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From202US$ /night
Check-in
24Feb2026Select date
Check-out
25Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

37-39 Cowgate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JR
-
Steps from the Royal Mile
Great
8.1
8.5
/10
3.9
/5

Location

Kick Ass Greyfriars is situated in the historic Grassmarket area of Edinburgh, directly opposite Greyfriars Kirkyard and a short walk from Edinburgh Castle. It provides quick access to top attractions like the Royal Mile and Princes Street. The castle view beer garden offers a scenic spot to relax after a day of exploration.

Rooms

The hostel offers a variety of shared and private accommodations, including standard dorms and private twin or double rooms. Pod beds provide extra privacy and personal lighting for a more comfortable stay. There are spacious dormitory options with panoramic views of the castle available for guests.

Dining

The onsite Kick Ass Café & Bar serves food and beverages throughout the day, providing a social hub for guests. Guests can enjoy a variety of drinks at the unique VW Van Bar located on the ground floor. Shared kitchen facilities are available at the Kick Ass Grassmarket location, open from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Activities

Daily free guided tours offer guests a chance to explore the rich history of Edinburgh. The common Chillout room features a TV for Netflix viewing, ensuring a relaxing space after adventures. Evening activities and a range of events, such as karaoke and pub crawls, create a lively atmosphere.

Secure and Accessible

Kick Ass Greyfriars emphasizes security with 24-hour manned reception and surveillance throughout the property. Guests receive personal key card access to their rooms and a wristband for entry. A luggage storage area is available for guests before check-in or after check-out.

Highlights

Location: Grassmarket area, direct access to attractions

Rooms: Pod beds and private double rooms

Dining: Kick Ass Café & Bar on-site

Activities: Free guided tours and evening events

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Royal Botanic Garden for breathtaking plant displays.
  • Taste haggis at The Baked Potato Shop for a true Scottish treat.
  • Explore the hidden gems of Dean Village, a picturesque enclave.
  • Join a ghost tour on the Royal Mile for spooky Edinburgh tales.
  • Discover the Scottish National Gallery for stunning art collections.
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Select your room type

Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) Hostel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Bed 4-Bed Dormitory Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Bed 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Bed 4-Bed Female Dormitory Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Bed 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) Hostel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Adults only
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Billiard tables

Guest Parking

  • Dryer

Services

  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Business centre

Children

  • Board games
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Trouser press

Self-catering

  • Dryer
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Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) Hostel Location

37-39 Cowgate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JR
Map view
37-39 Cowgate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 1JR
Nearby
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
1500 ft
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
1500 ft
High Street 2 Warriston's Close
The Real Mary King's Close
1500 ft
Church
St Giles' Cathedral
1500 ft
Store
Edinburgh Old Town
1500 ft
Monument
Scott Monument
1500 ft
Museum
The Writers' Museum
1500 ft
Museum
Gladstone's Land
1500 ft
Nicolson Street
Surgeons' Hall Museums
1500 ft
Museum
Museum of Childhood
1500 ft
Museum
John Knox House
1500 ft
2 Chalmers Close High Street (opposite Museum of Childhood on Royal Mile)
Brass Rubbing Centre
1500 ft
53 Princes Street
Princes Street
1500 ft
Cemetery
The Robertson Mausoleum
1500 ft
Church
Mercat Cross
1300 ft
Gallery
City Art Centre
1500 ft
Restaurants
Oink
600 ft
34 Victoria Street 82 Canongate
Deacon's House Cafe
1100 ft
304 Lawnmarket Brodies Close
Let Me Eat Too
200 ft
7 Cowgatehead Grassmarket
The Bow Bar
600 ft
80 West Bow
Uncle's Fish & Chips
1200 ft
52 George IV Bridge
The Deli Global
1200 ft
13 George IV Bridge
Castle Rock Chip Shop
400 ft
Rock Chip Shop 87 Grassmarket In Between Greyfriars Kirkyard & The Scotch Whisky Experience
Over Langshaw Farmhouse
400 ft
The Grassmarket Old Town
Graze On Grassmarket
500 ft
67 Grassmarket
Bobbys Kebab House
500 ft
21 Candlemaker Row
Explore Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
6 minutes walking
Vast collections showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural history. Free admission and interactive displays.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
13 minutes walking
Historic fortress atop Castle Rock offering stunning views and rich history. Admission fees apply; guided tours available.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse
20 minutes walking
Official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Features beautiful gardens and historic rooms. Admission fees apply.
Scottish National Gallery
Scottish National Gallery
13 minutes walking
Home to an impressive collection of Western art. Offers free entry; special exhibitions may have an admission fee.
Arthur's Seat hike
Arthur's Seat hike
30 minutes walking
A thrilling hike up an ancient volcano providing spectacular city views. Accessible year-round; a must for adventure seekers.
The Meadows Park
14 minutes walking
Relaxation spot with open green spaces, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. Ideal for a soothing escape from the city.
Oink
Oink
3 minutes walking
Casual eatery known for delicious hog roast sandwiches. Hearty portions and local flavors; vegetarian options available.
Deacon's House Cafe
Deacon's House Cafe
4 minutes walking
Charming cafe serving traditional Scottish dishes and afternoon tea. Cozy atmosphere; reservations recommended for busy hours.
The Bow Bar
The Bow Bar
3 minutes walking
Lively pub offering a wide variety of local ales. Frequent live music and a friendly atmosphere; suitable for all ages.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
13 minutes walking
Engaging attraction with optical illusions and panoramic views of the city. Great for families and curious minds.
Getting around
City Centre
Edinburgh6 min  ·  1700 ft
Airports
Edinburgh (EDI)21 min  ·  8.5 mi
Dundee Airport (DND)146 min  ·  60.5 mi
Train
Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station8 min  ·  2000 ft
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP5 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Spanish, Italian, Arabic
Number of rooms:
214
Former name
Budget Backpackers Hostel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) Hostel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 1965 verified reviews
8.1/10
Great
85%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.1/10
Comfort
8.1/10
Facilities
8.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.3/10
Guest reviews
based on 5885 reviews
8.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
How far is Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) from Edinburgh Castle?
The hotel is located 1 km from Edinburgh Castle.
What breakfast options are available at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
Guests can enjoy a buffet or continental breakfast for an additional charge of 5 GBP.
Is there an on-site restaurant at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
The hotel offers an on-site bar and a communal kitchen for guests.
What amenities are available in the rooms at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
Rooms are fitted with bed linen and shared bathrooms.
Does Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) provide Wi-Fi?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What languages are spoken by the staff at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
The staff speaks Arabic, English, Spanish, and Italian.
What activities can guests participate in at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
Guests can enjoy billiards, movie nights, and pub crawls on-site.
How far is Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) from the nearest airport?
The hotel is located 10 km from Edinburgh Airport.
What is the proximity of Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only) to city attractions?
The hotel is 400 metres from the National Museum of Scotland and 100 metres from the city centre.
Is there a place for guests to relax at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
Guests can enjoy a sun terrace and a garden area.
What is the entertainment offer at Kick Ass Greyfriars (Adults Only)?
The hotel features evening entertainment and a games room.

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