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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 (1426 Ratings)
0.7 miles Usher Hall Edinburgh
v7 mins driving
t15 mins walking
UBER from £2-5
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.
Enter Your Dates
4
4
CHECK IN
 
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7
1 room
7
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

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Angela Wed, 9 July 2025

Very good

Liked: Lovely greeting when we arrived.Huge room we were given.Great location.But the beds were very uncomfortable,possibly needing new mattresses as could feel all the springs.

0.5

Poor - 0.5 out of 5

Morag Wed, 9 July 2025

Bad

Liked: Nothing
Disliked: Hotel was unkempt & dirty very overpriced not very pleasant really dissapointed would like a refund

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Aingeal Wed, 9 July 2025

Very good

Liked: Priced great for the Location. Easy check in, would like a later check out, 10 am is a bit early. Room is small but bed was so comfortable. Would definitely stay again.

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Ipek Wed, 9 July 2025

Recomended

Liked: Lacation, staff very good helpful and kind
Disliked: Old need painting and some repair

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Phil Wed, 9 July 2025

enjoyable

Liked: very spacious room
Disliked: climbing stairs tv too far away on wall

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Iziegbe Tue, 8 July 2025

Superb

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Elaine Tue, 8 July 2025

Be prepared as a very...

Liked: Location was great, the reception staff was friendly and helpful and showed me how to work the broken door lock which was dodgy, The room was a good size and beds were clean and comfortableIt is clear the owners are trying to improve the hotel but a large cash investment is needed to achieve this
Disliked: Very disappointed as I asked when I booked 5 months ago about accessibility explaining that one of the parties has osteoarthritis and strugglea.wirh stairs, was told there were some stairs, not many. However our room, being a three bed was on the top floor, my sister cried in pain and embarrassment walking up them. Between us we carried her luggage up to help. The bannisters were loose and wobbly in places, also carpet worn. Health and safety concern. Can't add a fifth photo to show how many stairs/floors. As stated the bedroom door lock was dodgy there was a knack to how to close it without the alarm going off. In the room, interior design is not obvious as there was a mix of old frames and new frames and modern lights. Wall paper peeling under the window and stained carpet. The mirror has been badly hung, hanging from string as per photo The window handle is broken. It flings open wide no safety catch -danger to small children. The window was held shut by two slide bolts. The curtains were.way to short letting in the daylight very early and we're not able to shut out any noise. The shower taps are very loose and likely to fall off

0.5

Poor - 0.5 out of 5

Andżelika Mon, 7 July 2025

No Toilet/ Bathroom door !!!

Disliked: Very disappointed. The room had no bathroom door — just a shower curtain, which offered zero privacy and made the room smell terrible. For £74 a night, this is completely unacceptable. I asked if we could use a shared bathroom instead and was refused by staff. The setup was uncomfortable, overpriced, and not suitable for guests. Would not stay again.

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Martina Sat, 5 July 2025

Superb

Liked: Very clean. Very close to the centre Staff very friendly and delicious breakfast

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Querr Fri, 4 July 2025

Superb

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The Guards Hotel 1 Clifton Terrace, Edinburgh