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A&O Edinburgh City Exterior photoA&O Edinburgh City Macro Details photoA&O Edinburgh City Exterior photo

A&O EDINBURGH CITY, Edinburgh

•
6.9|Nice
Check rooms and rates
From$192 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
10Nov
Check-out
11Nov
Guests
2 Guests

About the Hotel

50 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1NE-
Close to the Royal Mile

Key Highlights

Located within 150 metres of the Royal Mile and a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station, placing most city attractions within a 10-minute walk.

On-site Bar50 offers a vibrant atmosphere with karaoke, live music, pool tables, and pub quizzes, and is popular with locals and backpackers.

All rooms include a private bathroom with shower and toilet.

Lively, social environment with a strong nightlife focus, including a courtyard bar, evening entertainment, and a shared lounge.

Free Wi-Fi throughout the property and a 24-hour reception.

Hotel Details

Location

Less than 150 metres from the Royal Mile and a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station, this hostel sits in the heart of the Old Town.
The hostel is situated on a street parallel to the Royal Mile, placing Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland within a short walk. Waverley Station is about 10 minutes away on foot, offering direct rail links from the airport via tram and from other UK cities. Numerous bars, restaurants, and convenience stores are within a three-minute walk, including David Bann, Larder Go, and several pubs. The surrounding area is very walkable, and no car is needed to explore the city centre. For airport access, the Airlink 100 bus stops nearby, and the tram from the airport connects at the station.

Dining

A continental breakfast buffet is available for an additional charge, and the on-site Bar50 serves pub food, snacks, and a wide range of drinks.
Breakfast is a continental buffet costing around 10 GBP per person, with options including bread, pastries, cereals, fruit, and hot drinks. It is generally described as basic, and the variety can be limited. The on-site Bar50 is a full pub with a terrace, offering pub meals, a snack bar, kids' meals, special diet menus, and a coffee house on site. There is no separate restaurant, so hot meals are limited to the bar menu. Several restaurants are within a three-minute walk, including David Bann (vegetarian), and many other cuisines.

Wellness and Leisure

The hostel itself has no fitness or spa facilities, but the on-site bar and courtyard offer extensive social entertainment.
Leisure options are focused entirely on the social area. Bar50 has pool tables, karaoke, live music and sports broadcasts, pub quizzes, and a courtyard with outdoor furniture and a picnic area. Walking tours, stand-up comedy nights, and pub crawls are organised. There is no gym, spa, or swimming pool. The shared lounge/TV area provides a quieter space. This is not a property for relaxation-focused stays, but it is well-suited for guests who want entertainment and meeting others on-site.

Facilities and Services

24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, free luggage storage, and a range of services for a practical city stay.
The 24-hour front desk offers private check-in/out, a tour desk, an ATM on site, and lockers for storing valuables. Free luggage storage is available all day, useful before check-in or after check-out. Free Wi-Fi is accessible in all areas. A shared kitchen is available for guests who want to self-cater. Laundry is offered at an additional charge, accessible via an app. Business facilities include fax/photocopying and meeting/banquet rooms for a fee. The building has lift access, though the lifts can be unreliable. Cots and baby pushchairs can be requested, and strollers are allowed. Accessibility features include facilities for disabled guests. The property is non-smoking throughout. Payment is accepted by Visa, Maestro, and MasterCard.
Highly rated by guestsof A&O Edinburgh City
Central locationPrivate showerFree luggage storageLively barSeparate bathroom
  • Dining

    Breakfast Bliss

    “The breakfast was really good and items were regularly topped up. A great start to the day!”

    Janek from Poland
    Review on
  • Bedroom

    Comfy beds

    “Each bed had its own curtains and power socket. The beds were comfortable enough for a good night's sleep.”

    Naomi from Canada
    Review on
  • Media & Entertainment

    Bar's Karaoke

    “The bar has quizzes and karaoke. I loved the atmosphere, it made my solo trip exciting!”

    Himanshi from India
    Review on

Most popular facilities

at A&O Edinburgh City
Wi-Fi
Luggage storage
24-hour services
Food/ Drinks
Laundry
TV

Top Strategic Tips

  • 01

    Request a room on an upper floor or one facing away from the inner courtyard if you are sensitive to noise, as the on-site bar and courtyard are lively until late.

  • 02

    Use the free luggage storage if you arrive before check-in or have a late departure, freeing you to explore the city centre on foot.

  • 03

    Confirm your booking includes a private room if you prefer a double bed, as some twin rooms are bunk beds and may not match the photos.

  • 04

    Plan to arrive with your own entertainment or earplugs for a reliable night's sleep, as rooms lack air conditioning, have basic mattresses, and noise from the bar and street can be significant.

