The Cairn Hotel sits about half a mile from Waverley Train Station and the Princes Street shops, in a quieter pocket of the New Town close to Calton Hill and the Edinburgh Playhouse.
Alongside standard hotel rooms it offers self-catering apartments, which makes it a useful option for families or anyone staying longer.
Location & Transport
The setting is calmer than the streets right around Princes Street, but you are still only a ten-minute walk from the centre, with plenty of bus links close by. Calton Hill, with its landmark monuments and one of the best free views in the city, is practically on the doorstep, and the Playhouse theatre is a couple of minutes away.
Rooms & Price
Hotel rooms come with showers and TVs, with hairdryers and irons available on request, and there is free Wi-Fi throughout. The self-catering apartments add a kitchen for guests who want to cook. A breakfast room and a bar area give you somewhere to relax before heading out for the evening.
Who It Suits
Best for longer stays, families and travellers who would rather trade a right-in-the-thick-of-it address for somewhere quieter and the option of an apartment with a kitchen. City parking is available nearby, which also helps if you are arriving by car.
Practical Tips
- Choose an apartment if you want a kitchen or are staying several nights.
- Walk up Calton Hill at sunset for a free panoramic view.
- Ask for a hairdryer or iron at reception; they are provided on request.
- It is roughly a ten-minute walk to Princes Street and Waverley.
- Nearby city parking makes it workable for a driving trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Cairn Hotel Edinburgh have self-catering apartments?
Yes. As well as standard hotel rooms, the Cairn offers self-catering apartments with kitchens, which makes it a practical choice for families or guests staying for several nights.
How far is the Cairn Hotel from Edinburgh city centre?
It is about half a mile, or roughly a ten-minute walk, from Waverley Station and Princes Street. The location below Calton Hill is quieter than the centre while still being easy to reach on foot.



