4 best hotels with a pool in Edinburgh

Hotels with a pool in Edinburgh blend two very different pleasures: city sightseeing and proper relaxation. In practice, the best “pool hotels” here tend to be full-service properties (or upscale business hotels) with leisure facilities designed for downtime after long walks—think an on-site indoor pool, spa-style changing areas, and the kind of calm that suits couples, repeat visitors, and families who want a quieter afternoon plan.

For location, most guests prefer staying in areas that keep Edinburgh’s highlights within easy reach. Old Town, with its historic spine along the Royal Mile and iconic views from Edinburgh Castle, is ideal for first-timers wanting to step straight into the city’s heritage. New Town, by contrast, is well placed for elegant Georgian streets around Charlotte Square—especially if you want wider roads, a more modern feel, and strong access to dining and shopping.

When choosing among our bookable options, a hotel like Rocco Forte The Balmoral (5★) and Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa Edinburgh (5★) suits travellers prioritising comfort and leisure, while Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (ex:The Principal Edinburgh Charlotte Square) (5★) and Nira Caledonia Hotel (4★) work well for longer city breaks where evenings are as important as days out. For a higher-value trip, Apex Waterloo Place (4★) and Justb (4★) are solid bases—particularly when you want pool time without paying only for the view.

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