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From619US$ /night
Check-in
26Dec2025Select date
Check-out
27Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview and Details

Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
-
Close to the Royal Yacht Britannia
Great
8.1
8.6
/10
4.1
4.2
/5

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg - Modern hotel with free breakfast 3.5 km from Edinburgh Waverley

This modern hotel is located on Leith Waterfront, a short stroll from the Royal Yacht Britannia and Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, 3.5 km from Edinburgh Waverley and 20 km from Edinburgh Airport. Public buses run into the city centre from outside the hotel with trams available opposite. The property offers free Express Start Breakfast with continental items and hot options including bacon, scrambled eggs, sausages and beans. Guests can make use of the all-day dining and stylish bar serving coffees, teas, spirits, craft beers and wines. Light bites including pizza and nachos can be ordered throughout the day. The hotel features parking on-site (£10 per night, limited spaces), a 24-hour reception desk and free Wi-Fi throughout.

Additional perks of the hotel

Grab & go breakfast bags available for guests in a hurry

Pet-friendly accommodation by prior arrangement

On-site parking (£10 per night, limited spaces)

Recent renovations with updated design

All public areas wheelchair accessible

15-minute tram ride to city center

Free Wi-Fi throughout the property

Guest Rooms

The hotel offers 169 smoke-free rooms with air conditioning and individual heating controls. Rooms are outfitted with bedside USB ports, blackout curtains, free Wi-Fi, and movable laptop desks that can be used both in bed and while sitting in an armchair. Family rooms feature a double bed and pull-out sofa bed suitable for children under 12. Accessible rooms are available with wider doorways, adapted bathroom facilities and emergency cords.

Other conveniences

32-inch flat-screen TVs with Freeview channels

Private bathrooms with power showers

Tea and coffee making facilities

Pillow menu for personalized comfort

Ironing facilities in all rooms

Separate hanging closets

Desk-level electrical outlets

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll along the Water of Leith walkway for scenic views.
  • Try haggis at The Albanach Pub for a true Scottish meal.
  • Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia for a taste of royal history.
  • Explore the vibrant Leith Market on Saturday mornings.
  • Discover art at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
View all

Choose Your Room Category

The hotel offers a range of accommodations including doubles, family rooms, and suites—plus breakfast, free cancellation, and special rates.
Standard Twin Room Hot
2 persons
11 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Double Room Hot Accessible
2 persons
12 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard King Room Hot
2 persons
12 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Sofa Bed Hot
2 persons
12 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
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Room Availability and Pricing Calendar

Find available rooms and check today's best prices!

Facilities

This hotel provides premium amenities for a memorable and relaxed stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Sink

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront, the dining options offer a delightful mix of comfort and flavor, perfect for both casual gatherings and hearty meals. With an inclusive approach to dietary preferences, the venue caters to those craving light bites or substantial fare, all in a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Casual all-day dining with light bites and hearty meals
Ambiance
Family-friendly environment with a stylish bar for relaxing after a day of exploration
Key Offerings
Popular favorites include pizzas, nachos, chicken wings, and flavorful curries, complemented by an array of coffees, teas, and premium spirits
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM for lunch and dinner; offers a simple breakfast to kickstart the day

