Pollock Halls
Payments made by partners impact the order of prices displayed. Room types may vary.
The listings of booking offers for each property take into account the compensation paid to us by our partners. Prices shown may be for varying room types. Prices displayed are the lowest available, corresponding to the least expensive room type available, as provided from our partners as of the time of the user’s search.

Pollock Halls

18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh EH16 5AY Scotland
The pollocks halls from arthurs seat!
Traveller (320)
A twin room at Pollock Halls - block A
Room & Suite (80)
Scrambled Eggs
Dining (34)

View prices for your travel dates

Did you already book this hotel?
Tell us so we can help you plan.

About

#8 of 55 hostels in Edinburgh
3.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
3.6 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.1 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.1 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Service
3.7 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Pollock Halls is the perfect choice for larger groups and budget travellers visiting during the spring and summer. Our campus accommodation offers good value in a great location and you can look forward to a hearty breakfast in the Restaurant @ JMCC. Lunch and dinner are also available during the summer months. The cafe bar @ JMCC serves food, fine wine, beers and spirits. Summer Stays at The University of Edinburgh offer a campus lifestyle to educational and sports groups seeking facilities for students to sleep, eat and learn. Located at the foot of Arthur's Seat – the city's iconic ancient volcano – and on the secure Pollock Estate, we are within easy walking distance of the Old Town and the capital's main educational attractions. With 2,000+ bedrooms, onsite catering, shop, teaching spaces, and coach parking, we offer affordable accommodation for diverse school and sports groups.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Paid public parking nearby
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Free breakfast
Taxi service
Conference facilities
Meeting rooms
Non-smoking hotel
24-hour front desk
Street parking
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Self-serve laundry
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Mountain View
Budget
Languages Spoken
English

Location

18 Holyrood Park Road, Edinburgh EH16 5AY Scotland

Reviews
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.

Traveller rating
  • 247
  • 303
  • 119
  • 55
  • 25
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
  • Filter
  • English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
26rosy wrote a review Aug 2023
Barletta, Italy
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I had a great time. It is a student residence not a hotel. The rooms are equipped for students - desk with many sockets and single beds.
We stayed in the most modern structure, the older ones are beautiful.
The room was an acceptable size. The bathroom with a large shower.
There is no daily cleaning and this affects the quality of the cleaning itself. It should be daily and more accurate.
The highlight is the breakfast in a building near our residence.
Abundant and varied.
The college is always full of young people and students who stay in different structures than ours and we had no problems sleeping.
The structure has kitchen areas on each floor with refrigerators available for guests.
There is no hairdryer in the bathroom.
Read more
Google
Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: Visto che la pulizia non e’ giornaliera, organizzatevi da soli. Comodissima la lavanderia con...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pioneer68088000346 wrote a review Aug 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed for 3 nights at Pollock Halls, which during term time would be student accommodation. I was very impressed with the whole set up. The accommodation was basic, no frills accommodation, but functional, clean and comfortable. Also, the grounds are beautiful.
The breakfast, has to be mentioned. It was amazing!!!! I've eaten my share of hotel breakfasts, but this one goes to the top of my list for choice, quality and quantity. I can't fault it.
I liked the atmosphere at Pollock Halls. There was a huge international mix, with guests from all over the world. Evening meals are available and there is a bar.
Transport into Edinburgh was easy, as there is a bus stop just outside the grounds. We didn't ever have to wait more than about 10 mins for a bus. An adult day ticket letting you go anywhere cost £5.00. The bus times are online, but we found it useful to photograph the timetable displayed at the bus stop.
The staff were all helpful and polite.
I very much enjoyed my stay and would thoroughly recommend Pollock Halls. I wouldn't hesitate to stay there again.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marian wrote a review Sept 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I stayed here for a week of the Edinburgh Fringe. Buses to city centre 5 minutes walk away, or 29 minutes walk to some of the Fringe events.
Stunning location under the majestic Arthur's Seat, so I had to have a go.

Reception staff are very courteous, helpful and welcoming.

Part of Edinburgh University student accommodation which they let out as bed and breakfast accommodation in the summer break. Buffet breakfast in conference centre on site, all you can eat self-serve, gets very busy unless you are an early bird - restaurant is open from 7am...

Great value for 3 star accommodation. Clean and spacious bedsits, I paid a little more for en suite.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ellen E wrote a review Jul 2024
2.0 of 5 bubbles
This is a dormitory with en suite bathrooms. I have stayed here twice, and the rooms are hit or miss. They are all modest, as you might expect of a heavily used, poorly maintained dorm room. The first time, it was okay as a place to sleep. The second time, there was a foul smell from the bathroom that would fill the entire dorm room when the window was closed, and there was lots of street noise when the window was opened. Unfortunately, the hotel was full, and the receptionists said they could only move me to a room between loud teens who they said they had already received complaints about or to a room with bees that was currently out of service (due to the bees).

