Fingal is a hotel on the water. It is a former lighthouse tender, a working ship that once served the Northern Lighthouse Board, and it has been converted into a floating hotel moored in Leith, the port district on the north side of Edinburgh. That makes it unlike anything else in the city: you cross a gangway, sleep in a cabin, wake to the sound of the harbour and have breakfast on a ship. The conversion keeps the nautical character, with rooms that feel like cabins even when they are comfortable, and the ship's history is part of the experience. Leith is an excellent place to stay if you are interested in food and drink, as the Shore and the surrounding streets are home to some of the city's best restaurants, bars and cafes, and it is also near Ocean Terminal and the Royal Yacht Britannia. The hotel is a good choice for couples, for travellers who like something different and for visitors who have already done the Old Town and want a different feel. Rooms and facilities vary, so check the room types, cabin sizes and what is included when you book. It is not a conventional hotel, and it suits people with a sense of adventure more than those who want a large, standard room.
Location and transport
Leith is about two miles from the city centre, and the tram runs from Princes Street and St Andrew Square down to Leith and Newhaven, which makes the journey easy, as do buses along Leith Walk. That means you can stay on the water in the evening and be at the castle within about half an hour in the morning.
Leith itself is walkable and has a character of its own, with the old docks, the Shore's pubs and seafood restaurants, independent shops and a lively local community. You are close to Britannia, to the Port of Leith Distillery and to Lind and Lime gin, so a spirits day in Leith is easy to organise.
What to expect
A ship has quirks. Cabins can be compact, corridors narrow and stairs steep, so people with mobility needs should check access before booking, and light sleepers should ask about the sounds of the harbour. On the other hand, the atmosphere is unique, and the views across the water, particularly in the evening, are a real asset. Dining, bar and breakfast arrangements can change, so check when you book.
Price and timing
Rates are in the upper mid-range, and they rise in August, December and at busy weekends. The five per cent visitor levy applies to the first five nights of a stay. Fingal suits couples, food lovers and anyone who wants to try something unconventional. If you prefer to be within walking distance of the castle and the Royal Mile, a central hotel will save you time; if you want character and a different view of Edinburgh, a night or two on the water is hard to beat.
Why stay here
- ✓Former lighthouse tender converted to a hotel
- ✓Cabin-style rooms with harbour atmosphere
- ✓Moored in Leith near the Shore
- ✓Tram link to the city centre
- ✓Close to Ocean Terminal and Royal Yacht Britannia
- ✓Near Port of Leith Distillery
- ✓Walkable Leith restaurants and pubs
- ✓Dining and bar on board (check when you book)
Good questions
What is Fingal?+
It is a former lighthouse tender that has been converted into a floating hotel moored in Leith.
How do I get to the city centre?+
The tram runs from Leith to Princes Street and St Andrew Square, and buses run along Leith Walk.
Is it suitable for guests with mobility needs?+
A ship has steps and narrow passages, so ask about access before you book.
