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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Castle Hotel

Holyrood Park Road 18, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH16 5AY

Summer Stays at The University of Edinburgh - A Scholar's Retreat

Summer Stays at The University of Edinburgh, situated within the esteemed Pollock Halls Complex, offers a unique collegiate atmosphere for visitors seeking an academic immersion. It presents a straightforward, functional base for exploring this historic city, proving that learning and leisure can coexist harmoniously. This accommodation is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize location and convenience over bespoke luxury, offering a grounded perspective on the University's rich academic tapestry.

Location

The complex finds itself just 2.5 kilometers from the heart of Edinburgh's city center, placing a wealth of historical sites within easy reach. While not directly in the thick of it, guests are ideally positioned for exploration; Edinburgh Castle, the National Monument of Scotland, the Royal Mile, the Scottish Parliament, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are all accessible without undue effort. For those with a keen eye for natural beauty, the historical hill of Arthur's Seat provides a stunning vista, a mere 1.5 kilometers away, offering a rewarding hike and panoramic views. Dining and entertainment options, including restaurants, bars, and pubs, are readily available within 500 meters, as is a train station, further enhancing its connectivity. Edinburgh Airport is a manageable 12 kilometers away.

Style and Character

Summer Stays operates with the functional charm of campus accommodation. The Chancellors Court building serves as the central hub, featuring a 24-hour reception desk, ample safes, and an efficient system of eight lifts to navigate its various levels. While it eschews the ornate décor of traditional hotels, its character is rooted in its academic setting. The ambiance is one of purposeful practicality, with an emphasis on providing a clean and accessible base for study and discovery. It's a space that respects its student origins, offering a no-frills yet comfortable environment.

Service and Facilities

The operational core of Summer Stays is its 24-hour reception, ensuring assistance is always at hand, complemented by 12 safes for guest valuables. For connectivity, a public Internet terminal is available. Dining is facilitated through two restaurants and three cafés, with highchairs for infants readily provided. For those needing to stay on task, 18 conference rooms are on offer, and bicycle storage facilities cater to active guests. Additional conveniences include limited parking, an elevator, and a laundry service. Guests can select their meals - breakfast, midday, and evening - from a buffet selection, with lunch also available from a set menu. The property is 2 kilometers from Edinburgh Waverley train station.

Rooms

The rooms at Summer Stays are designed for comfort and utility, featuring essential amenities such as a telephone and Internet access. While specific room categories are not detailed, the focus is on providing a functional space for guests. They serve as a quiet refuge after a day of exploring the city's many historical and cultural landmarks. The simplicity of the room design ensures a focus on the essentials, allowing guests to rest and recharge before their next adventure.

Food and Drink

The culinary offerings at Summer Stays are centered around convenience and variety. Guests have access to two on-site restaurants and three cafés, ensuring a range of dining options throughout the day. Meals are primarily served buffet-style, with a buffet available for breakfast, midday, and evening repasts. A set menu is also an option for lunch. Highchairs are available for infant diners, making it a practical choice for families. For those seeking external options, numerous restaurants, bars, and pubs are situated within 500 meters of the complex.

Value for Money

Summer Stays at The University of Edinburgh presents a compelling value proposition, particularly for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking an authentic university campus experience. The pricing reflects its nature as student accommodation during the summer months, offering a significantly more affordable alternative to central Edinburgh hotels. What's included is a functional room, access to communal dining facilities, and the invaluable proximity to key attractions. Personally, I find its appeal lies in its straightforwardness; it's an honest offering that delivers on accessibility and convenience, making it a wise choice for extended stays or for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring.

Accessibility

The University of Edinburgh's campus accommodation provides essential facilities for accessibility. The presence of eight lifts across the Chancellors Court building ensures access to various floors. While specific details on adapted rooms or comprehensive wheelchair access are not provided, the general infrastructure of a modern university complex typically includes consideration for accessibility. Guests with specific needs are advised to contact the property directly to confirm suitability.

Family-Friendly

Summer Stays offers a practical environment for families, particularly those with younger children, with highchairs available in the on-site restaurants. The availability of buffet-style dining simplifies meal times, catering to various preferences. While it may not offer the elaborate children's amenities found in dedicated family resorts, its location within a secure campus setting provides a sense of safety. Its proximity to attractions like Dynamic Earth and Princes Street Gardens, both within 2 kilometers, offers ample opportunities for family outings. It's a solid choice for families prioritizing location and ease of access to the city's educational and recreational offerings.

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Local transport options

Overview of transport connections

City Centre
Edinburgh 1.5 km
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI) 14.6 km
Dundee (DND) 98.1 km
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station 1.7 km
Bus
Bus stop700 m

Facilities

Each castle hotel provides features designed for both comfort and memorable moments

General

  • Wi-Fi
  • Lift

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
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Location

Holyrood Park Road 18, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH16 5AY
Map view
Holyrood Park Road 18, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH16 5AY
Nearby
Holyrood Park Education Centre 1 Queen's Drive Holyrood Park
St Anthony's Chapel
340 m
Restaurants
The Abbey Bar
830 m
65 South Clerk Street
Strigicake
770 m
1 East Preston Street
Azas Kitchen
770 m
87 St. Leonards Street
Wulmamen Cafe
790 m
87 Sainte Leonard's Street
Choco-Latte
910 m
39 South Clerk Street
Caffe Gelato
900 m
39 South Clerk Street
Enjoy - Gusto Italiano
880 m
44 South Clerk Street
Cafe Grille
910 m
32 South Clerk Street
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Check-in
10Oct2025Select date
Check-out
11Oct2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room