4 guests
-
2 bedrooms, 2 beds
2 bathrooms
Ask the host anything
Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
Experience a stay like no other at this cosy Gothic castle, part of an unfinished design for Edinburgh’s first observatory. At the top of Calton Hill, you'll have some truly breathtaking views from this historical home. The National Gallery is next door and the rest of the city is a short walk away, easily making up for the lack of parking. It should be noted that the home's standout location does attract a number of tourists, so if you're looking for some peace and privacy it might not be for you. That said, the main bedroom enjoys an en-suite with a luxurious standalone bathtub, and there's outdoor seating to make the most of this stunning location.
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Ask the host anything
Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights
Stroll down to the dazzling Edinburgh Castle
Sink into a nice hot bath with a glass of red wine to end a busy day
Sit outside and enjoy unique views of the National Gallery and Edinburgh city
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
Due to this home's location, there's no parking outside. That said, Waverley Station is just a few minutes' walk away.
There are two flights of stairs at this home, and both bedrooms and bathrooms are up on the first floor.
You'll be able to check yourself in here.
This home is a historical structure right beside the National Gallery. There will be regular visitors and tourists milling around the area to see the home and take photos, so it won't feel very private, especially the outdoor areas.
There may be people staying in the apartment on the home's basement level, so there is the potential for some noise.
There isn't much storage here, so we recommend packing light.
Quiet hours are between 10pm and 9am.
About this stay
Amenities
Wi-fi
Washing machine
TV
Dishwasher
Fridge
Hair dryer
Oven
Bathtub
Bedrooms & bathrooms
2 bedrooms, 2 beds
2 bathrooms
Guest reviews
R
"Thank you for the wonderful stay experience. We as a family enjoyed every bit of our stay. Thank you for making it beautiful for us !"
K
"This house is the only one on the hill. It is very easy to find. It looks like a small castle. The best thing is that it has windows overlooking the entire city of Edinburgh! The windows of the house are so wonderful. The Internet in the house is smooth, the washing machine has a drying function, the bathroom has a hairdryer, and the master bedroom has an iron and prepared bath towels. When I arrived, the host even prepared pre-dinner wine and biscuits as well as coffee and tea bags in advance. It was a very happy stay experience. So I couldn't help but add another night on the second night."
R
"Great location and a great place"
H
"This is an incredibly special place with amazing views right on the property of an incredible monument!!! What a privilege to stay here. Wonderful art and perfect accommodations."
C
"Super inconvenient location, climb up so many stairs, unable to carry luggage. Unsafe place, so many tourists walk around. Unhelpful employees, no greeter to give me keys and waste me 2 hours to get the key and find the location. The worst experience ever!!!"
C
"This is indeed a very exceptional place. Yes, there are tourists around, and yes, the lower apartment (which has a separate entrance, but is actually only separated inside with a door, so you do \"hear everything\") is also rented and I guess almost always occupied, staying in the Observatory House is still very-very special, and super enjoyable. It is very clean, very well-equipped, very nicely decorated, roomy, and super comfortable. It is not cheap, but for us, it was the best choice we could make, and we hope to visit it again."
R
"Thank you for the wonderful stay experience. We as a family enjoyed every bit of our stay. Thank you for making it beautiful for us !"
K
"This house is the only one on the hill. It is very easy to find. It looks like a small castle. The best thing is that it has windows overlooking the entire city of Edinburgh! The windows of the house are so wonderful. The Internet in the house is smooth, the washing machine has a drying function, the bathroom has a hairdryer, and the master bedroom has an iron and prepared bath towels. When I arrived, the host even prepared pre-dinner wine and biscuits as well as coffee and tea bags in advance. It was a very happy stay experience. So I couldn't help but add another night on the second night."
R
"Great location and a great place"
H
"This is an incredibly special place with amazing views right on the property of an incredible monument!!! What a privilege to stay here. Wonderful art and perfect accommodations."