Hotel Location

Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
Map view
Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
Nearby
Ocean Drive Ocean Terminal
Royal Yacht Britannia
400 m
Mall
Ocean Terminal
430 m
Edinburgh EH6Scotland
Leith
180 m
West Princess Garden Street Near Saint John's
Sir James Young Simpson Monument
240 m
Dock St
Leith Citadel railway
460 m
West Princess Garden Street Near Saint John's
Dean Ramsey Memorial
240 m
67 Commercial Street Leith
Custom House
340 m
Restaurants
Mr Nicks
290 m
Ocean Drive Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre
Costa Coffee
290 m
98 Ocean Drive Ground Floor
Wrapchic
370 m
Ocean Terminal Ocean Drive
Fit Food Bistro
440 m
41 Commercial Street
Tiso Summit Cafe
450 m
41 Commercial Street
The Haven Cafe
640 m
9 Anchorfield Newhaven
Belly Buster
530 m
36 Ferry Road
North Fort Cafe
560 m
19 North Fort Street
Malt & Hops
840 m
45 Shore EH6 6QU
Explore Edinburgh
Local Highlights at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht Britannia
5 minutes' walk
The former royal yacht offers an insight into royal life. Guided audio tours available, showcasing luxurious rooms and maritime history.
Ocean Terminal
Ocean Terminal
6 minutes' walk
A shopping centre with a variety of shops, dining options, and cinema. Perfect for a day of leisure and family fun.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
Trinity House Maritime Museum
10 minutes' walk
Dedicated to maritime history, this museum features fascinating exhibits on Leith's history as a port and lighthouse.
Newhaven Harbour
Newhaven Harbour
15 minutes' walk
Picturesque harbour ideal for a scenic stroll. Watch boats come and go and enjoy waterfront dining at nearby cafes.
Beach Day at Portobello
40 minutes' drive
Portobello Beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Nearby cafes provide refreshments; great for family days out.
Kayaking on the Firth of Forth
13 minutes' drive
Kayaking rentals available for thrilling adventures on the water. Book in advance to secure spots during peak season.
Yoga at Leith Links
20 minutes' walk
Outdoor yoga sessions held in Leith Links. Perfect for relaxation amidst nature; check local listings for class schedules.
Cycling along the Water of Leith
15 minutes' walk
Cycling paths offer scenic views along the river. Bikes available for rent nearby, ideal for leisurely and scenic tours.
Mr Nicks
Mr Nicks
4 minutes' walk
Casual eatery known for its burgers and pizzas. Relaxed atmosphere; great for families and groups alike.
Wrapchic
Wrapchic
5 minutes' walk
Offers Indian-inspired wraps and curries in a fast-casual setting. Good for those seeking a quick but flavorful meal.
Fit Food Bistro
Fit Food Bistro
6 minutes' walk
Health-conscious menu featuring nutritious dishes. Welcomes dietary preferences like vegetarian and gluten-free.
Tiso Summit Cafe
Tiso Summit Cafe
6 minutes' walk
A great stop for coffee and light bites with views of Arthur's Seat. Cozy atmosphere encourages relaxation and conversation.
Bongo Club
8 minutes' drive
Funky venue hosting live music, club nights, and art events; vibrant atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd.
Leith Community Centre
10 minutes' walk
Hosts family-friendly events and community activities. Enjoy weekly film nights and seasonal festivals for all ages.
Scottish Poetry Library
30 minutes' walk
A quiet place for poetry lovers, offering readings and workshops, perfect for solo travelers seeking cultural enrichment.
The Stand Comedy Club
15 minutes' drive
Well-known comedy venue featuring stand-up shows. Offers a fun night out with a diverse lineup of local and national acts.
Navigating city
City Centre
Edinburgh5 min  ·  3.3 km
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)25 min  ·  16.1 km
Dundee Airport (DND)146 min  ·  97.2 km
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station5 min  ·  3.1 km

Guest Reviews and Hotel Ratings

Honest Guest Feedback Based on Real Stays
92%
Guests loved the hotel and would gladly return
9.2/10
Perfect
Rooms
8.7
Location
9.3
Service
9.9
Dining
8.2
Guest reviews
9.2/10
based on 10 reviews
8.1
8.1/10 based on 6281 reviews
Ava
United Kingdom, September  2024
10.0/10

Second time here and still fantastic! Super friendly staff and a great base to explore Edinburgh. Breakfast was a nice perk!

Rooms
9.0
Rooms are comfy but compact, perfect for a good night's sleep but not designed for lounging around.
Service
10.0
Staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, going above and beyond; even let us check in early!
Location
9.0
Easy bus access to the city centre, plus restaurants and pubs in Leith. Taxis are readily available.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was good - hot food was quickly replenished.
Facilities
9.0
Free car park is a plus, and the hotel is close to the harbour
Francis
United States, August  2024
8.0/10

Sheila at breakfast was amazing, always cheerful and hard-working! Great location near transport links, clean hotel, and a nice curry at the hotel restaurant. Building works outside, but didn't bother us much.

