Balmore Guest House Edinburgh * Castle Walk & Breakfast

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Balmore Guest House Edinburgh Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

34, Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH3 9NQ

Near Edinburgh Castle

Very good

7.3

/10

1.0

2.6

Loved by Balmore Guest House guests

Helpful staff
Spacious rooms
Good location
Comfortable beds
Fast check-in

"Car park, I find it in good times otherwise not easy to park closer to accommodation."

Wahdat from United Kingdom

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"The interior looks nice, with a touch of vintage style."

Supasana from Thailand

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"Bathroom was immaculate, looked like it had been recently refurbished which was great."

Garry F from United Kingdom

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3-Star Family-Run Victorian Guest House in Central Edinburgh

Amenities

Balmore Guest House offers an inclusive breakfast served in a conservatory setting. Guests can enjoy beautiful walks along the nearby Union Canal, which also features waterside restaurants. The guest house provides allergy-free rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

Rooms

The hotel features various accommodation options, including single, double, twin, family, triple, and quadruple rooms. All rooms come with linen and a wardrobe or closet for added convenience. Guests may also stay at the neighboring Bowmore property, where very modern en suite rooms are available.

Location

Balmore Guest House is conveniently located within a 20-minute walk from both Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street. The hotel is also a short distance from other attractions like the Edinburgh Playhouse and the Palace of Holyrood House. Guests can access public transportation easily, with bus services running frequently.

Dining

The hotel serves a complimentary breakfast, allowing guests to start their day on a satisfying note. The nearby Union Canal provides additional dining options with its selection of waterside restaurants. Guests can opt for breakfast to go, catering to those with busy schedules.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Balmore Guest House offers various room configurations suitable for families traveling together. The hotel's inclusive breakfast caters to all ages, ensuring a satisfying start for both parents and children. With a non-smoking policy throughout the property, families can enjoy a healthy environment.

Highlights

Location: 20-minute walk to Edinburgh Castle

Rooms: Single, double, twin, family, triple, quadruple

Dining: Inclusive breakfast served in the conservatory

Nearby Attractions: Close to Union Canal and waterside restaurants

Must-do experiences

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden for stunning landscapes.
Savor a haggis dish at the popular Deacon Brodie's Tavern.
Visit the Scottish National Gallery for iconic art collections.
Explore the vibrant stalls at Stockbridge Sunday Market.
Discover the hidden gems of Mary King's Close on an underground tour.

View all

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Single Room En Suite

2 persons

110 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room Ensuite

2 persons

175 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Twin Room en suite

2 persons

175 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room Private External Bathroom

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Very good

7.2/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Housekeeping
Tours/Ticket assistance

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Balmore Guest House Location

34, Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH3 9NQ

Map view

34, Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH3 9NQ

City landmarks

Museum

Edinburgh Castle

4900 ft

Museum

National Museum of Scotland

5200 ft

Landmark

Arthur's Seat hike

1.8 mi

Landmark

Royal Mile

4700 ft

Landmark

The Real Mary King's Close

1.1 mi

Park

Princes Street Gardens

4800 ft

Museum

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

4300 ft

Gallery

Scottish National Gallery

1.0 mi

Palace

Palace of Holyroodhouse

1.5 mi

Store

Edinburgh Old Town

1.1 mi

Church

St Giles' Cathedral

1.1 mi

Landmark

Calton Hill

1.3 mi

Botanical Garden

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

1.6 mi

Landmark

Princes Street

1.1 mi

Monument

Scott Monument

1.3 mi

Landmark

The Scotch Whisky Experience

4400 ft

Gallery

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One

1.2 mi

Museum

The Writers' Museum

5000 ft

Cemetery

The Robertson Mausoleum

4700 ft

Museum

Gladstone's Land

4900 ft

Landmark

Surgeons' Hall Museums

1.1 mi

Square

Grassmarket

3500 ft

Museum

Dynamic Earth

1.4 mi

Stadium

BT Murrayfield Stadium

1.3 mi

Art object

Greyfriars Bobby's Grave

4800 ft

Event hall

Edinburgh International Conference Centre

2600 ft

Park

Holyrood Park

1.6 mi

Landmark

Nelson Monument

1.3 mi

Museum

Georgian House

5100 ft

Museum

The Museum of the Royal Scots and the Royal Regiment of Scotland

5200 ft

Nearby

Museum

The Museum of the Royal Scots and the Royal Regiment of Scotland

2800 ft

Square

Grassmarket

3500 ft

Event hall

Edinburgh International Conference Centre

2600 ft

74 Lauriston Place

Edinburgh College of Art

2900 ft

Church

The Parish Church of St Cuthbert

3900 ft

Restaurants

Burger

1600 ft

94A Fountainbridge

The Treehouse

1300 ft

44 Leven Street

Khartoum Cafe

1300 ft

6 Gillespie Place

La Barantine

1300 ft

10 Bruntsfield Place

Taquito

1100 ft

32 Home Street

Efes

1200 ft

42 Leven Street

The Kings Pantry

900 ft

67 Home Street

Lupe Pintos

1200 ft

24 Leven Street

Magma Cafe

900 ft

67 Home Street

The Cameo Bar

1100 ft

The Cameo Picturehouse 38 Home Street

Explore Edinburgh

Local Highlights Near Balmore Guest House

Edinburgh Castle

18 minutes' walk

Historical fortress with stunning views and exhibits showcasing Scotland's royal history. Guided tours available daily.

