Email
Macdonald Holyrood Hotel enquiries & reservations: bookscotland@madbookings.com
Other places to stay in and around Edinburgh
Set in Edinburgh's historic old town, the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel combines
the convenience of the city centre with the restfulness of a quiet location.
Facing the Crags and Arthur's Seat, this Edinburgh hotel is close to key attractions like the Scottish Parliament, Dynamic Earth and Holyrood Park, making the ideal base for exploring the city.
Boasting a self-contained conference floor and a private Club Floor,
with an exclusive lounge, this hotel is well equipped to meet the needs
of business travellers. Plan
the perfect city break and take advantage of the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel's
Steak and Grill Restaurant, extensive leisure facilities and luxurious
accommodation.
Macdonald Holyrood Hotel Accommodation
Plan a city break in Scotland's historic capital and relax in the comfort of an elegant room at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Furnished to the highest standard and featuring triple-glazed windows, our rooms offer a peaceful sanctuary in the middle of the city.
All rooms have marble en-suite bathrooms, large comfortable beds, armchairs and satellite televisions. Upgrade to a spacious Suite and relax in a separate seating area with double aspect windows. Alternatively book a room on the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel's self-contained Club Floor and enjoy access to the exclusive Library lounge. Accessible Rooms are also available on request.
Classic Rooms
After a long day exploring Edinburgh's attractions retire to the quiet
of your Classic Room at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Settle in one of
the comfortable armchairs and watch a movie on the large TV. Then check
your emails before sinking into a soothing bubble bath in the luxury en-suite.
Classic Rooms feature:
- Large comfortable beds
- Luxury en-suite bathrooms
- Satellite TV
- Large desk
- Internet connection
- Complimentary mineral water
- Iron and ironing board
- Trouser press
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Safe
- Shoe shine service
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer
Suites
Boasting all the features of the Classic Rooms, Suites at the Macdonald
Holyrood Hotel offer guests extra space and a separate seating area. The
spacious nature of these rooms makes them ideal for families. Sit back
on the comfortable sofa and admire views of Arthur's Seat and the Crags
from the double aspect window.
Suites feature:
- Large comfortable beds
- Luxury en-suite bathrooms
- Satellite TV
- Large desk
- Internet connection
- Complimentary mineral water
- Iron and ironing board
- Trouser press
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Mini bar
- Safe
- Shoe shine service
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer
- Bathrobe
- Slippers
Accessible Rooms
Accessible rooms at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel enjoy all the same amenities
as our Classic Rooms, with extra space for easy wheelchair access, widened
door frames, lowered light switches and extra handrails in the en-suite
bathroom.
Accessible Rooms feature:
- Large comfortable beds
- Luxury en-suite bathrooms
- Satellite TV
- Large desk
- Internet connection
- Complimentary mineral water
- Iron and ironing board
- Trouser press
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Safe
- Shoe shine service
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer
Club Floor
Completely secure and self-contained, the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel's Club
Floor provides an exclusive environment ideal for lone business travellers
or visiting dignitaries. As well as enjoying extra security, guests on
the Club Floor also gain access to the refined private Library.
Read the paper over a continental breakfast, sink into a comfy armchair and enjoy a fresh coffee, or join your fellow guests for pre-dinner cocktails and canapés. Children are not permitted on the Club Floor.
Classic Club
Located on the private Club Floor and boasting triple-glazed windows,
the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel's Classic Club Rooms provide peaceful accommodation
in the middle of the city. Enjoy tea and homemade shortbread in the exclusive
Library or retire to your room and catch-up on emails at the large desk.
Classic Club Rooms feature:
-Large comfortable beds
-Luxury en-suite bathrooms
-Satellite TV
-Large desk
-Internet connection
-Complimentary mineral water
-Iron and ironing board
-Trouser press
-Tea and coffee making facilities
-Mini bar
-Safe
-Shoe shine service
-Air conditioning
-Hairdryer
-Bathrobe
Club Suites
Accessed only by key card, the Club Floor offers guests an exclusive environment
in which to relax and its two spacious Suites are the most luxurious rooms
in the hotel.
Sit back with a freshly-brewed coffee and enjoy views of Arthur's Seat and the Crags from your private balcony. Catch-up on your emails from one of the two desks, or simply relax in the spacious living area.
