The Apex Grassmarket Hotel sits in the Grassmarket, the old market square beneath the castle rock, which has been a gathering place since the Middle Ages. It is a lively part of the Old Town, with pubs, restaurants and independent shops, and Victoria Street's colourful curve runs up from one corner to the Royal Mile. Staying here means that the castle is above you, the cobbled square is outside the door and a good dinner is a short walk away in any direction. The hotel is part of the Apex group and is aimed at visitors who want a comfortable, well-placed base without the price tag of the grand hotels. It has the practical comforts of a modern city hotel, and some rooms have views toward the castle or across the rooftops, though views vary by room, so check the room types when you book. It suits first-time visitors, couples and groups who want to be in the heart of the Old Town, and it makes a good base for the castle, the Royal Mile and the underground attractions. Because the Grassmarket is lively in the evening, rooms facing the square can be noisy, so request a quieter room if you are a light sleeper.
Location and walking
The castle is a steep but short walk up from the Grassmarket, via the West Bow and Victoria Street or the stairs from the square. The Royal Mile, St Giles' Cathedral and the National Museum of Scotland are all within about ten minutes, and the Meadows and the University area are a short walk to the south.
Waverley station is about a fifteen minute walk, and the tram runs to the airport from Princes Street. Edinburgh is a hilly city, and the main trade-off of the Grassmarket is that returning from the New Town or the station involves a climb or a descent, so wear comfortable shoes.
What to expect
A modern hotel with friendly service and a contemporary design that sits comfortably among historic buildings. Dining and bar options, including any rooftop or restaurant spaces, can change, so check what is on offer for your dates. The Grassmarket itself is a social centre, with pubs and restaurants that stay busy into the evening, and the area has a long tradition of markets, executions and revelry that gives the square its character.
Price and timing
Rates are mid-range, with peaks in August, around Hogmanay and during big events. The five per cent visitor levy applies to the first five nights of a stay. For the best value look at shoulder seasons, and book early for the festivals. The Apex Grassmarket suits visitors who want a central, characterful base without the premium of the luxury hotels, and who are happy to step out of the door into one of the best-loved squares in the Old Town.
Why stay here
- ✓Grassmarket location beneath the castle
- ✓Castle views from some rooms (check when you book)
- ✓Victoria Street shops steps away
- ✓Walk to the Royal Mile in minutes
- ✓Close to the National Museum of Scotland
- ✓Restaurants and pubs on the doorstep
- ✓Modern rooms and city-hotel comforts
- ✓Walkable to Waverley and the tram
Good questions
Is the Apex Grassmarket close to the castle?+
Yes. The castle is a short but steep walk up from the Grassmarket.
Will the Grassmarket be noisy?+
The square is lively in the evening. Request a quieter room away from the square if you are a light sleeper.
Is it walkable to the Royal Mile?+
Yes, the Royal Mile is a few minutes' walk uphill via Victoria Street or the West Bow.
