Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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Apex Grassmarket Hotel

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Avg. €167 /night, 2/19 - 2/20
€307
per night
€207
per night
€107
per night

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About

#82 of 163 hotels in Edinburgh
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.3 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.1 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Perfect for pictures and plans, this Old Town gem is the dream destination. Onlooking one of the most vibrant areas of the city, the 4-star Apex Grassmarket Hotel offers amazing views of Edinburgh Castle from the same place you snooze. Inclusive of luxurious bedrooms with free Wi-Fi, an ambient restaurant and relaxing fitness and wellness facilities, an Apex adventure awaits. Find yourself making endless discoveries in luxurious bedrooms. With a comfy bed and spacious en suite, enjoy taking a bath or shower with Antipodes organic toiletries helping you to stay green while you stay clean. The flat screen TV will keep you entertained, and the mini fridge and air conditioning will ensure things are kept fresh. Some rooms have a Nespresso Coffee machine to make yourself right at home. Cots and highchairs are available on request. With a stylish restaurant, intimate bar, an indoor swimming pool and a fully equipped gym, eat in, chill out and work out in style! The Metro Bar & Brasserie serves Scottish inspired food with a twist and has spectacular views to match! Dine here and take your taste buds on an adventure. Both The Royal Mile and the National Museum of Scotland are approximately 600 yards away, Princes Street is a 12-minute walk and Edinburgh Castle is about a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Plus, with Edinburgh Airport just a 25-minute drive, stay here to be well-connected.
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Property amenities
Paid private parking on-site
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Bar / lounge
Children's television networks
Highchairs available
Taxi service
Parking
Wifi
Fitness / spa changing rooms
Sauna
Indoor pool
Heated pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Kids' meals
Business Centre with Internet Access
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Concierge
Non-smoking hotel
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Desk
Housekeeping
Room service
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Electric kettle
Flatscreen TV
Walk-in shower
Bottled water
Iron
Laptop safe
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
City view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
City View
Great View
Languages Spoken
English

Location

31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HS Scotland
Getting there
Great for walkers
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 100 out of 100
100
Turnhouse Airport
10.2 km
See all flights
Dundee Airport
57.5 km
See all flights
4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles1,997 reviews
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Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Apex Grassmarket Hotel garners appreciation for its stellar location and impeccable cleanliness. While the views from the rooms are often lauded, guests have voiced concerns about the room size, outdated decor, and challenges with temperature control. Service is generally commended for being attentive, though some guests have encountered slower service during busy periods. The hotel's atmosphere is considered lackluster, and several travelers feel that the additional costs for amenities, parking, and breakfast do not provide the best value, with noise levels also being a point of contention for some.
Location
Central
Atmosphere
Uninspiring
Rooms
Dated
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Mixed
Noise level
Noisy
Service
Inconsistent
Amenities
Satisfactory

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Detailed Reviews
Andrew-58842 wrote a review 15 Feb
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed in the deluxe room with a balcony overlooking the charming grassmarket square in the old town with a stunning view of the castle. The room was spacious and comfortable, with the separate shower and tub in the bathroom as an unexpected but welcome comfort, perfect for anyone with mobility issues who wouldn’t want an integrated version, or just looking for some more space to take a luxurious bath. The toiletries provided (Antipodes) were lovely, I was a particular fan of the lavender pillow mist. Massive, soft towels and comfortable robes and slippers made the indulgence all the more delightful. Multiple pillows of varying firmness welcomed us to the king-sized bed, from which you could see the castle in all its glory, front-and-centre on the floor to ceiling windows that gave way to the balcony.

While the room wasn’t the best in terms of soundproofing, we were far enough off the ground (4th floor) that our stay wasn’t at all affected by this. We did only stay during weekdays, but Apex thoughtfully leaves you earplugs in the room if needed.

Besides ordering room service for lunch one time (it was good value for money, though nothing remarkably delicious), we made full use of the drinks tray, and the coffee machine, with which we were spoilt for choice. I like to have my morning coffee with milk, so it was a delightful surprise to see a card in the drinks tray informing that complimentary fresh milk would be promptly brought up to your room if requested by calling reception.

Speaking of which, the staff of this hotel are just absolutely lovely, everyone we encountered was really friendly and helpful, yet perfectly professional and quick to solve any issues that came up. Many went above and beyond to make our stay in the city centre truly memorable, recommending the best spots and hidden gems across the city (Alisdair was spot on with where to go and what to order to get the best haggis in town).

As an Apex insider member you get some other lovely perks like late checkouts, food and drink discounts, and other special offers. We called and requested a late checkout at the last minute and they were happy to accommodate it.

Though we didn’t have enough time to use the full range of amenities, they all seemed great and very well maintained, definitely worth using if you have a spare hour or two.

It was a really great stay, and definitely somewhere to come back to.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2025
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 4 days ago
Dear Andrew, Thank you for your detailed and glowing review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay in the deluxe room with the balcony and the stunning views of the castle and Grassmarket Square. It’s wonderful to know that the spacious bathroom and lovely Antipodes toiletries added to your comfort and indulgence. I appreciate your understanding regarding the soundproofing, and I’m glad the earplugs provided helped enhance your experience. It’s also fantastic to hear that you made the most of our room service and drinks tray, and that our staff, particularly Alisdair, were able to assist you in making your stay memorable with their recommendations. Thank you for highlighting the benefits of being an Apex Insider member, and I’m delighted that we could accommodate your request for a late checkout. We look forward to welcoming you back soon, and hopefully, you’ll have the chance to explore more of our amenities next time! Best regards, Sara | Reception Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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cameroncmcc wrote a review Aug 2024
London, United Kingdom
3.0 of 5 bubbles
When I checked in- my room was ready, as I had dropped off my bags earlier I believe, but many other families were told that their rooms were not yet ready- this was about 15 minutes after check in time. When I checked in, I was told I had late checkout at 12 as I had been guaranteed by booking through their rewards program.

When I arrived in my room, there were fake eyelashes from the previous occupant on top of the drinking glasses. Very gross!

When I woke up the next day, I went about as I would when leaving a hotel. Until 11am came.

Knock one- I say I have late checkout- they say sorry it wasn’t on the system. (Last apology I will get)

Knock two- about to get in the shower, panic, they leave before I can say anything because I was panicking getting dressed.

Phone call one- I go to pick up, no answers. My rage rises.

Knock three- I tell them I have late checkout and stick something saying so out the door. I have decided I feel unsafe showering in this hotel as a woman travelling alone so I am trying to get out of this personal hell as quick as I can.

Call two- I answer- they say do you need any help with your luggage- I say NO I have fifteen minutes before check out and I’ve been harassed repeatedly by your staff for being in the room I’m paying for- why are you being passive aggressive asking about my bags? The man says that it does not say on the system that I have late checkout- I am 99% sure the man on the phone is the very same one who told me I was given late check out.

Reading between the lines- The team is unable to properly service the rooms during the busy August season. Instead of actually cleaning them properly and in time for check in, they will put the blame on customers and take away amenities that they were guaranteed to try to cover their own failings.