Club Suites feature:-
- Large comfortable beds
- Luxury en-suite bathrooms
- Satellite TV
- Two large desks
- Internet connection
- Complimentary mineral water
- Iron and ironing board
- Trouser press
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Mini bar
- Safe
- Shoe shine service
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer
- Bathrobe
- Slippers
- Private balcony with seating area
Food and Drink
Sample hotel dining at its best during your stay at the Macdonald Holyrood
Hotel with our stylish Steak and Grill restaurant. Serving the finest
Scottish cuisine, sourced from the surrounding area, our menus offer an
ever-growing range of organic food and drink - good for you and the environment.
For a more informal dining experience, order from the Piano Bar's tempting menu and sink into one of its comfortable armchairs.
Steak and Grill Restaurant
Refined and stylish, The Steak and Grill Restaurant at the Macdonald Holyrood
Hotel represents a new standard in hotel dining. Take a seat by the window
and watch the city go by while you dine on British cuisine in the restaurant's
peaceful atmosphere.
Select a fine vintage from the extensive wine list and enjoy a candlelit meal. For those planning to catch a show, a pre-theatre menu is available before 7pm.
Prepare for your day with a breakfast of fresh fruit, freshly baked bread and pastries, sweet comb honey, or a full English breakfast made from the finest organic produce and free range eggs. Return later with friends for a memorable meal.
Select your favourite from the creative a la carte menu and dine on dishes such as pan fried scallops served with cauliflower and caper puree, followed by rack of lamb with an herb crust, buttered spinach and rosemary jus.
Finish with a tempting dessert like chocolate and hazelnut terrine with a fresh raspberry sauce. Ask your waiter to recommend one of our many fine wines to complement your meal.
Opening Hours
- Breakfast 7am - 10am Mon - Fri, 7.30am - 10.30am Weekends
- Dinner 5.30pm - 9.30pm daily
At Your Service
- Dress code: Smart-casual.
- Child policy: Accompanied children welcome. Children's menu available.
- Seats: 80
- Special requirements: Catered for on request
- Open to non-residents
Due to the popularity of The Steak and Grill restaurant we advise you
to book your table when you make your hotel reservation.
Make a Reservation
The Piano Lounge
With its open layout, dark wood panelling and traditional décor,
the Piano Lounge offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere for you to unwind
in. Prepare for a meeting over English Breakfast tea and homemade shortbread,
or spend an evening in the bar's friendly atmosphere.
Meet with business colleagues or join friends for afternoon tea in the Piano Lounge at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Order a substantial sandwich like a 21-day aged prime Scottish steak on a ciabatta with caramelized onions, or choose a crispy salad of Loch Fyne smoked salmon with lemon and caper berries.
Sit back in a large armchair with the paper and order a freshly brewed coffee, or return in the evening for pre-dinner drinks. Leave the cares of the week behind with live piano music every weekend.
Opening Hours
- 12pm-11.30pm daily
- Food served until 10.30pm daily
At Your Service
- Dress code: Relaxed
- Child policy: Accompanied children welcome. Children's menu available.
- Seats: 30
- Special requirements: Catered for on request
Room Service
Indulge in a leisurely breakfast in bed or enjoy an intimate meal for
two, with the Room Service menu at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Order
light meals such as Greek salad or delicious mains like North Sea beer
battered cod with hand cut chips, all from the comfort of your own room.
Room service menu:
From substantial sandwiches like the corn fed free range chicken Caesar
wrap, to crispy salads and classic mains like fish pie with seasonal greens,
the Room Service menu at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel offers a wide range
of tempting dishes.
The service operates 24 hours a day, with a limited menu between 10.30pm-6.30am.
- Children's room service menu available on request
- Special requirements: Catered for on request
Booking Information
We like to deliver your room service requests as quickly as possible.
Check-in time at Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is 2pm and we ask that you check out of your rooms by 12pm on the day of departure. We can offer late check-out on request, subject to availability (a fee will apply).
Parking
The Holyrood has limited parking available on a first come first served
basis. Upon arrival at the hotel, simply hand your keys to the concierge
and he will take care of your vehicle. o The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
operates a valet parking service, available to all guests for a fee per
day. 24 secure spaces are available and are allocated on demand.
Safety
Your safety, security and comfort are our priority at the Macdonald Holyrood
Hotel. There is a private safe in every bedroom, doors are equipped with
deadlocks and spyholes, our Reception desk is staffed 24 hours a day and
security cameras operate throughout the hotel.
Child Policy
Children are welcome throughout the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel, excluding
the private Club Floor.
Baby cots and essential supplies are available from housekeeping, a babysitting
service can be arranged and highchairs are supplied in our restaurants.
Children under 5 stay for free when they share a room with their guardian and children under 14 stay at a reduced rate.
Pet Policy
Guide dogs are welcome at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel.
Allergies
o Please advise us when booking if you suffer from allergies so that we
can make your stay at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel as comfortable as possible.
Relaxation at Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
Retreat from the bustle of Scotland's capital city with a visit to the
Vital Health and Wellbeing Club at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Work
out the stresses of the day on the treadmill, restore calm with a swim
in the heated swimming pool or unwind with an aromatherapy massage.
As a guest, all of the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel's leisure facilities are available to you free of charge. Take time out to improve your technique with a personal trainer, restore your equilibrium with a yoga class or simply relax in the sauna. For a truly indulgent treat book in for a hot stone massage or prepare for a special occasion with a unique bronzing facial.
Vital Health and Wellbeing Club
Swim laps in the 14-metre indoor heated pool, stay fit on the latest Technogym
equipment in the hotel gym, join an aerobics class and relax with a session
in the sauna or steam room.
After a lengthy business meeting or a long day of sightseeing in Edinburgh,
re-energise with a trip to the Vital Health and Wellbeing Club at the
Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Improve your core strength with a yoga ball
in the gym, enjoy a peaceful swim in the hotel pool or detox in the sauna
and steam room.
Hotel guests are welcome to use the leisure facilities for free.
Gym
Have your fitness levels assessed by one of our professional instructors
or book in with a personal trainer in the fully-equipped Technogym at
the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel (fees apply). Tone up with weights or watch
a movie on your personal viewing screen while you clock-up the miles on
the treadmill.
Swimming Pool
Work up an appetite with a leisurely dip before dinner or start your day
right with a brisk swim in the Vital Health and Wellbeing Club's 14-metre
indoor heated swimming pool. After a soothing body wrap in one of the
treatment rooms relax in the sauna or read a book by the pool.
Opening hours
- Mon-Fri: 6.30am - 10pm
- Sat-Sun: 8am - 8pm
*Guests must complete a health questionnaire prior to using the gym.
Child Policy
Under 16s are welcome to use the pool when accompanied by an adult. Children
are not permitted in the gym, sauna or steam room.
Spa Guidelines
The following guide will help you make the most of your treatment or spa
package:-
1. To help you unwind, please shower before you visit the spa.
2. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of your treatment, giving
you enough time to complete a brief health questionnaire.
3. Keep your body hydrated. Drinking water is available in the spa.
4. The spa is a tranquil place. Please switch off mobile phones.
5. Jewellery should be removed.
6. If you are taking medication, are recovering from an operation, it
is advisable to consult your doctor before embarking on any treatment
or programme.
7. Some medical conditions may exclude you from certain treatments or
thermal suite experiences. Our therapists will be happy to advise.
8. Limited treatments are available for those expecting. Please speak
to one of our Spa therapists for advice.
Treatments
Forget the cares of the day with a soothing hot oil massage or a purifying
facial in one of the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel's stylish treatment rooms.
Prepare for the pool with a top to toe body polish or acquire a golden
glow with a Decleor self-tanning treatment.
Treat yourself to a French manicure or get ready for a night out in Edinburgh with a make-up tutorial and eyelash tint. After your treatment, wrap up in a fluffy robe and unwind with a cup of herbal tea in the relaxation room.
Wedding Venues in Edinburgh
Romance blossoms in Edinburgh's historic streets and, with its picturesque
location in the city's Old Town, the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is the ideal
venue for a Scottish wedding.
Offering luxury accommodation, a health and beauty spa, fantastic food and drink, elegant wedding suites and beautiful photogenic surroundings, this city-centre hotel will make your big day one to remember.
