Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood
Tucked at the foot of the Royal Mile, just a short stroll from the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the rugged slopes of Arthur’s Seat, the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood blends sleek contemporary design, Marriott standards and great hospitality in Scotland’s capital. Following a major multi-million-pound renovation, this property has emerged as one of Edinburgh’s most stylish four-star hotels—offering elegance, comfort, and a fantastic location for exploring Edinburgh on foot, which I did in an October visit to the city, and my second time in total to visit Edinburgh.
After arriving in Edinburgh late, I walked to the hotel and received a friendly welcome before arriving in my room. Welcome amenities and a welcome card from the general manager, Ronald Little, were a very nice addition to an already very impressive room. It had a comfortable bed, a large sitting area and a great bathroom with a great walk-in rainfall shower. The room also had a 55-inch smart TV, air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi and wooden floors. It had the comfort you would expect from a Marriott, but the location, room and service made it one of the best Marriott hotels I have stayed at in recent years.
Location
Located about a 15-minute walk from Waverley Station, Holyrood Road has long been one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric streets, where cobblestone lanes give way to grand Georgian architecture and centuries of history unfold at every corner. The hotel’s position is great, where you are within minutes of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament, and Holyrood Park, where locals and visitors alike can hike up Arthur’s Seat for sweeping views of the city.
Design and Service
After its extensive refurbishment, the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood looks like a newer hotel. The lobby, known as the “Greatroom,” sets the tone with polished oak floors, warm lighting, and plush seating. The overall atmosphere is relaxed but upscale.
The hotel is ideal for both business travellers and leisure travellers due to its standards and location. The service at the hotel impressed me. The staff were really helpful during my stay. I got a room aired out for better indoor air quality, and a friendly evening receptionist helped me with a few requests one of the evenings I stayed at the hotel. You, of course, can expect that from Marriott, but the service you receive and the way you receive it matter, and it was impressive and nice to experience.
Some guest have access to their M Club Lounge, which offers a private breakfast, snacks, and evening drinks in a tranquil setting.
Dining at Arti & Alba
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Arti & Alba, offers a menu inspired by Scottish and Italian flavours, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes like hand-rolled pasta with smoked salmon or Aberdeen Angus rib-eye are served alongside creative vegetarian options. The restaurant’s design echoes the hotel’s broader aesthetic—modern, inviting, and unpretentious.
Breakfast is served close to the lobby with a wide buffet selection of pastries, fruits, cereals, and cooked items. For something lighter, the Greatroom Bar offers barista coffee and small plates throughout the day. Guests who prefer exploring will find plenty of eateries nearby, from cosy pubs to Michelin-recommended fine dining spots.
Wellness and Leisure
One of the hotel’s biggest draws is its fully refurbished Holyrood Spa. The 14-meter heated indoor pool, sauna, and gym provide a welcome escape after a day of sightseeing. The spa also offers a curated list of treatments—from deep-tissue massages to facials.
For fitness enthusiasts, the gym features new equipment and plenty of natural light. Guests who prefer outdoor activity might like that Holyrood Park begins almost at the hotel’s doorstep.
Meetings and Events
With several adaptable meeting spaces, the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel, Holyrood caters well to business travellers and event organisers. Whether it’s a corporate workshop, private dinner, or intimate wedding, the hotel can be contacted for more information.
A Great Marriott Hotel
The Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood strikes a beautiful balance between modern comfort and historic ambience. Its location offers convenience, while the new design and spa facilities elevate it far above a typical city-centre hotel. The service, comfort of the room and the location makes it a great hotel to recommend for travellers seeking a comfortable base in the Scottish capital.
