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From11US$ /night
Check-in
13Dec2025Select date
Check-out
14Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

96 Cowgate Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JN
-
In Old Town
Perfect
6.9
/10
2.0
/5

Accommodation

Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate provides shared dormitories and private rooms for all types of travelers. The hostel consists of 6- or 8-bed dorms and private rooms that accommodate up to 4 guests. Dorms come with secure lockers, and private rooms contain en-suite facilities.

Location

Situated in the historic Old Town, the hostel is steps away from the iconic Edinburgh Castle and vibrant nightlife on Cowgate. Guests have immediate access to local pubs, shops, and the Royal Mile. Further attractions include the Scottish National Gallery and Holyrood Palace, both within walking distance.

Amenities

Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering and a social lounge for relaxation. The hostel offers free walking tours to help guests discover Edinburgh's hidden gems. Entertainment options include a game room featuring table tennis and pool tables.

Dining

The hostel offers a bar serving refreshments and local beverages. Guests can also engage in themed nights & events that focus on local cuisine. Food vending machines are available for quick snacks.

Family Amenities

Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate welcomes families, providing family rooms that accommodate larger groups. The hostel offers a children's area within the game room for younger guests. Parents will appreciate the comfortable spaces designed for families to enjoy together.

Highlights

Location: Steps away from Edinburgh Castle

Accommodation: Shared dormitories and private rooms

Dining: Bar serving refreshments

Amenities: Fully equipped kitchen & game room

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the vibrant Grassmarket for local crafts and food.
  • Visit the Scottish National Gallery for stunning art collections.
  • Taste haggis at The Royal McGregor for an authentic dish.
  • Check out the hidden gems at the Edinburgh Farmers' Market on Saturdays.
  • Hike up Arthur's Seat for breathtaking views of the city.
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Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
Quadruple Room
2 persons
2 Bunk beds
Shower
6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
3 Bunk beds
Shower
8-Bed Private Room
2 persons
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Quadruple Room Ensuite
2 persons
2 Bunk beds
Shower
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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Coffee shop
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Location

96 Cowgate Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JN
Map view
96 Cowgate Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JN
Nearby
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
590 m
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
290 m
High Street 2 Warriston's Close
The Real Mary King's Close
60 m
Museum
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
390 m
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
130 m
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
190 m
Monument
Scott Monument
470 m
Museum
The Writers' Museum
290 m
Museum
Gladstone's Land
270 m
Museum
Museum of Childhood
310 m
2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)
Brass Rubbing Centre
120 m
Museum
John Knox House
340 m
53 Princes Street
Princes Street
530 m
Church
Mercat Cross
210 m
Gallery
City Art Centre
270 m
354 Castlehill
The Scotch Whisky Experience
430 m
Cemetery
The Robertson Mausoleum
580 m
Restaurants
Oink
350 m
34 Victoria Street 82 Canongate
Deacon's House Cafe
490 m
304 Lawnmarket Brodies Close
Wings Edinburgh
100 m
7 Old Fishmarket Close
Uncle's Fish & Chips
440 m
52 George IV Bridge
National Library of Scotland Cafe
480 m
National Library of Scotland 92 Cowgate George IV Bridge
Yum Yum
440 m
48 George IV Bridge Old Town
The City Cafe
260 m
19 Blair Street
The Deli Global
450 m
13 George IV Bridge
Pizza Paradise
350 m
4-6 South Bridge EH1 1LL
Angus Fling
370 m
27 George IV Bridge
The Piemaker
380 m
38 South Bridge
ClamShell
90 m
148 High Street
The Tron
320 m
9 Hunter Square
Explore Edinburgh
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
10-minute walk
Historic fortress offering stunning views of the city, rich history, and the Honours of Scotland.
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
8-minute walk
Showcases Scotland's history and culture with interactive exhibits and free admission.
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
4-minute walk
Famous street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
5-minute walk
Interactive attraction featuring optical illusions and a rooftop view of the city skyline.
Arthur's Seat Hike
35-minute walk
A challenging hike offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh; accessible year-round for outdoor lovers.
Yoga Sessions in The Meadows
15-minute walk
Outdoor yoga classes in a beautiful park, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.
Oink
Oink
5-minute walk
Casual eatery known for its delicious hog roast sandwiches, perfect for a quick yet flavorful bite.
Deacon's House Cafe
Deacon's House Cafe
6-minute walk
Charming cafe serving Scottish dishes with a cozy atmosphere; suitable for all dietary preferences.
The Bongo Club
15-minute walk
Vibrant nightclub featuring live music, club nights, and art events in an eclectic atmosphere.
Usher Hall
15-minute walk
Historic concert hall hosting a variety of performances, from classical to contemporary shows.
Getting around the city
City Centre
Edinburgh4 min  ·  300 m
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)21 min  ·  13.6 km
Dundee Airport (DND)145 min  ·  96.5 km
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station6 min  ·  500 m
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  200 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
141
Former name
cowgate hostel
FAQs
About Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate
What is the distance from Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate to Edinburgh Airport?
The nearest airport is Edinburgh Airport, located 11 km from the property.
Which popular attractions are close to Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Nearby attractions include the Royal Mile (200 m), Edinburgh Castle (800 m), and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo (300 m).
What amenities are available at Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a bar/lounge area, an outdoor terrace, and a snack bar.
What room amenities can guests expect at Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Rooms are equipped with an electric kettle, complimentary Wi-Fi, and shared bathroom facilities.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is there a shared kitchen available at Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Guests have access to a shared fully fitted kitchen and dining area.
What dining options are available near Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Nearby dining options include Deacon Brodie's Tavern (0.5 km), BrewDog Edinburgh (0.5 km), and The Outsider Restaurant (0.5 km).
Does Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate provide any luggage storage options?
The hotel offers luggage storage for guests.
What is the capacity of the accommodations at Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate?
Accommodations range from private rooms to mixed dormitories, with configurations for between 8 and 22 guests.

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