31-35 Grassmarket,
Edinburgh,
United Kingdom,
EH1 2HS,
Edinburgh
-
Steps from Edinburgh Castle
Great
8.5
9.0
/10
4.3
4.4
/5
Loved by Apex Grassmarket Hotel guests
Castle view
Helpful staff
Spacious room
Clean bedding
Delicious breakfast
Water refill station
"We had a free upgraded room with a lovely view of the castle."
SueB53399 from United Kingdom
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"Was ideally situated. Had a lovely swimming pool. Great facilities in the rooms."
Colette from United Kingdom
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"The castle view rooms also went beyond our expectations."
Kathryn Ann from United States
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Amenities
Apex Grassmarket Hotel presents a range of amenities that enhance every stay. The indoor heated swimming pool offers a respite from the city hustle, while the fully equipped gym provides an opportunity to stay active. Guests can unwind in the intimate bar or enjoy a meal at Metro, known for its views of Edinburgh Castle.
Rooms
The hotel offers various room types, including Castle View Deluxe Rooms with private balconies overlooking Edinburgh Castle. Family Rooms accommodate four guests comfortably, offering cozy amenities and stunning views. All accommodations come with luxury toiletries and spacious ensuite bathrooms, ensuring convenience for all guests.
Location
Apex Grassmarket Hotel is positioned in Edinburgh's historic Old Town, directly facing Edinburgh Castle. Guests have easy access to local attractions, dining, and bars right outside the hotel's doors. The hotel is conveniently reachable from Waverley train station, located just a 10-minute walk away.
Wellness
The hotel emphasizes wellness with its indoor pool and sauna, providing guests a chance to relax after a day of exploration. The gym is equipped with Technogym fitness equipment, allowing for comprehensive workouts during their stay. These leisure facilities contribute to a rejuvenating experience in the heart of the city.
Business
Apex Grassmarket Hotel boasts seven versatile function rooms equipped for various events, including conferences and meetings. The Apex Suite is expansive at 129 sqm and includes modern audiovisual equipment, catering to business needs. Stunning views of Edinburgh Castle serve as a notable backdrop for gatherings.
Highlights
Location: historic Old Town, directly facing Edinburgh Castle
Rooms: Castle View Deluxe Rooms with private balconies
Dining: Metro offers dining with views of Edinburgh Castle
Wellness: indoor heated swimming pool and sauna
“Apex Grassmarket Hotel strikes me as a smart choice in Old Edinburgh; the location puts you steps from the Royal Mile and the Grassmarket buzz. I envision rooms with castle views, and I like the sound of unwinding at the pool and sauna. For families or business, it seems a solid base.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type
Apex Grassmarket Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
City Twin Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet
2 Double beds
Shower
Heating
room details
City Double Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Quadruple Room
2 persons
260 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Castle View Superior Room
2 persons
260 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
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Facilities
Apex Grassmarket Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities:
Great
8.5/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Indoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Solarium
Sauna
Shallow end
Room features
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Separate tub and shower
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
Experience a delightful blend of Scottish and international flavors at the Metro Bar & Brasserie, where modern dining meets familial warmth. Enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh Castle while savoring thoughtfully prepared meals designed to cater to all dietary preferences.