C
"Super inconvenient location, climb up so many stairs, unable to carry luggage. Unsafe place, so many tourists walk around. Unhelpful employees, no greeter to give me keys and waste me 2 hours to get the key and find the location. The worst experience ever!!!"
C
"This is indeed a very exceptional place. Yes, there are tourists around, and yes, the lower apartment (which has a separate entrance, but is actually only separated inside with a door, so you do \"hear everything\") is also rented and I guess almost always occupied, staying in the Observatory House is still very-very special, and super enjoyable. It is very clean, very well-equipped, very nicely decorated, roomy, and super comfortable. It is not cheap, but for us, it was the best choice we could make, and we hope to visit it again."
Local guide
About Hillside
Edinburgh is a city built around seven hills, but Hillside is not as steep as the name suggests. At the east end of the New Town and nestled just below Calton Hill, it’s quieter than the historic centre but still within walking distance from all the main points of interest. It’s fast becoming one of the most sought-after property locations in Edinburgh thanks to its central location and its aesthetically-pleasing...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts
Walk the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is (almost) a mile long and runs from the Castle down to Holyrood Palace. Take a walk to explore the streets of Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
See famous Scots at the Portrait Gallery
Not only is the National Portrait Gallery full of Scotland's famous faces, the iconic red sandstone Gothic Revival building is an artwork itself.
Enjoy flavours of India at Dishoom
A relatively new addition to the city, London-based chain Dishoom has brought its classic Bombay cafe style to Scotland. The breakfast is particularly great.
Indulge at The Ivy on the Square
The Ivy is well known in London and has recently brought its classic brasserie style to Edinburgh. It's perfect for a long lunch after a morning of shopping.
Drink and dine in splendour at The Dome
Bar, restaurant, afternoon tea spot, and eternal winner of prizes for its Christmas decorations, The Dome is one of the best known eateries in the city.
Enjoy Delicious Local Produce at the Edinburgh Larder
Relaxed cafe serving artisan coffee and seasonal produce for breakfast and lunch. Try their vegan Scottish breakfast or the generous Veggie Breakfast with veggie haggis, mushrooms, spinach, poached egg, potato scone, tomatoes, and granary breads.
Take in the breathtaking views from Calton Hill
Ascend Calton Hill and be met with panoramic vistas of the cityscape, dotted by iconic monuments. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of serenity, Calton Hill offers a great experience.
Ascend the Scott Monument
Explore the Gothic spire-like memorial dedicated to writer Sir Walter Scott. Ascend its 287 steps for breathtaking views of Edinburgh.
Feast on classic Italian dishes at Amarone
Enjoy Italian cuisine and cocktails in a chic environment. Try the tasty minestrone soup, beef lasagna, and scallop pasta. Friendly staff and reasonable prices make it a great choice.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's dark history at the Dungeon
Step back in time on a 70-minute tour through 1,000 years of Scottish history. Engaging actors, themed rooms, and thrilling effects create an unforgettable experience filled with laughs, scares, and interactive moments.
Get around
Airport
Edinburgh
36 min
Perth
1 hr 16 min
Dundee
1 hr 20 min
Train station
Edinburgh Waverley
5 min
Bus stop
Waterloo Place (Stop ZH)
2 min
Local shops & services
Convenience store
6 min
Cafe
2 min
Pharmacy
10 min
Points of interest
Beach
Portobello Beach
14 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Infants welcome (under 12 months)
No pets
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 15:00
Departure before 11:00
Wifi
No air con
Cancellation policy
Up until
5
days
Cancel at least 5 days before your check-in date for a full refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 5 days away.
Host
This home is managed by Sam
This home is managed directly by a business. A member of their staff will be your point of contact before and during your stay. This fantastic team take care of a number of top-quality homes across Europe. They are always on hand to make your stay truly special and know their fair share of secret spots to visit during your stay too, helping you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
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- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
- Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
- Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.