There is often a long line for service at the front desk. If you don't mind staying in a run-down, hit or miss, potentially loud dorm, this is certainly fine. If you need to sleep at night or want some level of comfort or service, you should not consider this place.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2024
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
1.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
2.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
1.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TheOutsider55 wrote a review Sept 2023
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
+1
2.0 of 5 bubbles
We'd booked for one night at Pollock Halls on the back some half decent reviews. Unfortunately, for us, staying there was not a good experience. Staff on reception are a bit brusque and there is a rather odd system whereby you have to submit two bank card debits (one for 1 pence) and another for your accommodation. Also means it's all paid up front. The first room (we saw three in total) was small and below basic, by which I mean in dire need of updating and it was dusty and dirty. The en suite shower had seriously bad mould and the tap almost came off in your hand when you turned it. This was the best of the three and given it was quite late by this time, we decided to stay. We both spoke to reception about the issues and although they'd offered different rooms, it was clear that they didn't really appreciate the problems or perhaps thought we were just being difficult. Sleeping there was grim. One positive thing is that the breakfast service was well organised and there was plenty of food, albeit a slightly limited menu. That said, it was much better than a lot of hotel breakfasts with the exception of the scrambled eggs. Staff were pleasant and friendly. Also, we did receive a 50% refund as a gesture of goodwill. I suspect there is a complete disconnect between the people with overall responsibility and management of the halls and those on the ground delivering the service. It was clear that no monitoring of standards was taking place, otherwise it would not have been so bad. It's a shame, because location wise, it's quite convenient and if it were better run, it would be a good alternative option for a stay in Edinburgh.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2023
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
3.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Koldo K wrote a review Aug 2023
Madrid, Spain
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I recently stayed in this student residence.
It is a very good accommodation option 15/20 minutes walk from the center. (UBER to the center costs about 5/7 pounds)
Double rooms (two beds) are a very good choice.
Is there a coffee maker in the room
The beds are comfortable
The clean bathroom
The residence does not have room service unless you notify
The residence is quiet and there is no noise.
The breakfast, simply exceptional, varied.
100% recommended
Greetings
Read more
Google
Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Watson & Marsh wrote a review Aug 2023
London, United Kingdom
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Extremely basic accommodation in old student residences which was overpriced for the experience received including substandard comfort and amenities.

The bed was appalling with a terrible mattress, thin pillows and lumpy duvet and resulting in a poor night's sleep.

With no television provided the Wi-Fi needed to work well, it did not.

The communal bathroom was dirty from an age of wear and tear.

Breakfast was a mass catering nightmare.
...
Read more
Date of stay: July 2023
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
2.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
2.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip: Avoid taking breakfast at 8.00 to 8.30am
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jillian D wrote a review Aug 2021
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I didn't quite know what to expect when I booked a two night getaway. The price attracted me (£50 a night with breakfast) and I thought, "If it's not great at least it's cheap!"

This is an amazing little oasis of calm under Arthur's Seat. Check in was great; a lovely, friendly receptionist and a smooth and transparent check in procedure. My room was clean and comfortable, with little touches like fluffy white towels, a tea and coffee tray and delicious body wash and soap. The view!!! Wow!! At night, the water feature gently trickles in the gardens below and it's so peaceful.

The bar is friendly and has a good range of wines and food. Breakfast was Covid secure and tastily plentiful.

What a gem this accommodation has been. Thank you Edinburgh First and UOE.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2021Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cwsnaps wrote a review Jul 2024
Newcastle, Australia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Edinburgh is hilly and an iconic city to explore. This venue was located on a reasonably flat walk to the centre. The accommodation offered your own room and ensuite. The bed was super comfortable and the shower was gentle. Very clean. Tea/coffee/milk provided in room. The included breakfast ranged from a buffet - hot / cold / fruit/ pastries all very tasty. Staff were friendly and helpful. The grounds were a delight to wander around. Great find.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip: No hair dryer in room.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Matt wrote a review Jun 2022
United Kingdom
1.0 of 5 bubbles
This is a hall's of residence so you get basic accommodation. Fine.... But the numerous fire doors and room doors bang shut and echo through the walls as people crash home at all hours and it goes on ALL night. Bring ear plugs.... Breakfast was excellent but rooms smelt musty and you have to keep teh window open all the time (Grant House).

