Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Exterior photoHoliday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Beds photoHoliday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Interior photo
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From266US$ /night
Check-in
03May2026Select date
Check-out
04May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Britannia Way, Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 6JJ
-
Close to the waterfront
Great
8.1
8.5
/10
4.0
4.1
/5

Location

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront is positioned close to the Royal Yacht Britannia and Ocean Terminal. Guests can reach Edinburgh Waverley train station just a short distance away, and the Edinburgh Airport is approximately a 25-minute drive. The hotel is conveniently located near the St James Quarter, offering a diverse mix of high-end retailers and unique boutiques.

Rooms

This hotel offers 169 rooms equipped with essential conveniences. Guests can choose from family rooms, which include sofa beds designed for children, ensuring space for everyone. Each room features complimentary Wi-Fi, ironing facilities, and free tea and coffee supplies.

Dining

An inclusive Express Start breakfast is available, featuring hot and continental options to energize the morning. In the evenings, guests can unwind in the lounge while ordering a selection from the dinner menu, including light bites and pizzas. Grab-and-go bags are also offered for those in need of a quick meal.

Parking

The hotel provides on-site parking for a fee of 10 GBP per night, with spaces limited. Complimentary public transportation options are available, as trams to the city center can be caught just outside the hotel. This location gives guests easy access to explore Edinburgh without the hassle of driving.

Pet-Friendly Policies

Pets are welcome at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh, but prior arrangements are necessary. The hotel also accommodates service animals at no charge. Their pet-friendly policies allow guests to travel with their furry companions comfortably.

Highlights

Location: Close to Royal Yacht Britannia

Rooms: 169 rooms equipped with essential conveniences

Dining: Express Start breakfast included

Parking: On-site parking for 10 GBP per night

Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome by prior arrangement

“The location certainly appeals, with convenient access to the Ocean Terminal tram line easing trips into the city. With an included breakfast and options for families, this property seems focused on value, though some reports mention inconsistencies with the rooms and service. For travellers prioritizing location and budget, it's a viable option with some caveats.”
Hotel logo
Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Room allocated on Arrival Hot
2 persons
120 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Twin Room Hot
2 persons
120 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Hot
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Hot Accessible
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score

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, dining is a delightful experience, perfectly suited for families and casual gatherings. With a focus on comfort and accessibility, guests can enjoy everything from leisurely breakfasts to light bites throughout the day, all served in a warm and inviting setting.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Casual dining with a focus on comfort food
Ambiance
Family-friendly and relaxed, suitable for all ages
Key Offerings
Enjoy hearty favorites such as nachos, chicken wings, burgers, and flavorful curries, complemented by light bites like pizza. The stylish bar offers a selection of coffees, teas, craft beers, premium spirits, and world wines.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 12:00 - 23:30, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg 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
1400 ft
Mall
Ocean Terminal
1500 ft
Edinburgh EH6Scotland
Leith
600 ft
Theatre
Leith Theatre
1800 ft
West Princess Garden Street Near Saint John's
Sir James Young Simpson Monument
800 ft
Restaurants
Lee's Kitchen
400 ft
14 Portland Place
Costa Coffee
1000 ft
98 Ocean Drive Ground Floor
Wrapchic
1300 ft
Ocean Terminal Ocean Drive
Fit Food Bistro
1500 ft
41 Commercial Street
Tiso Summit Cafe
1500 ft
41 Commercial Street
Belly Buster
1800 ft
36 Ferry Road
The Haven Cafe
2100 ft
9 Anchorfield Newhaven
North Fort Cafe
1900 ft
19 North Fort Street
Hung Fung
2600 ft
124 Ferry Road
Williams and Johnson
2500 ft
1 Customs Wharf Custom Lane
Explore Edinburgh
Explore Leith & Edinburgh
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht Britannia
5 minutes' walk
Former royal yacht with fascinating exhibitions and stunning views. Guided tours available.
Ocean Terminal
Ocean Terminal
6 minutes' walk
Shopping and dining complex offering various retail options, a cinema, and eateries.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
Trinity House Maritime Museum
10 minutes' walk
Museum showcasing maritime history, artifacts, and the significance of Leith's dock.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill
30 minutes' walk
Iconic hill featuring historic monuments and panoramic views of Edinburgh's skyline.
Water Sports at Leith
5 minutes' walk
Thrilling water sports like kayaking and sailing available nearby with rental services.
Relax at Lochend Park
24 minutes' walk
Scenic park offering peaceful walking paths, picnic areas, and a serene lake ideal for relaxation.
Mr Nicks
4 minutes' walk
Casual eatery known for juicy steaks and burgers. Family-friendly with vegetarian options.
Wrapchic
Wrapchic
5 minutes' walk
Fusion eatery blending Indian flavors with wraps. Fresh ingredients, gluten-free options available.
The Bongo Club
30 minutes' walk
Vibrant venue hosting live music, club nights, and art events. Welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Cameo Cinema
10 minutes' drive
Historic cinema screening a mix of mainstream and indie films. Cozy vibe with a bar.
Getting around town
City Centre
Edinburgh5 min  ·  2.1 mi
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)26 min  ·  10.6 mi
Glasgow (GLA)140 min  ·  57.9 mi
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station5 min  ·  1.9 mi
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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
Wireless 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

