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The Guards Hotel

Edinburgh · United Kingdom

Clifton Terrace, 1View location

6.4/10Good310 Reviews
Cleanliness7.0/107.0
Service7.2/107.2
Comfort6.4/106.4
Condition5.8/105.8
Location8.0/108.0
Neighborhood8.0/108.0
Amenities6.0/106.0
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About The Guards Hotel

This cosy, family-run hotel is set in a traditional brick building in the centre of Edinburgh.

The popular Haymarket train station is mere metres away, and visitors will be able to arrive to many of the city's most famous attractions on foot, including the National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh Castle.

Shoppers will delight in the shops, restaurants and pubs of Princes Street and George Street, just ten minutes away, while art lovers can enjoy easy access to a wealth of art museums and galleries, such as the National Gallery of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

The comfortable rooms come with tea and coffee makers and complimentary wireless internet access, and some are en suite. The helpful and friendly staff can assist guests in making travel arrangements and booking tickets for festivals and events as well as restaurant reservations.

Read more about this hotelShow less

A stay at The Guards Hotel places you in the heart of Edinburgh, within a 15-minute walk of Edinburgh International Conference Centre and Princes Street. This hotel is 0.6 mi (1 km) from George Street and 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Dean Village.

Make yourself at home in one of the 11 guestrooms. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Conveniences include coffee/tea makers, housekeeping is provided daily, and irons/ironing boards can be requested. null

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Concierge
Smoking areas

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 2:00 PM
Check-in until 10:00 PM
Check-out until 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

No rollaway/extra beds available No cribs (infant beds) available No elevators No front desk Professional property host/manager Pets not allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Important information

  • Property Alerts

    You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

    • Cash Breakage deposit: GBP 60 per stay for guests under 25 years old

    We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

  • Special Instructions
    There is no front desk at this property. This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation. If you are planning to arrive after 10 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests must contact the property for check-in instructions. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts cash
    • Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Late check-in fee for check-in between 10:30 PM and 1:30 AM

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

Nearby attractions

Edinburgh International Conference Centre 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Princes Street 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Johnnie Walker Princes Street 0.8 km / 0.5 mi
Princes Street Gardens 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Royal Lyceum Theatre 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Usher Hall 1 km / 0.6 mi
George Street 1 km / 0.6 mi
Charlotte Square 1 km / 0.6 mi
Georgian House 1 km / 0.7 mi
Dean Village 1.1 km / 0.7 mi
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
The Meadows 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Tynecastle Stadium 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Grassmarket 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Royal Mile 1.5 km / 1 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • hotel
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
  • Room service
  • 24-hour securityExtra charge
  • Lift accessExtra charge
  • ShopExtra charge
  • BarExtra charge
  • Smoking areaExtra charge
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • GolfExtra charge
Show 1 more facilities & services
  • Golf practice facilityExtra charge
Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • SINGLE STANDARDSINGLE • STANDARDSGL.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    SINGLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TRIPLE STANDARDTRIPLE • STANDARDTPL.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    TRIPLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–5 • Adults: max. 3 • Children: max. 4
    Room type
    TRIPLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TPL.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room THREE BEDSRoom • THREE BEDSROO.3B

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    Room THREE BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    THREE BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.3B

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin STANDARDDouble or Twin • STANDARDDBT.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    Double or Twin STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE CLASSICDOUBLE • CLASSICDBL.AS

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    DOUBLE CLASSIC

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    CLASSIC

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.AS

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE STANDARDSUITE • STANDARDSUI.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    SUITE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room STANDARDRoom • STANDARDROO.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    Room STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room DELUXE TWO BEDSRoom • DELUXE TWO BEDSROO.2B-DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    Room DELUXE TWO BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE TWO BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.2B-DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TWIN DELUXETWIN • DELUXETWN.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    TWIN DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TWN.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room LUXURYRoom • LUXURYROO.LX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    Room LUXURY

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    LUXURY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.LX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room CLASSICRoom • CLASSICROO.AS

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    Room CLASSIC

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    CLASSIC

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.AS

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE LUXURYDOUBLE • LUXURYDBL.LX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    The Guards Hotel

    DOUBLE LUXURY

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    LUXURY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.LX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about The Guards Hotel

6.4
Good
310 Reviews
Cleanliness
7.0 /10
Service
7.2 /10
Comfort
6.4 /10
Condition
5.8 /10
Location
8.0 /10
Neighborhood
8.0 /10
Amenities
6.0 /10
100 reviews shown
4/10
Poor
03 Aug 2026
Stuart
Our room was in the front of the building and right on the busy traffic intersection with buses and trams constantly coming and going making sleeping difficult. This on top of a room that was sub standard with a terrible fold out bed, dirty carpet, mold on the walls and ceiling of what appeared to be a hashed up wheelchair accessible room was not what we were expecting at all. The demand for cash as payment was very surprising and seems very odd to me. Would I recommend this apparent hotel to anyone….No!!
2/10
Poor
01 Aug 2026
Janet
Cheap stay
2/10
Poor
23 Jul 2026
Valerie
I would not stay here again. The location is great, however, the property is old and needs MUCH work. Our room had a bathroom in the middle of the room with a dirty shower curtain as the door. I was literally sleeping 2 feet away from the toilet. Maybe it was my imagination, but I could smell sewer all night long. We were booked for a se and night, but cancelled it.
8/10
Excellent
08 Jul 2026
Alan
The owner likes cash payments for the rooms and sends a notice to people making reservations that the credit card machine isn't working right and you need to bring cash. The card machine works just fine. The person at check in was very helpful and took my card as payment.
The hotel is a converted Victorian home, so the rooms are odd shaped and small. There were a few maintenance issues, but in general, things worked and we had a good stay. The staff was helpful and friendly. This is a good \"budget\" hotel where you don't expect a large room with a view and great amenities. It's a place to sleep while you explore Edinburgh. (The bed was comfortable.)
Family
4/10
Poor
06 Jul 2026
James
Whilst the staff there were incredibly helpful, genuinely one of the nicest members of staff I've met at a hotel, the hotel itself is very poor. For some reason they insist on only taking cash due to a scam with cards, which feels far more like them trying to scam the taxman. The rooms themselves are very old, with no bathroom door, just a curtain. The shower door was hanging off and it looked like someone had tried to screw it back on, and was an absolute nightmare to open and close. The bedding also didn't seem clean.
Self
2/10
Poor
28 Jun 2026
Nathan
This hotel cost over 300 for 2 nights and was not worth 50 a night - even in Edinburgh , staff were not around , the hotel is dated and not reflective on their website
Self
10/10
Exceptional
24 Jun 2026
Alan Graham
Fantastic location just where I needed to be .
Buses, tram and train station literally across the road .
It was just what I expected out of a budget hotel ,it served its purpose well .
Great for an overnight stay (which I did ) wouldn’t want to stay much longer .
I would deffo book this place again next time I am up in the area .
Self
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jun 2026
doreen
Great location, walking distance to centre. Good value for money in Edinburgh
Self
6/10
Pleasant
17 Jun 2026
Richard
The room was tiny for two people. However it was fine for one night. It is a convenient location to the Edinburgh tram and ScotRail trains.
Partner
2/10
Poor
16 Jun 2026
Wendie
I would never recommend this place to stay in! The fact that they only accept cash payment and won’t let you see the rooms before you pay should be a heads up to walk away before you pay!

The room we got for 4 days we only stayed overnight in, and left in the morning!

The rug was filthy , the windows hard to see out of, the beds were so close together you could only walk sideways between them.

There were electrical chords hanging from a power bar on one wall, only one glass for two people, not enough toilet paper for more than two days. The windows were left wide open because the smell in the room was significant if you closed them.

We never tried the shower so I can’t comment about that, but the entire building was in serious need of paint, cleaning and repairs!

The front windows were papered over giving the place of air of being unused.

When we decided not to stay, we inquired about getting our money for the three remaining days and were told that would not happen. When we inquired about talking to the owner or manager, we were told that would not happen either! Luckily we had taken out insurance on the stay and hopefully will be reimbursed by them with any luck!

I recommend that Expedia not advertise this place on their site anymore as it will negatively reflect on their business and reputation!
Friends
8/10
Excellent
13 Jun 2026
Kaitlynn
Basic hotel, great location but no thrills
Partner
8/10
Excellent
02 Jun 2026
Janine
We had the 4 poster king sized bed suite, Windsor Castle room. Huge room with comfortable bed. Tv with heaps of channels, tea/coffee making facilities, claw foot bath, great shower with rain head and wall water jets.

We stayed for 3 nights.

First night was great.
Second night, the people above us walked heavily on the floors from 9pm - 12.30am
Last night was great.

The room was very clean.

Yes the rooms could do with some freshening up but at the end of the day, the location is fantastic for pubs, food, convenience stores, public transport and about a 20 minute walk to town.
The price is reflective for the condition of the property. If you booked another hotel closer to the city in a tiny room, you would be spending at least £250+ per night

Staff are very good, even let us leave our bags 5 hours before checkin so we could explore the city without luggage.

Don’t believe all of the negative reviews. It is someone’s opinion of their situation, not necessarily factual.

I wouldn’t hesitate to stay there again

J & D
Western Australia
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
26 May 2026
Jamie
Excellent location for tourists, the rooms are good value for money. It isn’t the Ritz but what can you expect for 230 for 4 days
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
13 May 2026
Tammy
The lady who checked us in was wonderful! The place was clean. It’s an old building and needs some TLC. The bed was springy. The shower didn’t have a curtain and the water pressure was low. Good location not too far from tourist attractions. Decent for one night stay to explore the city.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
09 May 2026
Ebony
Stayed on the top floor. Problems with the shower. Was told to run the water for 10mins, was a bit better.
Can only be provided with one key card.
Will only accept cash, so FYI those coming from overseas who don't use pounds.
Friends
10/10
Exceptional
01 May 2026
Katherine
Near train station. Clean and basic. The room was huge!
10/10
Exceptional
20 Apr 2026
Darren
Perfect location, within walking distance for the rugby at Murrayfield. Also on tram route to city centre, train station and airport. Spacious room and friendly staff.
8/10
Excellent
06 Apr 2026
Ariel
The staff was amazingly kind and helpful. Letting us store our luggage at 1000 in a locked office so we could explore hands free until check in. They did their best to accomidate reasonable requests and were very pleasant. The room was extremely clean and the bed was comfortable.
Now of course it is an old building so u can hear people when they are outside your door, bur incouls not hear any street noise. There are minor cosmetic issues. And the heat keeps off the chill but wont keep the room real warm on cold nights. Over all the flaws were minor, the character, convenience and price made this a winner.
8/10
Excellent
15 Mar 2026
Alyssa
It was ok. Decent for a night. Emphasis on a night. Beds were clean but a little dusty. Toilet needs serious refurbishing the water pressure was abysmal.
Friends_and_family Friends
6/10
Pleasant
10 Dec 2025
David
Room was nice but the mattress was too hard and it’s just too noisy being that close the main roads at Haymarket in an old building
Partner
8/10
Excellent
15 Nov 2025
Sandra
Friendly staff, the room was huge. Can see its wearing down. Need update redecorate it. It doesn’t bother me.

TV need update, unable to use it.
Self
8/10
Excellent
14 Nov 2025
DAVID
The room and facilities were basic but good, other than a slow shower drain. Good job gaurds!
Leisure Family
4/10
Poor
30 Oct 2025
Anh
The rooms were gross, paint peeling off the walls
10/10
Exceptional
12 Oct 2025
Iain
Clean room, friendly staff, and an excellent location. This no-frills hotel is perfect for a night or two’s stay.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
25 Sep 2025
Karen
The carpet is out dated with stains all over, the bathtub leaked, the windows are old with peeling paint. There are water stains on the ceiling and paint cracking around wall lamps etc. For the price we paid it is over priced in this condition. There was hair on the coffee cup saucers in the room and the bathroom door couldn’t be opened all the way for access to the sink. You had to close the door to get past the tub for the mirror and sink. The attendant was fabulous and helped us with information we asked for. He was extremely nice! Great job on him!
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
24 Sep 2025
michael
Very nice staff members and very walkable to city centre and buses
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
14 Sep 2025
Pam
This property is an old property that needs renovating. In saying that it was clean and our king room was huge.
Khaled checked us in and he was very helpful, friendly and explained everything about the property.
It is in a great location but on a main road opposite Waterloo train station. This is why we chose it for 1 night prior to catching a train early the next morning.

It’s very inexpensive for the area and needs updating hence the price.

I’d recommend it as long as you are not expecting anymore that a 3 star hotel.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
09 Sep 2025
Judi
Staff very nice, baggage storage before check in was great, carpet old, linens clean, would stay again. Excellent location!
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
23 Aug 2025
David

Ideally Located

Great place to stay with easy access to tramway and Haymarket Station.
Found parking (albeit expensive at £26.49 for the night)) at the Distillery across the road about 200m away.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
22 Aug 2025
Julie
The hotel was good enough as a base, but the in-room cups weren't cleaned properly. The beds were made, and they gave us clean towels. They didn't remove the equivalent dirty towels, though. There was no back on the TV remote
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
18 Aug 2025
Richard
I enjoyed my stay.. nice staff and in an excellent location. I would stay here again, would recommend to others. Ideal for a one or two nights stay.
Leisure Self
2/10
Poor
10 Aug 2025
Sheila
The property is shabby and needs painting.
The room we had had a water stain on the ceiling. In the bathroom. Lino tiling was coming away from the wall. The bedroom was in need of decorating.
It was not worth £494 for 4 nights
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
27 Jul 2025
Kelly
This is an affordable hotel in Edinburgh. It is right across the street from the Haymarket Station. The rooms are small but clean and the staff is super nice and welcoming.
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
18 Jul 2025
Fahmida
Ok but the bathroom is too small, sink n shower is very small in size. There was smell in the bathroom and no fan.
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
11 Jul 2025
Colin
good value
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
03 Jun 2025
Yifei
We did not realise there was no reception, but luckily we checked in before the staff left. Helpful staff. We have to pay cash in full since their card machine was broken?

Good location, but can be noisy. Good size room but not comfortable bed.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 May 2025
Heather
This property was lovely, and on our last evening we had a lovely visitor in our room upon our arrival home from dinner ... a cat! Most would be bothered by this, we saw it as a sign of good will.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
20 Apr 2025
Cristian
They only take cash for Expedia bookings.
Leisure
4/10
Poor
17 Apr 2025
Natalia Ramirez
Staff was very polite. However the place was quite dirty, peanuts on the floor, plenty of hairs on the carpet, the toilet was running water during the day and night. Difficult to sleep with the constant noise. The bed was also unsteady and noisy. There was some spider webs hanging on the ceiling.
Leisure Friends
2/10
Poor
23 Feb 2025
Verified traveler

Dont stay here

Looks nothing like the photos. Very dated looks really rough not very clean. Shower had part of the wall missing and was covered with a bit of black plastic and the flooring was coming up
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
02 Feb 2025
Mark

Guard’s Hotel review

Down for rugby. Hotel basic and a little tired in need of a facelift. Shower only warm at best. Extra heaters in room. Which were needed. Old windows bit draughty. Overall nae good and nae bad.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
01 Jan 2025
Julie

Guards hotel December 24

The front door was locked so waited over 5 mins to be answered. They asked for cash payment upon entry as they no longer deal with credit cards.water was cold for shower
Friends_and_family Friends
4/10
Poor
22 Nov 2024
Mark

Basic

We were early for check-in and it took some time to find a member of staff to take our bags for storage. Check-in was smooth and we were forewarned that the hotel were unable to take card payments. The room smelled musty and was dated (in need of modernisation). It seemed that we were in a disabled room with a wet room shower, the position of the toilet meant that only a child could sit on it properly, very little space between it and dividing wall. Apart from tea/coffee making facilities in room the hotel didn't offer anything else The mattress was springy but nonetheless comfortable, Room was a bit noisy from passers by and trams. Overall however, for a one night stay in Edinburgh the location was excellent and it did represent value for money.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
11 Nov 2024
Beverley
The shower was cold - not hot water and when we got to the room it was cold but I told the receptionist and he provided me with a heater but the hot water was not reported. No receptionist around at 6am for me to report the problem to. Room was comfy and clean. great value for a night in Edinburgh which is expensive.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
24 Oct 2024
Martin
It was central for every thing we needed
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
27 Sep 2024
Nicholas
Good Price and good location, Just remember IT IS CASH ONLY
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
14 Sep 2024
Melanie
Could not get an answer on the phone which was very frustraing
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
14 Sep 2024
Lynne
Very close to Haymarket station, so close to transport links.
8/10
Excellent
05 Aug 2024
Tim

The Guards Hotel Edinburgh

Reception was great when they finally opened at 2pm. Room was large but dated. Trouble with flushing WC. Close to trains, buses and trams.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
29 Jul 2024
Lauren

Affordable, safe, great location

This hotel was worth the low price. Places in Edinburgh are generally super expensive, so this a great option if you're okay with staying somewhere a little less fancy but in a great location. It's a bit out-dated but has lots of character, and it's in a safe, central location (incredibly close to st Mary's Cathedral) and about 20 mins walking from the Royal Mile and all the action. There are good affordable food options nearby as well, and it's a minute from the tram station which was nice because we were hauling around luggage.
Partner
4/10
Poor
20 Jul 2024
David L

Comfortable but not to standard

Dusty in places, bed frame broken, chair legs loose, lock on bathroom door was loose, carpet filthy.
Celing had marks on it.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
17 Jul 2024
Lorraine
Had to pay cash for the room. Their CC system had been compromised.
Staff- friendly.
Beds-Uncomfortable
Location-convenient
Good area for transportation and dining options.
Leisure Friends
6/10
Pleasant
12 Jul 2024
Ken

Tired and run down

Cheap crash pad in very rundown order.
If you want a one night sleep and shower in a great location, crack on.
If you're looking for anything even remotely salubrious, look elsewhere.
Self
2/10
Poor
11 Jul 2024
Dave
I am so glad we only had 1 night here. We arrived to be told that our toilet had a leak and that a handyman was on their way. I explained until this was sorted o wouldnt pay for the room. 3 hours later while i was out i was advised we could change room (had been told earlier there were no more rooms) this meant i had to come back to the hotel and move room which was £10 cheaper but tiny. The staff were decent but a very poor service for a hotel in central Edinburgh. On top of this i had to pay by cash but if i had boomed through another provider i could have paid in card.
10/10
Exceptional
21 Jun 2024
STEWART
Great service after a long journey very easy check in
Friends_and_family Family
4/10
Poor
13 Jun 2024
Anna
It was in serious need of renovating. Really run down. The reception person was very helpful amiable and accommodating. The room was clean enough but dilapidated. Really old stained carpet and bed supports and broken okd lamshades. Ripped worn stair carpets just really okd and worn in general. It was quiet though.
Leisure Self
6/10
Pleasant
04 May 2024
Deidre
One star for location…very easy access to the city. One star for room size and beautiful ceiling. Otherwise disappointing plumbing, tv and drainage on bathroom floor which was non existent. Needs some attention to maintenance.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
24 Apr 2024
Jessica
The bathroom facilities were sub par - the toilet did not flush easily and the shower was lukewarm

The bedroom was spacious and lovely, but the bed was not very comfortable.

Noisy for sure, but to be expected given its proximity to the tram and train station. City noises - we could definitely live with them (and sleep through them)
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
23 Apr 2024
David
Ok if all you wanted was a bed for the night. A little tired and needs some updating, but ok for the price paid.
Leisure
2/10
Poor
29 Jan 2024
Sakhawat
So I stayed at the property last weekend only for one night and thank god I only stayed for one night. Don’t think I could have the mental and physical resilience for two. When I arrived at the property the man on the front. Desk was super nice. However he told me that they only take cash. Not a an issue, just slightly inconvenient. It seemed nice at first inside the main hall, like someone’s old living room. In my head I was just thinking it was only one night I can survive that. He told me the key card was for the room called “the guards room”. Sounded fancy in my head and I was hopeful. When I got upstairs to my room I was very please. There was dust everywhere, the painted was crooked to one side, the lamp next to the bed didn’t work and it was cold inside the room. The only highlight was the bathroom but the was a hole in the floorboard and a random drown on the middle of it. I looked around the bed and dust all over skirting boards and the bed was very old and seemed like it was manually fixed with a wooden plank just nailed into it. The mattress itself was painful as it was super soft, which sounds great but not when you have old springs digging into your break. Also it made a lot of noise . It was freezing. The heater didn’t work , there was electric fan heaters which were layered with dust that I did not want to put on. Absolute disgusting. I managed to get a few hours sleep cold and uncomfortable. Worst was yet to come, half way through the night the power went…
Leisure
4/10
Poor
22 Jan 2024
Margaret

