Leith’s Top Accommodation Picks
for the Fringe Festival
Welcome to our guide to discovering the top four accommodation options in Leith, Edinburgh, for the celebrated Fringe Festival. Located just a 10-minute tram ride from the lively New Town, Leith is an excellent choice for festival-goers who want to stay close to the excitement while enjoying a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere than the city centre. Whether you're looking for a charming apartment or a stylish hotel, Leith offers a selection of accommodations that cater to various preferences and budgets, ensuring your festival experience is both comfortable and unforgettable.
Leith’s top-rated Airbnb
Leith Hospital ™ is a beautifully designed self-catering apartment just a two-minute walk from The Shore, one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant areas, known for its cafes and restaurants. Nestled in a quiet residential block, it provides a peaceful escape while keeping you close to the action. Set within a historic former hospital, the apartment features soaring 5-metre ceilings and a seamless mix of modern style and heritage charm. Spanning two spacious floors, it comfortably sleeps up to six adults, with extra amenities for children and infants, including a high chair and crib, making it a perfect family-friendly retreat in Leith.
Set along the historic Leith waterfront, Malmaison Edinburgh offers a perfect base for exploring Scotland’s capital and beyond. Just a 10-minute taxi ride from the city centre, it provides easy access to iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Princes Street. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, Malmaison Edinburgh blends prime location and top-tier amenities for a truly memorable stay.
Step aboard Ocean Mist, a luxurious 17-bedroom hotel and bar offering stunning 360-degree views over the historic Water of Leith, from Edinburgh Castle to The Victoria Swing Bridge. Combining the glamour of the 1920s with modern comforts, it delivers a unique and elegant stay in the heart of Edinburgh.
Welcome aboard Fingal Hotel, a five-star AA destination and award-winning retreat, recognized as Tripadvisor’s No.1 UK Luxury Hotel and AA Hotel of the Year Scotland. This exceptional floating hotel offers elegantly designed Classic, Luxury, and Duplex cabins with stylish nautical touches. For the ultimate stay, the Skerryvore Suite features a private sitting room and deck, perfect for stargazing with a glass of Champagne.
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Where to Stay for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival: The Best Hotels and Airbnbs in Leith
Planning a trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival? Stay just 10 minutes from the action while enjoying a peaceful retreat in Leith, Edinburgh’s trendiest waterfront district. With its historic charm, buzzing bars, and award-winning restaurants, Leith offers the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation—ideal after a day of festival shows. Here are the best places to stay for your Fringe experience.
Leith Hospital: A Boutique Airbnb for Groups and Families
For a stylish, home-away-from-home experience, Leith Hospital offers a spacious, design-led retreat in the heart of The Shore.
• Perfect for groups and families – Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and plenty of space for up to six adults plus children.
• Work and play ready – Super-fast broadband, dedicated workstations, and modern amenities.
• Unbeatable location – Steps from The Shore’s best cafes and bars, yet tucked away for a quiet night’s sleep.
Ocean Mist: A Luxury Hotel with Stunning Views
Step into 1920s-inspired elegance aboard Ocean Mist, a floating boutique hotel with breathtaking views of the Water of Leith.
• Stunning scenery – 360-degree views from Edinburgh Castle to The Victoria Swing Bridge.
• Historic meets modern – A beautifully restored 1919 vessel with luxury finishes.
• Exclusive perks – Member benefits, curated events, and a top-tier guest experience.
Fingal: Five-Star Floating Luxury
For something truly unique, Fingal offers superyacht glamour with a five-star hotel experience.
• Award-winning luxury – Recognised as Tripadvisor’s No.1 UK Luxury Hotel.
• Elegant cabins – Classic, Luxury, and Duplex options, plus the Skerryvore Suite with a private deck for stargazing.
• Fine dining – Enjoy cocktails and exquisite cuisine at the Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar.
Malmaison Edinburgh: Chic, Stylish, and Convenient
For a classic boutique hotel experience, Malmaison Edinburgh blends modern style with a prime waterfront location.
• Minutes from the city – A short tram ride to the Fringe Festival venues and top attractions.
• Urban comfort – Stylish rooms, great service, and all the amenities you need.
• Great for business or leisure – Perfect for a relaxed, well-connected stay.
The Perfect Base for the Fringe Festival
Leith gives you the best of both worlds—easy access to Fringe venues while offering a tranquil escape at the end of the day. Whether you prefer the boutique comfort of Leith Hospital, the elegance of Ocean Mist, the luxury of Fingal, or the chic vibe of Malmaison, you’ll find the perfect place to stay during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Book now and experience the best of Edinburgh with a stress-free, stylish stay in Leith.
The Neighbourhood
Just a 10-minute tram ride from Edinburgh’s New Town, The Shore in Leith is the perfect mix of hipster cool and laid-back charm. Start your day with a specialty coffee at Williams & Johnson, known for its relaxed vibe, then enjoy a delicious dinner at Nobles, a local favorite with a vintage feel. As night falls, sip on creative cocktails at Smoke and Mirrors. While Leith is packed with great dining spots, The Shore offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere—a must-visit for a true local Edinburgh experience.
Visit the 4th coolest
neighbourhood in the world ;)
Explore The Shore in Leith, named the 4th coolest neighbourhood in the world by Time Out in 2021. This vibrant waterfront district blends historic charm with a modern buzz, offering trendy cafes, top dining spots, and a thriving arts scene. Book your stay and discover why The Shore is a must-visit global hotspot.