Back to University: Term Time Visits to Graduation Parties at Prestonfield

As a new academic year beckons, it is once again time to welcome new and returning students to Edinburgh’s renowned universities. Founded in 1582, the University of Edinburgh itself is an institution with a history as long and distinguished as our own, not to mention one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world! We are also not far from Napier University, Heriot Watt University, Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh College of Art.

It is well known that these seats of learning have a deep historic connection with the city. It is slightly lesser known that several of the best-loved buildings in the Old Town belong to the University of Edinburgh. Meanwhile, former students, staff and alumni include famous names from Charles Darwin to Gordon Brown, with breakthroughs from the first ever hypodermic syringe to Dolly, the notorious cloned sheep.

Having a son or daughter enrolled at one of Edinburgh’s great academic institutions is a marvellous excuse to visit often and really get to know the city. Prestonfield is a mere 400 metres from Pollock Halls, home to thousands of Edinburgh University students, while other key sites and student housing areas are also within easy reach.

As one of the best places to stay near Edinburgh’s universities, it comes as little surprise that here at Prestonfield House we host many parents and relatives each term. Indeed, why choose anywhere else when you can enjoy the charms of the city in 5-star comfort? Just five minutes from the city centre, Prestonfield is Edinburgh's most exclusive hotel, offering the privacy and seclusion of a country estate right in the heart of the city.

Transport to Edinburgh University and City Attractions near Campus

From Arthur's Seat to the many attraction of Edinburgh, Prestonfield House is an ideal location for the visitor.

With a beautiful location right next to Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park, Prestonfield House offers a wonderful location not only for easy access to the universities, but also many of Edinburgh’s best loved sights and locations. With free parking, a brief walk will take you directly to bus routes 2, 30 and 33, bound for St Patrick’s Square on the edge of campus (for handy maps and Edinburgh bus timetables see the Lothian Buses website).

This area of Edinburgh also packs plenty of fascinating history and places to visit. Indeed, you are already very close to the famous National Museum of Scotland, alongside the slightly more macabre Surgeons’ Hall Museums (see our Guide to Quirky and Unusual Edinburgh Attractions blog).

For further forays into Edinburgh, some of our other quick guides might also prove useful, whether you are looking for romantic things to do in Edinburgh, or some of the city’s most memorable experiences and events.

Visit, dine and celebrate at Prestonfield House, the finest of hotels near Edinburgh University

Whether it is your first or fiftieth visit to Edinburgh, Prestonfield House is the ideal location. Our rooms, service and sense of style and occasion are second to none, while a meal in our Rhubarb Restaurant (below) is also a must.

The most opulent of James Thomson’s destination restaurants, Rhubarb occupies the grand Regency Rooms at the heart of Prestonfield. This central Edinburgh restaurant represents exceptional dining at its most decadent – breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are available daily. Our world famous wine list features several hundred bins, including unique-to-us wines sourced at the Hospice de Beaune Auctions in Burgundy. Perfect for term-time get-togethers, farewell suppers and special graduation celebrations.

Why Prestonfield?

Parents, if you're looking for the most indulgent place to stay in Edinburgh when dropping your son or daughter off to university, taking them out for a meal during a visit - or just a small city break for yourselves. Prestonfield is the perfect location, browse our luxurious rooms & suites or read our latest menus. Easily book online or give us a call on +44 131 225 7800.