About

The Haystack Hostel is perfectly located right in the centre of the city, between Edinburgh Old Town and New Town, and within a five minute walk to both the train and bus stations. Our staff are the friendliest in town, and we pride ourselves on having an excellent knowledge of the local bars, restaurants, clubs, historical sites, and attractions. We also have an extensive knowledge of the area surrounding Edinburgh, and the rest of Scotland. So whether you are just looking to explore our amazing city or you fancy going further afield for a trip to visit Scotland's lochs, islands, and highlands, just ask for recommendations!

We offer a full self catered kitchen, and a common room with board games, books, music, and a chilled out atmosphere. Our clean and comfortable beds all come with their own lights and charging points for both USB and UK plugs, and individual lockers to place your valuables. Our dorms range from 3 to 12 beds, with both mixed and single gender rooms.

We provide breakfast from 6am-10am for a small fee, and can provide towels (for a fee) to our guests.
Our reception is 24hr, so we are always available to help you out in whatever you need.

THINGS TO NOTE

Free WiFi throughout the hostel.

Check in is from 15:00. If you arrive earlier you are welcome to store your bags at reception.

Check out is at 10pm.

The Hostel is smoke free; this includes use of e-cigarettes

Please remember to bring a valid ID. This includes passports, ID cards, driving licences, and residence permits. We cannot check you in without an ID.
Payments are taken 48 hours prior to your arrival.
48hr cancellation policy.
Please contact us directly for group bookings of 7 people or over.

House Rules

Check In

15:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free City Maps
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free City Tour
  • Luggage Storage
  • Housekeeping
  • Internet access
  • Board Games
View all facilities

Reviews

8.3Fabulous(515)
  • Value for Money
    7.5
  • Security
    8.5
  • Atmosphere
    8.0
  • Cleanliness
    8.5
  • Staff
    8.5
  • Location
    9.0
  • Facilities
    8.0
Stayed in Jul 2025
6.3
(
(Sabrina)
Female, 25-30, Canada
The night desk lady was amazing. I had a very late arrival and an early departure, she was so helpful. The beds are tight, but they serve their purpose. It’s certainly not a luxury spot, but the common areas are clean and well kept and a great spot to hang out in between activities. They’re not kidding about the stairs though. I could’ve cried after hiking up the hill for 30 minutes, then having to drag my suitcases up 5 flights of stairs. Just be prepared for that workout.
Stayed in Jul 2025
7.1
M
Michelle
Female, 31-40, Canada
I stayed 6 nights in the 6 bed ladies room. ✅ Staff were friendly and kind. Great location for old town, new town, & transit. Others were respectful and considerate. Small hostel - lots of fridge room and no competition for shared facilities. 🤔 This small room has regular bunk beds - no curtains, reading light, shelf, or hooks (so lots of clutter, low privacy). Room door slams, loud latch lock. Small, cramped toilets and showers. Low airflow in showers and room.
Stayed in Jul 2025
9.4
Y
Yanmin
Couple, 31-40, China
Everything are good except no elevator to the 4th floor
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Location

5/3 West Register Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
0.7km from city centre