Rooms
7.0
Room was clean. Beds were high and pillows a bit hard, but we were out all day so it didn't matter.
Service
10.0
Reception staff were friendly and helpful. Sheila at breakfast was tireless and cheerful, a real gem!
Location
9.0
Excellent transport links to the city centre. Close to Britannia visit and foodhall.
Dining
8.0
Hotel curry was very nice, and we used a discount leaflet for Britannia Spice next door.
Facilities
7.0
Hotel is fresh and clean. Building extension work was going on but didn't really affect us. There is a large TV in the bar.
William
United States, August  2024
8.0/10

Great location near tram and bus stops, making it easy to explore Edinburgh. Friendly staff, especially Jamie, went above and beyond. Room was comfortable with a nice shower. Breakfast was ok, but I didn't try it. Overall, a pleasant stay.

Rooms
9.0
Lovely comfy bed, decent tea point, nice size bathroom with a great shower. Room was clean and tidy, had lots of room.
Service
10.0
Really friendly staff, Jamie was particularly helpful and calmed my nerves after train delays.
Location
9.0
About 100m from tram stop, near bus stops too. Easy access to Newhaven and Ocean Terminal. Good value day ticket for trams and buses.
Dining
5.0
Didn't try the hotel breakfast but there's a 24hr Asda nearby with vegan options, and Waga-Mama was good (book in advance). Holy Cow brunch was delicious!
Facilities
7.0
Building was clean and tidy. TV was nice.
Samuel
United Kingdom, August  2024
9.0/10

Nice hotel in a quiet spot with great transport links. Staff were amazing, even during the busy holiday season.

Rooms
8.0
The room was very nice, clean and comfortable. It was a little small, but perfect for our needs.
Service
10.0
The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, always happy to assist, even during the Christmas rush.
Location
9.0
Easy access to buses, trams and the airport, plus close to Ocean Terminal and various restaurants.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was very good with a wide variety of options.
Facilities
8.0
Free parking at Ocean Terminal was a bonus.
Neal
United States, June  2024
10.0/10

Jamie at reception went above and beyond to help me find my lost phone! Hotel is clean and safe, great parking, good breakfast. Easy access to the city centre, unbeatable value.

Rooms
10.0
Room was very clean and safe. Second time staying and quality was still top notch.
Service
10.0
Staff were extremely helpful and friendly. Jamie went way out of his way to help me with my lost phone.
Location
10.0
Short cab/bus/tram ride to the city centre. Mall across the street with food and a movie theater. is very good as it's near the royal Britannia and has a shopping centre on the opposite road consisting of many restaurants
Dining
9.0
Great breakfast included. Bar is open late.
Facilities
9.0
Hotel was very clean, safe, and had great parking (not free, but reasonable).
Steven
United States, May  2024
9.0/10

Excellent location, very helpful staff and a comfortable room. Free parking was a bonus! A great base for exploring Edinburgh and Leith. I'd recommend this hotel.

Rooms
9.0
Room was modern, clean, and spacious. TV had all the channels and Wi-Fi was fast.
Service
10.0
Reception was efficient, and staff were very helpful. Jamie was particularly helpful with taxis and local advice.
Location
10.0
2 mins walk from Ocean Terminal, close to bus stops for easy access to the city centre. Great location for the places we wanted to visit.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was good, with a full English and other options. Lots of food outlets in Ocean Terminal nearby.
Facilities
9.0
Free parking was a huge plus! Hotel was clean and well-maintained.
Hannah
United Kingdom, April  2024
8.0/10

Great hotel, friendly staff, and good location near the tram and shopping. Breakfast was a solid start to our day exploring Edinburgh.

Rooms
8.0
Our room was well-equipped, though a larger wardrobe would have been helpful for two people. The tea/coffee facilities were a nice touch.
Service
9.0
The staff at reception were very nice and helpful, explaining everything we needed to know upon arrival.
Location
9.0
The hotel's location was convenient, with easy access to the tram and a new shopping center. Getting to the city center was a breeze.
Dining
7.0
Breakfast was good, a standard but suitable way to begin our day of sightseeing.
Facilities
8.0
The hotel had ample parking, although we didn't need it, and plenty of space for those who did.
Alex
United Kingdom, March  2024
10.0/10

Amazing stay! Jamie and the other staff were very nice. The location was perfect for our needs and the room was comfortable.