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront offers comfortable, good-sized modern rooms, making it a convenient choice for many visitors. Its location near the Ocean Terminal provides easy access to the Royal Yacht Britannia, a shopping mall with varied shops and food outlets, and the Lind & Lime gin distillery. While the breakfast is generally appreciated, some guests have noted that it can get busy, occasionally leading to longer waiting times for a table. Excellent bus and tram links just 200m away facilitate quick trips to Edinburgh city centre and the airport, making it a strategically positioned and reasonably priced hotel.
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Review score
Based on 2822 verified reviews
8.0/10
Great
83%
Recommend
Staff
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Breakfast
7.5/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Helpful staff
Great breakfast
Clean hotel
Cons
Uncomfortable beds
Guest reviews
based on 2822 reviews
8.0/10
based on 5974 reviews
8.1/10
Bob from United Kingdom
Family with children
standard double room hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 17, 2026
7/10
helpful staffgood transportattractions proximitylow pressurepoor breakfastfrozen compote
the staff was friendly and helpful. jamie at reception was particularly helpful (he seemed to do everything!). the location was also good with transport links into town and proximity to attractions.
the shower lacked any real pressure. i also found breakfast to be poor. some of the compote was frozen, and the bacon and sausage looked cremated.
0 Helpful
Oliver from United Kingdom
Couple
standard twin room hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 02, 2026
8.7/10

convenient spot near the docks

helpful staffclean atmosphereeasy accesspeaceful location
The staff are indeed helpful. the hotel had a fresh, clean atmosphere. the tram stop is just outside the hotel. It provides easy access to the city center. i found the location peaceful because it was away from the city center's hustle.
My room's heater only blew out cold air. It didn't seem to work correctly.
Location
9/10
The hotel is near the ocean terminal. It gives access to restaurants and shops. a tesco express is also a short walk away. trams run frequently and take about 15 minutes to the city center.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel is well-organized. It appears new and very clean. the room was a good size with a comfortable bed. parking was simple and efficient with a pay point located in the lobby. The staff were very helpful.
Dining
9/10
breakfast includes eggs, yogurt, pancakes, croissants, and fruit. there is also milk, tea, and coffee available. it provides a filling start to the day.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Chris from United Kingdom
Single
standard double room hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 22, 2026
7/10
clean roomgood showerexcellent locationexpensive experiencenoisy acbreakfast queue
the room was clean. a good shower was in the bathroom, it had excellent water pressure. the location was excellent since the trams now run to ocean terminal. it made getting around very easy..
the hotel was expensive for the experience. the a/c did not refresh the room at all. it was noisy. breakfast was always full of people and had huge queues
0 Helpful
Grace from United kingdom
Family with children
Standard Double Room Sofa Bed Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 11, 2026
9/10

AN amazing stay

true kindnesslocal attraction accessrich variety
the staff showed true kindness , Always willing to help with a smile. the location granted easy access to local attractions with public transport nearby. i found breakfast quite appealing , with a rich variety of options each morning.
0 Helpful
Luna from Spain
Family with children
Standard Double Room Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 09, 2026
9/10
tram accessgood selection
The location was very convenient. It offered easy access to tram and bus routes right outside the door. breakfast had a good selection, just the right amount without being too much!!
The hotel lacked drawers in the bedroom.
0 Helpful
Victoria from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Double Room Hot
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 15, 2025
6/10
crowded breakfastunexpected cost
The breakfast area was crowded and rather UNPLEASANT. Food items ran out quickly, the staff struggled to replenish them promptly. I found the lack of readily available options frustrating. the parking fee added an unexpected cost to my stay.
0 Helpful
Hannah from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Double Room Hot
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:July 21, 2025
9/10
quick check-inslick operationgreat room service
Staff was friendly, and check-in was quick. The breakfast was a slick operation! I watched staff look after so many people, its was fantastic. I also saw them provide new towels and do great room service upon requesting.
The main carpet area needed a good cleaning.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
How far is Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg from Edinburgh Airport?
The hotel is located 12 km from Edinburgh Airport.
What dining options are available at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg?
The hotel features a lounge bar and serves food items such as pizzas, paninis, soups, and burgers.
Are there any restaurants nearby Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg?
Nearby restaurants include Pizza Express (0.5 km), The Kitchin (0.5 km), and Frankie & Benny's (0.5 km).
What amenities are available in the rooms at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
How close is Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg to major attractions?
The hotel is less than 4.0 km from attractions such as the Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, and Edinburgh Castle.
Is Wi-Fi available at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
Does Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront By Ihg provide breakfast?
Complimentary Express Start breakfast is included, featuring continental items and a selection of hot dishes.

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