I 100% would not recommend staying in this hotel during Edinburgh Fringe- they are not capable of providing service to an acceptable standard during this busy time, I guarantee it. The bones of the hotel are good and the amenities/location are good, but their team is shockingly lackluster across the board. Perhaps they are understaffed and it is the fault of higher ups as opposed to the employees I was interacting with, but the experience remains unacceptable regardless of who is at fault. Staying here negatively impacted my mental health and made my stay at my next hotel worse (though thank god I left this place and went there!).
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2024
2.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
2.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 26 Aug 2024
Dear Cameron, Thank you for staying at Apex Grassmarket Hotel and taking the time to provide such detailed feedback. I would like to sincerely apologise on behalf of all Apex team for the multiple issues you encountered during your stay. This is not the experience we aim to deliver. Firstly, I am very sorry to hear about the cleanliness issue you encountered upon arrival. Finding things from a previous guest is completely unacceptable, and we will be addressing this with our housekeeping team immediately to ensure such oversights do not happen in the future. Regarding the late checkout, we apologise for the confusion and the repeated disturbances you experienced. It is deeply concerning to hear that our communication and service fell so short, especially when you had been assured of late checkout upon check-in. I understand how frustrating and distressing this situation must have been, particularly as a solo traveler and would like to assure you that we are taking your feedback very seriously. We will be reviewing our processes to prevent such lapses in service in the future. While I understand that this experience has left a negative impression, should you consider giving us another chance in the future please contact myself on judita.venskauskaite@apexhotels.co.uk - I would like to personally ensure that your next stay with us is a positive one and provide a discount for the future stay. Thank you again for your feedback, and I apologise once more for the impact this experience had on your stay. With our kindest regards, Judita Venskauskaite Assistant Front Office Manager Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
John D wrote a review Aug 2024
Irvine, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Great location on Grassmarket – less than 10 minutes walk from Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile and the National Museum of Scotland. Less than 15 minutes walk from Waverly Station and Princes Street (a bit of a climb getting to/ crossing the Royal Mile). Modern, stylish hotel. Staff were great – very pleasant, approachable and personable. The room was pricey for Scotland but good value for money by Edinburgh standards, with a lot of facilities for the price, which was similar to what budget hotels were charging. The balcony view was incredible – Edinburgh Castle took up the whole window. Some chairs on the balcony would have been nice, although probably more use in the summer months rather than mid-February. The room itself was spacious and very clean. Lots of facilities in the room – seating area by window to appreciate the view, small fridge, Nespresso machine, a mirrored cupboard in the bathroom to store toiletries, plenty of toiletries provided, a bath and a separate large shower, robes, large TV etc. The bed was large and comfortable. The only slight negative was the noise from the Grassmarket, despite the double glazing, however ear plugs were provided, although I found I didn’t need them to sleep. Breakfast was buffet or cooked to order with a good choice of dishes, including fish and waffles as well as the usual staples. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the time to use the leisure facilities. There is also a car park behind the hotel, which I didn’t know about when booking, which may have influenced how I travelled.
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Date of stay: February 2024
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 23 Aug 2024
Dear John, Thank you for staying at Apex Grassmarket Hotel and for your detailed and thoughtful review! We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed our central location, stylish accommodations, and the incredible view of Edinburgh Castle. It's great to know that you found the room to be spacious, well-equipped, and good value for money by Edinburgh standards. We're sorry to hear that the noise from Grassmarket affected your stay, though we’re glad the earplugs helped. Your comments about breakfast are also appreciated—we’re pleased you enjoyed the variety of options available. Next time, we hope you’ll have the chance to explore our leisure facilities and take advantage of the convenient parking. We look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable stay! Kind regards, Judita Venskauskaite Assistant Front Office Manager Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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CR117 wrote a review Oct 2024
+1
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Our family (3 adults) stayed at apex Grassmarket for a few nights at the end of our vacation in Scotland. While the room itself had views of Edinburgh castle, the property was dirty and needed a major facelift. Our bathroom had mold, grime and rust. You can hear everything as the walls are paper thin. The inside pool is on the street level so the views are of road construction right outside. While the location is great, it’s not enjoyable when you’re surrounded by stained soaked curtains and walls. Be advised that there are multiple staircases to get to both the reception desk and then to the elevators to get the the rooms. I have never left a bad review of an accommodation but my family used our savings for this once in a lifetime trip and wanted to warn of the deceptive photos from the website. We loved Edinburgh but this hotel left a lot to be desired.
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Date of stay: October 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 20 Oct 2024
Dear Camille, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re glad that you enjoyed the stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from your room and appreciated our central location. However, we are deeply sorry to hear that the overall condition of the hotel did not meet your expectations and that it impacted your experience, especially during such a special trip. The cleanliness and maintenance issues you encountered, particularly in the bathroom, are unacceptable and not reflective of the standards we aim to uphold. Your comments about noise levels and the pool's surroundings are also duly noted, and we sincerely apologize for the disappointment these caused. We truly value your feedback and will use it to make necessary improvements. Should you choose to give us another chance in the future please contact myself directly on judita.venskauskaite@apexhotels.co.uk, we would love the opportunity to provide you with a much better experience. Kind regards, Judita Venskauskaite Assistant Front Office Manager Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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lilithLondon wrote a review Sept 2023
london
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Best thing about this hotel is the location & the staff in the conference/meeting room section.

My room was very hot (no AC) but comfortable & clean however you needed the window open to keep cool and my room backed onto a car park / court yard god deliveries and waste removal which means the banging and clattering started as early as 5am.

The breakfast room isn’t big enough for all the rooms when at full capacity. My first day there was a 10 minute queue, after which I gave up and went to the cafe next door (even I paid for breakfast)

I ordered a section of mini plates for my evening meal. When they arrived they looked great however didn’t look hot. When I bit into the chicken wings I understood why it was because under the breading they were completely raw. Not a little undercooked but full on raw! Yes the meal was removed from my booking however the explanation given was “it’s a new menu” - not sure why they staff do not know how to cook chicken or use a thermometer probe to check if food is cooked - new menu or not. Needless to say I spent the night with an upset stomach. Didn’t risk the breakfast the following morning, if they can’t cook chicken not sure I want to eat anything at this establishment.

The cleaners start putting their equipment out in the hall ways at 6:30 so again you have more banging and clattering and the chatter / sounds between the staff. I also had a member of staff let themselves into my room at 8:30am on check out day, even though check out is at 11am.

The location of this hotel is great however the cons really out weigh the pros on this hotel
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 14 Sept 2023
Dear LilithLondon, Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback for your recent stay. I'm delighted to read you consider our staff one of the best things however I'm truly sorry to read about the issues you have raised. Rest assured I have brought this up to the management team and we are investigating to make sure what you have described does not happen again. We are aware that you were part of a larger group and have received very positive feedback from them, however I understand that this does not resolve the issues you experienced. Aside from assuring you our senior management are investigating to ensure what you have described never happens again, I would like to offer yourself a more suitable resolution - Please feel free to contact me directly on lee.walker@apexhotels.co.uk so we can discuss further. My apologies once again and thank you for your time. Kind regards, Lee Walker Front Office Manager
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SueB53399 wrote a review Dec 2024
Southport, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had a fabulous stay in a great location. The staff were amazing and very attentive. We had a free upgraded room with a lovely view of the castle. There was plenty of choice at breakfast and the staff were happy to adapt if something different was required. Although it seems a small thing, I was struggling with the toaster and a member of the staff went to the trouble of ensuring I had unburnt toast. I would highly recommend and definitely stay again if in Edinburgh.
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 21 Dec 2024
Dear Sue, Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re delighted to hear that you had a fabulous stay and enjoyed our great location with a lovely view of the castle. It’s wonderful to know that our staff made such a positive impact on your experience with their attentiveness and willingness to adapt to your needs. We’re particularly pleased to hear about the extra effort a team member made to ensure you had unburnt toast—every detail matters to us! Your kind words and recommendation mean a lot to our team, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to the Apex Grassmarket Hotel on your next visit to Edinburgh! Sara | Reception Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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EConnell107 wrote a review Mar 2023
Birmingham, United Kingdom
3.0 of 5 bubbles
This hotel is in a prime location for sightseeing in Edinburgh and for very local bars and restaurants. It is situated on the top of the hill so more suited to fit and able individuals unless you have transport or want to use taxis.

We found the rooms a little dark both in decor and lighting but that may be a preference thing. There was a large dark brown leather L-Shaped sofa in the room which added to the oppressive feel. Having said that, the room had everything we needed, it was clean. beds were comfortable and the room was warm.

We had both a bath and shower which was appreciated

We opted to breakfast which offered cereals, bread and pastries, fruit and yogurts as well as a small continental selection. There was a choice of hot options including full Scottish breakfast , pancakes and everything in-between.

Whilst we could have used a sister hotel for gym and pool we chose not too. The bar and restaurant area was again dark and a little soulless we thought .