Rooms
10.0
The room was great, clean and comfortable, and they even provided travel cots for our babies!
Service
10.0
Jamie and the rest of the staff were really good; helpful, friendly and went above and beyond.
Location
10.0
The bus stop right outside was handy, and it was easy to walk to the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Dining
10.0
Breakfast was fantastic!
Facilities
5.0
N/A - focus was on service and location.
Rex
United States, January  2024
9.0/10

A really comfortable hotel with amazing staff who go above and beyond. The location is great for exploring Edinburgh and Leith. Breakfast was good with lots of options. Everything was clean and efficient.

Rooms
9.0
Room was clean, comfortable bed. was a lot better than expected with much more space than I have experienced in similar hotels
Service
10.0
Staff were friendly, helpful, and went over-and-beyond the call of duty to help with various issues I had.
Location
9.0
Great location, close to tram and bus stops, Ocean Terminal, and Leith waterfront. Easy to get to the city centre.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was ample and filling, with both continental and cooked options. Good variety to choose from.
Facilities
8.0
Hotel is clean and well-maintained. Parking available.
Sebastian
United Kingdom, January  2024
9.0/10

The hotel offers a convenient location, comfortable rooms, and a great breakfast, and the staff were fantastic.

Rooms
8.0
Room was lovely and clean; perfectly adequate for the price.
Service
10.0
Staff were always friendly and helpful; went above and beyond to assist.
Location
9.0
Excellent location near the bus stops, Ocean Terminal and the city centre.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was a decent buffet-style offering.
Facilities
9.0
Free parking and easy access to transport; very convenient.
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site at GBP 10 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Czech, Hungarian, Polish
Number of floors:
5
Number of rooms:
127
Former name
holiday inn express edinburgh - leith waterfront, an ihg hotel
Questions of the users
About Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg
Is there complimentary parking for guests, particularly for those with a blue badge needing closer access?
12 April 2024
Parking is available at a rate of £10.00 for 24 hours. Limited spaces exist, including designated disabled bays near the hotel's entrance.
Are smoking rooms available, or is there a designated smoking area on the premises?
15 June 2024
The hotel maintains a non-smoking policy inside the rooms; however, guests may smoke in the designated outdoor smoking area.
Is there public transportation available from the hotel to the popular Edinburgh Playhouse?
20 July 2024
Yes, a direct bus service connects the hotel to the Playhouse, making it convenient for guests to attend shows.
Are small, well-behaved dogs allowed in the hotel?
30 August 2024
Yes, small well-behaved dogs are welcome at the hotel, subject to prior arrangements.
Can guests extend their parking privileges after checking out?
10 September 2024
Yes, parking is permitted for the remainder of the day even after check-out, both in the main car park and overflow parking.
Is there direct transportation from the hotel to Edinburgh Airport?
22 October 2024
Bus 200 provides a direct connection from the hotel to Edinburgh Airport, making travel easy for guests.
Are there lunch or dinner options available at the hotel?
15 November 2024
Evening meals are available, allowing guests to enjoy dinner at the hotel.
What dining options exist within walking distance from the hotel?
5 December 2024
The nearby Ocean Terminal shopping centre and The Shore area offer a variety of restaurants within walking distance.
Are there transport options available during late hours to the city center?
28 January 2025
Local buses run until midnight, and night buses operate every hour, providing continued access to the city center.
What are the check-in and check-out times for guests?
18 February 2025
Check-in is available from 14:00 while check-out must be completed by 11:00. Early check-in may be an option depending on room availability.
Is the hotel accepting bookings while restrictions are in place due to health concerns?
25 March 2025
Bookings are currently being accepted for guests who are key workers, with proof required.
Are twin bed accommodations available for guests needing separate sleeping arrangements?
12 April 2025
Yes, twin rooms with two single beds are available, suitable for those who prefer separate sleeping spaces.

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