Castle Rock Hostel

Sleeping at the foot of the rock

Castle Rock is on Johnston Terrace, the street that wraps round the south side of the castle rock, between the esplanade and the Grassmarket. Step out of the door and in five minutes you're on the Royal Mile, on Victoria Street or in the Grassmarket square with its pubs. It's a large, lively hostel in an old high-ceilinged building, aimed at people travelling solo, as a couple or with friends who want to spend little on a bed so they can spend on everything else.

Dorms, private rooms and rooms to spend the evening in

There are shared dorms of various sizes, women-only dorms and private rooms for anyone who wants their own door. Beds come made up and each guest has a locker with a key in the room; towels are for hire. Downstairs there are several lounges: a large common room for socialising, a music room with guitars and a piano, a quiet room for reading or working, games and film nights. The kitchen is spacious and fully equipped, with fridges and freezers, and in the mornings they serve a simple continental breakfast.

What you need to know

It's an over-18s only hostel: it doesn't work for families with children. Reception is open 24 hours, there's a laundry and luggage storage, and on bookings of three nights or more an automatic discount applies. They organise activities daily and have a courtyard for some fresh air. There's no parking: arrive by train at Waverley or on the airport tram to Princes Street and walk up.