Argyle Backpackers

4.0 star property

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Photo gallery for Argyle Backpackers

Double Room | In-room safe, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets
Twin Room | Street view
Garden
14-inch TV with digital channels
14-inch TV with digital channels

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Business services
  • Laundry
  • Housekeeping
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

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14 Argyle Place, Newington, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH9 1JL
  • Place, University of Edinburgh
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Grassmarket
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Edinburgh Castle
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, Edinburgh (EDI)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Room options

Double Room

7.6 out of 10
Good
(8 reviews)
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Single Room

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Triple Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed OR 1 Twin Bed and 1 Double Bed

Twin Room

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds OR 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Shared Dormitory, Women only (4 people)

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (6 people)

  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 3 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Women only (6 people)

  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 3 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (4 People)

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

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About the neighborhood

Edinburgh

University of Edinburgh is a short stroll from Argyle Backpackers, and other popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle are within a mile (2 km). This 18-room, 4-star hostel has in-room conveniences like patios, dining areas, and sitting areas.

What's nearby

  • The Meadows - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • University of Edinburgh - 6 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • National Museum of Scotland - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Grassmarket - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Edinburgh Castle - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles

Getting around

  • Haymarket Tram Station - 4 min drive
  • Slateford Station - 8 min drive
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Library Cafe - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Victor Hugo Delicatessen - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Uplands Roast - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Cult Espresso - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Söderberg The Meadows - ‬7 min walk

About this property

Argyle Backpackers

Guests of Argyle Backpackers enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, microwave in a common area, and refrigerator in a common area. You can put free offsite parking to good use if you drive. The front desk has multilingual staff that can help with luggage storage, securing valuables, and dry cleaning/laundry. Additional amenities include a computer station, a library, and express check-in.
14-inch TVs come with digital channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. 6 bathrooms, patios, and dining areas are also standard. Bathrooms are shared; housekeeping is available on request.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet

Parking and transportation

  • Free offsite parking within 0.7 miles

Things to do

  • Library
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Separate in-room dining area

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Shared microwave
  • Shared refrigerator

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 steps to reach entrance
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Visual alarms in hallways
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 3 floors
  • Communal living room
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Victorian architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 6 shared bathrooms (in-room sinks)
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Toilet paper

Entertainment

  • 14-inch TV with digital channels

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Freezer
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Separate dining area
  • Shared kitchen access
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Heating
  • Individual furnishings
  • Recycling
  • Safe
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: midnight
Early check-in subject to availability
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and lockbox information; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 9:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), lockbox

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for GBP 30 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Rollaway bed fee: GBP 30 per night
  • Towels fee: GBP 2 per person, per stay (or guests may bring their own)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

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 credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: noon
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free nearby parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

National rating

This establishment has received its official star rating from VisitScotland, the National Tourist Board for Scotland.

Property is also known as

Argyle Backpackers Hostel Edinburgh
Argyle Backpackers Hostel
Argyle Backpackers Edinburgh
Argyle Backpackers
Argyle Backpackers Hotel Edinburgh
Argyle Backpackers Edinburgh, Scotland
Argyle Backpackers Edinburgh
Argyle Backpackers Hostel/Backpacker accommodation
Argyle Backpackers Hostel/Backpacker accommodation Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Argyle Backpackers?

Argyle Backpackers provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to do around Argyle Backpackers?

This hostel is located in Edinburgh, a short 15-minute walk from Grassmarket and also 18 minutes on foot from Princes Street Gardens. You'll also find Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Argyle Backpackers?

Bicycle parking is also available for guests.

Does Argyle Backpackers feature a casino?

No, Argyle Backpackers doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Argyle Backpackers?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

Is Argyle Backpackers a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this hostel will appreciate amenities like a terrace and a library plus some rooms include garden views.

Does Argyle Backpackers have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hostel.

Does Argyle Backpackers feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Argyle Backpackers doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Argyle Backpackers allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Argyle Backpackers.

Are there connecting rooms at Argyle Backpackers?

No, this hostel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Argyle Backpackers?

The closest major airport to Argyle Backpackers is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which is 12.5 mi away (38 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Argyle Backpackers?

Yes, every room at Argyle Backpackers comes with a patio with some featuring garden or city views.

Argyle Backpackers Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 90 out of 336 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 143 out of 336 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 63 out of 336 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 24 out of 336 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 16 out of 336 reviews

7.6/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Staff & service

7.0/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alondra

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Mark

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Efficient and particularly helpful with storage of baggage.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Alexander

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
My first time staying a hostel, my experience was expected I paid less I got a bad experience my fault I get it. When I checked in nothing was explained I was just given a set of keys and that was it. When I got to my room I didn’t realize I didn’t have a shower towel and when I realized it was after 6 pm and the front desk only operates from 10-6 pm another thing that was explained 😞 so the next morning I had to use my shirt to dry off after my shower. No toiletries or hair dryer available which is ok I understand. My bed only had a cover no bed sheets, narrow bed I could barely fit in it (me 5’9, 160 Lbs). There was people cooking in the kitchen that was next door and smelled the whole place smelled like Indian food. The location is bad it’s just far away from the main places in town. On the good side, the room was isolated and quiet which I loved, the front desk people were nice and helpful but really that’s all the good 😊
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great value in an amazing location. A shared property that is well maintained and feels safe. Fanastic host.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Lyndsay

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Levi

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stewart

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very clean, staff friendly and helpful
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It was clean as comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Elizabeth

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Reliably convenient no frills accommodation
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Danielle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good location, good price, recommend!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Kate

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Only issue was one showers hot water didn’t work! But loved the place and the location!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Hennadii

Traveled with family
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities

Terrible check-in experience

Terrible check-in experience. For two days we tried to get information on how to access our room because we were arriving at night, but we never received any response. We even called, and they promised to send the details, but nothing ever came. An absolute nightmare of a check-in.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

David John

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Just not very clean, not well kept. Uncomfortable bed. I just think that having a festival on shouldn't mean putting prices up sky high. £87 it shouldn't even be £7.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dung

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

PAUL

Not for me.

I reserved what was supposed to be a single room with a private bathroom. No bathroom and the room was so small with a single bed and no furniture except a table with a vase on it. The problem I really had was that the only parking NEAR the place was all permitted. If you wanted to stay there you had to park a few blocks away and walk back. Not good for anyone. I decided to look elsewhere and found a nice place that had parking and a bigger room. This place is OK if you're young and have no issues walking all over the place. The gentleman behind the counter was new but very helpful. His name was Tom. Shout out to him!!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dane

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Central and very affordable
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Jill

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

2/10 Terrible

Anna E

Business traveler
Disliked: Staff & service
My daughter went to visit the university and arrived at the premises at around 6.45. The hostel had not sent a code to get in. She could not get access to the hostel. No staff were in the building despite her arriving before 9.30 (the time it said you needed to phone ahead). We phoned and sent messages but no response. She gained access because of another guest. Luckily the other guest was able to unlock the keybox, otherwise she would have been completely stuck. A day later we have had no response. The information said the front desk was manned till five and to make contact if arriving after 9.30 but no one was there. Luckily my daughter was not alone and the other guests were able to help her. They described having a similar problem earlier in the day. My daughter was also surprised when she did get in not to have a proper bed as all the photos showed beds. The kitchen was nice, but the service was nonexistent.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Meghan

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
I really enjoyed my stay here. I was in room 17 which is on the top floor. One toilet/shower room and one shower room on my landing meant I experienced no queues when needing to use the facilities. Great sized kitchen, lovely seating areas inside and out to enjoy your meals or a wee chat. I was staying here for work purposes and truly did enjoy my stay. A few reviews online I read before arriving gave me anxiety but these people are so ridiculous and imo over exaggerating. I feel if you grew up with a silver spoon in your mouth, you could find something to complain about. However if you can be a humble human, and appreciate a clean place to stay, in a nice location, with friendly staff and guests and appreciate the price that your paying, I think you will definitely enjoy your stay. The bathrooms were completely spotless each day with there being a little basket of freebies from previous guests which was lovely if you had forgot something and the kitchen was kept clean and tidy and well equipped which meant I didn’t have to spend money ordering take away and could just cook dinner at my leisure. My only issue was the WiFi situation, but it’s not the end of the world for me to be without WiFi. Would stay again if coming through to Edinburgh
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bella

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Area is absolutely perfect for exploring Edinburgh! Grocery stores are at a walkable distance, the street feels safe and quiet, and all of the major tourist attractions are at a walkable distance. It was nice to be away from the city centre bustle, but close enough to be able to walk there when you wish. Convenient check in and checkout. Kitchens had everything you need and even some free stuff which was nice! Garden/patio area was very pretty and we enjoyed spending time out there :)
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Anya

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Brynn

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The building had old charm. The pipes were very noisy in our room every time the water was run.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Sagar

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice for the value
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Jack

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025