Civil ceremonies can be held the hotel's elegant Holyrood Suite and the spacious Salisbury Suite can host a reception for up to 160 guests.
Wedding Function Rooms
The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel has a self-contained events floor that can
be booked for the exclusive use of wedding parties. Greet your guests
in the private bar and reception area before holding your civil or religious
ceremony in one of two elegant suites.
Enjoy views of Arthur's Seat from the refined Holyrood Suite or book the light-filled Salisbury Suite and sip champagne on the unique outdoor terrace. For a truly personal event host a small reception in the Library, an elegant private space on the Club Floor.
Planning Your Special Day
Your special day should be perfect. That's why one of our expert team
of wedding coordinators will be on hand throughout to discuss your plans
and ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. They can help with all
aspects, from menu and wine selections to table plans and entertainment,
leaving you to simply enjoy yourself.
Our wedding service includes:
- A personal coordinator to help plan your day
- A wedding package tailored to your exact needs
- Use of the hotel's silver cake base and knife
- Glass of champagne for the bride and groom
- Complimentary accommodation with breakfast for the bride and groom
- Reduced overnight rates for wedding guests
- Complimentary dinner, bed and breakfast on your first wedding anniversary
- Complimentary 6-month gym membership for the bride and groom
- We can also help arrange florists, entertainment, transport, beauty
treatments and weekend group activities.
Wedding Food & Drink
Whether you require a lavish five course banquet or a simple buffet, our
accomplished chefs are committed to sourcing only the finest, freshest
produce for your wedding feast. Your personal wedding coordinator can
help you choose from one of our exclusive wedding menus and drinks packages
or help you to create your own.
Meeting and Function Rooms at Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
The refined Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is situated next to the Scottish
Parliament and can host meetings, conferences and events for up to 200
people. Both suites on the self-contained conference floor are equipped
to the Macdonald standard and both benefit from plenty of natural daylight
and air conditioning.
Keep in touch with the office with wireless internet access throughout the hotel (fees apply), prepare for a presentation in the Business Centre and rest assured that our dedicated meeting and events team will ensure the smooth running of your corporate event.
The Salisbury Suite 1 & 2
Traditionally decorated and ideal for a wide range of events, the spacious
Salisbury Suite features a unique outdoor terrace with seating for up
to 80 guests and views of Arthur's Seat. Perfect for large presentations
or conferences, this suite can cater for up to 200 delegates, with space
for breakouts in the private bar and lounge area.
As the Salisbury Suite can be partitioned into two separate rooms, it can also play host to smaller meetings and training sessions for up to 60 delegates.
Holyrood Suite 1, 2 & 3
The versatile Holyrood Suite can be partitioned to suit your event. Small
meetings or private dinners for up to 30 guests are ideally catered for
in one room, while bigger groups may like to work in a larger space and
partition one room as a breakout area.
Alternatively hire the suite for conferences for up to 100 delegates and take advantage of the conference floor's private bar and comfortable seating area. All three rooms are air conditioned with double aspect windows and views of Arthur's Seat.
Conferences at Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
Set in the heart of Scotland's capital city, within walking distance of
both Waverley and Haymarket train stations and with the facilities to
accommodate up to 200 delegates, the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is the ideal
venue for your next conference.
We offer the complete package: luxurious accommodation, fantastic food and drink, extensive leisure facilities and personalized service, to ensure that your business event runs smoothly.
Facilities
· Self-contained conference floor
· Secure Club Floor with exclusive lounge
· Outdoor terrace with views of Salisbury Crag
· Wireless internet access
· Close to major transport links
· Onsite valet car parking
Equipment Hire
We provide a wide range of equipment and anything else can be hired in.
Examples:-
· PA systems
· Slide projectors
· LCD screens
· Flipcharts, delegate pads and pens - free of charge
Event Planning
Whether you're planning a large conference for 200 or a private dinner
for 10, the experienced Events Team at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel can
offer assistance with room layout, local contacts, menu planning or business
support.
Food and Drink
Choose from a wide variety of tempting dining options to satisfy your
delegates at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Maintain their energy levels
throughout the day with a selection of home-baked cakes and refreshments.