National Museum of Scotland

19 minutes' walk

Extensive displays on Scottish history, culture, and nature in a stunning Victorian and modern building. Free admission!

The Real Mary King's Close

20 minutes' walk

Underground tour of Edinburgh's historic streets with tales of former residents. An immersive experience into the past.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

16 minutes' walk

Insight into Scotland's whisky heritage with tastings and a tour of the world's largest whisky collection.

Arthur's Seat Hike

30 minutes' walk

Scenic hiking trail leading to an extinct volcano with panoramic views of Edinburgh. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Meadows Park

15 minutes' walk

Large public park perfect for leisurely strolls or relaxing picnics. Popular among locals for jogging and sports.

Yoga at The Studio

10 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga sessions in a cozy studio. Great for wellness seekers, with classes for all levels available.

Burger

6 minutes' walk

Casual eatery known for gourmet burgers and locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarian options available; reservations recommended.

The Treehouse

5 minutes' walk

Charming restaurant with organic dishes and a cozy atmosphere. Known for delicious brunch and gluten-free options.

Khartoum Cafe

5 minutes' walk

Authentic Sudanese cuisine in a relaxed setting. Signature dishes include spicy stews; great for casual dining.

Usher Hall

20 minutes' walk

Iconic concert hall offering live music and events. Family-friendly with a diverse lineup including classical and pop.

The Stand Comedy Club

15 minutes' walk

Local favorite for comedy shows, featuring both established and emerging comedians. Shows suitable for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Edinburgh20 min · 1.0 mi

Airports

Edinburgh (EDI)21 min · 8.6 mi

Glasgow (GLA)131 min · 54.1 mi

Train

Haymarket Train Station12 min · 3300 ft

Bus

Bus stop4 min · 1000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-21:00

Check-out

from 01:00-10:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Romanian, Polish, Persian

Number of rooms:

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review score

Based on 2486 verified reviews

6.5/10

Nice

58%

Recommend

Breakfast

8.1/10

Cleanliness

7.2/10

Comfort

7.3/10

Facilities

7.2/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.6/10

Location

8.4/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.6/10

Staff

8.0/10

Value for money

7.4/10

Pros

Comfortable beds

Excellent location

Friendly staff

Cons

Bed bugs

Disgusting smell

Ivor from United Kingdom

Single

Single Room En Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 20, 2026

7/10

good showertea kettlebig windowdirty skirting boarddirty cuptoothpaste stains

the shower was good. a tea kettle WAS in the room, very useful. i liked the hall and the big window in my room.

the skirting boards was dirty, and the doors too. the cups were not clean and the teaspoons also. i saw toothpaste on the curtains, that was not nice.

0 Helpful

Alexander from Germany

Single

Double Room Ensuite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 31, 2025

8.5/10

Convenient and Clean Stay

clean bathroomsmooth check-inconvenient location

The location is really convenient, just a short walk to the city center. I appreciated the complimentary tea and coffee available. The bathroom was clean. Check-in was smooth.

The room had slightly worn curtains.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel offers complimentary coffee and tea. I observed that the reception area is tidy and well-kept. This space adds to the overall positive impression.

Location

8/10

The hotel enjoys a location that allows easy access to central attractions. It is possible to reach numerous restaurants and shops within a short walk. This makes it a great base for exploration.

0 Helpful

Jacob from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room Ensuite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 31, 2025

8.8/10

admirable STAY

convenient locationclean roomcomfortable bedhelpful staff

the location proves highly convenient. the room was CLEAN and well kept, this aspect met my expectations completely. i found the bed quite comfortable, great for restful sleep. the staff offered assistance when needed, this enhanced the overall experience for me.

i noticed a slight delay during the check-in PROCESS.

Facilities

9/10

the guest house features complimentary high-speed wi-fi access throughout the building, THIS allows guests to stay connected easily. there is also a small communal lounge area with a television available for guest use.

Dining

8/10

while a full restaurant is not available, the guest house provides a breakfast service with various options. a selection of teas and coffees is offered in the communal area throughout the day for all guests.

Location

10/10

Situated near public transport links, the guesthouse allows easy access to the city center. it is close to local shops and restaurants. This provides many convenient options . several parks are situated nearby.

Rooms

8/10

the room contained a double bed with fresh linens, assuring a good night's rest . an en suite bathroom includes a shower, with towels, and basic toiletries available. the room has a wardrobe and a desk.

0 Helpful

jennifer from united kingdom

Single

single room en suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 27, 2025

8.7/10

charming stay

great locationfree parkingclassic style

the location is great, only a short walk to the city center. free parking is available in front of the hotel , but there are only a few spots. i appreciated the building's classic style.

the lock on my room was just a single key , and it felt a bit insecure.

Location

9/10

the hotel is conveniently situated close to the city center, offering easy access to attractions and amenities. it allows for convenient exploration while maintaining a quiet environment , away from the busiest areas.