Choose your room type

A&O Edinburgh City — double rooms, family rooms, and suites. Breakfast options and free cancellation available on selected rates
  • Bed 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    2 persons
    155 sq. feet
    1 Bunk bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Bed 6-Bed Dormitory Room
    2 persons
    175 sq. feet
    1 Bunk bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Bed 8-Bed Dormitory Room
    2 persons
    195 sq. feet
    1 Bunk bed
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

Hotel Price Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates

Facilities

What's included at A&O Edinburgh City — facilities and services available during your stay
Facilities: Very good
7.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Security
  • Locker room
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Coffee shop
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Billiard tables

Guest Parking

  • No parking available.

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Baby pushchair
  • Children's buffet

Spa & Leisure

  • Karaoke
  • Live entertainment
  • Night club
  • Sun terrace
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
Show more

A&O Edinburgh City Location

50 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1NE
Map view
Nearby
2 Warriston's Close
The Real Mary King's Close
1300 ft
High St.
Royal Mile
1300 ft
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
1300 ft
Monument
Scott Monument
1300 ft
Museum
Museum of Childhood
1300 ft
32 Calton Hill
Nelson Monument
1400 ft
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
1300 ft
Theatre
Festival Theatre
1300 ft
Museum
The Writers' Museum
1300 ft
Nicolson Street
Surgeons' Hall Museum
1300 ft
Museum
Gladstone's Land
1300 ft
Public Building
The Scottish Parliament
1400 ft
Gallery
City Art Centre
1300 ft
Museum
John Knox House
1300 ft
43-45 High Street
Scottish Storytelling Centre
1400 ft
2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)
Brass Rubbing Centre
1300 ft
Restaurants
Bar 50
400 ft
50 Blackfriars Street
Zara Fast Foods Pizza & Burger House
100 ft
56 Blackfriars Street Old Town
The Piemaker
1000 ft
38 South Bridge
Pilgrim Bar
300 ft
Cowgate
Greggs
400 ft
85/87 Rose Street
Burrito 'n' Shake
1100 ft
97-99 South Bridge
The Tron
900 ft
9 Hunter Square
Yocoko Noodle Bar
900 ft
45 South Bridge
Zenobia
1000 ft
14A South Bridge
Forsyth's Tea Room
600 ft
81 High Street Chalmers Close
Caffe Nero
800 ft
4 Waverley Bridge Road Unit 2-4 Waverley Station
Explore Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh's Surroundings
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
National Museum of Scotland
5 minutes' walk
Showcasing Scottish history and culture, the museum offers free entry and guided tours that explore its extensive exhibitions.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
17 minutes' walk
Iconic fortress with panoramic views of the city, featuring historical displays and the Honours of Scotland. A must-see for history buffs.
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
5 minutes' walk
Historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with shops, restaurants, and landmarks. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse
14 minutes' walk
Official residence of the Queen in Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens and rich royal history. Check for special exhibits and tours.
Arthur's Seat Hike
25 minutes' walk
A thrilling hike to an ancient volcano with stunning views. Accessible via public paths; great for fitness enthusiasts.
The Meadows
18 minutes' walk
Relaxing park perfect for picnics, jogging, or just unwinding. Well-maintained paths and open spaces for all to enjoy.
Bar 50
Bar 50
2 minutes' walk
Casual bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and a great selection of local beers. Popular for its sharing platters and burgers.
The Piemaker
The Piemaker
4 minutes' walk
Famous for traditional Scottish pies, this cozy eatery offers a variety of fillings. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
Scott Monument
Scott Monument
5 minutes' walk
A Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, featuring an observation tower and art exhibitions in the vicinity.
Pilgrim Bar
1 minute' walk
Chill bar with live music and a laid-back vibe, offering local ales and cocktails. Great spot for evenings with friends.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Edinburgh 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Airports
    Edinburgh (EDI) 21 min  ·  8.5 mi
    Glasgow (GLA) 133 min  ·  54.9 mi
  • Train
    Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station 5 min  ·  1400 ft
  • Bus
    Bus stop 5 min  ·  1400 ft
Book early and pay less
See available rates for your dates
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
from 02:00-10:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 10.0 per person.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Hungarian, Polish, Greek, Russian, Slovak
Year renovated:
2010
Number of floors:
6
Number of rooms:
540
Former name
Safestay Edinburgh

Guest Reviews and Ratings

What guests said after staying at A&O Edinburgh City
Cleanliness
7.1/10
Comfort
7.1/10
Facilities
7.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.1/10
Location
9.1/10
Staff
8.1/10
Value for money
7.0/10
Pros
Great location
Friendly staff
Good bar
Cons
Dirty carpets
Noisy place
Stuffy bedroom
Guest reviews
based on 6107 reviews
6.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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