Apex Grassmarket Hotel

United Kingdom , Edinburgh
EDINBURGH, 31-35 Grassmarket
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100 reviews shown

6/10

Pleasant

03 May 2026

Terra

Good location but bathroom was a bit tired and worn, with cracked and loose tiles and a dodgy toilet. Overall a bit under expectations for the price and how it positioned. Lovely helpful staff and good breakfast.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 May 2026

April

The hotel is very central located with so many places within walking distance. The staff was amazing. My husband hurt himself at St. Andrews and they made sure we had ice and checked in on us, even the housekeeping staff.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 May 2026

Richard

Staff is super friendly and helpful. Easy check in with an efficient system to store your bags if necessary before check in. They offer extra attention and service (for example umbrellas) if needed. The location is absolutely perfect!

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

03 May 2026

MALI

Two windows facing Grassmarket do not close, the street noise lasted till 3am. Stand lamp does not work. Sleepers had to be requested and paid. Not enough US charging ports. The floor cracks when walking on it.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

02 May 2026

Henry

A few stains on rug and drapes but otherwise clean and great view of the castle.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

02 May 2026

Anita

For us, this hotel was absolutely perfect! We had a beautiful view of Grassmarket, and the castle. Room was very comfortable, breakfast was very good and staff was helpful. Keep in mind that you are in a noisy area. It wasn’t an issue for us, but might be for some.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

01 May 2026

Ishell

Pretty center to everything you need

10/10

Exceptional

29 Apr 2026

James

Rooms were clean and spacious, staff lovely. Great for a weekend break

Friends_and_family Family

8/10

Excellent

29 Apr 2026

Alexia

Great hotel in a really good location

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

28 Apr 2026

Kimberly

Excellent location- very close to the Edinburgh Castle! Fresh breakfast with an assortment of items. Nicely appointed rooms.

Family

8/10

Excellent

28 Apr 2026

Rodney

The location was excellent, staff was friendly, and room was clean. The toilet papery dispenser fell off and was impossible to fix. Also the biggest drawback that wasn’t mentioned prior to booking was the construction. Very noisy and it obstructed the best part, the view…

Self

10/10

Exceptional

27 Apr 2026

John

Great location, nice comfortable feel to the hotel. Very helpful staff

Family

8/10

Excellent

27 Apr 2026

Marilyn

Great area. very walkable and lots of food, entertainment options. hotel does a great job with sustainability. their beds are terrible, very hard, they need mattress topping

Partner

8/10

Excellent

26 Apr 2026

Maureen

Overall, the property was clean and well maintained. The staff was polite and excellent. Only complaint was that it was a bit hot at times and air conditioning would have been nice.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

26 Apr 2026

Claudia

Is a great place to stay closer walking distance to all amenities the rooms are clean and comfortable

Friends

8/10

Excellent

25 Apr 2026

Georgios

Overall it was nice and very good location, but the amenities and facilities could have been a bit better.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

25 Apr 2026

Samantha

Terrific location and staff!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Apr 2026

MICHAEL

Nice hotel in Grassmarket.

Family

6/10

Pleasant

23 Apr 2026

Michelle

The location is ideal for seeing Edinburgh city centre. If you don't want the nightlife noise then stay somewhere else. The view of Edinburgh Castle from our room was perfect though they could have covered the small expanse of roofing to make it more visually appealing. And the windows don't open so ask them to clean them if you want nice photos. The bed is comfortable the room well equipped. It was nice to have a small fridge, kettle etc. more than two coffee cups would be more useful.

The breakfast was excellent and staffing at the restaurant in the morning very pleasant and helpful, and attentive.

We had dinner one night at the restaurant. My bowl was chipped,the meal was not the standard I expected for the price so it was the only one we had there. Received our meal with no utensils, we had ordered soup and a main.
Front staff representatives friendly and approachable. Since there are many uneven stairs I was surprised to see them watch other older patrons struggle to bring luggage up and down them and not offer to assist they watch a group of 12 do just that and the last one was the only one they moved to assist and she was already half way down. Not very amusing while I held the door.

Family

8/10

Excellent

22 Apr 2026

Kathleen

Location was excellent. Very close to Victoria street. Great access to the castle, royal mile and restaurants in Grassmarket. Room was just okay, the floor was so loud you could hear everyone walking by and if your partner went to the restroom. The shower had a small glass half door so water got all over the floor when taking a shower. The pool and sauna was a nice add. The room view I purchased didn’t look like the picture. Had very large windows and the room we had just had one smaller window, you could see the castle just not as pictured in the room we were given. You can’t control the temperature of the room so that was a downside. They provide a small fan but sometimes it got really hot. Didn’t eat at the hotel so no opinions of the options.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

22 Apr 2026

Christopher

“I had a calm and comfortable stay at the Apex Grassmarket. The hotel felt clean, modern and well‑kept, and the atmosphere suited the relaxed pace I wanted for my trip. Staff were friendly and the location was ideal for exploring Edinburgh. A couple of small areas could be improved, but overall it was a smooth and enjoyable stay.”

Self

10/10

Exceptional

22 Apr 2026

Samima

Muy agradable

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Apr 2026

Tristan

Clean rooms and nice breakfast. Perfect location.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Apr 2026

JuanCarlos

Amazing service and superb location! Stay at this hotel with view to the castle every morning.

10/10

Exceptional

21 Apr 2026

Heather

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay At Apex Grassmarket Hotel. The staff were efficient and friendly. The rooms were very clean and the beds were very comfortable. We were staying in a room facing the back of the hotel so it was nice and quiet and we didnt hear the noise of the busy street out front. The location cant be beat for shopping and pubs. Minutes from the Castle, and walking distance from so many other Iconic Edinburgh sights. If you dont want to walk, the staff will happily arrange a local Taxi. We would stay here again!

10/10

Exceptional

21 Apr 2026

Brian

The location of Apex couldn’t be better. The breakfast was delicious. The workers were personable and capable. We had a lovely time.

8/10

Excellent

20 Apr 2026

Cari

Room was not the cleanest. Came back one afternoon and the housekeeping trash bag was in the room. Good location. Nice pool and sauna.

Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

20 Apr 2026

Karen

The Apex was in a good location, with everything within walking distance. Bus stops within a few minutes walk. Waverley station about 13 mins walk.
The hotel room was spacious, clean and bright. The bed was very comfortable.
The breakfast was good with plenty of hot & cold choice.
The staff members were very helpful.
I would consider staying here again when I am next visiting Edinburgh.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

19 Apr 2026

Fraser IAIN

Staff were perfect, hotel was clean and well kept, only ate breakfast, but it was delicious... Thank you.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

19 Apr 2026

Patricia

It was very good apart from the pillows

Family_with_children

2/10

Poor

18 Apr 2026

smruti

Please let the guest know in advance if there is construction occurring in front of the room prior to booking.

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

18 Apr 2026

Benn

Location couldn’t be better, great that it has a car park, very pleasant in the hotel, a nice space to be. Reception staff were great, waiting on staff were a bit miserable, especially at breakfast. The bar area is lovely. Scaffolding and builders at your window were a drawback but maintenance has to be done. Bed was VERY hard, a bit too much for my liking. Feather pillows that squash virtually flat, should have asked for a foam option with hindsight! It was ok, I wouldn’t not go back but in my opinion the price premium is for location rather than an outstanding hotel experience

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

18 Apr 2026

Claire

The room was clean and the staff were amazing! The view from the balcony rooms are incredible!

Partner

8/10

Excellent

18 Apr 2026

Michael

Great location. Excellent staff. Carpet in my room could use an update.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

17 Apr 2026

Toni

Great hotel, great location and very clean with large rooms. Restaurant was excellent and we ate there almost every night after long day tours. Staff very friendly and we would definitely stay there again.

4/10

Poor

17 Apr 2026

Mayra

Location is the only thing that is great for this hotel. Need a lot of upgrades and my room wasn’t clean at all. Shower was pathetic.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

16 Apr 2026

Laurie

Food is good. Service helpful and prompt.
USB Connectors in the room were flakey. Mechanically loose, insufficient current to charge my phone.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Apr 2026

Garrett

The breakfast was amazing!

Self

10/10

Exceptional

16 Apr 2026

corinne

Convenient location.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

15 Apr 2026

Carmen Ivette

The room was cleaned every day, fresh towels by the bed. The staff was kind and accommodating. The breakfast is worth it so please make sure you have breakfast there every day. We had dinner once there and it was fresh and delicious.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

14 Apr 2026

Paul

Staff was excellent. We didn’t spend much time in the hotel but the staff was always fantastic

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

14 Apr 2026

Lucy

Room was beautifully presented. Free juice on arrival was a lovely start to our stay. Leisure facilities were a lovely extra touch.

