If you’ve ever stood in the middle of Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, looked up at the looming volcanic rock of the Castle, and wondered where the best place to wake up is—honestly, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel Edinburgh is usually the answer that comes up first.
It’s a funny building. From the outside, especially if you're looking down from the Castle ramparts, it’s been called a bit of an "80s atrocity" by some architectural critics because it sits quite squarely among the medieval and Victorian stone. But here’s the thing: once you're inside, you don’t have to look at the building. You’re looking out of it. And that view? It’s basically unbeatable.
The View from Apex Grassmarket Hotel Edinburgh
Most people come here for one reason. They want to open their curtains and see Edinburgh Castle so close they could almost touch it.
The hotel’s "Castle View" rooms aren't just a marketing gimmick. They feature floor-to-ceiling windows. If you snag a Deluxe room with a balcony, you’re basically sitting in the Castle's front yard. It’s the kind of view that makes you stay in bed way longer than you planned, just watching the light change on the stone.
At night, the Castle is floodlit. It looks like something out of a movie. I’ve heard travelers say they spent more time on their balcony with a glass of wine than they did actually exploring the Royal Mile.
What the Rooms are Actually Like
Inside, the vibe is "contemporary chic." It isn't trying to be a dusty old manor house. Think clean lines, 55-inch 4K TVs with Google Cast, and those little yellow rubber ducks that have become a bit of a cult symbol for Apex.
You've got a few choices:
- City Rooms: These are the standard option. They’re about 23 square meters. Good for a quick trip, but they might face away from the action.
- Castle View Superior: This is the sweet spot. You get the king-size bed and the big window facing the fortress.
- Family Rooms: These are surprisingly spacious at 26 square meters with two queen beds. Apex is actually one of the more kid-friendly high-end spots in the Old Town.
Eating and Hanging Out at Metro
The main restaurant on-site is Metro Bar & Brasserie. It’s got wall-to-wall windows. Even if you aren't staying in a castle-view room, you can grab breakfast or a steak dinner here and still get the visual.
They do a "Raise the Steaks" deal pretty often—two flat iron steaks and wine for around £44. It’s solid, reliable food. For something a bit more exclusive, Heights on the 5th floor is often used for events, and let’s just say it’s probably the most popular wedding backdrop in the city for a reason.
If you’re feeling like a different vibe, the hotel is literally next door to Biddy Mulligan’s. It’s an Irish pub with live music and a lot of noise. It’s the heart of the Grassmarket "craic."
Perks You Might Not Expect
One thing that’s rare in Edinburgh’s Old Town is a pool.
The Apex Grassmarket Hotel Edinburgh has a heated indoor pool, a sauna, and a gym. If you’ve spent the whole day hiking up Arthur’s Seat or fighting the crowds on the Royal Mile, being able to do a few laps in a quiet pool is a massive win.
Also, parking.
Parking in central Edinburgh is a nightmare. Like, a genuine "don't even try it" nightmare. This hotel actually has limited on-site parking for about £20 a night. You can't reserve it, which is stressful, but it’s one of the only places in the area where it’s even an option.
Location Logistics
You're in the Old Town. That means cobbles.
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- Edinburgh Castle: 5-minute walk (mostly uphill).
- Royal Mile: 2-minute walk.
- Waverley Station: 10-15 minute walk, though it’s a bit of a climb with suitcases.
- Victoria Street: Right around the corner. This is the street that supposedly inspired Diagon Alley. It's incredibly "Instagrammable" and full of independent shops.
A Few Realities to Consider
It’s not all perfectly silent luxury.
The Grassmarket is a party hub. On a Friday or Saturday night, the square is loud. The hotel has double glazing, but if you’re a light sleeper, you might hear the distant thrum of the pubs.
Also, because it’s a popular spot, check-in can get busy. They usually start at 2:30 PM, but if a tour group arrives at the same time, expect a bit of a wait in the lobby.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
- Book Direct for the Duck: It sounds silly, but if you book through their site, you often get "acts of kindness" like a bottle of Prosecco or better room placement. And you definitely get the duck.
- The 5th Floor Secret: If you can’t afford a balcony room, head up to the 5th floor. The views from the public spaces there are just as good as the private suites.
- Airport Strategy: Don’t bother with a taxi unless you have tons of bags. The Airlink 100 bus or the Tram to Princes Street is easy. From there, it’s a short, scenic walk down through the Mound and into the Grassmarket.
- Breakfast Timing: Breakfast is 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Go before 8:30 AM if you want a window seat. Once the "culture vultures" wake up, the prime spots by the glass go fast.
If you want the quintessential "I'm in Edinburgh" experience without staying in a place that feels like a museum, this is the spot. Just make sure you check which way your window faces before you click "confirm."