Stay Central Hotel Edinburgh Exterior photoStay Central Hotel Edinburgh Exterior photoStay Central Hotel Edinburgh Exterior photo
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From358US$ /night
Check-in
22Apr2026Select date
Check-out
23Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

139 Cowgate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JS
-
Close to the Old Town
Very good
7.9
7.9
/10
4.0
/5

Location

Stay Central Hotel is strategically located just a 10-minute walk from key attractions like The Royal Mile, The Grassmarket, and Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. Guests can easily access the hotel via the tram from Edinburgh Airport, disembarking at St Andrew's Square and strolling over North Bridge. This prime location puts visitors right next to Edinburgh University Campus and popular bars such as The Three Sisters and Cabaret Voltaire.

Rooms

The hotel offers a total of 37 rooms distributed over four floors, categorized by size from S to XXL, accommodating groups of varying sizes. Unique offerings include a private dorm for up to nine guests, while larger rooms come with amenities like SMEG fridges, chill out sofas, and Bluetooth speakers. Each room includes rainfall showers and flatscreen TVs, enhancing convenience for all travelers.

Social Space

Stay Central Hotel incorporates an inviting café space, known as Stay Café, where guests can enjoy coffee and pastries from the Company Bakery. The café doubles as a social hub, facilitating interactions among guests and fostering a friendly atmosphere. Activities are often arranged, supporting the hotel's aim for visitors to connect with both new and old friends.

Group Accommodation

The hotel is particularly adept at catering to large groups, including stags and hens, with its capacity to customize room arrangements for up to nine guests. Special requests for drinks or food can be accommodated, providing a personalized experience for event organizers. Additionally, the hotel's close proximity to numerous bars and clubs encourages group activities and nightlife enjoyment.

Entertainment

Guests can explore a rich tapestry of entertainment options right outside the hotel door, with iconic venues like The Three Sisters located next door. Edinburgh's Old Town is filled with festivities and events within walking distance, enriching visitors' experiences. The buzzing nightlife scene offers something for everyone, from live music to themed parties.

Highlights

Location: 10 min walking distance of The Royal Mile

Rooms: 37 swish and swanky rooms

Dining: Stay Café with Company Bakery goods

Group Accommodation: up to nine guests

Entertainment: best craic in Edinburgh

Must-do experiences

  • Sample a deep-fried Mars bar at Carron Fish Bar for a treat.
  • Stroll through the historic Grassmarket for local crafts and eateries.
  • Visit the Surgeons' Hall Museums for a fascinating medical history.
  • Explore the hidden gems of Dean Village just a short walk away.
  • Join a whisky tasting at the Scotch Whisky Experience nearby.
View all

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
XL Sleeps up to 4
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Small Double Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Large Executive Double or Twin Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Medium Double or Twin Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Board games

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Night club
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Stay Central Hotel Location

139 Cowgate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JS
Map view
139 Cowgate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JS
Nearby
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
1000 ft
High Street 2 Warriston's Close
The Real Mary King's Close
1500 ft
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
1600 ft
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
1800 ft
Nicolson Street
Surgeons' Hall Museums
1500 ft
2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)
Brass Rubbing Centre
1600 ft
Church
Mercat Cross
700 ft
Cemetery
The Robertson Mausoleum
1200 ft
Restaurants
Wings Edinburgh
1200 ft
7 Old Fishmarket Close
Uncle's Fish & Chips
1400 ft
52 George IV Bridge
Yum Yum
1400 ft
48 George IV Bridge Old Town
The Deli Global
1500 ft
13 George IV Bridge
Pizza Paradise
1200 ft
4-6 South Bridge EH1 1LL
Angus Fling
1300 ft
27 George IV Bridge
The Piemaker
1300 ft
38 South Bridge
Bobbys Kebab House
800 ft
21 Candlemaker Row
Explore Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
4 minutes' walk
A treasure of Scottish history and culture. Features free admission and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
12 minutes' walk
Historic fortress with panoramic views. Immerse in Scotland's royal history through guided tours and exhibitions.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse
19 minutes' walk
Official residence of the Queen in Scotland. Offers audio guides and beautiful gardens to explore.
Arthur's Seat Hike
30 minutes' walk
Thrilling hike with breathtaking views of Edinburgh. Accessible via public transport or a short drive.
Wellness and Yoga Sessions
10 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga classes in local studios designed for all levels. Perfect way to rejuvenate during your stay.
Wings Edinburgh
Wings Edinburgh
5 minutes' walk
Casual eatery specializing in a variety of chicken wings with numerous sauces. Vibrant atmosphere, ideal for groups.
Uncle's Fish & Chips
Uncle's Fish & Chips
6 minutes' walk
Classic British fish and chips served in a cozy setting. Known for its fresh ingredients and friendly service.
The Bongo Club
15 minutes' walk
A lively venue featuring live music and vibrant club nights. Offers a diverse range of entertainment for all ages.
The Usher Hall
20 minutes' walk
Historic concert hall presenting classical music, rock, and pop performances. An iconic venue with exceptional acoustics.
Getting around
City Centre
Edinburgh4 min  ·  1000 ft
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)21 min  ·  8.4 mi
Glasgow (GLA)132 min  ·  54.7 mi
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station6 min  ·  1700 ft
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  700 ft
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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
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP15 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of floors:
5
Number of rooms:
38
Former name
Tailors Hall

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Stay Central Hotel is appreciated for its excellent location, with easy access to Victoria Street and just 400 metres from the Royal Mile. Guests enjoy the rooms' amenities, with some offering sound systems with Bluetooth. Breakfast receives positive feedback, especially the delicious croissants and the option to order eggs benedict or pancakes, making it a good value when included. While some guests have noted that the entrance can be difficult to spot at night, the convenient location and room features generally create a positive experience.
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Review score
Based on 991 verified reviews
7.5/10
Very good
74%
Recommend
Location
9.2/10
Staff
8.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.0/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Pros
Central location
Comfortable room
Bright room
Cons
Room noise
Noisy bar
Guest reviews
based on 991 reviews
7.5/10
based on 1771 reviews
7.9/10
Logan from Australia
Single
Medium Double or Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 22, 2025
9/10
generous treatsexcellent shower
The room had generous complimentary treats such as hot chocolate and fizzy drinks. The shower was excellent. I had access to a hair dryer and straighteners. The room even featured a games console.
The music from the nearby bar was quite loud and continued until late.
0 Helpful
theodore from united kingdom
small double room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 20, 2025
9/10

fantastic central spot!

convenient locationmain attractioncomfy bedpub noise
I found the location really convenient. the central position made it super easy to walk to all the main attractions. the beds were also really comfy. I slept very well!
The noise from the nearby pub at night was a slight issue. It went on quite late. earplugs helped a bit, though the bass was still noticeable.
Dining
9/10
The pub next door offers a discount on meals for hotel guests. That is convenient. i had a decent dinner there, it was simple but tasty. it is easy to grab a bite without going far!
0 Helpful
|
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Juliet from United Kingdom
Single
Small Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 17, 2025
6/10

Acceptable but Noisy Stay

convenient locationloud music
The location was convenient for seeing the city.
The noise was a real issue. Loud music from a nearby pub went on until the early hours. Earplugs were essential. A relaxing stay it was not.
0 Helpful
Christina from Canada
Single
Small Double Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:August 22, 2025
9.0/10

central GEM with quirky touches

convenient locationcomplimentary treatsgames consoleexcellent shower
i found the location VERY convenient for exploring. The complimentary treats like hot chocolate and sweets were a nice touch. I also appreciated the games console in the room. The shower was excellent, it included a hair dryer and straighteners.
the frosted glass bathroom doors are not ideal, providing little privacy and causing discomfort.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel is located close to many restaurants and bars. the hotel boasts stylish decor and provides a cultural experience, because it connects with a lively adjacent pub. it creates a fun environment.
Rooms
8/10
my small double room included coffee and tea facilities. linen was clean, I felt safe, and there was a nice bathroom with a shower. it provided everything needed for a comfortable stay.
Dining
9/10
there is a lively bar below the hotel, offering drinks and a fun atmosphere. its proximity to the hotel adds to the entertainment options. it is easily accessible for a night out.
Service
10/10
i found the staff to be very helpful and friendly. they were polite and professional, assisting with check-in and other needs. their good service added to the positive experience.
0 Helpful
|
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Questions of the users
About Stay Central Hotel
Is there a lift available for access to the higher floors?
12 November 2023
Yes, a lift is provided for easy access to all floors.
Are gluten-free options like bread available on the breakfast menu?
14 October 2023
Gluten-free food can be arranged upon request, just let the team know in advance.
Can luggage be stored before check-in and after check-out?
9 November 2023
Guests can use the secure luggage room both before check-in and after check-out.
Is there a restaurant located within the hotel premises?
1 December 2023
While there is no restaurant on-site, snacks are available for purchase. Guests can order from the nearby Three Sisters Pub & Restaurant for delivery to their rooms.
What are the sleeping arrangements for larger groups?
20 October 2023
Rooms accommodating larger groups are available with options for various bed configurations such as two double beds or a mix of singles and bunks.
Is there availability for late check-ins?
30 November 2023
The reception operates 24/7, allowing for check-in at any hour, including late-night arrivals.
What time is breakfast served and is there flexibility for early risers?
23 October 2023
Breakfast is served from 08:00 to 11:00. A packed breakfast can be arranged if notified in advance.
Are pets permitted to stay at the hotel?
28 October 2023
While pets are not allowed, guide dogs are permitted.
How far is the property from the nearest train station?
5 November 2023
The nearest train station, Waverley Station, is approximately a 7-minute walk away.
Do the hotel rooms come equipped with hairdryers?
15 October 2023
Every room is equipped with a hairdryer located in the wardrobe.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room