If you reach Edinburgh by train, St Christopher’s Inn Edinburgh is on Market Street, opposite Waverley station. It is a hostel with 24-hour reception, a bar on the ground floor and rooms with a private or shared bathroom. It is aimed at backpackers who want to meet people.
Location and getting around
The Royal Mile, by St Giles’ Cathedral, is about 5 minutes uphill from the station, as are the Scott Monument on Princes Street and the National Museum of Scotland. The castle, the Grassmarket and Calton Hill are about 10 minutes on foot. It is about 20 minutes to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and about 30 to Arthur’s Seat. Haymarket station is half an hour on foot, in case your train leaves from there.
Rooms and facilities
You can choose between beds in a shared room and rooms with a private bathroom. Bed linen is included, there is daily cleaning and you enter with an electronic key. There are lockers and luggage storage, and according to the property they lend adapters, a hairdryer, an iron or a padlock if you ask.
A continental breakfast is served every morning. The bar, Belushi’s, serves food and, according to the property, has live music, sports on screen and a discount on the menu for guests. Wi-Fi is free.
Who it suits
- A good fit if you travel alone and want a bar where you can meet other travellers.
- Practical if you arrive or leave by train from Waverley.
- Ideal if you land late: reception never closes.
Good to know
This is a hostel with a bar and a group atmosphere; if you want quiet at night, consider a private room. You can arrive from 15:00 to 00:00 with photo ID and a credit card, and check-out is until 11:00. For more options, see hostels.