Lunch is prepared to the highest Macdonald food and drink standards and can be taken as a working lunch or served in the restaurant. Banquets and private dining are also a speciality.
Team Building
Situated opposite the imposing Crags and minutes from Holyrood Park, the
Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is ideally placed to host your next big team
building event.
Use the nearby park for activities like 5-a-side football and rugby tournaments or take your team on a challenging walk across Salisbury Crag. Outdoor activities such as canoeing, clay pigeon shooting and mountain biking are also available in the surrounding area.
We only use reputable events companies - they handle the details so you can concentrate on enjoying yourselves.
Maximillion
Let the experts at Maximillion organise the ideal team building event
for you and your colleagues. From fun-packed company days out to adventure
trails and Highland flings, this well established company can tailor a
wide variety of activities to your individual requirements.
Get out of the office and into the countryside with a day of field sports and motorized activities, or opt for a calming retreat where team members can learn the ancient art of meditation as well as receiving expert advice on health and nutrition.
Action Days
One of the most well established team building operators in Britain, Action
Days offers a wide range of unique corporate activity packages in Edinburgh.
Take your team clay pigeon shooting, host a race night or relive your
youth with a school sports day.
Celebrate the completion of a long project with a 1920s themed party, where guests can try their luck at the gangster-run casino and learn how to dance the Charleston.
City Challenge
Take the Edinburgh City Challenge and experience a work out for both the
mind and the body. Offering everything from whole day events to conference
break packages, this well-respected company aims to provide team building
with a difference.
Choose the popular orienteering Urban Challenge and watch your team bond in a fun, non-competitive environment.
Attractions and Activities Guide
Perched on the craggy remains of an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle
dominates the skyline of this historical capital city. The ideal city-break
destination, Edinburgh offers world-class historical and cultural attractions,
a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, and unparalleled shopping
opportunities.
For those with a taste for adventure Scotland's capital city is ideally placed for activities such as mountain biking and climbing. Visit during August and experience the cultural explosion that is the Edinburgh Festival or join in the winter festivals that culminate in a giant Hogmanay celebration.
Adventure
Edinburgh offers numerous attractions, both in and around the city, for
those with a taste for adventure. Spend a rainy day in one of the area's
many indoor climbing arenas, where expert tutors are on hand to help you
maintain a sure footing or explore the nearby Pentland Hills Regional
Park on horseback, foot or mountain bike.
For the ultimate adventure visit an outdoor activities centre, where everything from golf to falconry is available in one location.
Climbing
As well as having countless natural rock faces ideal for climbers, Edinburgh
also boasts a number of world class indoor climbing arenas. Great for
beginners to learn on and more experienced climbers to train on, facilities
like the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena offer a fun day out in
a safe environment.
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
Built around the breathtaking natural rock face of a disused quarry in
the west of Edinburgh, this facility is home to three walls and offers
over 250 routes and 15,0000 holds.
Distance from the hotel:-10.2 miles (approx. 26 min's)
Opening hours:-Monday to Friday 10am-10pm, Saturday and Sunday-10am-7pm
Alien Rock
Ideal for beginners and professionals alike, Alien Rock was one of the
first indoor climbing arenas in Scotland. Today it offers several challenging
walls and instructors on hand.
Distance from the hotel:- 3.3 miles (approx. 14 min's)
Opening hours:- Summer-8am-10pm, Winter-10am-9pm
Outdoor Activity Centres
Edinburgh's outdoor activity centres provide the best way to try out a
variety of adventurous activities in the same location. Tear up the countryside
on a quad biking or off-road driving trip; learn the skill of archery
or falconry.
Take a guided walk in the beautiful Lothian countryside or mountain bike across Edinburgh's iconic Crags.
Mavis Hall Park
Incorporating 40 acres of rolling parkland and a tranquil loch, Mavis
Hall Park is the ideal destination for everything from a family day out
to a corporate team-building day.
Distance from the hotel:- 17.2 miles (approx. 31mins)
Pentland Hills Regional Park
Beautiful national park with cycling, horse riding and mountain biking
opportunities.
