Festivals are a great way to learn, have fun, and meet new people! If you’re in Edinburgh, you’re probably familiar with one of the city’s biggest and most exciting annual events: the Edinburgh International Festival. Every August, the city comes alive with world-class performers, inspiring shows, and a creative atmosphere that draws in artists, locals, and visitors from around the globe.
With packed venues, lively streets, and endless things to see and do, it’s no surprise that finding the perfect base is key to making the most of your festival experience.
When every moment counts, you’ll want somewhere that combines comfort, style, and easy access to venues and restaurants – and the right hotel can provide all of that. Luckily, we know just the spot to make your festival stay extra special!
The Best Hotel for Festivalgoers: Black Ivy in Bruntsfield
This year’s theme for Edinburgh International Festival is The Truth We Seek. From August 1-24, there will be different events that will explore the elusive nature of truth. Exciting, right? So, if you’re attending, you must find the right place to stay to fully enjoy all the festivities — and Black Ivy is here and ready to welcome you.
Located in the charming neighbourhood of Bruntsfield, this boutique hotel offers festivalgoers a comfortable place to rest and recharge. Expect cosy rooms, a stylish atmosphere, and welcoming spaces where you can unwind.
With its lively bar and restaurant, Black Ivy gives you the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment, all just a short distance from the festival’s main venues.
Easy Access to Festival Venues
The biggest advantage of staying at Black Ivy during the Edinburgh International Festival is its unbeatable accessibility to all the key festival venues across the city. Let’s take a look at the list of venues for the festival and see how accessible they are from Black Ivy!
| VENUE | HOW FAR FROM BLACK IVY? |
| Church Hill Theatre | Walk: ~13 minutes Public Transport: ~10 minutes Private Car: ~4 minutes |
| Edinburgh Playhouse | Walk: ~40 minutes Public Transport: ~ 32 minutes Private Car: ~15 minutes |
| Festival Theatre | Walk: ~24 minutes Public Transport: ~19 minutes Private Car: ~8 minutes |
| The Hub | Walk: ~23 minutes Public Transport: ~18 minutes Private Car: ~10 minutes |
| The Lyceum | Walk: ~16 minutes Public Transport: ~15 minutes Private Car: ~6 minutes |
| The Queen’s Hall | Walk: ~22 minutes Public Transport: ~18 minutes Private Car: ~6 minutes |
| Usher Hall | Walk: ~16 minutes Public Transport: ~12 minutes Private Car: ~7 minutes |
| Old College Quad | Walk: ~24 minutes Public Transport: ~21 minutes Private Car: ~9 minutes |
| Talbot Rice Gallery | Walk: ~22 minutes Public Transport: ~19 minutes Private Car: ~8 minutes |
| Ross Bandstand | Walk: ~25 minutes Public Transport: ~19 minutes Private Car: ~11 minutes |
You can directly access our location via Google Maps to help you navigate directions in and out of the festival.
Refuel and Unwind After the Show
After a day of soaking up world-class performances, you won’t have to wander far to recharge because Black Ivy has everything you need under one roof. Our on-site restaurant and bar serve up a deliciously diverse menu, making it easy to grab a hearty breakfast before heading out, enjoy a relaxed pre-show dinner, or sip on a well-earned nightcap.
For those who love the fresh air, our heated outdoor terrace offer the perfect spot to wind down with a classic cocktail or a crisp pint. It’s a lively yet laid-back space where you can share festival highlights and mingle with fellow festivalgoers, locals, and visitors alike.
And if you’re curious about the food and drinks we offer, you can check it out here so you can plan ahead and see which one you should try:
Why Choose a Boutique Hotel in Edinburgh Like Black Ivy
Edinburgh International Festival only happens once a year, so you need to make sure that you enjoy the event to the fullest, and a boutique hotel like Black Ivy can help you with that. When you stay here, you get more than just a room — you get comfort, character, and stories that you can treasure even after your trip.
Here’s what makes us stand out:
Comfortable and stylish stay
Each of our rooms is uniquely designed to feel like your own little sanctuary in the city. Think plush beds made up with soft Egyptian Cotton sheets, spacious bathrooms stocked with luxurious White Company ‘Noir’ toiletries, and complimentary flavoured teas to help you unwind after a busy festival day.
Instagram-worthy spaces
Black Ivy is as stylish as it is comfortable. From the chic interiors filled with charming details to the leafy outdoor views from your window, every corner is ready to be posted online. Imagine uploading a photo of your view while relaxing in our award-winning beer garden? Expect your DMs to be filled with questions like “Where is that place?”
Warm and professional service
Our staff do their best to make every guest feel at home. You can expect warm Scottish hospitality with a personal touch. From helpful local tips to a genuine smile at check-in, you’ll feel our exceptional service from start to finish.
Everything you need, all in one place
Festivals can be exhilarating but exhausting, so it’s a relief knowing you have everything you need right where you’re staying. Enjoy delicious meals and drinks without leaving the hotel, take advantage of convenient street and nearby parking, and retreat to your cosy room whenever you need a break.
Plan Your Stay Ahead
Rooms fill up fast when the Edinburgh International Festival comes to town — so don’t miss out! Make your trip even more memorable by staying somewhere that combines comfort, style, and the perfect location.
Book your stay now and get ready to experience Edinburgh’s most exciting festival with the boutique hotel that locals and visitors love.
