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The Guards Hotel

eee - 0745 127 3975
The Guards Hotel, 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh -0745 127 3975
Area: Edinburgh West End
(Map)
2.95
HOTEL RATING: 
OKAY
2.95 out of 5 (1432 Ratings)
0.7 miles Usher Hall Edinburgh
v7 mins driving
t15 mins walking
BOOK ONLINE OR CALL - 0745 127 3975
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The Spotlight on The Guards Hotel

Charming, character-filled hotel near Edinburgh’s music scene

The Guards Hotel is a cozy, family-run hotel located directly across from Haymarket Train Station in Edinburgh’s West End. With its distinctive military theme and homey décor, this small hotel offers a welcoming base just a 10-minute walk from the shops and nightlife of Princes Street and close to key venues like the EICC.

Why Concert-goers love it

Concert-goers appreciate the location—right by Haymarket Station—making it easy to reach venues across the city or even out of town. The hotel's proximity to frequent bus services and direct routes to Edinburgh Airport makes late-night returns simple. While it’s not a party hotel, the peaceful atmosphere is ideal for those looking to unwind after a high-energy night out. The staff go the extra mile with local tips and travel help, which is great if you're navigating multiple shows or unfamiliar with the city.

Who this Hotel is great for

- Groups of friends looking for a central, affordable base
- Solo travelers catching that once-in-a-lifetime gig
- Couples on a weekend music getaway
- Fans who want a quiet space to recharge after the show
- Budget-conscious music lovers who value location and comfort

Food and Drink Options

While The Guards Hotel doesn’t have a full restaurant, there are plenty of eateries and pubs within walking distance—ideal for grabbing a bite after the encore. Several nearby cafés offer late breakfasts for those slow mornings after a night out. Room service isn’t available, but the local area makes up for it with diverse options just steps away.

Nightlife Options

You're in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End, with bars and lounges close by, including some with live music. Whether you're looking for a lively post-gig spot or a quiet pint, you'll find it within walking distance. While the hotel doesn’t host live music itself, its location makes it easy to explore the city's nightlife.

What People Say

Guests often highlight the friendly staff and warm, welcoming vibe. The military-themed décor gives the hotel a unique charm, and travelers love the easy access to transit and proximity to key attractions. Many mention it's a great value for the location and ideal for short city stays.

Areas for Improvement

Some rooms are on the smaller side, and the décor, while charming, isn’t for everyone. There’s no elevator, so those with heavy luggage may want to request a lower floor. Check-out is at 10:00 AM, which might feel a bit early after a late night.

The Bottom Line

A friendly, character-rich base for concert-goers who want to be close to the action but enjoy a quieter, more personal stay.
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7
1 room
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2 guests
Amenities View More
y
Free Internet
w
Non Smoking
r
Pets Allowed
q
Accessible
x
Free Breakfast
j
Free Parking
u
Swimming Pool
E
Fitness Center
A
Business Center
B
Airport Shuttle
Other Amenities
` Golf Course
` Room Service
` Bar
` Heating
` 24-hour security
` Designated Smoking Area
` Family Rooms
` Free Wi-Fi
` Daily Housekeeping
` Non-Smoking Rooms Available
` Smoke alarms
` Fire extinguishers
` CCTV security in common areas
` Facilities for disabled guests available
` Non-smoking property
` Pets allowed (charges may apply)

The Guards Hotel Guest Reviews

Overall Average Score: 
Okay (2.95 out of 5)

Write a review

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Chloe Tue, 29 July 2025

Pleasant

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Jayne Mon, 28 July 2025

Brilliant location for Haymarket tram...

Liked: Lovely greeting from very helpful staff member. Unbeatable location for the Haymarket tram station. top floor ensuite room with great views and comfortable beds. Nice tea/coffee tray, very clean and well stocked.
Disliked: Bathroom tap was loose and flooring lino split. The door deadbolt didn't work.

1.5

Poor - 1.5 out of 5

Scotta Mon, 28 July 2025

the location was great

Liked: Very good location - the room was ample in size and the bathroom was well equipped. The sheets and towels were clean. the bed was fairly comfortable
Disliked: the carpet was stained badly the bathroom flooring had a big patch that wasn't sealed down and wasn't even close to the same color - the fitment of the bath fixtures was home reno level -if the person had never done home renos

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Elaine Mon, 28 July 2025

Pleasant

Liked: Room and bed adequate
Disliked: No working television and not fixed on requestNo hot water in shower

2

Disappointing - 2.0 out of 5

Bob Sat, 26 July 2025

Good location, bed clean&comfy/friendly staff....

Liked: Location.Clean and comfortable bed.Warm welcome - friendly staff.
Disliked: Room tired and dated.Room small.Room furniture old and dated.Bathroom - mould in shower cabinet, dreadful smell from drain.

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Anonymous Fri, 25 July 2025

Exceptional

0.5

Poor - 0.5 out of 5

Gamblin Thu, 24 July 2025

Bad

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Chris Tue, 22 July 2025

Very good

Liked: We asked and were given a room on ground floor as there were no lifts in the hotel.

3.5

Good - 3.5 out of 5

Mark Mon, 21 July 2025

Cheap and basic

Liked: Basic room, but had all I needed. Very cheap so didn't expect too much, just needed en-suite bathroom and bed.
Disliked: Room was small with no window, but this info is available on Booking.com so I didn't mind that too much. The light over the bed didn't work. It actually flickered so may have loose connections so didn't use it. Couldn't inform staff as there was no one at reception when I left at around 7:30 am.

3.5

Good - 3.5 out of 5

Ian Mon, 21 July 2025

Great location, good staff and...

Liked: Location was great, very central. Facilities were sufficient and the staff were very helpful
Disliked: The cleanliness, though it was acceptable, could have done with a deep clean. That said, it was reasonable comfortable and clean

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The Guards Hotel 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh