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From190US$ /night
Check-in
04Jan2026Select date
Check-out
05Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
-
Near Arthur's Seat hike
Great
8.9
9.4
/10
4.1
4.8
/5

The Scholar is a newly refurbished 4-star hotel located in the beautiful grounds of the Pollock Estate in Edinburgh's vibrant Southside, within walking distance of all the city's world-famous landmarks.

Luxury Room Comforts

All rooms at The Scholar include TVs with Freeview channels, award-winning Novus tea, OPAL capsule coffee machines, and desks with ample work space. Each room features Elite mattresses and quality linen, with large bathrooms offering rainfall showers and Laura Thomas toiletries.

Scottish Dining Experience

The hotel's contemporary restaurant, bar and garden dining area proudly serve breakfast, lunch and dinner made with locally-sourced Scottish ingredients. The Brasserie offers tasty menus allowing guests to sample Edinburgh's excellent food scene without leaving the hotel.

Practical Guest Amenities

The Scholar provides a 24-hour reception, free parking with electric vehicle charging points, and access to Just Eat Cycles city hire bikes. Guests can enjoy the Royal Commonwealth Pool next door, offering gym, swim, and leisure facilities accessible for a drop-in fee.

Prime Edinburgh Location

Located at the foot of Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat, the hotel sits in Newington, an affluent residential area buzzing with small restaurants, bars, and independent shops. The property is just 1.9 km from Edinburgh Waverley station and a short walk to the Royal Mile and major attractions.

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden for a peaceful retreat.
  • Taste haggis at The Scotch Whisky Experience for local flavor.
  • Visit the hidden gems at Dean Village for stunning riverside views.
  • Explore the Scottish National Gallery for world-class art.
  • Check out the Grassmarket for lively atmosphere and unique shops.
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Twin Room
2 persons
25 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Single Room
2 persons
10 m² 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
25 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Family Room
2 persons
25 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Off-site car park
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Scholar offers an inviting culinary experience, blending Scottish flavors with modern dining aesthetics. With options that range from casual family-friendly dining to elegant private settings, each space promises a feast for both the eyes and the palate in a warm atmosphere.
The Scholar Hotel Edinburgh Restaurant photo
The Scholar Hotel Edinburgh Restaurant photo
The Scholar Hotel Edinburgh Restaurant photo

The Brasserie at The Scholar

Scottish cuisine
Ambiance
Family-friendly, modern setting with a contemporary feel
Key Offerings
An informal evening Ă  la carte menu showcasing the finest Scottish ingredients and flavors.
Reservation
Recommended
Dinner from 18:00 - 21:30 daily; breakfast information not specified.

Masson Lounge

Casual dining with drinks
Ambiance
Informal lounge atmosphere adjacent to The Scholar
Key Offerings
A selection of drinks and light food options available daily, perfect for relaxing afternoons or pre-dinner gatherings.
Reservation
Not necessary
Open from 14:00 daily; dinner information includes Masson Bistro.

Masson Bistro

Scottish cuisine
Ambiance
Cozy bistro environment with traditional decor
Key Offerings
Serves a Full Scottish breakfast and dinner, featuring local delights and comfort food.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast and dinner service; specific hours not listed.

The Mansion House

Private dining and meeting space
Ambiance
Elegant with original features, ideal for special occasions
Key Offerings
A variety of meeting and private dining rooms equipped for intimate gatherings or larger events.
Reservation
Required for private events
Hours not specified; catering to private events.

Location

18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Map view
18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Nearby
Holyrood Park Education Centre 1 Queen's Drive Holyrood Park
St Anthony's Chapel
250 m
Restaurants
The Salisbury Arms
370 m
58 Dalkeith Road
Salisbury Green Bistro
170 m
St. Leonards Hall 18 Holyrood Park Road Salisbury Green Hotel
Voujon
700 m
107 Newington Road
Savannah Wine Bar & Bistro
630 m
43-45 Salisbury Road Side entrance of the Hotel
Verdo BBQ Restaurant
740 m
21 Newington Road
Apiary Restaurant
760 m
33 Newington Road
Ristorante Isola
730 m
85-87 Newington Road
Southpour
690 m
1-5 Newington Road Newington
Blonde Restaurant
780 m
71-75 St. Leonard's St
Kismot
850 m
29 St. Leonards Street
Annakut Restaurant
720 m
13 Newington Road
Macau Kitchen
730 m
93 St. Leonards Street
Explore Edinburgh
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Arthur's Seat
15 minutes' walk
A dormant volcano with stunning views of Edinburgh. Popular for hiking and photography, offering a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse
25 minutes' walk
Official residence of the Monarch in Scotland. Rich in history, it features beautiful gardens and royal architecture.
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
20 minutes' walk
A varied collection highlighting Scottish history, culture, and natural history. Interesting exhibitions and free admission.
Dynamic Earth
Dynamic Earth
20 minutes' walk
An interactive science museum exploring Earth's history and climate change. Engaging for families and education-minded visitors.
Hiking at Holyrood Park
20 minutes' walk
Beautiful park with trails and scenic views. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Yoga Classes at The Yoga Room
15 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions suitable for all ages and levels. A fantastic way to unwind while on vacation or business trips.
Edinburgh Bike Tours
25 minutes' walk
Guided bike tours showcasing the city's best spots. Great for thrill-seekers looking to explore Edinburgh on two wheels.
Salisbury Green Bistro
Salisbury Green Bistro
2 minutes' walk
Offers seasonal dishes with local ingredients. Casual atmosphere with a focus on sustainability and fresh flavors.
The Salisbury Arms
The Salisbury Arms
5 minutes' walk
Traditional Scottish pub with cozy vibes. Signature haggis and a variety of ales make it a local favorite.
Voujon
Voujon
9 minutes' walk
Authentic Indian cuisine in a warm setting. Known for flavorsome curries and vegetarian-friendly options.
The Stand Comedy Club
10 minutes' drive
Popular spot for stand-up comedy. Regular shows feature both local talents and internationally known comedians.
Cameo Cinema
10 minutes' drive
Historic cinema showcasing independent films and classics. Unique atmosphere perfect for movie lovers of all ages.
The Queen's Hall
10 minutes' drive
Concert hall featuring a variety of performances. Notable for its acoustics and diverse programming, catering to all musical tastes.
Getting around
City Centre
Edinburgh21 min  ·  1.7 km
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)24 min  ·  15.4 km
Dundee Airport (DND)148 min  ·  98.3 km
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station23 min  ·  1.9 km
Bus
Bus stop10 min  ·  800 m

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
8.9
8.9/10 based on 3254 reviews
Duncan
United Kingdom, February  2025
7.8/10

During my recent two-day visit to Edinburgh, I stayed at Masson House and found it to be a solid choice for those seeking good value. The rooms were simple yet functional, providing adequate comfort for a restful stay. One standout aspect was the breakfast, which offered a great variety, particularly the cooked items. However, the overall decor could use a bit more character. The location also requires a bit of walking to reach the city center, but it wasn't a huge issue for me.

Rooms
7.0
The rooms were basic but provided satisfactory storage and included essential amenities like a flat-screen TV and a safe.
Service
8.0
The service was prompt and friendly, with staff eager to assist with local tips and guidance.
Location
7.0
The hotel is situated just south of the city center, requiring a 20-30 minute walk, but also has a bus stop nearby for better accessibility.
Dining
9.0
The breakfast was impressive with a wide selection of cold items and delicious hot options, making it a highlight of my stay.
Facilities
8.0
Facilities included a kitchenette on each floor for convenience, adding to the overall utility of the stay.
Lily
United Kingdom, January  2025
8.0/10

The stay at Salisbury Green was pleasant overall, with modern and comfortable rooms set within a charming building. The breakfast options were fantastic, offering a wide variety of choices. However, the lack of a lift made it a bit of a hassle to carry luggage to the upper floors, and noise from adjacent rooms disrupted my sleep at times. Despite these drawbacks, the location is convenient for exploring nearby attractions.

Rooms
7.0
The rooms were modern and comfortable, though carrying luggage up the steep stairs was challenging.
Service
9.0
The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay, making the experience enjoyable.
Location
8.0
The hotel is well-placed for walking to attractions and offers easy access to public transport.
Dining
9.0
Breakfast was excellent, featuring a wide range of cold and hot options that catered to various tastes.
Facilities
7.0
Although there are no lifts, the scenic grounds and shared spaces were well-kept and inviting.
Eileen
United Kingdom, January  2025
9.6/10

I had an amazing stay at Masson House! The staff went above and beyond, making my birthday celebration truly special. The room was upgraded to a lovely deluxe with fantastic facilities, and I really enjoyed the delicious breakfast options. However, I'd say the overall dining room experience could get quite busy during peak times, but that didn't take away from my wonderful time there.

Rooms
10.0
My room was upgraded to a deluxe room with a comfortable bed and great facilities. It was a wonderful space to relax in.
Service
10.0
The service was exceptional throughout my stay, from the check-in to the breakfast staff who treated us so well. Everyone was attentive and made me feel valued.
Location
9.0
Masson House is located within a scenic university campus, making it a unique and peaceful place to stay while still being accessible to the city.
Dining
9.0
The dining experience was a highlight, featuring a vast selection of delicious options for breakfast, though it did get busy at times.
Facilities
10.0
The hotel had great facilities, perfectly blending modern comfort with the charm of its historical setting.
Exceptional staff service
Busy dining area
Nicholas
United Kingdom, December  2024
7.4/10

This hotel has a beautiful facade and is well-equipped, but the service can be inconsistent, especially with room changes and requests. The location is excellent for those wanting to explore Edinburgh while enjoying a quieter atmosphere. The breakfast experience is a highlight, showcasing a generous variety, but some amenities might need better attention.

Rooms
7.0
The rooms were spacious and nicely updated, but we had an issue with the configuration of our beds. The modern bathroom was enjoyable but lacked a few small details.
Service
6.0
Service at breakfast was exceptional, but getting requests like more pillows was frustrating due to delays. Staff seemed unable to assist with some technical issues.
Location
8.0
The hotel is situated in a peaceful area close to local bus services, making it easy to get to the city center and attractions like Holyrood Park.
Dining
9.0
Breakfast was fantastic, with plenty of options-both cooked and cold offerings. It was a pleasure to start the day with such variety.
Facilities
7.0
Facilities included well-maintained common areas, but the TV setup could be improved for guest convenience.
Logan
United Kingdom, November  2024
7.2/10

The hotel offers a unique experience on a university campus, providing clean and straightforward accommodations with fantastic breakfast options. While the staff were mostly friendly and attentive, the rooms could use improvement in comfort and heating. Overall, it's a good option for those looking for budget-friendly stays in Edinburgh, though noise from neighboring rooms can be an issue.

Rooms
5.0
The rooms were small and basic, lacking in comfort, and the heating didn't work properly, leaving it cold at night.
Service
7.0
The staff were friendly and helpful, but one receptionist seemed inexperienced during our check-in.
Location
8.0
Located within the university campus, it has good access to public transport and is a short walk to the city center.
Dining
9.0
The breakfast was a standout, with an amazing buffet and the option to order hot items cooked to order.
Facilities
7.0
Facilities included a cozy lounge area and a free DVD rental service, which were nice touches.
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel The Scholar provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
84
Former name
Salisbury Green Hotel & Bistro
FAQs
About The Scholar
What time is check-in and check-out at The Scholar?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is The Scholar from Edinburgh Castle?
The Scholar is approximately 1 km from Edinburgh Castle.
Is parking available at The Scholar?
The Scholar offers free on-site parking, including electric vehicle charging points.
What dining options are available on-site at The Scholar?
Dining options include the contemporary restaurant serving Scottish cuisine and a lounge bar.
What type of amenities can guests expect in their rooms at The Scholar?
Rooms at The Scholar include a flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, kettle, and premium toiletries.
What nearby restaurants can guests find when staying at The Scholar?
Nearby restaurants include Clambers, Sofia's, and On A Roll, all located within 0.5 km.
Does The Scholar accommodate pets?
The Scholar allows pets upon request, with charges applicable.
Is there a gym available for guests at The Scholar?
Guests have access to a gym area at The Scholar.
How long does it take to reach Edinburgh Airport from The Scholar?
Edinburgh Airport is approximately a 27-minute drive from The Scholar.
What are the options for breakfast at The Scholar?
Breakfast is available at The Scholar for an additional charge of 16 GBP.
Can guests enjoy outdoor spaces at The Scholar?
The Scholar features a garden terrace for guests to relax in.
What activities are offered at The Scholar?
Guests can enjoy bicycle rental and access to a golf course while staying at The Scholar.
What services does The Scholar provide for business travelers?
The Scholar offers facilities suitable for business meetings and conferences.

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