Edinburgh’s historic landmark, The Edinburgh Grand, has reopened as Scotland’s first Luxury Collection Hotel after a major refurbishment. This move by Marriott brings upscale stays and local charm to the heart of the city’s New Town, drawing travelers eager for luxury blended with Scottish heritage.
Historic Building Gets Fresh Life
The Edinburgh Grand sits in a stunning 1942 neoclassical structure that once served as the Royal Bank of Scotland headquarters. Located on St Andrew Square in Edinburgh’s UNESCO-listed New Town, the building keeps its original charm with features like dark wood paneling, fireplaces, and brass door handles.
This reopening marks a big step for Scotland’s hotel scene. It happened on July 1, 2025, turning the site into part of Marriott’s global Luxury Collection, which boasts over 130 properties worldwide. The shift aims to offer guests a mix of modern comfort and deep ties to local culture.
Experts note this fits a growing trend where old buildings become luxury spots. Similar projects in cities like London and New York have boosted tourism by preserving history while adding high-end touches.
Luxury Stays for Every Traveler
The hotel now features 50 residences, from cozy studios to grand suites. Each one comes with a full kitchen and living area, perfect for longer visits or families.
The star is the penthouse, which offers terrace views of Edinburgh Castle. Guests praise the setup for its home-like feel in a prime spot.
Here are key residence types:
- Studios: Ideal for solo travelers or couples, with compact yet stylish designs.
- One to three-bedroom suites: Spacious options for groups, including laundry facilities.
- Directors Suite: Top-tier choice with extra perks like private dining areas.
Travelers searching for extended stays find this setup solves the need for comfort without losing hotel services. Recent reviews highlight the premium bedding and modern tech as big wins.
Dining Spots That Shine
Food lovers have plenty to enjoy at The Edinburgh Grand. The hotel hosts Hawksmoor steakhouse, known for its sustainably sourced Scottish beef and fresh seafood from nearby coasts.
Then there’s Lady Libertine, a multi-level cocktail bar that mixes creative drinks with a lively vibe. The Register Club serves as a social hub for fine dining and daily breakfast.
These spots tie into Edinburgh’s food scene, which has grown with more focus on local ingredients. A table of popular menu highlights shows what draws crowds:
| Venue | Signature Dish/Drink | Price Range | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawksmoor | Dry-aged Scottish ribeye | £30-£50 | Sustainable sourcing from local farms |
| Lady Libertine | Signature gin cocktail | £10-£15 | Multi-level setup for varied atmospheres |
| Register Club | Full Scottish breakfast | £15-£25 | Elegant setting with heritage touches |
Guests often share how these options make stays memorable, blending casual eats with upscale meals.
Top Amenities and Guest Feedback
A 24-hour fitness center stands out after the refurb, equipped with modern gear for workouts anytime. Meeting spaces and concierge services add value for business travelers.
The hotel also includes boutique retail stalls, enhancing the on-site experience. Free WiFi and a central location near Edinburgh Castle make it easy to explore.
Reviews on sites like Tripadvisor give it a solid 4 out of 5 rating, with 794 travelers calling it a top pick. Many note the helpful staff and clean spaces. One recent guest said the views and comfort made their trip special.
This aligns with broader trends in luxury travel, where people seek personalized experiences. Compared to other reopenings, like a historic hotel in Glasgow last year, this one emphasizes Scottish roots more deeply.
Some feedback points to high prices, but most agree the quality justifies it. The hotel ranks #30 out of 165 in Edinburgh, showing strong appeal.
Impact on Edinburgh’s Tourism
This reopening boosts Edinburgh’s draw as a travel hot spot. With events like the Edinburgh Festival drawing crowds, luxury options like this fill a gap for upscale visitors.
Local economy benefits too, with jobs in hospitality and more foot traffic to nearby shops. Experts predict it will attract international guests, especially from the US and Europe, seeking authentic stays.
In a year of recovery for travel, this launch ties into global patterns. For instance, similar luxury reopenings in Paris and Tokyo have seen booking surges post-pandemic.
Travel analysts see it as a smart move by Marriott to expand in Europe. It positions Edinburgh as a key player in high-end tourism.
What Lies Ahead for Guests
Future plans might include special events or partnerships with local artists, building on the heritage theme. The hotel’s focus on curated experiences, like guided tours of the New Town, adds unique value.
For those planning a trip, booking early is wise given the buzz. It solves the search for luxury in a historic setting, making visits hassle-free.
Share your thoughts on this reopening or your own Edinburgh stays in the comments below. If this sparked your interest, pass it along to fellow travelers.