Staff were friendly and helpful
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Date of stay: February 2023
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 8 Mar 2023
Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your feedback on your recent stay at Apex Grassmarket Hotel. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed our prime location, which is perfect for sightseeing in Edinburgh and exploring the local bars and restaurants. We appreciate your comments about the room decor and lighting. While we understand that individual preferences may vary, we will certainly take your feedback into consideration as we strive to continuously improve our guest experience. We are pleased to hear that the room had everything you needed and that it was clean and comfortable. It's great to hear that you enjoyed the breakfast options and the hot selections, including the full Scottish breakfast and pancakes. We are happy to offer a range of options to cater to all of our guests' tastes and preferences. We are sorry to hear that you found the bar and restaurant area a little dark and soulless. However, we are glad that our staff were friendly and helpful. We will be sure to pass on your kind words to them and recognize their efforts. Thank you for choosing to stay with us, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back soon. Kind Regards, Angelika I Reception Apex City of Edinburgh
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Michelle G wrote a review Nov 2024
1.0 of 5 bubbles
This place was a disaster. On the first day money was on the desk by the TV, this was taken, we returned and rang reception asking about this. It was returned the following evening with no explanation. Fire alarms at 7am (can’t be avoided but could be compensated for being thrown out of your room at 7.30am). We also got the hotel for 726 online, went to pay at venue and it was 769 euro. It’s an OK location but in edinburgh you’ve to walk everywhere anyway. First hotel that I never wanted to return to during the day. Totally over priced for what you get. Breakfast was also cold for 18,50 euro it was very mediocre
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Don’t leave valuables in your room unless in safe
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 7 Nov 2024
Dear Michelle, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We’re very sorry to hear that your stay did not meet expectations, and we apologize for the issues you encountered. We understand your concern about the missing item, and we’re sorry for any distress this caused. Situations like these are taken very seriously, and we’re committed to ensuring they don’t happen in the future. The housekeeper mistaken it for a tip, apologies it was not explained to you. We also regret the disruption caused by the early morning fire alarm, however safety is always a top priority and we must follow the procedures. However, we understand how inconvenient this was and will consider ways to better support guests when emergencies arise. Regarding the rate discrepancy, we apologize if there was any misunderstanding about the total cost, please note that when you book through booking.com the price shown in euros is an estimated price in your currency through your settings. The rate you have is under the currency of the country - pounds, this rate is a fixed rate and doesn't change. It is also stated in booking.com terms and conditions. Thank you again for your candid feedback. Your experience is important to us, and we’ll use your comments to make meaningful improvements. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you with a more positive stay in the future. Kind regards, Judita Venskauskaite Assistant Front Office Manager Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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Denise S wrote a review Jan 2025
Birmingham, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We just spent 3 days at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel for my 60th Birthday. The Staff (especially Alistair) were so friendly and went above and beyond to ensure my Birthday was special- room upgrade, bottle of wine and chocolates and we had a drinks voucher as we booked a package with expedia. It is worth booking a Deluxe room with the stunning castle view that is lit up at night. We found the room clean and well equipped with plenty of towels and a comfy bed as well as tea, coffee and biscuits. The hotel is brilliantly located by a lovely square with great restaurants and cafes and within easy reach of the town. Breakfast is good with lots of choice - fresh fruit, various cereals and a good choice of hot food as well as danish pastries and various breads. The interior of the hotel is nice and modern with a nice bar area, dining area and swimming pool. We would definitely stay here again as this hotel with it's attentive Staff made my Birthday stay very special.
Many Thanks
Denise & Raff
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Date of stay: January 2025
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Book a castle view room.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Denise & Raff, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you had such a memorable stay with us at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel for your 60th birthday. It’s fantastic to know that Alistair and the rest of our team were able to make your celebration extra special with the room upgrade, bottle of wine, chocolates, and drinks voucher. We’re delighted that you enjoyed the stunning castle view from your Deluxe room and found it well-equipped and comfortable. It’s great to hear that our location, breakfast selection, and hotel amenities met your expectations. Your kind words about our modern interior, bar area, dining area, and swimming pool are much appreciated. We look forward to welcoming you back for another special stay in the future! Best regards, Sara | Reception Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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201pilot wrote a review Sept 2023
Terre Haute, Indiana
3.0 of 5 bubbles
