[See all properties](http://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire apartment # Observatory Apartment Apartment with kitchen, steps from Princes Street ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/74000000/73790000/73781900/73781827/66b7051f.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/74000000/73790000/73781900/73781827/927880bb.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/74000000/73790000/73781900/73781827/b35126c4.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/74000000/73790000/73781900/73781827/804e190a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Outdoor dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/74000000/73790000/73781900/73781827/13aaab46.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Amenities - Policies - Location A short walk from Royal Mile and Princes Street, Observatory Apartment has plenty to offer. Guests can connect to in-room WiFi. 9.6 Exceptional ### Entire apartment 1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2646 sq ft ## Popular amenities - 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 Apartment Summary: Observatory House Apartment is a compact self-catering apartment extending over the lower ground floor of Observatory House, Edinburgh’s unique hilltop retreat. Perched above the city centre, it provides a quiet haven within walking distance of the bright lights, but nestled high above them amongst the crags and wildlife of Calton Hill. The House has a rich history, with the oldest tower section dating back to 1776 and the first attempt to build an astronomical observatory for Edinburgh. Recently Collective embarked on an ambitious project to restore the interior and transform it with a sophisticated and contemporary renovation mixing warm, natural materials and colours with a suite of new feature art works specially commissioned from artists close to our heart. With a fully-equipped kitchenette, Observatory Apartment provides a perfect self-contained base for two guests to explore the city from. Enjoy coffee on the terrace looking out over the nearby National Monument, and watch the sunset over the city from your bed in the Chartmaker’s room. Just a short walk away from the front door guests will find our acclaimed restaurant partner, Cafe Calton. Eat out with the best view in Edinburgh, or let the Lookout come to you with one of their special in-house dining packages. The Space: Observatory Apartment is conveniently contained on one floor, with spectacular views from the living and bedroom out across Edinburgh’s old and new towns. Please note that the apartment is a lower ground floor property with a reduced ceiling height of 2 metres. Guest Access: A member of our team will welcome you to the property, give you a tour, and advise you on how to gain keyless access to the property. Observatory Apartment is conveniently contained on one floor, with spectacular views from the living and bedroom out across Edinburgh’s old and new towns. Please note that the apartment is a lower ground floor property with a reduced ceiling height of 2 metres. Living Room and Kitchenette The Apartments living room features a comfortable sofa, great for relaxing after a long day exploring the sights of Edinburgh, a smart TV and a dining table for four. The unique ‘Starman’ wallpaper in this room was designed by local artist Rabiya Choudhry. Next to the living room, there is a kitchenette which features an electric hob and oven. Bedrooms and Bathrooms The Chartmaker’s Room hosts a super king-sized bed and boasts west-facing views across the city. The bathroom, featuring a freestanding Lusso bath and separate shower, is located next door in what was once a courtyard and coal shed. The bathroom provides you a sanctuary of relaxation and recuperation in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. Outdoor Area A small east-facing terrace with outdoor seating for four is located to the east of the Apartment. The Neighborhood: Attractions within walking distance of the Apartment 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 too, 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. Local Restaurants Just a short walk away from the front door guests will find our acclaimed restaurant partner, The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage. Eat out with the best view in Edinburgh, or let the Lookout come to you with one of their special in-house dining packages. 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. Getting Around: The Apartment 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 Apartment 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 Apartment; 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. Observatory House guests receive a 50% discount on daily parking (£12 per day including discount). By taxi Taxi drop-off and pick-up are encouraged via the Calton Hill access road, which terminates approximately 100m from the House. 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. ∗Please note that sofa bed linens are not included in the nightly rate. If you would like to use the sofa bed, please let us know, and the additional fee is £20 for linens. \*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. ⚡ 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. ∗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: This home is managed on behalf of Collective by JOIVY, which offers a wide selection of top-quality properties across Europe.Accessibility Observatory Apartment was built over 200 years ago and although the City Observatory site itself is wheelchair accessible, unfortunately the Apartment is not due to steps and staircases which cannot be ramped. The Apartment is located on the summit of Calton Hill (105m above sea level). Drop-off by car or taxi is permitted via the Calton Hill access road; however, due to its unique location there is no resident parking on the Hill for House/apartment guests. Laundry and Extra Appliances: The Apartment has an ironing board and iron but please note there is no washing machine in the Apartment. Pets We regret that pets are not permitted in Observatory Apartment. About the host 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. ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in the apartment: WiFi ### Kitchen - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Kitchenette - Microwave - Oven - Refrigerator - Stovetop - Toaster ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - Bedroom - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 1 bathroom - Bathtub - Hair dryer - Shower - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Dining table ### Entertainment - TV ### Outdoor areas - Balcony ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking. - Wheelchair accessibility - Smoking not allowed ### Services and conveniences - Iron/ironing board ### Location highlights - In a rural location ### 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) - First aid kit - Fire extinguisher ### General - Unit size: 646 square feet ## Similar properties ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2280000/2278200/2278102/71e9acfa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Fraser Suites Edinburgh Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Pet-friendly - Free WiFi - Air conditioning 8.8 Excellent 3,053 reviews CA $239 CA $286 total includes taxes & fees Nov 2 - Nov 3 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-02&endDate=2025-11-03&selected=2278102&PinnedHotelID=2278102&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Smart TV, books, stereo](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/39000000/38110000/38100300/38100264/f23cfbe4.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Stylish City Centre Apartment Edinburgh City Centre - Kitchen - Washer - Free WiFi - Parking available 10 Exceptional 83 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=38100264&PinnedHotelID=38100264&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Smart TV, books, stereo](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/33000000/32050000/32044700/32044682/0b882511.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Scottish Apartment with Amazing Castle Views Tollcross - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Free WiFi 10 Exceptional 59 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=32044682&PinnedHotelID=32044682&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Private kitchen](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/119000000/118390000/118383500/118383500/2a393d38.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Double Room in Modern Holyrood Courtyard Development. Abbeyhill - Washer 10 Exceptional 1 review [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=118383500&PinnedHotelID=118383500&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior detail](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/27000000/26930000/26921300/26921215/9334f27f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Vibrant Apartment in Edinburgh’s Old Town Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Washer - Microwave 8.2 Very good 20 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=26921215&PinnedHotelID=26921215&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Lobby lounge](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/40000000/39830000/39822900/39822833/169675a5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Pet-friendly - Free WiFi - Restaurant 9.4 Exceptional 1,031 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=39822833&PinnedHotelID=39822833&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Front of property](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/93000000/92100000/92098800/92098732/c3a5a416.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### PREMIER SUITES Edinburgh Fountain Court Tollcross - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Free WiFi 9.2 Wonderful 465 reviews CA $185 CA $222 total includes taxes & fees Nov 9 - Nov 10 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-09&endDate=2025-11-10&selected=92098732&PinnedHotelID=92098732&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/28000000/27760000/27753200/27753165/0a0b8887.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Stunning Flat near St. Giles’ Cathedral Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Washer - Microwave 9.6 Exceptional 4 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=27753165&PinnedHotelID=27753165&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Hallway](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/12000000/11510000/11500500/11500437/eb99a53b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Linton Collection - 28 North Bridge Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Free WiFi - Laundry - Microwave 9.6 Exceptional 762 reviews CA $240 CA $289 total includes taxes & fees Oct 23 - Oct 24 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-23&endDate=2025-10-24&selected=11500437&PinnedHotelID=11500437&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![TV, offices](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/89000000/88310000/88304100/88304030/537de798.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Stunning Apartment Overlooking St Giles Old Town Edinburgh - Kitchen - Washer - Microwave 8.8 Excellent 9 reviews CA $329 CA $499 total includes taxes & fees Nov 3 - Nov 4 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-03&endDate=2025-11-04&selected=88304030&PinnedHotelID=88304030&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 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 Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit 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 ### Property is also known as 6633bbdde4143300133c6cf6 ## 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 km - Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre - 3 min walk - 0.3 km - Royal Mile - 6 min walk - 0.5 km - University of Edinburgh - 13 min walk - 1.1 km - Edinburgh Castle - 14 min walk - 1.2 km #### 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 Apartment pet-friendly? > No, pets are not allowed at this property. ### What time is check-in at Observatory Apartment? > Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. ### What time is check-out at Observatory Apartment? > Check-out is at 11:00 AM. ### Where is Observatory Apartment located? > Located in Edinburgh City Centre, this apartment building is steps 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 Apartment Reviews 9.6 ### 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.ca/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 4 8 - Good 1 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 9.6/10 Cleanliness ### 10/10 Amenities ### 10/10 Property conditions & facilities ### 10/10 Eco-friendliness ### 10/10 Excellent #### Nick V. Oct 31, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Great place for a getaway! Extremely beautiful and peaceful place to stay. ##### Nick V. Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### Lorrie F. May 9, 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Beautiful views but be ready for a hike Colton Hill has amazing views and the apartment had everything we needed. The welcome goodie box with coffee, tea and biscuits were much appreciated! Just be aware it is a bit of an uphill hike to get up to the house, and you may get tired of that if you are staying for an extended period. Otherwise, you can't beat the views and it was a very cozy, and wonderful place to stay. ##### Lorrie F. Stayed 5 nights in May 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Nathan Jan 14, 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication This is a stay unlike any other. We happened to book our overnights during days which the observatory was closed to the public which gave us private access to the entire observatory lawn, giving us beautiful sunset views that we didn't have to share with others. The space was quaint but had all expected amenities for breakfast, bathing, and sleeping. This lodging was easily one of our top experiences of our entire trip to the UK. ##### Nathan Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jeff R. Sep 9, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Amazing Location Staying on Calton Hill is amazing! The sight over the city can't be beat and the place is unique and you won't find anything like it. Do keep in mind that you will have to hike up a hill each time you come back to the place. Which is a bit of a struggle with luggage, but manageable. Totally worth it to have a gorgeous views of the city. ##### Jeff R. Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Scott F. May 21, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Week in Edinburgh Fantastic week in Edinburgh. Observatory apartment provided unique, charming accommodation with character. But at the same time has been outfitted with modern amenities (bathroom is brilliant and spa like). Didn't spend alot of time there to be honest as we were sightseeing, shopping and dining from dawn to late evening every day. Only a few minor issues with the Observatory: (1) lack of onsite parking, but they're clear about that during the reservation so not a shock; (2) ancient building so not alot of soundproofing - upstairs tenants were quite loud; (3) the location is very busy with tourists and locals to the wee hours - would have preferred a bit more of a buffer between the public and the backside of the building - anyone could have walked right up and looked in our apartment - which did happen. Didn't feel unsafe, but also didn't feel comfortable leaving the windows open in the evening. ##### Scott F. Stayed 4 nights in May 2024