Distance from the hotel:- 6.9 miles (approx. 20 min's)
Kingsfield Leisure
Featuring an onsite golf range, a laser shooting experience and an helicopter
training school, this outdoor activity centre is located just outside
Linlithgow.
Distance from the hotel:- 17.3 miles (approx. 34 min's)
Opening hours:-Monday-Friday-10am-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm
Leisure
From ancient castles and stately homes to contemporary art galleries and
world-famous golf courses, Edinburgh is jam-packed with leisure activities
and attractions.
Start your day with a guided trip around the city atop an open top bus, stopping to visit the world's most famous castle, before enjoying a picnic in beautiful Princess Gardens. Pay a visit to the newly built Scottish Parliament or tee off on one of the many courses that surround the city.
Edinburgh Castle
With it's oldest sections dating back as far as the 12th century, Edinburgh
Castle is steeped in Scottish history and remains the city's most recognizable
building.
Distance from the hotel:-0.8 miles (approx. 5mins)
Opening hours:- Monday to Sunday 9.30 am to 6.00 pm (during the summer)
Monday to Sunday 9.30 am to 5.30 pm (during the winter)
The Palace of Holyrood House
The Queen's official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyrood House
now houses a variety of exhibitions from the Royal Collection.
Distance from the hotel:- 0.4 miles (approx. 1 min)
Opening hours:- These vary widely throughout the year.
Linlithgow Palace
Set in extensive parkland beside a loch, the magnificent ruins of Linlithgow
Palace dates from 1424 and was the residence of the Stewart family.
Distance from the hotel:- 18.6 miles (approx. 37 min's)
Opening hours:- Monday to Sunday 9.30 am to 5.30 pm (during the summer)
Monday to Sunday 9.30 am to 4.30 pm (during the winter)
Golf
With a wide selection of both historical and modern courses, Edinburgh
and the Lothians are one of Scotland's finest golfing regions. Be part
of golfing history and play a round on the world's oldest course, Musselburgh
Links, or spend the day at beautiful Mortonhall Golf Course, one of the
city's favourites since 1892.
Musselburgh Links
Mary Queen of Scots is rumoured to have teed off on the course as early
as 1567. The host of 6 open championships, Musselburgh Links offers players
a challenging yet rewarding game.
Distance from the hotel:- 6.2 miles (approx. 19 min's)
Opening hours:- Tee times vary
Mortonhall Golf Course
Open since 1892, Mortonhall Golf Course is Edinburgh's oldest active golf
course. This private club is welcoming to visitors and members alike,
and guests can receive tuition from the onsite golf pro.
Distance from the hotel:- 3 miles (approx. 9 min's)
Opening hours:- Visitors are free to play throughout the week and after
10am on the weekends
Turnhouse Golf Club
This 18-hole parkland course was designed by James Braid and hosts several
Open golf tournaments throughout the year. Although this is a private
club, visitors are welcome.
Distance from the hotel:- 6.8 miles (approx. 24 min's)
Opening hours:- Guests can play anytime from Sunday to Friday
Art Galleries
From old masters and new talent to dinosaurs and ancient armour, Edinburgh's
museums and galleries have exhibitions to suit all tastes. Admire Sir
Henry Raburn's famous painting of Sir Walter Scott in the National Portrait
Gallery, learn about the Cubists at the Gallery of Modern Art or discover
Scotland's past at the National Museum of Scotland.
National Gallery Complex
The National Gallery is home to Scotland's largest collection of fine
art, from the Renaissance period to the late 19th Century and the Royal
Scottish Academy features various international exhibitions.
Distance from the hotel:- 0.9 miles (approx. 4 min's)
Opening hours:- 10am-5pm daily 7pm close on Thursday
National Portrait Gallery
Providing a unique visual history of Scotland, the National Portrait Gallery
was the first purpose-built portrait gallery in the world and opened in
1889. It now houses a famous painting of Mary Queen of Scotland and David
Hume.
Distance from the hotel:- 1.3 miles (approx.6mins)
Opening hours:-10am-5pm daily 7pm close on Thursday
Modern Art Galleries
Set in extensive parklands, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Dean Gallery
showcase great works from 1900 onward. While the Dean Gallery is devoted
to the work of the Surrealists, the Gallery of Modern Art features everything
from the Expressionists to the Cubists.