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

13 Apr 2026

Elena

Perfect location, nice and clean, quiet, decent breakfast

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

13 Apr 2026

Rachael

Everyone was so nice. Squeaky floors but that is ok. Scotland is amazing as is the staff.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

12 Apr 2026

Jill

Wonderful location! Hotel room was comfortable. Could use an update to the bathtub/shower. Clean throughout and staff were very helpful and friendly. Steps from street level to reception were a challenge with luggage. Staff were very quick to help but if they were busy with something else you had to haul it up about 7 steps. From there everything was easy. Would recommend this hotel very highly!

Partner

8/10

Excellent

11 Apr 2026

Beth

Staff was extremely helpful, and we loved our view! Having a room with a terrace meant we had a smaller room which proved to be pretty tiny. Some nice amenities and good breakfast. Incredible location, so close to everything we wanted to do.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

11 Apr 2026

andrew

Rooms nice, clean. Staff attentive.

Friends_and_family Friends

4/10

Poor

10 Apr 2026

Alicia

The lad at check in was lovely, the property was clean. I stayed with my spouse, the bed was split and wildly uncomfortable. The toilet was so hard to flush I nearly broke my arm. I was woken at 9 am to the sound of a drill hammering through my wall which lasted about an hour. No air conditioning and the room was very hot. The window opened onto the busy street. I wouldn’t personally stay here given the rough stay and steeper price point

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

10 Apr 2026

Laura

Breakfast was wonderful with a huge amount of choices. The location is perfect. We were STEPS below the Royal Mile, and could cut through and be anywhere in minutes.

Family

8/10

Excellent

10 Apr 2026

Amanda

The family rooms have a phenomenal view of the castle, they are a good size & over all they are clean. They appear to have a little mold problem in the windows & bathroom, and the rooms could use a little touch up. The staff is friendly & there is parking on-site which is a plus.

10/10

Exceptional

09 Apr 2026

Phillipa LM

The location to Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street is very close. Which was wonderful.

The Metro restaurant onsite is amazing. The food was so delicious. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The prices are cheaper and better than the pub food in the Grassmarket.

The room was very clean. The staff are very accommodating and friendly.

I love the fact that they have a filtered water station in the hallway so you can refill your empty bottle of water. Walk with a reusable water bottle to you can fill it up for free.
You’ll need after all that walking.

Don’t hesitate book it. They have a gym and sauna.

Prime location to everthing in the Grassmarket. I would stay here again if I even went back to Edinburgh.

10/10

Exceptional

09 Apr 2026

Marjorie Ellen

Fabulous hotel! My only complaint is there were no drawers—just two shelves in one of the closets. This seems to be a general trend in hotels. Maybe bureaus are considered old-fashioned? Other than that small quibble the place was wonderful. We had a fifth floor castle view room with a (very comfortable) bed. Staff, pool, breakfast all excellent.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

08 Apr 2026

Raisha

Perfect

Friends

6/10

Pleasant

08 Apr 2026

Julia

The hotel was your average hotel, some nicer finishings in the room however the lounge area had messy blankets and throw pillows all over. It looked like people were sleeping on them when we arrived. Our room was nice but SO hot. It felt like the sun was in our room, we had to get a fan from the cupboard that looked like it was from the 80’s. It’s the first week of April and our room was that hot I cannot imagine what the summertime is like. As I checked out, I gave the feedback to the front desk and they told me I should’ve asked for an AC unit. Not sure why I would think to ask for an air-conditioning unit during the first week of April. The location is probably the best part of the hotel. It’s in a very prime spot!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

07 Apr 2026

Surendra

Great location

10/10

Exceptional

07 Apr 2026

Victoria

Perfect location. Clean large rooms. The castl view is everything

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

06 Apr 2026

Leonora Margarita Arreola

The restaurant is very good. The quality and taste is outstanding. Reserve the room with breakfast and it will be worth it. As for my room, the bathroom could use some remodeling because some of the grout has come off or has black mold. The closet doors also do not close properly. Staff were hospitable and very kind.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

06 Apr 2026

Gareth James

Great location, rooms were clean and modern. Staff were excellent and very helpful

Self

10/10

Exceptional

06 Apr 2026

Monica

Great location

Family

10/10

Exceptional

06 Apr 2026

Asuzena

The rooms are spacious and I liked that it is located walking distance to so many things.

