Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Exterior photoHoliday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Beds photoHoliday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Interior photo
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From183US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Castle Hotel

Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
-
Close to the Royal Yacht Britannia
Great
8.1
8.5
/10
4.0
4.1
/5

Location

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront is situated opposite Ocean Terminal, providing guests access to shopping and dining just a short walk away. The hotel is conveniently placed for catching trams to the city centre, with a 15-minute ride to Edinburgh's attractions. Edinburgh Airport is a 25-minute drive, offering a hassle-free start to any journey.

Rooms

The hotel offers 169 guest rooms equipped with practical amenities including ironing facilities and pull-out sofa beds suitable for families. Each room features free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and a pillow menu for personalized comfort. Power showers and complimentary tea and coffee supplies enhance the overall convenience of the stay.

Dining

Guests can enjoy the inclusive Express Start breakfast buffet, serving a variety of hot and cold items to energize their day. For those wishing to unwind, the hotel lounge serves dinner and drinks, offering light bites and pizzas available around the clock. Grab and go bags are also available for those needing a quick meal.

Transportation

The hotel provides on-site parking for a nominal fee of 10 GBP per night, although spaces are limited. The location allows for straightforward access to public transport, with tram services directly opposite the hotel. Edinburgh Waverley train station is also easily accessible, enhancing travel convenience.

Pet-Friendly Options

The hotel welcomes pets by prior arrangement, making it a suitable choice for travelers who wish to bring their furry companions. Service animals are allowed free of charge, ensuring support for guests with specific needs. This pet policy adds to the overall flexibility and inclusivity of the hotel experience.

Highlights

Location: opposite Ocean Terminal for easy shopping

Rooms: 169 guest rooms with power showers

Dining: Express Start breakfast buffet included

Transportation: on-site parking available

“This spot impressed me with its modern feel and accessible prices, especially considering breakfast is included-a welcome perk. The location is a real asset; you're not just in Leith, but a quick tram ride from Edinburgh's heart. I appreciate their pet-friendly approach and the commitment to sustainability, details that make a difference.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Castle-hotel
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Choose your room

Castle hotels provide room choices such as doubles, family chambers, and grand suites—often with breakfast, free cancellations, and exclusive offers
Room allocated on Arrival Hot
2 persons
11 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Twin Room Hot
2 persons
11 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Hot
2 persons
12 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Hot Accessible
2 persons
12 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

See current availability and rates for your selected dates

Facilities

Each castle hotel provides features designed for both comfort and memorable moments
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • On-site car park
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Sink

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At the Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront, dining reaches new heights with a focus on family-friendly meals and inclusive options for all dietary preferences. The inviting atmosphere is perfect for savouring hearty comfort food or light bites throughout the day, ensuring every culinary desire is met with warmth and care.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Casual dining with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
Ambiance
Family-friendly setting with a relaxed, stylish bar area
Key Offerings
Breakfast features a good and simple spread, while lunch and dinner include favorites like nachos, chicken wings, burgers, and curries. Light bites such as pizza and nachos are available all day, alongside expertly crafted coffees, premium spirits, and a selection of craft beers and world wines.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM; breakfast available in the morning.

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Location

Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
Map view
Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
Nearby
Ocean Drive Ocean Terminal
Royal Yacht Britannia
400 m
Mall
Ocean Terminal
430 m
Edinburgh EH6Scotland
Leith
180 m
Theatre
Leith Theatre
530 m
West Princess Garden Street Near Saint John's
Sir James Young Simpson Monument
240 m
Restaurants
Lee's Kitchen
120 m
14 Portland Place
Costa Coffee
290 m
98 Ocean Drive Ground Floor
Wrapchic
370 m
Ocean Terminal Ocean Drive
Fit Food Bistro
440 m
41 Commercial Street
Tiso Summit Cafe
450 m
41 Commercial Street
Belly Buster
530 m
36 Ferry Road
The Haven Cafe
640 m
9 Anchorfield Newhaven
North Fort Cafe
560 m
19 North Fort Street
Hung Fung
790 m
124 Ferry Road
Williams and Johnson
750 m
1 Customs Wharf Custom Lane
Explore Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh's Waterfront
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht Britannia
5 minutes' walk
Former royal yacht with informative exhibits. Offers guided tours showcasing royal heritage.
Ocean Terminal
Ocean Terminal
6 minutes' walk
Shopping complex with diverse shops and dining options. Regular events and activities make it a lively spot.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
Trinity House Maritime Museum
10 minutes' walk
Historical exhibits on maritime heritage. Free admission and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience.
Leith Citadel railway
6 minutes' walk
Historical railway site showcasing exhibits on train history. Interesting for enthusiasts and families alike.
Leith Walk
3 minutes' walk
Scenic walking path along the water with local cafes and shops, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Portobello Beach
18 minutes' drive
Popular beach with sandy shores and water sports. Ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
Hiking at Holyrood Park
30 minutes' drive
Stunning natural park offering hiking trails and panoramic views. Great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mr Nicks
4 minutes' walk
Casual eatery known for delicious burgers and fresh local ingredients. Family-friendly atmosphere.
Wrapchic
Wrapchic
5 minutes' walk
Innovative Indian wrap restaurant offering vegetarian options. Casual dining with a vibrant vibe.
Fit Food Bistro
Fit Food Bistro
6 minutes' walk
Health-conscious menu with fresh ingredients. Ideal for those looking for lighter fare.
Vue Cinema
10 minutes' walk
Modern cinema with the latest films. Great for movie enthusiasts and family outings.
The Leith Dockside
10 minutes' walk
Lively pub offering live music and trivia nights. Perfect for a fun night out with friends.
Local transport options
City Centre
Edinburgh5 min  ·  3.3 km
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)26 min  ·  17.0 km
Glasgow (GLA)140 min  ·  93.2 km
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station5 min  ·  3.0 km
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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 10 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Czech, Hungarian, Polish
Number of floors:
5
Number of rooms:
127
Former name
holiday inn express edinburgh - leith waterfront, an ihg hotel