Distance from the hotel:- 2.3 miles (approx.9 min's)
Opening hours:-10am-5pm daily 7pm close on Thursday
National Museum of Scotland
Housing an extensive collection of artifacts, hands-on discovery areas
and touring exhibitions, this museum aims to impart a picture of Scotland
through the ages.
Distance from the hotel:- 1 mile (approx. 5 min's)
Opening hours:- 10am-5pm daily
Kids
Edinburgh is a famously family-friendly destination, with plenty of attractions
and activities to entertain kids and adults alike. Learn about the world's
history at Dynamic Earth, take a scary adventure through the Edinburgh
Dungeon, visit the diverse array of animals housed in Edinburgh Zoo or
spend a fun-filled day at a children's play centre.
Families
Learning and fun combine in Edinburgh's child-friendly museums. Discover
the earth's past, present and future at Our Dynamic Earth, where kids
can explore everything from Tropical Rainforests to Polar Extremes. Alternatively
visit the city's Museum of Childhood where kids can play with antique
toys and learn what it was like to be a child in the past.
The Museum of Childhood
Described as 'the nosiest museums in the world', this dedicated children's
museum features toys and games from throughout history.
Distance from the hotel:- 0.4 miles (approx. 2 min's)
Opening hours:- Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
Our Dynamic Earth
Located directly across the street from the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel,
Our Dynamic Earth is a unique museum dedicated to telling the story of
our earth through fun and engaging exhibitions and displays.
Distance from the hotel:- Across the street
Opening hours:- 10am-5pm daily
The Edinburgh Dungeon
Take the kids on a gruesome journey to the depths of the Edinburgh Dungeon
where live actors, shows and interactive special effects ensure a truly
bone-chilling experience.
Distance from the hotel:- 0.7 miles (approx. 4 min's)
Opening hours:- Opening times vary.
Animals and Wildlife
For the perfect family day out visit one of the many wildlife parks and
animal centres within easy reach of the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel. Explore
the wonders of the sea at Deep Sea World, meet the hawks and eagles at
Edinburgh Bird of Prey Centre, experience a taste of country life in the
middle of the capital at Gorgie City Farm.
Edinburgh Zoo
Opened in 1913, Edinburgh Zoo is located in a leafy park just 10 minutes
from the centre of the city and is home to a wide range of animals from
chimpanzees and lemurs, to tigers and bears.
Distance from the hotel:- 4 miles (approx.14 min)
Opening Hours:- April-September 9am-6pm, October and March-9am-5pm, November-February-4.30pm.
Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World
Interactive centre where children can walk through a dense tropical rainforest
filled with beautiful butterflies and touch creepy crawlies, snakes, lizards
and frogs.
Distance from the hotel:- 6.7 miles (approx.18 min)
Opening hours:- Summer 9.30am-5.30pm, winter 10.00am-5.00pm
Gorgie City Farm
Children can learn about and get up close to a wide range of farm yard
animals, from grubby pigs and hungry sheep, to pretty ponies and clucking
chickens.
Distance from the hotel:-2.7 miles (approx.12 min)
Opening hours:- Opening hours vary.
Edinburgh Bird of Prey Centre
Located at the beautiful Dalhousie Castle, this centre houses everything
from majestic eagles and kestrels to tiny collared scops owls. Tuition
and guided walks are available.
Distance from the hotel:-8.5 miles (approx. 20 min's)
Opening hours:-Opening hours vary.
Deep Sea World
The award-winning National Aquarium of Scotland features much more than
just fish! Toothy sharks, cute seals and slimy frogs are just some creatures
you will meet on your visit.
Distance from the hotel:-14 miles (approx. 30 min)
Opening hours:- April-October-10am-6pm, November-March 11am-5pm
Adventure and Play Centres
Choose the easy option and take energetic kids to one of the many adventure
and play centres in Edinburgh and the surrounding area. Get crafty at
the Imagination Centre, travel back in time to meet the Egyptians at the
Time Twisters Play Centre or have a go on the trampolines at Clown Around.
Clown Around
Featuring a separate safe play area for 0-3 year olds, Clown Around provides
a safe environment for kids to let loose on the trampolines, swing around
in the activity area and jump in the ball pits.
