Generator Edinburgh is a stylish hostel in the vibrant Cowgate area of Edinburgh's Old Town. Known for its design-led interiors, lively bar, and excellent social events, Generator attracts travellers who want the hostel experience without compromising on style. Dorms and private rooms available.
Generator Edinburgh is a design-led hostel at Robertson's Close off the Cowgate in Edinburgh's Old Town, bringing the Generator brand's reputation for stylish, sociable budget accommodation to Scotland's capital. Generator Hotels, established in London in 2007, has built a network of European hostel properties in major cities occupying the territory between traditional budget hostels and boutique hotels, attracting a design-conscious younger demographic who expect creative environments even at dormitory prices. The Edinburgh property, set within a characterful building accessed from the Cowgate, provides a range of accommodation from standard mixed dormitories and same-sex dorm options through to private rooms. The design aesthetic throughout references Edinburgh's cultural landscape and history, with bespoke artwork, bold use of Scottish references, and photography celebrating the city's festivals, architecture, and distinctive personality. Unlike many hostels where communal areas are functional afterthoughts, Generator Edinburgh's bar, lounge areas, and games zones are genuine destinations in their own right — designed for extended socialising and relaxed congregation. The Generator bar is the hostel's social heartbeat, serving craft beers, well-priced spirits, and a selection of food throughout the day and into the evening. Regular events, quiz nights, and social programmes run throughout the week, particularly active during the Edinburgh Festival in August when the hostel draws a global crowd of performers, artists, and festival-goers who appreciate the Cowgate location's proximity to major fringe venues. Fast Wi-Fi is available throughout, alongside luggage storage, laundry facilities, and 24-hour reception. The Cowgate location places Generator at the centre of Edinburgh's nightlife scene, with live music venues and bars opening directly onto the street. The Royal Mile is approximately five minutes on foot via any of the steeply climbing closes that connect the lower Cowgate to the upper street level.
Amenities
- Bar
- Common areas
- Free Wi-Fi
- Luggage storage
- Events
Location
37 Robertson's Close, Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1LY
Highlights
- Design-led interiors
- Cowgate nightlife location
- Lively Generator bar
- Social events programme
- Private rooms available
Tips for visiting
- The Cowgate location is Edinburgh's main nightlife corridor; pack earplugs if noise sensitivity could be an issue, as weekend nights can be lively until the early hours.
- Generator's social events programme is particularly active during August's Edinburgh Festival — the hostel functions as an informal community hub for festival performers and audience members.
- The Royal Mile is approximately five minutes uphill via the closes (stairway passages) that connect the Cowgate to the upper level; ask the reception team for the most direct route.
- Book well in advance for Edinburgh Festival in August and Hogmanay (New Year) — the Cowgate location makes Generator exceptionally popular during both events.
- The hostel bar serves food throughout the day at reasonable prices; for local character, the Cowgate's independent bars and the Grassmarket pubs are all within easy walking distance.
Accessibility
Generator Edinburgh is located in an Old Town building accessed from the Cowgate, and the property's layout includes stairs within the building. Accessibility varies depending on room type and floor. Guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact the hostel directly before booking to discuss whether suitable ground-floor or lift-accessible accommodation is available.
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Frequently asked questions
What makes Generator Edinburgh different from other Edinburgh hostels?
Generator Edinburgh stands out for its design-led interiors, high-quality bar and social facilities, a programmed events calendar, and an atmosphere that feels closer to a boutique hotel common room than a traditional backpacker hostel.
Does Generator Edinburgh have private rooms?
Yes, Generator Edinburgh offers private rooms in addition to mixed and same-sex dormitories. Private rooms provide a greater degree of privacy at prices below standard hotel accommodation.
Where is Generator Edinburgh relative to the Royal Mile?
The hostel is on Robertson's Close off the Cowgate, which runs parallel to and below the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is approximately five minutes uphill via the closes that connect the two streets.
Is Generator Edinburgh suitable for solo female travellers?
Generator Edinburgh offers female-only dormitory options and has a well-monitored, sociable environment generally regarded as safe and welcoming for solo female travellers. Reception and bar staff are present during all operational hours.
What is the minimum age to stay at Generator Edinburgh?
Generator hostels are generally intended for guests aged 18 and over. Younger travellers accompanying adults may be accommodated in some cases; the hostel should be contacted directly to confirm the current policy before booking.