City Observatory, 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA,
-
Near Calton Hill
Great
8.7
/10
Highly rated by Joivy Observatory House & Apartment guests
Really good decoration
Beautiful views
Clean house
Comfortable beds
"Exceptional decoration and very beautiful view from every window of the house."
Wei from China
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"The location was great, and the bathtub view superb."
Megan from Canada
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"House was amazing. Clean and comfortable."
Sarah from United States
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"The house is at a strategic point (and there is a reason for this)."
Robson from United Kingdom
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"Amazing location and amazing accomodation"
Vandepeear from United Kingdom
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Rooms: Options & Art
Joivy Observatory House & Apartment offers three accommodation options. Observatory House is a large self-catering property spanning two floors and sleeps 4. Observatory Apartment is a compact self-catering apartment on the lower ground floor and sleeps 2. The House and Apartment combined provide accommodation for a larger party or family and sleeps 8. Every floor features an original artwork commissioned by Collective from artists including Rachel Adams, Thomas Aitchison, Rabiya Choudhry, and Christian Newby. The apartment has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. The holiday home also consists of 2 bedrooms, a seating area and 2 bathrooms with a bath and a shower. Each unit also has a kitchen equipped with a fridge, an oven, and a dishwasher.
Dining: In-House
Observatory House includes a fully-equipped kitchen and a dining room. The kitchen's forms and layout mirror the iconic National Monument, known locally as 'Edinburgh's Disgrace,' and was designed and built by artist and cabinetmaker Thomas Aitchison. Some kitchens are equipped with a stovetop and cookware/kitchen utensils. An electric kettle is also available.
Leisure: City Views
Located on Calton Hill, Observatory House provides views on all sides. The location offers proximity to city center attractions and the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views. Rachel Adams created a tie-dye ceiling work and bespoke lighting inspired by Begonias for the Astronomers Suite. Christian Newby created a hand-painted series of wall paintings, featuring bored harlequins, with wilting fruit and flowers.
Location: Edinburgh's New Town
Joivy Observatory House & Apartment is located in New Town, initially built in response to the deterioration of the medieval Old Town in the 18th century. Steps lead up the Hill from Waterloo Place and Royal Terrace. Landmarks nearby include The Real Mary King's Close (0.5 km), Calton Hill (1 km), and the Scottish National Gallery (1 km). Waverley station is a few minutes away. Regular buses stop on Waterloo Place and Royal Terrace.
Services: Art and History
Observatory House offers a unique retreat on top of Calton Hill, a short walk from the centre of Edinburgh. It provides a quiet haven within walking distance of the bright lights. Collective, established in 1984, supports new work by artists. Rabiya Choudhry created a new wallpaper design inspired by the history of stargazing. The holiday home provides a washing machine, a dining area, and a TV with cable channels, as well as sea views. Ironing facilities and a sitting area are available.
Must-do experiences
Walk up Calton Hill for stunning views of the city and monuments.
Visit the Royal Botanic Garden for a peaceful escape from the hustle.
Try the haggis, neeps, and tatties at The Witchery by the Castle.
Explore the hidden Dean Village for picturesque scenery and charm.
Discover local crafts at the Grassmarket, especially on weekends.
Choose your room type
Joivy Observatory House & Apartment — double rooms, family rooms, and suites. Breakfast options and free cancellation available on selected rates
One-Bedroom Apartment
2 persons
650 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Two-Bedroom House
2 persons
2050 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Hotel Price Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates
Facilities
What's included at Joivy Observatory House & Apartment — facilities and services available during your stay
Facilities: Perfect
9.3/10Review score
General
Non-smoking rooms
Wi-Fi
No pets allowed
Room features
Sitting area
Dining table
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Washing machine
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
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Joivy Observatory House & Apartment Location
City Observatory, 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA,
Map view
City landmarks
Museum
Edinburgh Castle
4800 ft
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
3400 ft
Landmark
Arthur's Seat hike
1.3 mi
Palace
Palace of Holyroodhouse
2300 ft
Gallery
Scottish National Gallery
4300 ft
Landmark
Royal Mile
3200 ft
Landmark
The Real Mary King's Close
2500 ft
Museum
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
3500 ft
Landmark
Calton Hill
3200 ft
Park
Princes Street Gardens
1.1 mi
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
2700 ft
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
2500 ft
Landmark
Nelson Monument
3300 ft
Monument
Scott Monument
3600 ft
Museum
The Writers' Museum
3200 ft
Park
Holyrood Park
3100 ft
Museum
Gladstone's Land
3200 ft
Landmark
Surgeons' Hall Museums
2500 ft
Botanical Garden
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1.5 mi
Landmark
Brass Rubbing Centre
2000 ft
Church
Mercat Cross
2200 ft
Gallery
City Art Centre
2300 ft
Landmark
Princes Street
3800 ft
Landmark
Royal Yacht Britannia
1.9 mi
Landmark
The Scotch Whisky Experience
3700 ft
Landmark
Sherlock Holmes Statue
3900 ft
Nearby
Museum
Dynamic Earth
1700 ft
Museum
Museum of Childhood
1400 ft
Museum
John Knox House
1400 ft
Public Building
The Scottish Parliament
1800 ft
Restaurants
Howies Waterloo
700 ft
29 Waterloo Place East end of Princes Street
The Lookout by The Gardener's Cottage
400 ft
Carlton Hill
Howies Restaurant
800 ft
10-14 Victoria St
COSMO Edinburgh
2000 ft
Omni centre
Slug & Lettuce
1800 ft
Omini Centre
Tony Macaroni
1800 ft
Omni Centre
Deli Fresco
1200 ft
41 Leith Street
The Playfair
1900 ft
Omni Centre Leith Walk
Cosmo
2100 ft
Restaurant
Explore Edinburgh
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Palace of Holyroodhouse
9 minutes' walk
Official residence of the monarch in Scotland, featuring stunning gardens and rich history. Guided tours available.
Dynamic Earth
6 minutes' walk
Interactive science museum exploring Earth's past and future. Unique exhibits and activities perfect for families.
National Museum of Scotland
13 minutes' walk
A treasure trove of Scottish history, art, and culture. Free admission with various exhibits and activities.
Arthur's Seat hike
25 minutes' walk
Iconic hill offering panoramic views of Edinburgh. A great outdoor adventure for all hiking levels.
Hiking at Arthur's Seat
25 minutes' walk
Challenging hike with rewarding views over the city. Great for thrill-seekers; access via well-marked trails.
Mindfulness Yoga Class
10 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions offered nearby. Perfect way to destress; classes available for all skill levels.
Howies Waterloo
3 minutes' walk
Casual eatery serving local Scottish dishes. Known for haggis and seasonal ingredients; reservations recommended.
The Lookout by The Gardener's Cottage
2 minutes' walk
Chic dining experience with stunning views. Focus on fresh, seasonal fare; ideal for couples seeking a special meal.
COSMO Edinburgh
8 minutes' walk
International buffet dining with diverse cuisines. Casual atmosphere perfect for families; booking advisable.
The Usher Hall
17 minutes' walk
Renowned music venue hosting concerts and events. Offers a mix of genres; check schedule for family-friendly shows.
The Stand Comedy Club
10 minutes' walk
Local comedy venue featuring nightly performances. A fun spot for a laid-back night; check for all-ages shows.
Getting around
City Centre
Edinburgh 8 min · 2000 ft
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI) 22 min · 8.8 mi
Glasgow (GLA) 134 min · 55.3 mi
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station 5 min · 1400 ft
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 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
until 11 am
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire villa for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Former name
altido observatory house
Guest Reviews and Ratings
What guests said after staying at Joivy Observatory House & Apartment
Cleanliness
8.7/10
Comfort
9.5/10
Facilities
9.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
8.8/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Strategic location
Really good decoration
Beautiful views
Unique location
Cons
Difficult access
Uncomfortable bed
No privacy
Dark area
Guest reviews
based on 31 reviews
8.7/10
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.