Not a good experience.

The central heating was not working. The hotel was freezing cold. A heater was provided but the room took a long time to warm because of the temperature. The bed was very old, creaky and uncomfortable. There was no bedside light to read. I was moved to another room. Once again the bed was extremely old, creaky and uncomfortable. The power socket for the kettle was faulty and the nearest one had to be used with a two metre extension cable across the room. The carpets on the stairway were worn through and threadbare. On arrival, I was advised that payment could only be made in cash which I was not prepared for. I had to leave to find a cash machine. Overall, a really uncomfortable night with broken sleep due to the bed and the cold.
Self
4/10
Poor
30 Dec 2023
Annalie
We adored the location and the building was beautiful with a helpful and kind staff but there was a great deal of mold in our room and it felt as though the heat was not on despite the winter weather. Definitely would stay again given the convenience but I may think twice about staying for more than a night or two
Leisure Friends
4/10
Poor
13 Dec 2023
Lee
Heating didnt work, bed too soft, tv signal not working.

Wouldn’t go back as this hotel needs a good refurb.
Self
4/10
Poor
16 Nov 2023
Iain
I have stayed before and knew it was basic (and cheap) but unlike previous rooms this room was not really in a suitable state to be let out. It was like staying in a down and out hostel. Bare boards on the floor, damp on the walls and ceiling, no curtain at the window only shutters which closed to reveal insulation cladding on the wall, multiple wires plugged into extension, radiator broken (had to ask for some type of portable heating), no headboard on bed, taped up basin in the sink, muck on bed clothes, really disappointing and not ideal having to go to work the next day.
Business
2/10
Poor
26 Sep 2023
kristen
Checkin MUST be scheduled weeks in advance apparently despite the “reception” claiming to be open daily from 2-10. I stood outside in the rain with my luggage for over an hour trying to get ahold to someone or even Expedia to help me because you can’t get in without a key BUT you can’t get a key unless reception is OPEN. Just got lucky someone showed up and let me in. Both an Expedia agent and I reached out to the property a week in advance about cancelling because they now require cash payment only. They emailed me a cancellation the same afternoon I was already set to checkin and at their door.
Fine once checked in because I was too exhausted from a day of travel and no sleep, the property is old and therefore poorly kept. Carpeting was stained and smelly. Bed was uncomfortable. The highlights: the location to the tram, the room was spacious, the shower was hot.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
16 Aug 2023
Craig

An absolute bargain for August!!

For the price we paid during The Fringe Festival it was fantastic value for money. Yes the hotel is tired and in need of refurbishment but it was clean and comfortable enough and was perfect for us to lay our head down after 2 busy Festival days. Only a 15/20 minute walk from the Royal Mile and directly opposite Haymarket Train Station. Lots of shops, pubs and restaurants minutes away from the property. We were able to park 2 minutes away in Distillery Lane using Just Park app. The surrounding area seemed very safe day or night. Finally we were that happy with the hotel and its fantastic price during Fringe month we have booked again for next year already!
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
10 Aug 2023
Sathiyam

My 1 night stay in Guards Hotels - St James Palace

It was not so good, except clean bed, soap, clean bathtub and towels rest are below average. Bathroom door remains open as the lock is jammed. Electric kettle was cleaned ages before. No drinking water, Toothbrush/Paste, shampoos, available in the facility. Heater was not working. Other than the above, its big, quite, cosy heritage palace in the heart of Edinburgh. Few steps away from Tram station, Bus stops, Bars, Indian Restaurants, Edinburgh Haymarket Station, etc.
Business
6/10
Pleasant
10 Jul 2023
Ian

