Castle Rock Hostel

2.0 star property
Hostel with a 24-hour front desk, steps from Grassmarket

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Castle Rock Hostel

Interior
Unclassified image, 2 of 56, button
1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets
Lobby
Interior

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • 24/7 front desk
  • Housekeeping
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
15 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH1 2PW
  • Edinburgh Castle
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Princes Street
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • University of Edinburgh
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Edinburgh (EDI)
    ‪18 min drive‬

Book today, save on your next hotel stay

It's that easy when you're a member of Orbitz Rewards. It's free to join!

Room options

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (10 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 5 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (16 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Women only (4 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (8 bed )

  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

Quadruple Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Beds

Basic Double Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (4 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (6 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 3 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (12 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 6 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (14 bed)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 7 Twin Bunk Beds

Shared Dormitory, Women only (12 bed)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 1
  • 6 Twin Bunk Beds

Triple Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 3 Twin Beds

You may also like

About the neighborhood

Edinburgh

Located in Old Town Edinburgh, Castle Rock Hostel is adjacent to Grassmarket and within a 5-minute walk of other popular sights like Edinburgh Castle. This 43-room hostel welcomes guests with conveniences like free in-room WiFi, a terrace, and a 24-hour front desk.

What's nearby

  • Grassmarket - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Edinburgh Castle - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Princes Street - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • University of Edinburgh - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Royal Mile - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles

Getting around

  • Princes Street Tram Stop - 8 min walk
  • Edinburgh (ZXE-Edinburgh Waverly Train Station) - 10 min walk
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ensign Ewart - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪The Scotch Whisky Experience - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Cold Town House - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪The Black Bull - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Biddy Mulligans - ‬3 min walk

About this property

Castle Rock Hostel

Hostel with a 24-hour front desk, steps from Grassmarket
Guests staying at Castle Rock Hostel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a terrace, and a fireplace in the lobby. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with securing valuables, luggage storage, and tours or tickets.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Safes are also included.

Languages

Afrikaans, English, French, Greek, Hungarian, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available

Things to do

  • Billiards/pool table

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance

More

  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Shower
  • Towels provided

More

  • Heating
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 1:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:30 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Guests will receive an email within 72 hours before arrival with check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children 18 and younger (only guests older than 18 are allowed)

Property payment types

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 credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:30 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day.

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.
  • 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.
  • No parking is available onsite.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The hostel can refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, which include pre-wedding stag/bachelor and hen/bachelorette parties.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • No alcohol is served at Castle Rock Hostel.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra 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

Castle Rock Hostel Edinburgh
Castle Rock Hostel
Castle Rock Hotel Edinburgh
Castle Rock Hostel Edinburgh, Scotland
Castle Rock Hostel Edinburgh
Castle Rock Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation
Castle Rock Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of Castle Rock Hostel?

This hostel is situated in Old Town Edinburgh, just steps from Edinburgh Castle and Grassmarket, and within a short walk of Princes Street. You'll also find Royal Mile and George Street less than a mile away.

How much does it cost to stay at Castle Rock Hostel?

As of Jun 21, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Castle Rock Hostel on Jun 25, 2025 start from $161.62, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available on site at Castle Rock Hostel?

No, there isn't parking at this hostel.

Does Castle Rock Hostel feature a casino at the property?

No, Castle Rock Hostel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Castle Rock Hostel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

Is Castle Rock Hostel a good place to stay for couples?

Amenities at this hostel that appeal to couples include a terrace and a 24-hour front desk.

Does Castle Rock Hostel have a hot tub?

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

Does Castle Rock Hostel feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Castle Rock Hostel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Castle Rock Hostel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Castle Rock Hostel.

Does Castle Rock Hostel have connecting rooms?

No, this hostel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to Castle Rock Hostel?

The closest major airport to Castle Rock Hostel is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which is 7.7 mi away (25 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Castle Rock Hostel?

No, there aren't any rooms with balconies at Castle Rock Hostel.

