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Check-in
09Jan2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Castle Hotel

23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 3BH
-
Close to the Old Town
Great
8.8
9.2
/10
4.5
4.3
/5

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel, Edinburgh - Georgian Grandeur Refined

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel resides within a grand Georgian building in Edinburgh's New Town, offering a city break that marries historic charm with contemporary polish. It has established itself as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking both comfort and convenience. The hotel's central location and the thoughtful integration of modern amenities within a traditional shell make it a compelling choice for a sophisticated Edinburgh sojourn.

Location

Situated on Princes Street, a principal thoroughfare and the capital's main shopping artery, the hotel is perfectly positioned for exploration. Guests find themselves within easy reach of iconic landmarks such as the Scott Monument, Edinburgh Old Town, and St Giles' Cathedral, all within a kilometer's stroll. The proximity to Edinburgh Waverley station further enhances its accessibility, making it an ideal base for both leisurely pursuits and business engagements. Views from the upper floors offer a commanding perspective of the city's architectural tapestry.

Style and Character

The hotel presents a captivating juxtaposition of its Georgian heritage and modern design. Upon entering the grand entranceway, one is immediately struck by the seamless marriage of traditional features, such as majestic wooden panelling and stunning Georgian windows, with super stylish, modern fittings. This design philosophy creates an atmosphere of refined elegance throughout the public spaces and guest rooms. The judicious use of natural light, particularly in its event spaces, amplifies the inherent beauty of the period architecture, creating an ambiance that is both sophisticated and welcoming.

Service and Facilities

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel prides itself on a service that anticipates guest needs, delivered by an enthusiastic team of experts. The Yu Spa offers an ultimate sanctuary for nourishing mind, body, and soul, featuring a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and a fully equipped gym with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment. These leisure facilities ensure that one's Edinburgh city escape can be tailored precisely to desired levels of relaxation and activity. The hotel also offers hybrid meeting facilities, designed for seamless professional events, supported by an expert Events team.

Rooms

The hotel offers a range of rooms, each presenting a unique character. Standard amenities exceed the basic, with most rooms featuring a 42-inch LCD TV, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and soothing Elemis or Antipodes organic toiletries. Guests can expect plush bathrobes, slippers, Nespresso coffee machines, and well-stocked mini-fridges. Larger rooms often include a separate sitting area, and suites provide distinct living spaces, some with kitchenettes. Bathrooms are appointed with spacious en suites, featuring either a bath and walk-in shower or a large walk-in shower, with a selection of luxury toiletries.

Food and Drink

Dining at Elliot's is an experience in itself, where traditional Scottish dishes are fused with globally inspired flavors, served in bright and spacious Georgian surroundings. The grand bar is the ideal spot to enjoy expertly shaken cocktails. The creative team of chefs ensures a memorable dining experience, whether for a casual bite during a city adventure, a corporate lunch, or a private dinner in one of the hotel's flexible spaces. The menu offers both succinct à la carte options and the possibility of curated tasting experiences.

Value for Money

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel provides considerable value, particularly for those seeking a luxurious city break with comprehensive amenities. The inclusion of high-quality toiletries, Nespresso machines, plush bathrobes, and access to extensive leisure facilities like the Yu Spa contribute to a sense of indulgence. Packages often include city tour tickets or curated tasting experiences, enhancing the overall offering. While not positioned as a budget option, the quality of service, amenities, and prime location justify the investment for a memorable Edinburgh stay.

Accessibility

While the hotel's historic Georgian structure presents unique architectural characteristics, efforts have been made to ensure accessibility. Specific room configurations and dedicated facilities are available for guests requiring enhanced accessibility. The team is committed to assisting guests with any specific needs to ensure a comfortable and seamless stay. It is advisable to contact the hotel directly to discuss specific requirements prior to booking.

Family-Friendly

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel offers a comfortable and convenient option for families exploring Edinburgh. The range of room sizes can accommodate various family configurations, and the central location provides easy access to attractions suitable for all ages. While not explicitly detailing specific children's programs, the hotel's amenities, such as the swimming pool, and the attentive service team, contribute to a welcoming environment for younger guests and their parents.

“This hotel strikes me as a balanced blend of historical architecture and contemporary comfort, with an enviable spot in central Edinburgh. I appreciate its wellness focus, particularly the Yu Spa, and the location near the train station makes exploring effortless. It seems equally suited to leisure and business, with considered spaces for both relaxation and meetings.”
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
City Twin Room
2 persons
19 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Superior Twin Room
2 persons
28 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
31 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Family Room
2 persons
25 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa 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

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sun loungers
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Massage
  • Shallow end

Room features

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

Bathroom

  • Separate tub and shower
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Elliot's at Apex Waterloo Place Hotel offers a delightful selection of European-inspired dishes, crafted with care by a talented team of chefs. Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast or a hearty lunch, this dining venue invites guests to savor flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel Edinburgh Restaurant photo
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel Edinburgh Restaurant photo
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel Edinburgh Restaurant photo

Elliot's

European
Ambiance
A cozy yet sophisticated space designed for both casual and formal dining experiences.
Key Offerings
Offering a thoughtful menu perfect for everything from corporate lunches to friendly catch-ups, complemented by expertly shaken cocktails from the grand bar.
Reservation
Reservations are not needed.
Open daily from 07:00 to 22:00.

Location

23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 3BH
Map view
23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 3BH
Nearby
St. Andrews House 2 Regent Road
Calton Hill
280 m
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
580 m
32 Calton Hill
Nelson Monument
290 m
Monument
Scott Monument
470 m
2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)
Brass Rubbing Centre
580 m
Gallery
City Art Centre
520 m
Church
Mercat Cross
530 m
Picardy Place
Sherlock Holmes Statue
530 m
Restaurants
Howies Waterloo
80 m
29 Waterloo Place East end of Princes Street
MP's Bistro
140 m
15 Calton Hill
The Newsroom
180 m
5-11 Leith Street
The Observatory Restaurant
230 m
2 Greenside Place Glasshouse Hotel
Starbucks
240 m
3 Shrub Place Lane Leith Walk
Martone
150 m
1 Waterloo Place
Hongfu Noodle Bar
130 m
3-7 Waterloo Place
The Cafe Royal
290 m
19 West Register Street
The Guildford Arms
270 m
1-5 West Register Street
John Lewis & Partners
490 m
60 Leith Street
Frankie And Bennys
430 m
Unit 3 Omni Centre
The Voodoo Rooms
310 m
19A West Register Street
Explore Edinburgh
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
15-minute walk
Historic fortress dominating the skyline, known for the Stone of Destiny and stunning city views.
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
13-minute walk
Extensive collections spanning Scotland's history, culture, and natural heritage. Free admission.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse
13-minute walk
Official residence of the monarch in Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens and rich history.
Scott Monument
Scott Monument
6-minute walk
Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, offering panoramic views after climbing its 287 steps.
Arthur's Seat Hike
30-minute walk
Challenging hike with rewarding views over Edinburgh, located in Holyrood Park. Great for thrill-seekers.
Yoga at The Meadows
20-minute walk
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions in beautiful park settings, ideal for unwinding amid nature.
Howies Waterloo
Howies Waterloo
1-minute walk
Welcoming atmosphere with classic Scottish dishes. Ideal for a casual meal featuring local ingredients.
MP's Bistro
MP's Bistro
2-minute walk
Contemporary venue offering a concise menu of British cuisine. Reservations recommended for dinner.
The Usher Hall
15-minute walk
Renowned concert hall hosting live music events, featuring diverse genres and a historic setting.
The Bongo Club
20-minute walk
Eclectic nightclub known for its vibrant atmosphere and varied events. Good for social outings.
Local transport options
City Centre
Edinburgh6 min  ·  500 m
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)21 min  ·  14.0 km
Dundee Airport (DND)146 min  ·  96.7 km
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station3 min  ·  200 m
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  200 m
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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 at a location nearby at GBP 27 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP19.50 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2009
Number of floors:
10
Number of rooms:
179
Questions of the users
About Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
What parking options are available nearby, and can you provide information on costs for a weekend stay?
12 June 2024
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel does not have its own parking facilities, but partners with Q Park just a short walk away. A discount code can be arranged prior to your arrival. The postcode for the car park is EH1 3AN.
Is the swimming pool included in the room rate, or is there an additional fee?
18 July 2024
Access to the swimming pool is included in the room rate, so there are no extra costs for guests wishing to use the pool.
Can visitors store their luggage at the hotel before check-in?
3 August 2024
Yes, luggage can be stored at the reception if you arrive before the official check-in time.
Are there any charges for spa treatments if staying at the hotel?
22 September 2024
While guests can enjoy the hotel's leisure facilities free of charge, spa treatments are available for an additional fee.
What is the cost to add breakfast to the room booking?
16 November 2024
Breakfast can be added to your stay for £16.50 per person per day if booked at the front desk, or £18.50 if added on arrival.
Is the swimming pool child-friendly? Can my children use it during our stay?
14 December 2024
Children are welcome to use the swimming pool, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
What are the opening hours for the swimming pool and spa facilities?
20 January 2025
The swimming pool and spa facilities open at 06:30 and close at 22:00. No booking is required for pool access.
Are there any renovations currently happening at the hotel that might affect guests?
25 February 2025
Renovations are underway, but efforts ensure minimal impact on guest experience. Areas like guest rooms, the spa, and restaurant are unaffected.
Do rooms come equipped with mini fridges for guest use?
2 March 2025
Yes, all rooms feature mini fridges for guest convenience.
What is the typical check-in process and timeframe for guests arriving?
8 April 2025
Standard check-in begins at 14:30. If you arrive early, feel free to drop off your luggage at reception, and check-in will be expedited if your room is ready.

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