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The Guards Hotel

eee - 0800 031 8416
The Guards Hotel, 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh -0800 031 8416
Area: Edinburgh West End
(Map)
2.95
HOTEL RATING: 
OKAY
2.95 out of 5 (1417 Ratings)
0.7 miles Usher Hall Edinburgh
v7 mins driving
t15 mins walking
UBER from £2-5
BOOK ONLINE OR CALL - 0800 031 8416
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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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4
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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

3.5

Good - 3.5 out of 5

Houston Mon, 30 June 2025

It's a great location but...

Liked: We had a 15 minute walk to the main tourist areas.

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Dimitrios Sun, 29 June 2025

Plenty of room for improvement

Liked: Good location, clean room. Clean bathroom, good working shower. Soap and toiletries provided, plus kettle, tea and a working TV. I loved the front garden.
Disliked: It is not a 3 star hotel. More like 2 star. So, not sure that the price is a bargain for a 2 star hotel, but it's decent. Very basic facilities. My room did not have a chair, somewhere to put my clothes on. Late check-in (2pm), very early check-out (10am.) Big windows, no blackout curtains. Asked to leave my luggage there and pick it up later, guy said 'no problem, any time sir', agreed to be back between 4 and 5pm. Went there around 5pm only to find the door locked and a message on the door "I will be back soon.' A rather unpleasant surprise.

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Eric Sat, 28 June 2025

Very good

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Pauline Fri, 27 June 2025

Choose a bedroom at the...

Liked: Location
Disliked: Was not up to standard low quality bed, dirty carpet,dust all around skirting boards,very noisy with traffic,trams,people walking by, really needs a deep clean

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Kate Fri, 27 June 2025

Very good value in an...

Disliked: The toilet needs replacing!!

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Georgi Thu, 26 June 2025

You get what you pay...

Liked: Great location, just a short walk from the Royal Mile.
Disliked: A little renovation won't hurt.

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Ernest Thu, 26 June 2025

Passable

Liked: Friendly staff, good location
Disliked: Strong smell of cleaning product

1

Poor - 1.0 out of 5

Vera Tue, 24 June 2025

Tired hotel

Liked: Closeness to the Haymarket station
Disliked: The receptionist was very pleasant and welcoming; however, the very basic room and facilities were very disappointing.A very small, dark room, shower head new, but not able to be fixed to the holder, television had been disconnected and the very pleasant receptionist had to struggle to reconnect.Despite being very convenient for the trams and buses, it is very unlikely that I would recommend this hotel to anyone.

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Tracy Tue, 24 June 2025

Exceptional

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Tipper Tue, 24 June 2025

Pleasant

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The Guards Hotel 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh