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The Guards Hotel

eee - (888) 608-6346
The Guards Hotel, 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh -(888) 608-6346
Area: Edinburgh West End
(Map)
3
HOTEL RATING: 
PLEASANT
3 out of 5 (1424 Ratings)
0.7 miles Usher Hall Edinburgh
v7 mins driving
t15 mins walking
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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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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: 
Pleasant (3 out of 5)

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2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Holmes Thu, 21 August 2025

Passable

Liked: The location was excellent, the staff was friendly and helpful
Disliked: The facilities were very dated and tired looking the room could do with a serious lick of paint and general update. The toilet needs to be repositioned as unable to sit on it properly.

1.5

Poor - 1.5 out of 5

Grahame Wed, 20 August 2025

Poor

Liked: Position
Disliked: Shower was a deathtrap. Hanging off the wall no door no lights

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Robin Tue, 19 August 2025

Exceptional

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Claire Mon, 18 August 2025

Superb

Liked: Was comfortable , well located hotel. Staff very friendly and helpful . Very good price . Tram stop over the road.

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Glynis Mon, 18 August 2025

Basic but comfortable,served its purpose.

Liked: Good location,large well equipped room and friendly helpful staff.
Disliked: Very tired exterior and parts of the interior and on a really noisy road junction with trams passing right by outside from early morning.

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Charlotte Mon, 18 August 2025

Pleasant

Liked: Location, comfortable beds, very quiet overnight.
Disliked: Beds were crammed in, less than a foot in between. No working tv and missing remote even after being assured we would have one on night 2. Bathroom could do with a spruce up and attention paid to the shower grouting and sealant. Very odd set up with soap and hand cream dispensers with botlles that didn't fit meaning it was awkward to dispense either without splodging them on the floor.Didn't think it warranted the 200 pounds paid for 2 people for 2 nights.

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Margaret Sun, 17 August 2025

Pleasant

Liked: Hugh room, clean and comfortable
Disliked: Shower needs updating, toilet very tight on space

2

Disappointing - 2.0 out of 5

Rebecca Fri, 15 August 2025

Spoilt trip to Tattoo

Liked: The hotel was just over the road from Haymarket Train Station, making it very convenient.
Disliked: Went for suite as special occasion, carpet was dirty, shower had not hot water, ceiling had plant growing out of cracked area, sofa bed cover split, chair arms broken, noisy as tram line runs 24/7 outside Whole place could do with a lot of improvements, very tired looking and wouldn’t recommend

2

Disappointing - 2.0 out of 5

Rachel Fri, 15 August 2025

We were treated nicely by...

Liked: spacious bedroom
Disliked: Bathroom contains furniture which is falling apart

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Michaela Fri, 15 August 2025

If u don t mind...

Liked: Location, friendliness of staff
Disliked: ROOM way too hot, hotel as whole a bit old and lot budget style, no breakfast

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The Guards Hotel 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh