Title: Observatory House & Apartment Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire apartment # Observatory House & Apartment Apartment with kitchen, steps from Princes Street ![4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/75000000/74070000/74063800/74063721/c2a255b1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/75000000/74070000/74063800/74063721/1975caf9.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/75000000/74070000/74063800/74063721/43a37549.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/75000000/74070000/74063800/74063721/c4ff6dac.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Outdoor dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/75000000/74070000/74063800/74063721/aa9c3d36.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Amenities - Policies - Location At Observatory House on Calton Hill, you're surrounded by extraordinary views and historic charm. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen with bespoke fittings inspired by the National Monument, unwind in one of two comfortable living rooms or explore the unique dining room in the Gothic Tower. 10 Exceptional ### Entire apartment 4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 82153 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Washer - Outdoor space - Kitchen ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire apartment to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### Observatory House & Apartment Summary: ✔ Expansive house nicely nestled on Calton Hill ✔ Extraordinary views on all sides ✔ 2152ft2 | 200m2 ✔ 3 bedrooms ✔ 3 bathrooms ✔ Completely furnished kitchen ✔ Cosy garden ✔ 13-minute walk to Scott Monument ✔ St Giles cathedral is a 16-minute walk ✔ 20-minute walk to Edinburgh Castle ✔ Edinburgh Waverley train station is a 10-minute walk The Space: ⭐ The House itself comprises two upper floors while on the ground level a self-contained apartment provides additional capacity and facilities. The upper and lower floor are conjoined by a central staircase allowing you to utilise and enjoy the house as a whole. ⭐ 3 bedrooms in total — Astronomer’s suite – the main bedroom featuring a super king-sized bed — Observer’s room – the spacious second bedroom with super king-sized bed that can be split into twin beds if necessary — Chartmaker’s room – the main bedroom on the ground floor featuring a super king-sized bed that can be split into twin beds if necessary ⭐ 3 bathrooms — The Astronomer’s suite boasts an en-suite bathroom with a Lusso freestanding bath and separate shower — On the landing next to the Observer’s Room is a second toilet and shower — In the ground floor Apartment, a bathroom with a Lusso freestanding bath is located next door in what was once a courtyard and coal shed. The unique ‘Starman’ wallpaper in this room was designed by local artist Rabiya Choudhry. ⭐ The house boasts two comfortable living rooms on different floors — On the first floor, the living room looks across the city and features a Smart TV — The ground floor living room features a double sofa bed, a Smart TV and an additional dining table for 4 ⭐ Fully equipped kitchen with stunning outlook across Calton Hill to the National Monument. Drawing on the Monument for inspiration, artist Thomas Aitchison was commissioned to produce a bespoke fitted kitchen which reflects its iconic silhouette. — On the lower ground floor, you can find an additional kitchenette ⭐ Observatory House's dining room is located in the Gothic Tower, the oldest part of the house. It offers spectacular views across the city on all sides. The room features a large dining table that seats 8 and specially commissioned wall paintings by artist Christian Newby. ⭐ A small east-facing garden with outdoor seating for four is located to the east of the house above a small terrace area with additional seating for four. ⭐ Family friendly ⭐ Essentials, linens, towels, and Wi-Fi are provided 🧡 Save this property listing to your wish list for future trips Guest Access: ● Guests will have full, unrestricted access to the House. Due to its unique location (on the summit of Calton Hill - 105m above sea level), there is no parking available directly outside the House; however, luggage drop-off by car and food van deliveries are permitted via the Calton Hill access road. ● The property is on the ground floor. ● There are two flights of stairs within the property. ● Observatory House was built over 200 years ago and although the City Observatory site itself is wheelchair accessible, unfortunately the House is not due to steps and staircases which cannot be ramped. ● The House and Apartment both have steps and staircases to reach all rooms. ● The Apartment is self-contained on one floor without stairs, though a small flight of stairs is used to reach the front door. Check-in Information: A member of our team will welcome you to the property, give you a tour, and provide keys. The Neighborhood: Attractions within walking distance of the House include the National Gallery, City Art Centre, National Museum, Castle and many more. We’d also love to share our knowledge of the less-hyped Edinburgh, from the vibrant contemporary art galleries such as Talbot Rice Gallery and Dovecot to alternative ways to understand the city, like Black History walking tours and smaller, independent museums. Edinburgh city centre also boasts a wonderful array of restaurants and food options. For more of a local feel, Leith, Easter Road and Abbeyhill are just to the north and east of Calton Hill and have many small restaurants, bars, and coffee shops on offer. If you’d like to stay in and enjoy the House, small independent food shops and mini markets are close by, or online deliveries can drop food to you close to the House. Just a short walk from the front door, guests will find our acclaimed restaurant partner, Cafe Calton. Getting Around: ● The House can be reached in a number of ways, but please bear in mind that its unique location on the summit of the Hill does present some access challenges. ● On foot - Steps lead up the Hill from Waterloo Place and Royal Terrace. You will see Observatory House above you on the left as you reach the top of the steps. The entrance gate (signed Collective) is to the right, at the top of a final flight of steps. ● By bus - Regular buses stop on Waterloo Place and Royal Terrace – visit Lothian Buses or download their app to plan your journey. ● By train - Waverley station is a ten-minute walk away on foot. Please note there are steep steps on this route (we highly recommend getting a taxi if you have luggage) – visit National Rail Enquiries to plan your journey. ● By car - Due to its unique location, there is no parking available directly outside the House; however, luggage drop-off by car and food van deliveries are permitted via the Calton Hill access road. This road terminates approximately 100m from the House. The nearest Pay & Display car parking is on Regent Road or the Q-Park Omni. ✈ Nearest airport: 26-minute drive to Edinburgh Airport Other Things to Note: ∗Please note the property is fitted with a noise-detection device. ∗Please note that JOIVY is not responsible or liable for any lost, misplaced or stolen items during guest stays. ⚡ In light of the current situation, we kindly ask our guests to consume electricity and gas mindfully. Please note we will add an additional charge for excessive energy usage. \*If you need a travel cot or sofa bed linens, please let us know in advance or add this to your reservation from your dedicated boarding pass for an additional fee. \*Please note this property is located at the top of Calton Hill, a popular tourist destination, and the hill can become quite busy during the day. Additionally, the house property is within an open public site containing a visitors' centre. \*If you need a Travel cot or Sofa bed linens, please let us know in advance or add this to your reservation from your dedicated Boarding Pass. ∗Please note that а refundable damage deposit of £250 is mandatory and should be paid via card and before check-in. We inspect the property after you check out; if there is no damage, we refund the deposit within 2 days via bank transfer. Interaction with Guests: Collective is a charity with a mission to bring people together around art. From our home on Calton Hill, we support artists in presenting their new work to a wide audience. We work with local children and young people to provide opportunities for play and creativity at Collective. Observatory House is the oldest building on our site and part of the historic observatory which Collective redeveloped as a centre for contemporary art in 2018. All proceeds from the House support Collective’s charitable mission and work. This home is managed on behalf of Collective by JOIVY, which offers a wide selection of top-quality properties across Europe. ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in the apartment: WiFi ### Kitchen - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Hob - Microwave - Oven - Refrigerator - Toaster ### Bedrooms - 4 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided - Sofa bed ### Bathroom - 3 bathrooms - Bathtub - Hair dryer - Shower - Towels provided ### Entertainment - TV ### Outdoor areas - Balcony ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washing machine ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoke-free property ### Services and conveniences - Iron/ironing board ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) ### General - Unit size: 2,153 square feet ## Similar properties ![Lobby](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/96000000/95480000/95472300/95472230/204c67d6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Family home in an old gym with1k sqft party room just 1 min walk from George St Edinburgh City Centre - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Free WiFi 10 Exceptional 12 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=95472230&PinnedHotelID=95472230&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/100000000/99510000/99505900/99505805/4d38938c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Stunning 5 Bedroom Royal Mile Penthouse Old Town Edinburgh - Sea view - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer 9.0 Wonderful 10 reviews £505 includes taxes & fees 18 Nov - 19 Nov [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-18&endDate=2025-11-19&selected=99505805&PinnedHotelID=99505805&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/99000000/98530000/98527800/98527711/cb2fbfb4.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Edinburgh Castle Hideaway, Lawnmarket, Royal Mile - 2 mins walk to the Castle! Old Town Edinburgh - Hot tub - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer 9.6 Exceptional 8 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=98527711&PinnedHotelID=98527711&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/49000000/48680000/48679500/48679452/23946810.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Georgian Apartment in the heart of Edinburgh's Newtown. Edinburgh City Centre - Washer - Dryer - Free WiFi - Microwave 10 Exceptional 43 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=48679452&PinnedHotelID=48679452&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Beach nearby](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/34000000/33580000/33579700/33579649/b9e0d5f7.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### 2 Mins Walk from Edinburgh's Best Beach! Portobello - Kitchen - Washer - Pet-friendly - Free WiFi 10 Exceptional 297 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=33579649&PinnedHotelID=33579649&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/74000000/73110000/73106900/73106855/6cea4c1b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Beautiful Georgian property enjoying a quiet location. Sleeps 10. Edinburgh - Washer - Free WiFi - Outdoor space - Parking available 8.4 Very good 23 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=73106855&PinnedHotelID=73106855&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/34000000/33590000/33585100/33585012/25126c58.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Fabulous Georgian family Townhouse. Edinburgh City Centre - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Pet-friendly 10 Exceptional 50 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=33585012&PinnedHotelID=33585012&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/35000000/34030000/34029100/34029065/f994021c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Sophisticated Flat near Edinburgh Castle Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Washer - Microwave 7.8 Good 7 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=34029065&PinnedHotelID=34029065&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/35000000/34400000/34391600/34391520/2abd90e8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Beautiful Apartment in Edinburgh's Historic New Town Stockbridge - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Free WiFi 10 Exceptional 87 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=34391520&PinnedHotelID=34391520&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/19000000/18770000/18768300/18768212/9ddb7270.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Picardy Place Apartment Edinburgh City Centre - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Soundproof rooms 9.8 Exceptional 117 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-10&endDate=2025-11-11&selected=18768212&PinnedHotelID=18768212&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM Minimum check-in age - 18 ### Check-out Check-out before 11:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions ### Rules JOIVY wants you to have a fantastic stay, and we encourage you to see this property as a home away from home. There are, however, a few points we p... ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed This property accepts cash On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation Property Registration Number EH-69756-F If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### Property is also known as 6633bbe2e785af0013f88922 ## About the area ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C55.95420%2C-3.18512&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=A4ofNe7J-_5l0wsSMyMN0s73HFE=) Edinburgh, Scotland #### What's nearby - Princes Street - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles - Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles - Royal Mile - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles - University of Edinburgh - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles - Edinburgh Castle - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles #### Getting around - Edinburgh (ZXE-Edinburgh Waverly Train Station) - 5 min walk - St Andrew Square Tram Stop - 7 min walk - Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - 30 min drive #### Restaurants - ‪Wingstop - ‬5 min walk - ‪Society Bar & Kitchen - ‬3 min walk - ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min walk - ‪The Place To Eat - ‬5 min walk - ‪Salerno Pizza - ‬5 min walk ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Observatory House & Apartment pet-friendly? > No, pets are not allowed at this property. ### What time is check-in at Observatory House & Apartment? > Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. ### What time is check-out at Observatory House & Apartment? > Checkout is at 11:00 AM. ### Where is Observatory House & Apartment located? > Located in Edinburgh City Centre, this apartment building is steps away from Calton Hill and Princes Street. Royal Mile and Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre are also within 10 minutes. St Andrew Square Tram Stop is 7 minutes by foot and Princes Street Tram Stop is 11 minutes. ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Observatory House & Apartment Reviews 10 ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.[More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 4 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 10/10 Cleanliness ### 10/10 Excellent #### Howard S. 5 Aug 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy Everything was great ##### Howard S. Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jennifer B. 3 Oct 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy The location could not have been better....incredible views over the city. And the observatory tower is an AMAZING place to reserve for a group. Amenities inside the accomodation were top of the line. It was a trip of a lifetime for our family. Absolutely would recommend it. The checkin was rocky as we did not receive instructions, had to call the international number, then had to go to an office and a lockbox (thank goodness it was walkable) after dark, had to wait outside while a couple family members fetched the keys....just make sure you receive all instructions before you areive (not just the boarding pass with basic instructions). I will say, however , that the person we reached on the line was extremely helpful and checked in many times to ensure we received the keys and got in. ##### Jennifer B. Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Verified traveller 9 Dec 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy #### The eagles nest -observatory house The most extraordinary place to stay in Edinburgh by a long shot. The location could not be more perfect, the house more welcoming and the beds more comfortable. Waking up with these incredible views that change through the day until the drama of sunset and the city coming to life makes it very difficult to leave. Romantic, homely and practical as well as beautiful-a difficult combination that this house and the team achieve with ease ##### Verified traveller Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Gary R. 28 Oct 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Fabulous start to our Scotland trip! To celebrate my husband's 70th birthday, we went on a two week golfing tour of Scotland with our kids and partners. The Observatory is pricey, but we made up the cost with other housing. WELL worth the expense with the fun of staying at the top of Calton Hill with its view of the city and castle-like feel. The place was spotless and uniquely finished. Having a bathroom with each bedroom made it an easy start to our trip. It is a hike up the hill and has stairs inside, so be forewarned. I only wish I could attach some photos showing how much fun we had at what we refer to as "Gary's Castle." ##### Gary R. Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024