Distance from the hotel:- 2 miles (approx. 9 min's)
Opening hours:- Opening hours vary.
The Imagination Workshop
Provides arts and crafts parties for children of all ages. Either drop
by the shop to try out the activities on offer or book a private session.
Distance from the hotel:-1.9 miles (approx. 7min)
Opening hours:- Monday-Saturday-10am-5.30pm, Sunday-11am-5pm
Time Twisters Play Centre
This Ancient Egyptian themed play area offers excellent play facilities
and a comfortable seating area to keep the adults happy. Visit the healthy
onsite café for a spot of lunch.
Distance from the hotel:- 5.9 miles (approx.22 min's)
Opening hours:- 9.30am-6pm daily.
Happy Castle Play Centre
Soft indoor play centre with facilities for children of all ages, including
0-3 year olds.
Distance from the hotel:- 10.5 miles (approx. 27 min's)
Opening hours:- 10am-6pm daily.
Towns Nearby
Glasgow - approx 52 miles
St Andrews - approx 50 miles
Dundee - approx 55 miles
Perth - approx 42 miles
Inverness - approx 155 miles
How to find us
Directions from the M8:
· Come off at the A720, The City of Edinburgh Bypass, at the roundabout,
take the 2nd exit, then merge onto Glasgow Road-A8 (signposted City Centre).
· Continue along the A8, past Edinburgh Zoo on the left, and through Corstorphine and Murrayfield, eventually passing Haymarket Station on your right hand side.
· Following parking signs for The EICC, bear right onto Torpichen Street, at the end bear right then at T-Junction turn left onto Morrison Street-B700.
· You will see The Edinburgh International Conference Centre on your left. At traffic signals continue forward onto Bread Street, bear left onto West Port, continuing forward onto Grassmarket.
· Grassmarket will become Cowgatehead, then Cowgate, continue straight on into Holyrood Road. The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is on the left hand side opposite both The Scotsman Building and Dynamic Earth.
Average journey time-25 minutes. Approximate Distance from M8-9 miles.
Directions from the North:
· Cross over The Forth road Bridge, continue forward onto the A90
entering Edinburgh.
· Continue forward for approximately 6 miles, at Blackhall junction traffic signals keep in the right hand lane, (signposted City Centre) at roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Queensferry terrace (still signposted City Centre) .
· Continue forward onto Belford Road, then onto Douglas Gardens and onward into Palmerston Place. At the end, bear left into Torpichen Street A8, at the end bear right, then at T-Junction turn left onto Morrison Street-B700.
· You will see The Edinburgh International Conference Centre on your left. At traffic signals continue forward onto Bread Street, bear left onto West Port, continuing on into Grassmarket.
· Grassmarket will become Cowgatehead, then Cowgate, continue straight on into Holyrood Road.
· The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is on the left hand side opposite
both The Scotsman Building and Dynamic Earth
Journey time- approximately 30 min's.
Journey Distance- 10.5 miles. Directions to The Holyrood from the A74.
· Leave at junction 13, at roundabout take the 3rd exit onto the A702 (signposted Edinburgh,services) and cross M74. At following roundabout take the 2nd exit onto the A702.
· Continue along the A702 for approximately 40 miles (signposted City Centre).
· You will pass through the village of Morningside, continue going straight ahead, after passing the Kings Theatre on your right, at the traffic lights take the left onto Thornybauk-A702.
· Turn left onto Semple Street, then turn right onto Morrison Street-B700. At traffic signals continue forward onto Bread Street, bear left onto West Port, continuing forward onto Grassmarket.
· Grassmarket will become Cowgatehead, then Cowgate, continue straight on into Holyrood Road.
· The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is on the left hand side opposite both The Scotsman Building and Dynamic Earth.
Journey Time: 1 hour. Journey Distance: 42 miles.
Rail Travel
Edinburgh Waverley Train Station - ½ mile
Edinburgh Haymarket Train Station - 1 mile
By Air
Air Edinburgh Airport - 8 miles
Glasgow Airport - 55 miles
Glasgow Prestwick Airport - 75 miles
Email Macdonald Holyrood Hotel enquiries & reservations: bookscotland@madbookings.com
