The Historic Main House
Four bedrooms across two floors of Edinburgh's oldest working photographer's studio, with panoramic views from Calton Hill.
The Film
Two minutes inside the house, before you book.
The House
Spanning two floors, Rock House exudes character and charm throughout. Period details, open log fires and beautifully considered living spaces run through every room, giving the house a timeless elegance that guests describe as unforgettable.
Four bedrooms and two bathrooms sleep up to eight guests, making the house equally suited to a family holiday, a celebration or a stay during the Edinburgh Festival.
Rock House occupies a unique position on Calton Hill, with spectacular panoramic views over Edinburgh from its elevated setting, and yet Princes Street is barely a few minutes’ walk away.
Built in the 1750s, Rock House is reputed to be one of the oldest houses in Edinburgh’s New Town. It came to worldwide fame as the home of the artist and pioneering photographer David Octavius Hill, who in 1843 developed the calotype process here with the engineer Robert Adamson, founding the first photography studio in Scotland.
The house remained in continuous use as a photographer’s studio from the 1840s until the 1950s. It has since been carefully renovated and returned to its former glory, ready to welcome guests for short stays and holidays.
The location could hardly be more central. Rock House sits close to both the Old Town and New Town, within easy reach of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and the Edinburgh Festival. Waverley station and the airport tram stop are each a five minute walk away, and there is secure public parking at the OMNI Centre a few minutes from the door.
Book direct for the best rate. Secure booking via Hostaway.
Gallery
Amenities
Good to Know
Also at Rock House
Book together with Rock House for up to fourteen guests across the whole property.
FAQ
Rock House has four bedrooms and two bathrooms across two floors, sleeping up to eight guests in total.
Yes. The house is arranged over two floors connected by its original staircase, so it may not suit guests with limited mobility.
Rock House sits in an elevated position on Calton Hill with panoramic views over Edinburgh, including the Old Town skyline.
Yes. With four bedrooms and space for up to eight guests, Rock House suits families, small groups and celebrations equally well.
Yes. Rock House can be booked alongside the Terrace Apartment and the Photographer’s Studio, sleeping up to fourteen guests in total across the whole property.
Book Direct
Booking direct with us is always the best rate, and it puts you in touch with the people who look after the house.
Check Availability
