The Scotsman Hotel

Edinburgh 55.95089800, -3.18857100 , 20 North Bridge (Show on Map)
8.5
Very Good


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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests
Info Each unique room at the Scotsman Hotel has individual features, including a marble-tiled en suite bathroom and corner window bays with breathtaking views of the city.
Summary of reviewsThe Scotsman Hotel in Edinburgh is highly acclaimed for its ideal location, positioned just off the iconic Royal Mile and directly opposite Waverley Station. This central placement affords guests easy access to major attractions like Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle, while maintaining a surprisingly tranquil ambiance despite close proximity to the city's main thoroughfares. The hotel's impressive historical architecture blends modern comforts with period charm, making it an exceptional base for sightseeing.

Guests have generally positive remarks about the breakfast at The Scotsman Hotel, praising the variety and quality of both buffet and cooked options, along with excellent service in the breakfast room. The Grand Cafe’s ambiance and courteous staff enhance the experience, even though occasional issues with food temperature and slow service during peak hours were noted.

Dinner experiences at the Grand Cafe and the main restaurant receive mixed reviews. While the food quality and cozy atmosphere are often praised, issues with slow service and inconsistent food quality highlight areas needing improvement. The limited menu and frequent restaurant closures on Mondays and Tuesdays also detract from an otherwise picturesque dining environment.

The hotel rooms are lauded for their spaciousness, elegance and modern amenities, featuring comfortable beds, large bathrooms and tasteful decor that blends contemporary design with Scottish charm. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and comfort, despite occasional noise or maintenance issues. Complimentary touches like whiskey tasters and well-equipped coffee and tea facilities enhance the guest experience.

Cleanliness is another strong point for The Scotsman Hotel with most guests noting the spotless, well-maintained rooms and common areas. The hotel's housekeeping receives high praise for maintaining a high standard of hygiene, although minor upkeep issues like worn paint and dust build-up were mentioned.

The staff at The Scotsman Hotel consistently receive high marks for their friendliness, professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure guest satisfaction. Key staff members, including the concierge Ivor, are frequently commended for their exceptional service. Despite a few mentions of inexperienced staff, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.

WiFi connectivity at the hotel presents a mixed experience. While some guests report reliable, strong signals, many have encountered issues with slow speeds and frequent disconnects, indicating a need for improved network infrastructure.

The Scotsman Hotel caters well to families, offering spacious rooms and family-friendly amenities. The central location and thoughtful touches, such as celebrating special occasions with complimentary drinks, add to the positive family stay experience. Despite occasional service lapses in accommodating specific needs, the hotel's effort to provide a welcoming environment for families is appreciated.

Nightlife enthusiasts find the hotel's location advantageous due to its proximity to numerous bars, restaurants and theaters, contributing to a vibrant evening scene. Guests enjoy the hotel's in-house cinema and the luxurious touch of Prosecco in rooms, despite some access issues to the hotel's bar and restaurant.

The beds are widely regarded as very comfortable with most guests praising their size and supportiveness. While a few found the beds too firm, the majority enjoyed a restful night's sleep enhanced by cozy bedding and soft pillows.

As a four-star establishment, The Scotsman Hotel offers a blend of luxury, comfort and quality service. Guests commend its clean, stylish accommodations, superb breakfast options and historical charm. However, some feel the property occasionally falls short of its four-star rating, citing issues like cold breakfast and perceived value for money.

In summary, The Scotsman Hotel provides a largely luxurious and comfortable stay in the heart of Edinburgh with excellent location, spacious and clean rooms and a highly attentive staff. While dining and WiFi experiences are mixed, the overall guest experience suggests a strong recommendation for travelers seeking a blend of modern comforts and historical charm.
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Categories
Historic Hotel
Originally built in 1905, this imperial building was intended to control the Edinburgh skyline and features amazing views of the city´s famous landmarks.

Hotel for Honeymoon
Elegant and luxurious accommodation is combined with the historic atmosphere of the city of Edinburgh and create the perfect getaway for your honeymoon.

Family Friendly Hotel
All children are welcome, children up to 2 years old stay for free when using existing beds.