Guest reviews & ratings

Guest impressions & feedback from past stays
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests often appreciate the hotel's location, especially its proximity to the tram, Ocean Terminal shopping, and Leith Waterfront, making it easy to reach the city center. The rooms are generally considered clean and comfortable, featuring larger beds, handy amenities like an iron and board, and a kettle for tea and coffee. While the hotel provides a satisfactory breakfast with coffee, espresso, and hot chocolate machines, some guests have noted that it can get crowded and the selection remains the same each day. Many find it a good value, with convenient parking available, sometimes even free parking in the shopping center opposite.
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Review score
Based on 2820 verified reviews
8.0/10
Great
83%
Recommend
Staff
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Breakfast
7.5/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
Friendly staff
Great location
Cons
Unpleasant smell
Guest reviews
based on 2820 reviews
8.0/10
based on 6004 reviews
8.1/10
Jessica from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard Double Room Hot
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 30, 2025
9.0/10

convenient stay near leith

excellent locationnice sizeclean roomfree drinks
The location was excellent. I could easily walk to the royal yacht britannia. leith's restaurants were also a short walk. my room was a nice size with excellent beds and very clean. the free hot drinks machine in the lounge was convenient. parking cost me £10 for 24 hours with a hotel discount.
The breakfast could be better. There wasn't enough hot food available, and i had to wait in a queue.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel offers secure parking with a discounted rate . a hot drinks machine is available in the lounge area for complimentary beverages. these facilities added value to my visit.
Service
10/10
the staff was friendly and able to respond quickly to any requests. the reception team provided a smooth check in process. they were cute when i arrived at night.
Rooms
9/10
the room includes comfortable beds and complimentary toiletries. the standard double room size was adequat. it was clean and well-kept throughout my short stay.
Dining
8/10
a variety of food options were avilable for breakfast . the breakfast service has some queues, but they frequently replenishe. the selection of options was sufficient.
0 Helpful
|
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Elijah from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard Double Room Sofa Bed Hot
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 13, 2025
8.5/10

solid stay near the waterfront

ample socketshelpful staffreplenished area
my room had ample plug sockets. the breakfast team kept the area replenished. i found the staff very helpful, especially renata. the room was also in good condition. the room felt clean to me.
Service
9/10
staff members are attentive and respond to requests promptly. they provide assistance with directions and local information. the reception operates 24 hours a day. house keeping staff were present daily.
Facilities
8/10
breakfast includes both hot and cold options. the hotel features an on site car park. tea and coffee facilities are available. dove soaps are provided. the hotel offers easy access to public transport.
0 Helpful
|
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Questions of the users
About Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg
Is there free parking available for guests with a blue badge, and are there designated spots near the entrance?
08 November 2024
Parking is available for £10.00 for 24 hours. There are limited spaces, but designated disabled bays are conveniently located near the hotel entrance.
Are there designated smoking areas for guests who smoke outside the building?
12 December 2024
All rooms are non-smoking, but smoking is permitted in the designated outdoor area.
Can guests easily access the Playhouse from the hotel using public transport?
14 January 2025
Yes, there is a direct bus service available from the hotel to the Playhouse.
Does this hotel welcome small dogs, and are there any fees associated with this?
20 February 2025
Small well-behaved dogs are allowed, but there is a fee of £15.00 per stay.
Can guests continue to park in the hotel lot after checking out on the same day?
05 March 2025
Yes, guests can remain parked in both the hotel car park and the overflow car park for the remainder of the day after check-out.
Is there a direct bus route from the hotel to the airport?
22 March 2025
Bus 200 brings guests directly from the hotel to the airport.
Are there walk-in shower options available for guests with mobility issues without needing to book a disabled room?
15 April 2025
All rooms are equipped with showers. Standard rooms have a small step, while accessible rooms feature step-free access to the shower.
Does the hotel offer evening meals for guests?
29 April 2025
Yes, evening meal options are available.
Are there various dining options within walking distance from the hotel?
01 May 2025
Yes, several restaurants can be found in the area, particularly at Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre and The Shore.
What is the breakfast schedule at this hotel?
10 June 2025
Breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Is there a check-in deadline, or can guests arrive anytime?
20 June 2025
The reception desk is open 24/7. While there is no strict cut-off time for check-in, guests are requested to inform the hotel if arriving after 11:00 PM.
What are the check-in and check-out hours, and is early check-in possible?
15 July 2025
Check-in starts from 2:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Early check-in is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Can 17-year-olds stay at the hotel unaccompanied?
02 August 2025
Guests aged 17 can stay if accompanied by someone who is at least 18 years old.
Are pets allowed at the hotel, and what are the charges for bringing them?
21 August 2025
Pets are welcome at the hotel for a fee of £15.00 per stay, payable directly to the hotel.
Are buses running continuously to the city center throughout the day and night?
05 September 2025
Local buses typically operate until midnight, with night buses running every hour after that.
How do I get from Edinburgh Waverley train station to the hotel using public transport?
10 September 2025
Bus 22 offers a connection between Edinburgh Waverley and the hotel.
Are there any dining provisions considering the restrictions due to Covid-19?
12 October 2025
Currently, a grab-and-go breakfast is provided, including items like toast, pastries, fruit, yogurt, and hot rolls to take away.

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