The location of the Apex Grassmarket is prime for walking to Royal Mile and associated attractions but the cost of the hotel exceeds the quality of the rooms. Definitely would not recommend paying extra for a balcony room except that being able to look out at the Edinburgh Castle is cool. Expected more from this hotel given the cost of our 4th floor balcony room. If you are on the front side of the hotel expect nightly noise due to the large number of restaurants and pubs across the street. Horrible pillows and tiny bathroom with a way too large unnecessary bathtub. The breakfast buffet and menu were the only saving grace as the options were tasty and plentiful. It was convenient to have on-site parking as we were driving all over Scotland and parking is generally a nightmare in the touristy areas of Edinburgh.
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Date of stay: September 2023
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Definitely request a room on the back side and 4th or 5th floors unless you enjoy the lively...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Apex Hotels, Guest Services / Front Office at Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Responded 4 Oct 2023
Dear 201pilot, Thank you for sharing your feedback about your recent stay at Apex Grassmarket. We're pleased to hear that you appreciated our central location and the view of Edinburgh Castle from the balcony room. We apologise for any noise disturbance and the issues you encountered with the room quality. Your comments about the breakfast are appreciated, and we're glad it was a positive aspect of your stay. We take your feedback seriously and will work to improve in areas where we fell short. Best regards, Dave | Duty Manager Apex Hotels
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lou C asked a question Aug 2024
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina6 contributions
What is the best way to get to the hotel from the airport? Thanks
Answer from jmckphil
Austin, Texas394 contributions148 helpful votes
We came by train from Edinburgh so can't help. Sorry.
Ed M asked a question Aug 2023
Winter Springs, Florida44 contributions16 helpful votes
Does anyone know if the restaurant requires reservations for breakfast and dinner? Also is there a free breakfast?
The Netherlands466 contributions164 helpful votes
You can book with or without a continental breakfast. I don't know about dinner, we've been outside for dinner.
Ed M asked a question Aug 2023
Winter Springs, Florida44 contributions16 helpful votes
We will be staying here next spring. Wondering if the hotel has or offers a laundry service. Thanks
The Netherlands466 contributions164 helpful votes
Yes they do but I haven't used it so I don't have an experience with it
Ryane L asked a question Jul 2023
Ballwin, Missouri
Is there AC in the guest rooms?
Answer from galofmanycities
Dallas, Texas246 contributions66 helpful votes
No
Kelly R asked a question Jun 2023
Edinburgh, United Kingdom517 contributions42 helpful votes
What time does the pool open and close?
Answer from supersafite
Birmingham, United Kingdom253 contributions84 helpful votes
I'm almost certain it's 7am-10pm. But it definitely closes every day at 10pm
beverley s wrote a tip 4 Feb
29 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Pay extra for a castle view."
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Denise S wrote a tip Jan 2025
Birmingham, United Kingdom14 contributions6 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Book a castle view room."
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Silvana wrote a tip Jan 2025
4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Edinburgh in general is a city with a lot of steps both inside and outside the hotel but it is also accessible to walk around both"
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Em4499 wrote a tip Dec 2024
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom210 contributions109 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Two Apex hotels in a very small area, make sure you go to the right one!"
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RestfulReader wrote a tip Nov 2024
17 contributions10 helpful votes
3.0 of 5 bubbles
"There are two apex hotels a few buildings apart, apex grassmarket has the better views of the castle."
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Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Edinburgh area.
PRICE RANGE
€113 - €326 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
apex international edinburgh, hotel apex international
LOCATION
United KingdomScotlandEdinburghGrassmarket / Old Town
NUMBER OF ROOMS
169
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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APEX GRASSMARKET HOTEL | UPDATED 2025 Reviews & Price Comparison (Edinburgh, Scotland) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Nearby attractions include National Museum of Scotland (0.4 km), Edinburgh Old Town (0.3 km), and Camera Obscura and World of Illusions (0.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free wifi, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Top room amenities include a flat screen TV, a desk, and a walk-in shower.
What food & drink options are available at Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Yes, paid private parking on-site and paid public parking nearby are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Quinn's Cafe, Mr Wood Fire, and Makars Gourmet Mash Bar.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a sauna during their stay.
Is Apex Grassmarket Hotel located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 1.0 km away from the centre of Edinburgh.
Are any cleaning services offered at Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Apex Grassmarket Hotel offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business centre, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.
Are there any historical sites close to Apex Grassmarket Hotel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting The Real Mary King's Close (0.5 km), Palace of Holyroodhouse (1.6 km), and Gladstone's Land (0.3 km).
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