Family

8/10

Excellent

06 Apr 2026

Joseph

10/10

Exceptional

05 Apr 2026

MARY

Great location and parking onsite. Breakfast was wonderful as well. I love being able to order my food instead of just having a buffet. The view of the castle was perfect too!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

05 Apr 2026

Andrew

We didn’t know what to expect from this hotel but it turned out to be amazing and one the best mid range hotels we have stayed in anywhere. For the price we paid, we found it to be great value. The room was large with 2 double beds. The bathroom had a bath and a very good shower. Often hotel showers are either not that hot or have poor water pressure. This shower was easily as good as my own so big thumbs up. The room was super clean and had all you’d expect plus a few extra touches. At least 4 USB sockets and lots of plug sockets. Not all hotels have thought this out. Far more hot drink sachets than most hotels and a lovely touch, a note to say you can call for fresh milk if UHT is not to your taste. The breakfast was really very good. A set menu to choose from if you wish AND a well stocked buffet with all that you’d expect. Breakfast was included with our room but you can get it for just under £20 if it’s not included. A fair price for what’s on offer. Staff were all friendly and helpful. The location is perfect. Grassmarket is close to all the tourist sights, it has lots of nice pubs and restaurants right there and it’s easy to access public transport from. All in all, a fantastic find and we shall certainly return

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

05 Apr 2026

Michelle

Staff are very helpful and they have a great selection for breakfast.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Apr 2026

Radwana

Overall the hotel was good. We were lucky to be placed in a room that had a view of Edinburgh castle since the back of the hotel was under construction. In terms of cleanliness, it was fairly clean besides a small cockroach we found when eating food in our room. We had complimentary drinks which we decided to get on the day of check out and they said the bar was not open yet and the coffee machine was not working. We weren't given any alternatives. Besides that, we enjoyed our stay.

Friends

8/10

Excellent

04 Apr 2026

Daniel

The staff & service was excellent. The location could not be better and the views were beautiful. The hotel has a bit of a musty smell.

8/10

Excellent

04 Apr 2026

Rodolfo

I did not have breakfast at this hotel.

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

04 Apr 2026

Steve

great people

Family_with_children

6/10

Pleasant

04 Apr 2026

ANDREW

We’ve stayed at the hotel many times visiting family. First time we found the room dirty and shower and ceiling with mold. Told the person at the front desk who smiled and said thanks for letting them know. It was gross

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

04 Apr 2026

Dharmesh

The staff were very friendly, was great to have such a warm welcome as the starting point of our stay in Edinbrugh. The hotel had amazing view of the castle, day and night, very clean and comfortable.

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

03 Apr 2026

mauricio i

No complaints, incredibly fantastic.

Self

6/10

Pleasant

03 Apr 2026

Lerlene

We booked our room months in advance and upon checkin we’re not notified that active construction would affect our reservation. We had construction workers on scaffolding directly outside our windows. Disruptive and very disappointing. The bathroom had mildew and water damage on the ceiling as well which was a bit concerning. Good breakfast, nice pool, central location are the saving graces.

4/10

Poor

03 Apr 2026

Marissa

The only thing this hotel really has going for them is the location and the views of Edinburgh castle. It is very close walking distance to most major sites in Edinburgh and the castle view room did have an amazing view, aside from the dirty windows. There is no thermostat in the rooms so there is no way to control the temperature. When we first checked into the room, it was sweltering hot in there and the reception told us to plug in the table fan, which wasn’t even in our room. The toilet did not flush well, the sink was clogged at first, and the refrigerator did not work. We even found someone else’s drink still in there when we opened it. The staff is not overly friendly or helpful, they seem sort of in a daze. They do not answer the phone if you happen to call the front desk or answer the QR code chat. By the end of our stay we were left without any toilet paper and could not seem to get anyone to answer. I’m sure there are other hotels with the same views that give a much better experience. Would not recommend.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

03 Apr 2026

Heather

Great food options at the restaurant.

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

02 Apr 2026

Justine

Lovely hotel, well situated. Good breakfast, felt a little rushed when bringing out the hot choice (I’d only just got myself some cereal)
We ate at the restaurant in the evening, good food, substantial portions, average price for the area.
Nice swimming pool, very quiet first thing in the morning. Helpful, friendly staff, we spoke to the cleaners each day & reception staff, all very cheerful & pleasant.
I’ve already recommended the hotel & would return ourselves.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

02 Apr 2026

Jennifer

Staff was lovely. Location was perfect. My room had construction right outside but the workers were fairly quiet. Breakfast was great.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

02 Apr 2026

Maggie

This place was wonderful and the castle. Jew room spectacular. Close to everything. Be aware the Royal Mile is uphill from this location. We also found the tub hard to get out of as the floor was significantly lower than the tub bottom, meaning a bit of a wet climb out. Otherwise, a wonderful place to spend the night.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 Apr 2026

Janelle

great location. upgrade to view room. it was lovely. great view of the castle. staff was so nice and helpful. i will recommend this to everyone i know

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Apr 2026

Josie

Really amazing stay over Christmas love it

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Apr 2026

Jennie

Fruendly and helpful staff, the pool was excellent for unwinding at tge end of a long day of walking.