Fix the automatic door closers so they shut slowly, it is not that fricking hard.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2022
1.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
2.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled on business
Room Tip: Maybe top floor would help
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Robert Kitzinger, General Manager at Pollock Halls
Responded 29 Jun 2022
Dear Mathew, Thank you very much for your feedback, it was nice to hear you very much enjoyed breakfast. We do take all our guests comments very seriously and thank you again for highlighting your experience with the doors. I will certainly pass this on to our team to see what improvements we can make. I do hope we have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Edinburgh in the near future. Kind Regards, Claire Hillis Rooms Division Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
…
Emma P asked a question Jul 2019
West Midlands, United Kingdom136 contributions26 helpful votes
Hi, What time does breakfast start? Thanks :)
Answer from Gavin MacLennan
Edinburgh, United Kingdom60 contributions1 helpful vote
Hi Emmzickle, It starts from 7 am Monday - Friday and 07.30 Saturday & Sunday. Best wishes, Robert
Tim G asked a question Jan 2019
Enfield, United Kingdom491 contributions130 helpful votes
Which bus routes link Pollock Halls to Waverley station? And how do you pay for buses in Edinburgh (cash/card/other)?
Answer from Olive M
Stilton, United Kingdom40 contributions25 helpful votes
I can't remember the bus number! But all the information like that is readily available at the Reception. There are bus timetables but also the staff are incredibly helpful. The bus stop is immediately outside and the buses quite frequent. There are various bus passes you can buy which were good value but a day ticket was very cheap. Also, at the entrance there is usually a taxi hovering, but ifnot, in Reception there is a dedicated phone and one will appear quite quickly. Oddly enough we couldn't find a taxi in the city centre when returning from a concert, but we did get a bus back. We came back with one of the orchestra who was staying at Pollock Hall and he said taxis were scarce and needed to be prebooked, but he found the bus reliable. I would also mention the open topped tourist buses. They take you to all the tourist sites, including out to the Royal Yacht in Leith. Not cheap but convenient and save wasting time. I can recommend the accomodation. A bit far out if, like me you can't walk far, but great value for money. In summer I stay in university accomodation if possible the length and breadth of the UK
DeidreMitchell asked a question Sept 2018
Hobart, Australia3 contributions4 helpful votes
Hello, do you have double bed with ensuite rooms for couples ?
Answer from Dominic L
Hi there, During student time we have two onsite hotels called Masson House and Salisbury Green both of which have double beds. If you'd like to make a booking do email bed.breakfast@ed.ac.uk . Kind Regards, Dominic
Vicky C wrote a tip Aug 2024
Leigh-on Sea, United Kingdom3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Great value for money, good fluffy towels and amazing breakfast. "
Read full review
cwsnaps wrote a tip Jul 2024
Newcastle, Australia48 contributions15 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"No hair dryer in room. "
Read full review
Watson & Marsh wrote a tip Aug 2023
London, United Kingdom1,164 contribution249 helpful votes
2.0 of 5 bubbles
"Avoid taking breakfast at 8.00 to 8.30am "
Read full review
B A E B wrote a tip Aug 2023
Edinburgh, United Kingdom3 contributions1 helpful vote
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"If taking dinner, collect one course at a time - all plates are cold and your main course will be too if you dawdle."
Read full review
Frans J wrote a tip Aug 2022
Woerden, The Netherlands5 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"This is a quiet campus, basically all is well."
Read full review
…
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Edinburgh area.
PRICE RANGE
£64 - £146 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
pollock halls - edinburgh first hotel edinburgh, pollock halls - edinburgh 1st, first hotel edinburgh, edinburgh first hotel
LOCATION
United KingdomScotlandEdinburgh
NUMBER OF ROOMS
1,800
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing

POLLOCK HALLS - Updated 2025 Prices, Reviews, and Photos

Frequently Asked Questions about Pollock Halls
Which popular attractions are close to Pollock Halls?
Nearby attractions include Edinburgh Combat Challenge (0.3 miles), St Anthony's Chapel (0.1 miles), and Royal Commonwealth Pool (0.2 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Pollock Halls?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Pollock Halls?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Pollock Halls?
Yes, paid public parking nearby and street parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Pollock Halls?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Salisbury Arms, The Brassiere At the Scholar, and Bits Bake Shop.
Does Pollock Halls offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to meeting rooms and conference facilities during their stay.
Are there any historical sites close to Pollock Halls?
Many travellers enjoy visiting The Real Mary King's Close (1.0 miles), Palace of Holyroodhouse (0.9 miles), and Gladstone's Land (1.1 miles).
Does Pollock Halls have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.
Is Pollock Halls accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
All Edinburgh HotelsEdinburgh Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in EdinburghHotels near Pollock Halls
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsHoliday RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesCar Hire