Luxury Hotel

Hotel near Golf Courses

Romantic Hotel

Hotel near Nightlife Spots

Business Hotel

4-Star Hotel

Room Types
Publisher Suite This room comes with a separate double bedded room and private sitting room.

Headline Suite This room comes with a separate double bedded room.

Feature Twin or Double Room This room is a spacious room.

Director Double or Twin Room This room has floor to ceiling wooden panelled walls.

Reporter Twin or Double Room This room has floor to ceiling wooden panelled walls.

Reporter Double Room This room has floor to ceiling wooden panelled walls.

Director Double Room This room has floor to ceiling wooden panelled walls.

Penthouse Suite Boasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite features 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a bath. The spacious suite features a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a minibar, a coffee machine, a seating area as well as city views. The unit has 3 beds.

Director Twin or Double Room City View Offering free toiletries and bathrobes, this twin/double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The spacious air-conditioned twin/double room offers a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as city views.

Feature Twin or Double Room City View Offering free toiletries and bathrobes, this twin/double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The spacious air-conditioned twin/double room offers a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a minibar, a coffee machine, a wardrobe as well as city views.

Feature Family Room The spacious family room provides air conditioning, a minibar, as well as a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower and a bath.

Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Nestled right in the heart of Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel enjoys a prime location that places guests within easy walking distance of the city's top attractions. Situated just off the iconic Royal Mile and directly opposite Waverley Station, the hotel provides unparalleled convenience for travelers arriving by train. Guests can effortlessly explore the historic Old Town, the bustling New Town and landmarks such as Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle, all within minutes.

The hotel's central position means that it's surrounded by a myriad of restaurants, shops and cultural sites, making it an excellent base for sightseeing. Despite its proximity to the city's main thoroughfares, many reviewers noted that the hotel remains surprisingly tranquil at night, ensuring a restful stay.

The building itself is a stunning example of historical architecture, beautifully restored to offer modern comforts while retaining its period charm. Whether visiting for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or simply to soak up the city's rich heritage, The Scotsman Hotel's unbeatable location and easy access to public transportation make it a standout choice for visitors.

Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The Scotsman Hotel presents a blend of diverse opinions, predominantly positive with a few criticisms. Many guests appreciated the wide selection of food and beverages available, highlighting the variety and quality of both the buffet and cooked options. Phrases like "excellent breakfast," "superb breakfast," and "delicious breakfast" were frequently mentioned, indicating a generally high level of satisfaction. Guests also noted the excellent service and the courteous staff in the breakfast room.

However, the feedback wasn't universally positive. Some guests complained about the breakfast being cold or not up to the expected standard with mentions of dry and tasteless Scottish cooked breakfast. Instances of slow service, particularly during peak hours and a lack of allergy information were also pointed out. Despite these issues, the overall sentiment leans towards a good and satisfying breakfast experience, complemented by a pleasant ambiance and the charm of the Grand Cafe setting.

In essence, while there are areas for improvement, the breakfast at The Scotsman Hotel largely meets guests' expectations, offering a variety and quality that many find delightful and worth the experience.

Dinner
Despite offering a picturesque setting and a cozy ambiance, the dining experiences at The Scotsman Hotel's Grand Cafe and main restaurant present a mixed bag. On the positive side, many guests have enjoyed delightful dinners, notably praising the Cullen skink soup and various breakfast offerings. Several reviews highlight excellent food quality and the beautiful atmosphere of the Grand Cafe. Cocktails and grand gestures such as theme dinners and live music also contribute to memorable evenings.

However, persistent issues with service, menu selection and food quality significantly detract from the overall experience. Many guests noted slow service, long waits for orders and a lack of sufficient staff. The inconsistency in food quality with some meals being delicious while others falling flat or even inedible, seems to be a recurring concern. To aggravate the situation, the restaurant is frequently closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, limiting dining options for guests and occasionally resulting in last-minute cancellations.

While certain meals, like fish and chips, were deemed adequate, there is a general consensus that the food does not consistently meet the high standards expected of the hotel. The restaurant could improve by expanding its menu options and ensuring that all dishes maintain a high standard of preparation and presentation.

Overall, dining at The Scotsman Hotel carries the potential for delightful experiences but requires patience and perhaps lowered expectations until service and consistency issues are addressed.

