A landmark building, a fresh coat of luxury, and a nod to the past — The Edinburgh Grand has flung open its grand doors again, stepping up as Scotland’s first Luxury Collection Hotel. It’s not every day an old bank becomes a modern icon for high-end stays.
After months of light refurbishments and careful repositioning, the historic address on St Andrew Square is promising a blend of Scotland’s timeless charm and the polish of Marriott’s Luxury Collection. Locals and regulars alike can’t help but wonder: is this the start of a new chapter for Edinburgh’s hospitality scene?
A Historic Gem With a Fresh Face
Once the grand headquarters of the Royal Bank of Scotland, The Edinburgh Grand always had a sense of drama about it. Think neoclassical stonework, sweeping staircases, and those high ceilings you see in period films. Now, they’ve added plush beds, velvet sofas, and custom tartan pyjamas for the kids. Not a bad upgrade, eh?
Designed by Karen Brown, the interiors still reflect the building’s 1940s roots. Rich colours, bold textures, big sash windows that let the city’s grey light flood in — it’s Edinburgh through and through.
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Chris Stewart Group, the owner and operator, made sure not to tear up the soul of the place. Instead, the light refurbishment aimed to position The Edinburgh Grand for both luxury leisure seekers and extended-stay guests. Basically, whether you’re popping in for a romantic weekend or hunkering down for a month-long work trip, they’ve thought of you.
What Makes It a Luxury Collection?
So, what sets this apart from your average five-star pad? For one thing, it’s now part of Marriott International’s Luxury Collection — a group of 130+ hotels worldwide, each with a unique twist of local culture.
At The Edinburgh Grand, you’ll find little touches you won’t get at just any old chain hotel:
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Omelette breakfast service delivered to your suite.
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Whisky nightcaps before bed, because Scotland.
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Bedtime poems tucked into your pillow.
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And those tartan pyjamas — kids absolutely love them.
Plus, there’s a 24-hour concierge who’ll craft you a personalised Edinburgh itinerary, whether you’re hunting ghosts on the Royal Mile or craving cocktails with a castle view.
Dogs get spoiled too. The hotel’s pet pack comes with a blanket, towel, treats, water bowl, and even a custom Edinburgh Grand dog tag. It’s not just pampering for the sake of it — it’s clever. Guests remember the little stuff.
Local Legacy, Global Spotlight
Becoming Scotland’s first Luxury Collection Hotel means more than just a shiny new plaque on the front door. It plants Edinburgh firmly on the map for high-end global travellers — and helps Scotland keep pace with London and Manchester, where other Luxury Collection properties are already drawing a steady stream of international guests.
General Manager Emre Pasli said it best: they’re aiming to honour the building’s legacy while making it feel vibrant for a new generation of travellers. He’s proud of the hotel’s role in Edinburgh’s financial history and equally proud of its new role in the city’s modern story.
And with its prime location a stone’s throw from Waverley Station, Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street, and the Royal Mile, they’re not exactly hurting for foot traffic.
What’s Inside: From Cocktails to Secret Vaults
A fancy place to sleep is one thing — but The Edinburgh Grand wants you to linger. Its dining and social spaces are set up for exactly that.
Let’s break it down:
| Venue | What You’ll Find |
|---|---|
| The Register Club | Breakfast, afternoon tea, classic cocktails, heritage style |
| Lady Libertine | Two-level café and bar, live music, espresso to espresso martinis |
| Hawksmoor Edinburgh | Top-tier steak and seafood, local produce focus |
| The Vault | Private events, whisky tastings, a former bank vault reimagined |
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It’s that mix of history and hospitality that gives the place character. You could sip coffee where a banker once sealed million-pound deals, or raise a dram where vault doors used to clang shut.
The Grand Plan: What’s Next?
The relaunch isn’t finished yet. The first phase refreshed 33 rooms, the foyer, the lounge, retail spots, the fitness centre, and The Register Club. Phase two is on the cards for later this year — expect the final room upgrades and a fresh spa experience to round it off.
One interesting twist? They’re targeting both leisure travellers and the extended-stay market. Edinburgh’s festival scene, corporate demand, and student parents mean more guests want to stay longer but in style. Fully equipped kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms in many suites make that possible.
It’s not just posh for the sake of it — it’s practical. And in a city that can flip from tourist-packed to business-like overnight, that’s smart.
A Boost for the Broader Scene?
Hotels opening or rebranding as high-end properties is hardly new for Edinburgh. But landing a Luxury Collection badge? That’s a big statement. It says the city’s hospitality sector wants to compete shoulder to shoulder with Europe’s elite getaways.
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For other local hotels, it’s a bit of a wake-up call too. As visitors become more selective, heritage buildings with real stories to tell stand out. The trend for experiences — not just beds — shows no sign of slowing.
Besides, with travel roaring back post-pandemic, Scotland’s capital has every reason to flaunt its crown jewels. The trick is making sure they stay true to their roots while serving the world.