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

31 Mar 2026

Steven Andrew

Clean room. Convenient to old town, restaurants, castle. Stored bags for us.

10/10

Exceptional

31 Mar 2026

Melissa

Room was very clean. Staff members were great, friendly, and very accommodating to any requests. Would definitely stay there again.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

31 Mar 2026

Laura

Breakfast was really good value. Rooms and bathroom are a decent size with a great bath and seperate shower

10/10

Exceptional

29 Mar 2026

David

Room spotless cleaned daily
Breakfast great
Very suitable for children
The pool was also good
Location is unbelievable

Friends_and_family Family

8/10

Excellent

28 Mar 2026

Timothy

Bed wasn’t comfortable. Everything else was great

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

26 Mar 2026

Cameron

Amazing views of the castle and the perfect location.

10/10

Exceptional

26 Mar 2026

ANITA

The lunch and breakfasts were well prepared and promptly served. The pool although small was a comfortable water temperature and the sauna was an added bonus. The location is very good.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

25 Mar 2026

Roxanne

I had a great stay at Apex Grassmarket Hotel! The location in Edinburgh’s historic Grassmarket was perfect for exploring the Old Town and walking to Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The room was clean, comfortable, and offered lovely views, and the indoor pool and sauna added a nice touch of relaxation. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit — highly recommend for a memorable city break!

10/10

Exceptional

25 Mar 2026

Sue

Would thoroughly recommend this hotel.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

25 Mar 2026

Tina

The room was clean enough but missing basic amenities like water carafes, etc, that I needed to call and request from room service. The bathtub was also a little moldy. Overall an okay hotel and for the location, price is sensible. Accessibility is okay as there are a few flights of stairs you have to go up to reach reception and the elevators, which can make traveling with lots of luggage cumbersome.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

25 Mar 2026

jane

Lovely comfortable rooms in a great location handy for bars and restaurants. Book a castle view..well worth it

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Mar 2026

Denise

I enjoyed my stay and would stay again if and when I’m in Edinburgh. The hotel is in a central location, close to everything in Old Town. The water fill station right on my floor was a huge plus and saved me a lot of time and money. Be warned that the higher floors may be noisy — the very last night, there were high winds, and the creaking coming from the ceiling was incredibly loud and impossible to sleep through. Other than that, it was a great stay.

8/10

Excellent

23 Mar 2026

nichole

Gym: one treadmill.

10/10

Exceptional

23 Mar 2026

Jessica

Wow. Just absolutely perfect, my family had a standard room tnag over looked the pubs and the castle with a hint of the cathedral and we just couldn’t get over the view Everytime we woke up. Yes the street can get a little nosey with the pubs but honestly it was never crazy and I quite enjoyed the sounds of the nightlife. The staff was incredibly nice, and I’ll have to say my daughter and I quite enjoyed the fresh milk for tea daily. This will be the hotel we will stay at every year for our Scotland trip and we cannot wait to come back. The bar downstairs was great, the restaurant was great, even when we accidentally showed up 10 min before they were closing, and we ordered the kids room service several times while we enjoyed drinks in the bar downstairs and let me tell you, the best food you’ll ever order from room service. And honestly the location was amazing, walking distance from everything, we already cannot wait for next year.

Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

22 Mar 2026

Vincent

Debi at breakfast was smashing

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Mar 2026

Mary

Welcoming staff, great location for pubs, restaurants, and sites. Hop on and off outside the hotel ! Highly recommended!

10/10

Exceptional

20 Mar 2026

Jessica

Friendly staff, great views and great location.

10/10

Exceptional

19 Mar 2026

Alexandra

Lovely clean room and super comfy bed and pillows. A very enjoyable stay

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

19 Mar 2026

Phillip

Very clean room with excellent location and view of the castle. Hotel staff were extremely helpful and courteous. Breakfast was good. Really enjoyed the spa and pool onsite.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

18 Mar 2026

Michelle

Great stay. Helpful staff. Loved the balcony with castle view.

Friends_and_family Friends