Metro Bar & Brasserie
Scottish, International
Ambiance
Family-friendly, modern setting with views of Edinburgh Castle
Key Offerings
A varied menu that includes vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options; ideal for all-day dining and social gatherings.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast: 07:00 - 10:30; Lunch: 12:00 - 20:30 (varies on Saturday and Sunday)
Apex Grassmarket Hotel Location
31-35 Grassmarket,
Edinburgh,
United Kingdom,
EH1 2HS,
Edinburgh
Map view
31-35 Grassmarket,
Edinburgh,
United Kingdom,
EH1 2HS,
Edinburgh
City landmarks
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
2600 ft
Landmark
Arthur's Seat hike
1.4
mi
Landmark
The Real Mary King's Close
2200 ft
Palace
Palace of Holyroodhouse
1.1
mi
Landmark
Calton Hill
4900 ft
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
2500 ft
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
2600 ft
Monument
Scott Monument
3300 ft
Landmark
Nelson Monument
1.0
mi
Landmark
Princes Street
3000 ft
Landmark
Surgeons' Hall Museums
3000 ft
Botanical Garden
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1.3
mi
Museum
Museum of Childhood
3000 ft
Museum
Dynamic Earth
5100 ft
Landmark
Brass Rubbing Centre
2500 ft
Event hall
Edinburgh International Conference Centre
2800 ft
Museum
John Knox House
3300 ft
Gallery
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One
1.3
mi
Museum
The Museum of the Royal Scots and the Royal Regiment of Scotland
3500 ft
Nearby
Museum
Edinburgh Castle
1800 ft
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
1300 ft
Gallery
Scottish National Gallery
2000 ft
Park
Princes Street Gardens
1700 ft
Museum
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
1300 ft
Museum
The Writers' Museum
1600 ft
Museum
Gladstone's Land
1500 ft
Square
Grassmarket
100 ft
354 Castlehill
The Scotch Whisky Experience
1300 ft
Cemetery
The Robertson Mausoleum
1400 ft
81-83 Grassmarket
Armstrong's Vintage
600 ft
Restaurants
The White Hart Inn
600 ft
32 Grassmarket
Petit Paris
700 ft
38-40 Grassmarket
Beehive Inn
100 ft
18/20 Grassmarket
Metro Bar and Brasserie
100 ft
31-35 Grassmarket Street
Mamma's American Pizza
600 ft
28-30 Grassmarket
The Fiddlers Arms
300 ft
11-13 Grassmarket
Made In Italy
700 ft
42 Grassmarket
Taylor Walker
500 ft
18-20 Grassmarket
Pumpkin Brown
500 ft
16 Grassmarket
The Last Drop
800 ft
74-78 Grassmarket
Fiddlers Inn
300 ft
1-13 Grassmarket
Cold Town House
500 ft
4 Grassmarket
Explore Edinburgh
Explore the Grassmarket Area
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Edinburgh Castle
7 minutes' walk
Historic fortress offering stunning views and rich history. Explore its significant exhibits, including the Crown Jewels.
National Museum of Scotland
10 minutes' walk
Cultural gem featuring Scottish history, art, and science. Enjoy free admission and engaging, family-friendly activities.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
5 minutes' walk
Interactive attraction filled with optical illusions and amazing views. A fun experience for all ages with unique exhibits.
Holyrood Palace
25 minutes' walk
Official residence of the monarch in Scotland, featuring historic apartments. Explore beautiful gardens and enjoy guided tours.
Arthur's Seat Hike
25 minutes' walk
An invigorating hike with breathtaking views of Edinburgh. Ideal for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Yoga at The Meadows
12 minutes' walk
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions in a scenic park. Perfect for those seeking tranquility and wellness during their stay.
The Beehive Inn
1 minute' walk
Traditional pub atmosphere with hearty Scottish fare. Signature dish includes haggis, and a range of local ales is available.
Petit Paris
3 minutes' walk
Charming bistro offering French cuisine. Known for its tartes and coq au vin, with a cozy ambiance for couples and families.
The Stand Comedy Club
10 minutes' walk
A popular venue for live comedy acts. Regular performances and a lively atmosphere make it a great night out.
Barony Bar
10 minutes' walk
A vibrant pub known for live music and quiz nights. A friendly spot offering a mix of locals and visitors in a cozy setting.
Getting around
City Centre
Edinburgh9 min
·
2300 ft
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)20 min
·
8.2
mi
Glasgow (GLA)132 min
·
54.4
mi
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station10 min
·
2700 ft
Bus
Bus stop4 min
·
1000 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site at GBP 20 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP19.50 per person per day.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2010
Number of floors:
6
Number of rooms:
169
Former name
Apex International
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Apex Grassmarket Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Apex Grassmarket Hotel enjoys a superb central location in the heart of Grassmarket, within easy walking distance of attractions, including the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, which offers spectacular views directly from some rooms. Guests appreciate the spacious and comfortable rooms, some featuring high ceilings, and find the in-room amenities like Nespresso machines and comfortable bedding particularly enjoyable. While some guests have noted limited window opening in rooms with castle views, many consider the hotel to be excellent value for money, especially with the added convenience of an on-site restaurant and bar.
