CASTLE ROCK HOSTEL - ADULTS ONLY
About the Castle Hotel
Castle Rock Hostel, Edinburgh - A Faux-Castle for the Modern Nomad
This 300-bed property, a sprawling old building given the full faux-castle treatment, cuts a striking figure in Edinburgh's Old Town. It presents itself as a hippy boarding school channeling Hogwarts, an ambitious aesthetic that sets a decidedly social and spirited tone for this large city hostel. For those seeking a lively atmosphere and a wealth of common areas, Castle Rock is a compelling proposition.
Location
Situated in the heart of the Old Town, Castle Rock Hostel enjoys a commanding position in a district known for its centuries-old buildings and labyrinthine alleys. It's a short walk from Edinburgh's St Andrews Square Bus Station and Waverley Train Station, though hauling heavy luggage might prove a bit of a hike. Landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens, and Camera Obscura are within easy walking distance, with further afield sights like Arthur's Seat accessible via a nearby bus stop.
Style and Character
The interiors lean heavily into a medieval theme, a deliberate choice that transforms the hostel into a theatrical experience. Pointed arches, faux-painted tapestries, heraldic shields, and suits of armour stationed on the stairs all contribute to the pervasive sense of historical fantasy. The vast refectory-style dining room, with its high windows and enormous central table, offers a grand communal space. It's a playful, perhaps even audacious, design that clearly appeals to its target demographic.
Service and Facilities
Castle Rock Hostel is clearly well run by an enthusiastic and hardworking team, many of whom are working travellers themselves. The receptionists are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to advise on the week's events and activities, which include organized pub crawls, ceilidhs, and ghost tours. Beyond the social events, the hostel offers a wealth of common areas. Guests can make new friends over free tea, coffee, and hot chocolate in the refectory, relax with vinyl and guitars in the 'Groove Lounge', or showcase piano skills in the posh lounge. A movie lounge with twice-nightly screenings, a pool table, and ample space for BBQs and beers with friends further enhance the communal experience. Practicalities are covered with free luggage and bicycle storage, a secure luggage store, bike parking, and a same-day laundry service.
Rooms
The rooms here are named after characters from a certain popular film franchise, a whimsical touch that adds to the narrative. While specific room categories aren't extensively detailed, expect a range of options from dormitories with bunk beds and lockers, to private rooms with a mix of bunk and single beds. Larger private rooms accommodate up to four guests. All beds come equipped with USB charging points and fresh, clean linen. Room sizes are generally noted as 12 and 23 square metres, with double rooms offering a safe deposit box and a carpeted floor, though bathrooms are shared.
Food and Drink
A continental breakfast is available for a nominal fee of £1.50, offering coffee/tea, a roll or bagel, cereal, fruit, and juice - a basic but budget-friendly option. The true culinary heart of the hostel lies in its communal spaces, particularly the vast refectory where all-day free tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are offered. This provides a constant opportunity for guests to mingle. While there are no formal onsite restaurants, the self-catering kitchen is available for those who prefer to prepare their own meals.
Value for Money
For budget-conscious travellers, Castle Rock Hostel offers significant value, particularly given its prime Old Town location and the sheer volume of included amenities and social activities. The low-cost continental breakfast and the free all-day hot drinks are key draws. The extensive common areas and organised events mean there are plenty of ways to fill your time without additional expense, making it a solid choice for those who want to stretch their travel funds.
Accessibility
Specific details regarding accessibility for guests with disabilities are not explicitly provided in the information. The emphasis on shared facilities and multi-level common areas suggests potential challenges, though the presence of lifts would be a determining factor.
Family-Friendly
As an adults-only establishment, Castle Rock Hostel is not suitable for families with children. Its focus is squarely on providing a social and engaging environment for adult travellers.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- No pets allowed
- 24-hour security
- Adults only
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Billiard tables
Guest Parking
- Shared kitchen
Services
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Children
- Board games
Spa & Leisure
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Heating
Self-catering
- Shared kitchen
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
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