The Guards

Very cheap to stay in Edinburgh so if you don’t mind absolute basic stay then this is for you.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
25 May 2023
Jacqueline
Very cute boutique hotel. Would stay there again.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
19 May 2023
Beverrley

Basic but brilliant location

The lady who welcomed me couldnt have been nicer.Gave me a choice of two rooms.
Unfortunately the one i choose there was no tv remote.
Its a good basic budget hotel,and i felt very safe there being a solo traveller.
The haymarket station is just over the road so getting into city center not a problem.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
17 Apr 2023
Lynne
The hotel was dusty, not very secure needs updating and renovating
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
19 Aug 2022
Jordan
I stayed here on the 15th aug 2022 the room didn't have curtains or blinds and the bed wasn't very good and its a shared bathroom the only best thing about the hotel is the location be aware if you book in their is no curtains or blinds
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jun 2022
Marian
Made us feel welcome
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
14 Apr 2022
Sylvia
Near train station and buses.
Pubs next door.
Leisure Self
6/10
Pleasant
20 Mar 2022
Benjamin
The hotel was tidy, however I think it's time for investing into new beds. The was very springy and well worn. If your not a heavy sleeper this isn't the hotel for you. Would return provided new beds were installed. The man at reception was very friendly and helpful.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
05 Dec 2021
Robert
Pretty scruffy, cold, a little disappointing.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
01 Nov 2021
Kevin

Okay but basic

The hotel was basic but was okay for the overnight stay that I had. The price of £50 p.n. was fare what was on offer.
Self
4/10
Poor
19 Oct 2021
David

Horrible

Bed was horrible not comfortable at all, was next to no heating had to ask for a electric heater, glass panel at front door was smashed lack of safety due to this. Needs updated. Location was good
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
29 Aug 2021
Verified traveler

No Early Book In

When we booked it asked if any extra requirements.
As we were going to a festival we requested an earlier book in time between 10-12 as we had to get to the event.
I sent a reminder email to make sure it was still ok but nobody replied and when we turned up we werent allowed acces to a room to freshen up before 14:00 hrs.
We could collect room keys and leave excess baggage if we wanted but it didnt really help.
Bed was comfortable and room clean enough but yale lock was hanging off the door. If you are looking for a clean comfortable room close to train station then this is more than adequate.
Partner
2/10
Poor
14 Aug 2021
Verified traveler
Good service upon arrival and convenient location. Other than that it was very disappointing. The bed was far too soft, the curtains didn’t block out enough light for a good night sleep, the floor was extremely dusty, there were cracks in the tiles of the bathroom held together by duct tape, and the floor was extremely dusty and appeared to have holes in it. I would not recommend staying here, especially for multiple nights.
Self
2/10
Poor
30 Aug 2020
Robin
Horrific please do not book here- severe BED BUG bites for me and my daughter just confirmed by my doctor- we have had to be prescribed steroid cream to take away the itching. Carpet was so filthy and sheets had clearly not been changed- appalling. Nice staff but that’s not worth the disgusting filthy rooms. Please do not book here
Leisure Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
09 Aug 2020
Kyri

Simple, comfortable and a nice little venue.

Staff were friendly and courteous.


The pnly drawback was the ultra soft matress could have done with being a bit firmer.

I was offered a single en suite or keep my original reservation of the single with shared shower and WC.. My dealings with the Guards Hotel before arrival was honest so I knew in advance the room had no window but i only slept and showered there strange as it was.

As a solo no fuss short break traveller the Guards Hotel met all my needs more than adequately.

Ideally located a comfortable walk from Princes street, the shops, The social hubs on Rose Street, the old town and its attractions.

The bar at the Guards Club next door which is open to hotel residents was a fun experience and really well priced. Loved the decor and the members were welcoming lively but funny and engaging at the same time.


