Observatory House

Observatory House is a large self-catering property spanning two floors. Overlooking the city centre, with extraordinary views on all sides, it provides a quiet haven within walking distance of the bright lights, but nestled high above them amongst the crags and wildlife of Calton Hill.

Sleeps 4

Bedrooms: Astronomer’s Suite (superking), Observer’s Room (superking)

Bathrooms: 1 shower room, 1 ensuite with bath

Kitchen: Fully equipped kitchen

Living: Living + Dining room

Garden: East-facing garden with seating for 4–6

The House has a rich history, with the oldest tower section dating back to 1776 and the first attempt to build an astronomical observatory for Edinburgh. Recently Collective embarked on an ambitious project to restore the interior and transform it with a sophisticated and contemporary renovation mixing warm, natural materials and colours with a suite of new feature artworks specially commissioned from artists close to our heart.

With a fully equipped kitchen and dining room, the House provides a perfect self-contained base for up to 4 people to explore the city from. Enjoy breakfast looking out to the nearby National Monument, and watch the sun set over the city from your four-poster bed in the Astronomer’s Suite.

Kitchen

Dining Room

Astronomer's Bedroom

Ensuite Bathroom

Observer's Bedroom

Shower Room

Kitchen

Living Room

Floorplans

First floor

Second floor

Access

Observatory House was built over 200 years ago and although the City Observatory site itself is wheelchair accessible, unfortunately the House/apartments are not due to steps and staircases which cannot be ramped.

The House is located on the summit of Calton Hill (105m above sea level). Drop-off by car or taxi is permitted via the Calton Hill access road; however, due to its unique location there is no resident parking on the Hill for House/apartment guests.

The House has steps and staircases to reach all rooms.

Car / taxi drop-off

Families with children aged 5 to 12

Parking

Families with children aged 5 to 12

History

Look closely at the walls of Observatory House and you will find a house within a house. Nestled against the straighter lines of a later era sits an older circular gothic tower – the oldest surviving building on Calton Hill.

More details

Observatory House Commissions

Our vision for Observatory House was to restore its heritage features, while connecting its interior to the times we live in and to contemporary artistic practice.

We commissioned contemporary artists to create integrated new artworks specially for the renovated House.

Find out more