THISTLE CITY INN | Edinburgh, Scotland

Name: Thistle City Inn
Address: Flat 1A 39 South Bridge, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH1 1LL
Price range: US$207+
Rating: 8.4

Thistle City Inn Edinburgh Corridors photo

Key details

About the Hotel

Flat 1A 39 South Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1LL

Steps from the Old Town

Very good

7.9

/10

5.0

Loved by Thistle City Inn guests

Spacious rooms

Clean bathrooms

Great location

Comfortable bed

"The communal kitchen(which I did not expect) had tea, coffee, milk, biscuits, even a washing machine!"

Bridget from Australia

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"There was a full self-service kitchen with laundry."

Rebecca from United States

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"Location couldn't have been better for exploring the Royal Mile!"

Jen from Canada

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Kitchen

Amenities

Thistle City Inn offers a hot tub, a shared kitchen, and a washing machine for guest use. Streaming services are available in each room, and private bathrooms come with every accommodation. City views are provided from select rooms, and free WiFi is included throughout the property.

Rooms

The property has three room types: Single Room, Double Room, and Superior King Room. Each room includes a private bathroom and access to the shared kitchen. The Superior King Room offers additional space and a larger bed.

Location

The National Museum of Scotland is a 3-minute walk away, and Edinburgh Waverley station lies 500 metres from the hotel. Edinburgh Castle is an 18-minute walk, while The Real Mary King's Close is 400 metres away. Edinburgh International Conference Centre is a 19-minute walk, and Edinburgh Airport is 10 km from the property.

Leisure

Guests can enjoy boating, kayaking, or canoeing in the surrounding area. The Edinburgh Playhouse is 1.2 km away, and the Royal Mile is within walking distance. Numerous shops and restaurants are located directly across the street.

Services

CCTV is installed in common areas, and the property has fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. Private check-in and check-out services are provided for each guest. Non-smoking rooms are available throughout the hotel, and parking is offered on site.

Highlights

Location: Central Edinburgh, 3 minutes from National Museum of Scotland

Amenities: Hot tub, shared kitchen, washing machine, streaming services

Rooms: Single, Double, Superior King with private bathrooms

Activities: Boating, kayaking, canoeing nearby

Safety: CCTV, smoke alarms, private check-in/check-out

Must-do experiences

Visit Hidden Lane to discover local art studios and unique shops.
Try haggis at The Royal McGregor for an authentic Scottish dish.
Explore the marvelous Scottish National Gallery for stunning art.
Stroll through the atmospheric Grassmarket for boutique shopping.
Don't miss the Blackford Hill for breathtaking views of the city.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates

Double Room
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Superior King Room
2 persons
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Single Room
2 persons
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details

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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay

Facilities: Great

8.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Spa & Leisure

Jacuzzi

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Dining table

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Parquet floor

Thistle City Inn Location

Flat 1A 39 South Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1LL

Map view

City landmarks

Museum

Edinburgh Castle

760 m

Landmark

Arthur's Seat hike

2.8 km

Palace

Palace of Holyroodhouse

1.13 km

Gallery

Scottish National Gallery

620 m

Park

Princes Street Gardens

1.01 km

Landmark

Calton Hill

1.03 km

Landmark

Nelson Monument

1.03 km

Landmark

Surgeons' Hall Museums

640 m

Botanical Garden

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

2.33 km

Museum

Dynamic Earth

1.15 km

Park

Holyrood Park

1.58 km

Museum

The Museum of the Royal Scots and the Royal Regiment of Scotland

770 m

Square

Grassmarket

620 m

Nearby

Museum

National Museum of Scotland

590 m

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

Church

Mercat Cross

80 m

53 Princes Street

Princes Street

530 m

Gallery

City Art Centre

270 m

354 Castlehill

The Scotch Whisky Experience

430 m

Cemetery

The Robertson Mausoleum

580 m

Restaurants

The Piemaker

20 m

38 South Bridge

The City Cafe

220 m

19 Blair Street

Pilgrim Bar

200 m

Cowgate

Greggs

230 m

85/87 Rose Street

Bento Asian Food Bar

90 m

52 South Bridge 128 Lothian Road

Caffe Nero

80 m

4 Waverley Bridge Road Unit 2-4 Waverley Station

Bar 50

240 m

50 Blackfriars Street

Burrito 'n' Shake

80 m

97-99 South Bridge

Zara Fast Foods Pizza & Burger House

260 m

56 Blackfriars Street Old Town

The Tron

160 m

9 Hunter Square

Explore Edinburgh

The Real Mary King's Close

1 minute walking

A historic underground street revealing Edinburgh's past with costumed guides providing immersive experiences.

Edinburgh Castle

10 minutes walking

Iconic fortress dominating the skyline, offering rich history, stunning views, and the Honours of Scotland.

Scottish National Gallery

8 minutes walking

Home to masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 19th century, featuring free admission to its permanent collection.

Arthur's Seat

35 minutes walking

An ancient volcano and hiking spot presenting breathtaking views of the city, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking at Arthur's Seat

35 minutes walking

A scenic trek up an ancient volcano, offering stunning city views. Suitable for all skill levels; great for thrill-seekers.

Yoga at The Meadows

14 minutes walking

Various classes available at this tranquil park. Ideal for relaxation amidst beautiful greenery and nature.

The Piemaker

1 minute walking

Specializing in savory and sweet pies, this casual eatery is a local favorite. Vegan options are available.

The City Cafe

3 minutes walking

An American diner vibe with classic burgers and exciting specials. Perfect for casual meals with family or friends.

Bento Asian Food Bar

2 minutes walking

Offers a delightful array of sushi and Asian dishes, with vegetarian options available in a cozy atmosphere.

The Stand Comedy Club

10 minutes walking

A vibrant venue for stand-up comedy featuring local and international acts, great for an entertaining night out.

The Liquid Room

15 minutes walking

A popular live music venue hosting various genres, known for its energetic atmosphere and club nights.

Getting around the city

City Centre
Edinburgh 3 min · 200 m
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI) 21 min · 13.4 km
Glasgow (GLA) 133 min · 88.3 km
Bus
Bus stop 5 min · 400 m

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 13:00-14:00

Check-out

from 10:00-11:00

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about Thistle City Inn from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The hotel boasts a fantastic central location, placing guests within easy walking distance of the train station, pubs, and key Edinburgh attractions like the Royal Mile. Guests appreciate the modern, clean facilities and comfortable beds. While some guests have noted noise from nearby pubs in the evenings, the well-equipped communal kitchen is a definite plus.

Review score

Based on 6 verified reviews

8.4 /10

Great

100%

Recommend

Breakfast

10.0/10

Paid Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Value for money

7.5/10

Comfort

8.6/10

Pros

Clean rooms

Central location

Kind staff

Good facilities

Cons

Noisy apartment

Emergency exit

Emma from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 20, 2026

9.0/10

Immaculate and Convenient

central location clean room city views thoughtful extras

The location was superb. I found it easy to walk from the train station. The proximity to key attractions significantly eased my travel around the city. The room's cleanliness stood out, and I appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of both a hairdryer and hair straighteners.

There was a bar operating nearby and I could hear some noise during the night.

Facilities

9/10

The communal kitchen featured modern appliances. It included a large table. I also noticed lots of additional appliances were available for guest use, a nice touch, as well as a washing machine.

Dining

10/10

The kitchen provided tea, coffee, milk, and biscuits. This allowed guests to easily prepare simple meals. I liked this, I made my own breakfast. A Sainsbury's market was also conveniently located across the road.

Location

8/10

The hotel is located just off the Royal Mile, though the parking was expensive. I found this location convenient for exploring key sites. It was also an easy walk from the train station, it's a plus!

0 Helpful

Aaron from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 08, 2026

7/10

walkable location clean room awful entrance dull hallway

The location was walkable from the train station. Getting to various attractions was easy. The room was clean and provided views of the city. I found both a hairdryer and hair straighteners, helpful.

The entrance to the accommodation was awful. I saw graffiti all over the door and some suspicious stains on the door. The hallway was concreted and dull. It did not inspire confidence.

0 Helpful

Leo from Germany

Single

Double Room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 30, 2025

7/10

Acceptable stay WITH some drawbacks

friendly staff helpful staff great room excellent room great location convenient location awful entrance terrible entrance suspicious stain concreted hallway dull hallway

The staff was really friendly. Shaheen helped me store my bags the whole day, SO helpful. The room was great AND the location was super. It was close to High Street and the train station.

I found the entrance quite awful. There was graffiti ALL over the door and suspicious stains. The hallway was concreted AND dull, it did not feel great. The room was good, though it was not worth what I paid for it.

0 Helpful

Owen from United Kingdom

Couple

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 17, 2025

9.0/10

A romantic getaway fulfilled

warm welcome perfect cleanliness modern facilities comfiest bed

I found the welcome warm. It set a tender tone for my stay. The cleanliness was perfect, a lovely detail. modern facilities throughout the hotel added a spark of efficiency. the bed was indeed one of THE comfiest I have ever slept in. Such a dreamy experience!

I noticed a slightly higher price during peak season. Though the quality was worth it, I had not foreseen this expense.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel included complimentary, reliable wi-fi. The gym featured modern equipment, including three treadmills and also several stationary bikes. There was a well kept pool with about twenty loungers and a comfortable shaded section.

Rooms

9/10

My room included two separate sinks. This was a nice touch. The rainfall shower added a hint of luxury to each morning. I discovered fresh towels were provided daily, and the toiletries smelled very sweet.

Location

10/10

The hotel's central location allowed for easy access to key attractions. Several restaurants and cafes lined the streets nearby. There was a convenient bus stop just a short walk from the front entrance.

Dining

8/10

The breakfast buffet featured hot and cold selections. fresh fruit. I drank freshly brewed coffee each morning, it was heavenly. The dining area was bright and spacious. Such lovely details.

Service

9/10

Staff members offered prompt and courteous assistance at all times. The front desk was open 24/7, offering support whenever needed. I received quick assistance with luggage storage upon arrival. This eased my mind.

0 Helpful

Amelia from United States

Single

double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

9.5/10

amazing find near royal mile, like, seriously!

amazing location nice host comfortable bed

the location it is just amazing, seriously. it's like, smack dab in the center of everything, so cool! the host met me and she explained everything about access, so nice. the shower was powerful and good. the bed was also big and comfortable!

the window i think faces a street that have nightlife, noisy. it was a bit hard to sleep, even i used earplugs. i recommend this place if you plan to enjoy the nightlife and have fun!

Facilities

9/10

the communal kitchen really have tea, coffee, and milk so i can drink! it also include a washing machine, that is so amazing! this place include bathroom and a full bath to relax.

Location

10/10

the hotel just a half block walk to the royal mile, so close. across the road is a sainsburys market, wow! the block is full of food shops and i found many options for dinner!

Service

10/10

the owner met me to hand over the keys, she explained everything, she was super nice and so kind. shaheen was in contact via text to confirm arrival time so you can find the place easily! shaheen and julie are the best!

Rooms

9/10

the room include hair dryer, hair straightener, magnifying mirror, it is useful! the room also have plentiful towels and a comfortable bed. the room provide a tv and great hot water!

0 Helpful

Logan from United States

Single

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 25, 2025

8.7/10

central comfort

ideal location modern appliances secure building

the location was ideal, close to the royal mile. the communal kitchen was well-equipped, i noticed modern appliances and ample space. the building felt secure.

Street noise was noticeable at times. Earplugs could be useful.

Rooms

9/10

my double room was very clean. it also felt modern and comfortable with all necessary amenities. everything was well kept, contributing to a relaxing stay.

Dining

8/10

the communal kitchen included a refrigerator. there was also a microwave and adequate counter space for meal preparation. i found a supermarket across the street for groceries, it made cooking very convenient.

Facilities

9/10

the building provided good security with key card access. staff members were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. multiple shops were easily accessible outside.

0 Helpful

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FAQs

About Thistle City Inn

What is the check-in and check-out time at Thistle City Inn?

Check-in is from 13:00 and check-out is by 11:00.

How far is Thistle City Inn from Edinburgh Airport?

Thistle City Inn is 10 km from Edinburgh Airport.

What are some nearby attractions to Thistle City Inn?

Nearby attractions include the Royal Mile (0.5 km), National Museum of Scotland (0.5 km), and Edinburgh Waverley station (0.5 km).

What amenities are provided in the rooms at Thistle City Inn?

Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.

Are there nearby dining options to Thistle City Inn?

Nearby restaurants include The Piemaker, The City Cafe, Bento Asian Food Bar, The Carnivore, Roti, Pilgrim Bar, Yocoko Noodle Bar, and Ciao Roma, all within 0.5 km.

What features does the kitchen include in the units at Thistle City Inn?

The kitchen includes a microwave, refrigerator, stovetop, toaster, electric kettle, and cookware.