Dining

8/10

while the hotel does not have its own restaurant , several dining options are available within a short walking distance. i found a great cafe just around the corner.

Rooms

9/10

the room was very comfy and tidy , i had a single room en suite. the bed was comfortable, and the bathroom had all the basic amenities i needed. the room was quiet.

0 Helpful

Elliot from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room Ensuite

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: October 27, 2025

9.0/10

Great Location and Friendly Service

comfortable bedfriendly staffluggage storageinsecure lock

We stayed in a Double Room Ensuite, and the bed was very comfortable. Staff were friendly and cute, which I appreciated. Luggage storage was available after we checked out. That was very helpful. The location is super close to many shops, the Castle, and Princes Street.

The room lock used a single Yale key. I was unable to get the catch to work, so the door did not feel properly locked. This.

Rooms

9/10

The Double Room Ensuite features comfortable beds with extra pillows. A hairdryer and a kettle with a selection of tea and coffee were provided. Wardrobe and drawer space were plentiful for storing personal items.

Location

10/10

This location is a mere 20-minute walk to the castle, which makes visiting it very easy. Cute cafes and nice Indian restaurants are within a 5-minute walk. Plenty of stores are also super close.

Service

9/10

The staff are very friendly and cute. Communication with the host was very good prior to arrival. I was able to store my suitcase before check-in as well as after check-out, very convenient.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel keeps the front doors locked. Staff are on-site around the clock. The shower was piping hot. Luggage storage is available for early arrivals.

0 Helpful

Annie from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room Ensuite

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: September 14, 2025

8.3/10

charming stay near city center

great locationfriendly staffnatural lightunclean blanket

I liked the hotel location. It was great for accessing the city center. the staff were very friendly. They were very accommodating. our room was large, and it had plenty of natural light. the room felt homely. It was a very nice and comfortable room.

The room needed a serious deep clean. I found it quite smelly. the blanket on the bed wasn't clean and had hairs on it. It definitely hadn't been washed recently.

Rooms

8/10

The double room ensuite featured ample space for clothes, thanks to clean, efficient furniture. a big, lovely shower was a plus, and the bathroom remained warm . bedding included very comfy beds. I rested well.

Facilities

9/10

free parking in front of the hotel was convenient, though there were only five spots available. the location provides easy access to pleasant, vibrant neighborhoods nearby. main public transport links and access to the city center are a short walk away.

Dining

8/10

several nice restaurants and pubs are located around the corner from the guest house. these establishments provide options for dining and drinks within a short walking distance. the proximity adds value for those seeking local cuisine.

0 Helpful

Alexander from United Kingdom

Single

Single Room En Suite

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: September 04, 2025

8.5/10

Charming stay near the park

cosy roomnice spotbeautiful parkmissing fridge

I returned to this place recently. The room was indeed quite cosy. It was in a NICE spot near a beautiful park. Bennets Bar is just around the corner too.

I noticed there was no fridge in the room. This would have been useful for keeping drinks cold. I hope they add fridges soon.

Location

9/10

The location is a short, pleasant walk from the city center. I noticed several bus stops are very close. Restaurants, bars and supermarkets are also just 100 m from the guest house. REALLY convenient!!!

Facilities

8/10

The central heating works very well. The building felt very warm inside. I found the provided kettle, coffee, and milk to be nice touches. Shower packages and towels were available too.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Balmore Guest House

Can you provide details about the size of the double beds available at the guest house?

10 November 2024

The double beds in the guest house are standard size, typically measuring 135 cm wide.

What is the difference between an external bathroom and an en-suite bathroom?

15 December 2024

An external bathroom is shared and located outside of the room, while an en-suite bathroom is connected directly to the guest room for private use.

Is there parking available on-site at Balmore Guest House?

5 January 2025

Limited parking is available on site on a first-come, first-served basis. If parking is full, alternative options nearby include free street parking from Friday evening until Monday morning or parking at a nearby hotel for £15 per day.

Are there any options for early check-in if my flight arrives early?

20 February 2025

Early check-in can be accommodated if it is arranged in advance, allowing for a smoother arrival experience.

What are the options for transportation from the airport to the guest house?

12 March 2025

Guests can take either bus 100 or the tram to Haymarket station followed by a 20-minute walk. A taxi is also available, costing approximately £22.

Is there a bus service that goes to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from the guest house?

18 April 2025

Yes, bus service 24 connects to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, with the nearest bus stop just a short 5-minute walk away.

What payment methods are accepted for booking a stay at the guest house?

25 May 2025

Payment is typically required at the time of booking. Acceptable methods may vary, so check directly for specifics.

Can bicycles be stored safely at the guest house during my stay?

30 June 2025

Yes, there are arrangements available for storing bikes securely if coordinated in advance.

Are there dining options available near the guest house?

22 July 2025

Numerous restaurants, pubs, and fast-food options are located in close proximity. Recommendations can be obtained from the guest house staff upon arrival.

Is there a possibility of having a vegan breakfast served?

10 August 2025

A simple breakfast snack pack is provided, but specific vegan options may not be available. It's advisable to check in advance.