With views overlooking Calton Hill and Princes Street Gardens, this hotel has been providing a high-quality service to its guests since 1905.
Each unique room and suite contains curved corner window bays with scenic views of the city, air conditioning and a marble-tiled en suite bathroom.
Location & Setting
The Scotsman sits on North Bridge in the heart of the Old Town, a short, level walk from the Royal Mile and Waverley Station. Guests are entitled to discounted parking at Waverley (long stay), roughly a five-minute walk away, which is a real bonus in a district where on-street parking is scarce.
From the upper floors the outlook takes in Calton Hill and Princes Street Gardens, and the main shopping and sightseeing spine of the city sits directly below the building.
The Building & Its History
Built in 1905 as the headquarters of The Scotsman newspaper, this Baroque-style landmark has kept much of its original grandeur. The hotel is famous for its 104 marble stairs, known as The Scotsman Steps, which are open to the public and connect North Bridge with Market Street below.
Inside, the period character extends to a 48-seat private cinema, a feature few Edinburgh hotels can match. The Scotsman also appears in our guide to historic hotels in Edinburgh.
Rooms & Amenities
Rooms and suites feature curved corner window bays, air conditioning and marble-tiled en suite bathrooms. Elevators serve all guest floors, and a privacy hatch allows discreet 24-hour room service without opening the main door.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the grand public spaces make the hotel a comfortable base whatever the weather.
Who It Suits
The Scotsman suits travellers who want a genuine landmark stay with five-star service and space, right at the centre of the Old Town. Anyone after a lower nightly rate will find better value at options like Motel One Edinburgh – Royal or The Inn Place, which sit nearby at a fraction of the price.
Practical Tips
- Confirm parking rates at check-in – discounted long-stay parking is at Waverley Station, about five minutes on foot.
- The Scotsman Steps are a free public shortcut between North Bridge and Market Street – handy and worth seeing.
- Ask about the 48-seat cinema and any screenings during your stay.
- The Royal Mile is a couple of minutes uphill, so most major sights are walkable.
- Book well ahead for August – the hotel fills fast during the Festival and Fringe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is The Scotsman hotel in Edinburgh?
It stands on North Bridge in the Old Town, overlooking Waverley Station and a couple of minutes on foot from the Royal Mile and Princes Street.
What are the Scotsman Steps?
They are 104 marble stairs inside the building that link North Bridge with Market Street below. They are open to the public and are one of the best-known features of the hotel.
Does The Scotsman have parking?
There is no on-site car park, but guests get discounted long-stay parking at Waverley Station, about a five-minute walk away.