Self
8/10
Excellent
17 Feb 2020
Aleksandra

Amazing location, highly recommended for a weekend

The building is a bit run down, but the rooms, bathrooms, towels and bedding are spotless clean. The location is amazing! Downstairs there's a veteran's bar with a very special atmosphere.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
05 Dec 2019
Marilyn
Amazing room spotless and very quiet
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
26 Sep 2019
Lee
Good solid stay
Self
6/10
Pleasant
26 Sep 2019
Trevor

Old but adequate ——- for a short stay.

Adequate for our one night stay but I couldn’t envisage staying any longer than that. The room cleaning service left a bit to be desired as the carpet had various stains and there were hairs left in the bath tub. Some of the fixtures needed attention but the manager, a pleasant young man, promised to have them seen to the next day. Being an old place it did have a certain charm with a few quirky features but be warned it is situated on a busy street/corner and can be quite noisey even at night which may disturb you. It is situated close to the tram station, bus stops and taxi rides so travel is not a problem. There is also an abundance of cafe’s etc. in the area.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
26 Aug 2019
Verified traveler

Has great potential to be an awesome room

First impressions of the room were that it was very spacious with lovely antique furniture, a nice modern fireplace, flat-screen tv and great sized en-suite bathroom with a separate bath and shower. Closer inspection found that it needs a bit of TLC, tho. Some of the furniture and fittings had cracks and were a bit broken in places. The mattress on the bed was also very hard. This could be a gorgeous room in a great location. Just needs a little bit of care and updating.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
23 Jul 2019
Verified traveler
excellently located to see the sights of Edinburgh, very warm and friendly staff, loved the vibrant entertainment in the Bar, hope we can return
Leisure Pet
8/10
Excellent
24 Jun 2019
Verified traveler
Fantastic area. Great wee bar next door with really good food at great prices. Hotel was basic but comfortable. Would highly recommend it if on a tight budget.
Business
4/10
Poor
10 Jun 2019
Liza
Pretty run down, needs some TLC and a good scrub however fantastic location and quiet.
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
09 Jun 2019
Verified traveler
Nice clean room, no frills. Beds could have been a bit more comfy, and we could have used a bit more water pressure, Overall it was a great location, and a great place to relax shower after a event filled day.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
04 Jun 2019
Christine
The best thing about the hotel was its proximity to Haymarket station for tram and bus connections!
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
17 May 2019
Ron&Julie
Our stay at the Guard Hotel in Edinburgh was very good. The location was great; close to shops, pubs and tours. The Hotel is very quaint and had all the amenities we needed. The only thing that would have made it better, would have been a small fridge in the room. Otherwise daily service was great.
Friends_and_family Partner
10/10
Exceptional
29 Apr 2019
PATRICIA

One night stay for a conference

Hotel central for conference halls , stations, trams , buses and bars and restaurants.
Staff helpfull and accomodation suitable for 1 / 2 night's stay
6/10
Pleasant
23 Apr 2019
Verified traveler
Small and windowless but clean room with comfortable bed. Totally OK!
8/10
Excellent
20 Apr 2019
Verified traveler
Check our time 10 am is a little early , would prefer 12 midday
8/10
Excellent
06 Dec 2018
Gary
Staff is so helpful - beyond what’s expected- over and above and I felt with 3 different people all wonderful. The sink water did not turn on but no problem I could just use the tub as it was so close. Any hotel in the area will have street noise until 3 am. Bring ear plugs to mitigate this. Location is perfect!
10/10
Exceptional
29 Nov 2018
Paul
No problems. Great Location.
6/10
Pleasant
18 Nov 2018
Aaron
We stayed here on a busy match night. We were concerned that there may be some noise seeing as the hotel is very close to Haymarket train station, however this was not a problem when inside the room. The main problem that we encountered, was that the bed made a loud and irritating squeaking noise every time we moved. This meant that we did not sleep well at all. We had already asked if any other rooms were available but understandably it was fully booked due to the rugby. Despite this, the staff were very helpful and we had a good experience otherwise.
4/10
Poor
05 Nov 2018
Steven
The place well old and smelly. Dozens of stairs. No elevator. The stench of mold and mildew in the bathroom was so strong I had to keep the door shut and go in there as little as possible.

Location & surroundings

The Guards Hotel
Clifton Terrace, 1, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

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The Guards Hotel

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