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Review score
Based on 2613 verified reviews
8.6/10
Great
86%
Recommend
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.1/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.9/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Excellent location
Comfortable bed
Castle view
Cons
Poor sound insulation
Unannounced entry
High bath
Guest reviews
based on 2613 reviews
8.6/10
based on 1519 reviews
4/5
based on 3191 reviews
8.5/10
sawyer from united states
Couple
castle view superior room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 26, 2025
9/10
castle views and restful nights
castle viewprompt servicelovely suit
i loved the castle view room we booked the view at night felt so romantic the low street lights added such a lovely ambiance the white hart inn across the way felt inviting. the staff were wonderful always ready to assist with any request. when i asked for cream it was promptly brought to my door by a gentleman in a lovely suit. the service was really good.
Location
9/10
the hotel enjoys a convenient central position many attractions are easily accessible on foot victoria street with its charming pubs and shops is nearby for a good stroll the area has a romantic atmosphere.
0 Helpful
|
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Jane L from United Kingdom
Single
Castle View Superior Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:October 04, 2025
9.0/10
Fantastic Stay with Castle Views!
great accesscomplimentary winefresh water
The location provided great access to the Royal Mile and various restaurants. I especially loved the pool (a perfect spot to relax after a long day). The room cookies and complimentary bottle of wine were nice touches! Fresh water was available near the rooms, which I found very convenient.
The room was a bit warm, as there was no air conditioning.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast includes a great view of the castle and has a variety of food options. The breakfast buffet offers hot items, pastries, fruits, and cereals. I also noticed gluten-free and vegan options were available.
Rooms
9/10
My room included a big and easy-to-use TV. It also had good water pressure in the shower. I found the room had a safe, fridge, iron, and ironing board. Chairs were in the room for seating.
0 Helpful
|
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Luke from United Kingdom
Single
City Twin Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:September 05, 2025
6/10
unstable shower temperatureloud street noise
the shower had a mind of its own it alternated between hot and cold water without warning. this. the noise levels from outside were noticeable even late into the night this was disruptive since i wanted to get some sleep. i found it hard to sleep well with the noise and temperature issues
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Apex Grassmarket Hotel
What is the cost of breakfast if it is not part of my booking?
18 November 2024
Breakfast is £18.50 per person if purchased on the day, or £16.50 if bought in advance.
Will I find bathrobes and slippers in my room?
25 December 2024
Bathrobes and slippers are provided in all Castle View Deluxe Rooms.
Does the standard family room have any outdoor space?
30 January 2025
Standard family rooms offer a beautiful view of the castle but do not feature balconies.
Are smoking areas available on the balconies?
10 February 2025
Smoking is restricted within hotel premises, including balconies, except for designated smoking areas.
Can my 15-year-old daughter join me at the pool and gym?
15 March 2025
Yes, she can accompany you, but adult supervision is required in the pool, sauna, and gym areas.
How far is the hotel from the nearest train station?
5 April 2025
It is approximately a 10-minute walk from Waverley Station and around 20 minutes from Haymarket Station.
Is there a direct public transport option from the airport to the hotel?
8 April 2024
Yes, you can take the 100 Airlink bus from the airport and get off at West End (Shandwick Place); it's less than 10 minutes' walk from there to the hotel.
Are balconies available in all rooms?
20 May 2025
Balconies are only available in Deluxe Rooms, not in other room types.
Is there an indoor area to securely store bicycles?
28 June 2025
Yes, bicycles can be securely stored at the reception, and the earliest check-in time is 14:00.
Do you offer luggage storage after checkout?
22 July 2025
Yes, luggage can be stored at the reception after checkout for guests exploring the city.
Can I find parking facilities at the hotel?
3 August 2024
Yes, there are parking facilities available on-site for guests.
Is an iron and ironing board provided in the rooms?
10 September 2024
Yes, all rooms are equipped with an iron and ironing board for guest use.