Castle Rock Hostel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 218 out of 351 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 103 out of 351 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 24 out of 351 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 351 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 351 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Frederick

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
I was only staying in Wales for a short time. When I first got to the hotel, the receptionist was extremely rude and starring at me through her eyebrows. She rushed me for my payment. I almost went to another hotel. I decided to forget about it and said to myself it's only one night. Then, I went to my room and dropped my things off. I went out to explore the town and experience the culture. When I got back it was 3am and the actual building was lock. I had no way of getting into the building nor my room.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

chris

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Desiree

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place was absolutely amazing! I'm so impressed with the friendly, professional staff, the clean, quiet beds, and the central location. I will definitely be back! Thank you, Castle Rock Hostel!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Chetan

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Reasonable place at the heart of the city centre.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Nimisha

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Luna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Super friendly, 👌 Clean. All good 👍 Will come back.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing location, amazing staff, super affordable.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jacob

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very cool aesthetic, friendly staff and great location
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

8/10 Good

Noemi

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
I loved the ambiance of this place. It was in a convenient spot as it was only 5 min walk from many of our tour meeting spots and sights we wanted to see. Check-in was a breeze, staff was friendly and let us store our luggage. Only negative was the size of our private 4 bed room. It was the smallest hostel room I had ever stayed in. Very little space to open our suitcases
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

debra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vivienne, Nr Morpeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I was delighted to find a cheap bed for the night in an excellent location and a well organised set up. At 63 I was afraid I might be a bit old for a dormitory bed in a hostel but there was a good cross section of people and everyone I met was friendly and considerate. I’d definitely recommend and would return in the future.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Angela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Decor very 'quirky'
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Perfect Location

The location was perfect! Will admit that the walk up the hill was difficult for my older relatives. We were on the top floor too so that was a bit rough. Would encourage to get a cab if you're older and not used to walking up hill.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Isabelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Second but not last stay!

My second stay here - first was just travelling but this time I stayed for an event. I would recommend the rooms with less people because the bigger ones I found not as comfortable but they’re not bad! Free tea/coffee/hot chocolate was lovely as always, oat milk seemed to be frozen though 😅 all of the team are friendly and helpful! Because no mirror in the room it was a bit harder to get ready for me on this stay but not the worst, extra space in the bathrooms for sorting yourself out. Usual hostel standard and you can do laundry for a charge too if you need to! Events they do nightly are fun and good to socialise!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great wee Hostel near the Castle!

Super friendly staff, big common room if you’re more social but little ones if you want peace too! Free tea/coffee/hot choc - though milk did seem to be lacking especially if you don’t drink cow milk. No lifts etc so poss a struggle for some - not an issue for me but worth noting I thought. They have activities and a cheap breakfast, it’s limited but what do you expect for £2.50. Location is good for old town, easy to walk round the city and beds were comfy enough! I will definitely stay here again when I’m visiting Edinburgh.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Stay Away - Stinks!

Awful. Sheets were itchy, urine smell throughout, no way to plug up hairdryer in bathroom, people were rude and I did not appreciate the smugness of the attendant at check out. Low water pressure, place was freezing, hardly any heat in the rooms and washrooms. They left the windows open to mask the urine smell!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sophie

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

8/10 Good

Tsui Hung

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very good location 👍
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

NATALY

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The hostel is pretty comfortable , clean and well-located. A great option to choose
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

8/10 Good

Julie

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cori Kathleen

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

A Must Stay

An amazing place with amazing view, and an amazing staff who were so very friendly and accomodating.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Rosa María Vargas

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I noticed the staff was awesome but also they look a bit tired. They have large work journeys doing all kinds of work (cleaning, check-in, etc.). Toilets and showers need deep cleaning. The smell in dorts is not nice, maybe changing the carpet is strongly necessary.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

4/10 Poor

Dana

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Review

Positives: One min walk from the castle, clean room. Negatives: No toiletries, £2 charge for a towel, expensive on street parking, tiny room, dated furnishings, tacky decorating.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022