for attractions, you can access discounted rates through our partner TourDesk here

Is Edinburgh a good city for a walking break?

Edinburgh is widely considered one of the best cities in the UK for a walking break.

The city is compact, highly walkable, and full of character, with most major attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The historic Old Town, including the Royal Mile, offers cobbled streets, closes, and landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, all connected by scenic routes that are best explored on foot.

Edinburgh also offers excellent contrast within short distances: you can move from medieval streets to elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town, or from the city centre to open green space in Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views. Many of the city’s museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and viewpoints are also easily accessible without needing transport.

With its mix of history, scenery, and compact layout, Edinburgh is ideal for a short walking-focused city break.

Contact Us

If you have any questions please contact our team

T: 44(0) 131 524 3200
E: info@holyroodaparthotel.com

1 Nether Bakehouse, Edinburgh, EH8 8PE, United Kingdom

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