Rooms
'The Scotsman Hotel' boasts exceptionally spacious and beautifully decorated rooms, offering guests a blend of heritage and modern comforts. The rooms are highly appreciated for their cleanliness, comfort and stylish decor. Many reviews highlight oversized, apartment-like rooms with separate living and dressing areas, as well as luxurious features such as huge bathrooms, stunning views and high ceilings.

Guests repeatedly note the rooms' modernity and tasteful aesthetics, combining contemporary design with period Scottish charm. The quality of furnishings and amenities, including comfortable beds and complimentary touches like whiskey tasters and hot chocolate, also receives positive mentions. The rooms are well-equipped, catering to various needs with features such as GHD hairdryers, large sofas and ample coffee and tea options.

Despite some isolated complaints about noise, views and occasional maintenance issues, the overall consensus is that the rooms at 'The Scotsman Hotel' are spacious, luxurious and impeccably clean. The hotel's thoughtful decor and comfortable environment make it a standout choice for travelers seeking a mix of elegance and comfort in the heart of Edinburgh.

Beds
The beds at The Scotsman Hotel have garnered much praise for their comfort with adjectives like "very comfortable," "super comfortable," and "extremely comfortable" frequently used. Many reviewers noted the beds as being the highlight of their stay, appreciating the soft and cozy bedding. Large beds, including king-size options, were appreciated for their size and supportiveness, contributing to a good night's sleep.

Though some guests found the beds a bit too firm or hard, this was overshadowed by the numerous positive remarks about the overall comfort. A few guests mentioned specific issues such as old mattresses or uncomfortable pillows, but these were relatively isolated incidents in comparison to the majority who found the experience pleasing.

The beds often come with additional comforts like soft pillows, large room space and cozy bedding, enhancing the stay further. The combination of comfortable sleeping arrangements and a beautiful, well-kept room environment made the overall hotel experience delightful for many visitors.

Cleanliness
The Scotsman Hotel has received largely favorable reviews for its cleanliness with many guests highlighting the spotless and exceptionally clean rooms. The hotel's pristine condition is frequently mentioned, emphasizing immaculate rooms that appear beautifully maintained and well-stocked. Guests also appreciated the thorough housekeeping, noting rooms were consistently cleaned to a high standard, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment.

However, some aspects could benefit from attention, such as occasional worn paint on the walls and carpets near elevators that could use updating. There were minor reports of dust build-up and a few instances of missed housekeeping duties led to some dissatisfaction. For the most part, the common areas like the lobby, bathrooms and dining areas were reported as very clean and well-maintained, reflecting the overall commitment to a high standard of hygiene.

Despite a few blemishes, The Scotsman Hotel generally provides a clean and comfortable stay with beautifully furnished rooms and meticulous attention to detail, making it a commendable choice for travelers seeking a well-kept historic hotel in a central location.

Staff
The Scotsman Hotel is renowned for its exceptional staff, frequently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests often describe the team as polite, kind and accommodating with numerous mentions of individuals going above and beyond to ensure a perfect stay. Key figures like Ivor the concierge and Barry have been highlighted repeatedly for their outstanding service. Despite some comments about certain staff being inexperienced or less enthusiastic, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. Visitors particularly appreciate the attentiveness and warm welcomes offered by the reception and concierge teams, significantly enhancing the overall experience. Issues encountered by some guests were swiftly addressed, showcasing the staff's dedication to maintaining high service standards. The friendly and supportive atmosphere created by the team members frequently leaves a lasting impression, making The Scotsman Hotel a delightful choice for many travelers.

Wi-Fi
The Scotsman Hotel provides a generally mixed experience regarding its WiFi connectivity with varying opinions from its guests. On the positive side, some guests appreciated the free and reliable WiFi, noting that it was easy to access and had strong signals throughout the hotel, including high-speed connections and efficient service in certain rooms.

However, many guests encountered significant issues with WiFi connectivity in their rooms. Common complaints included the lack of WiFi signal, slow internet speeds and frequent disconnects. Some guests were unable to connect to the internet at all, which negatively impacted their stay. The WiFi issues appeared to be widespread with some noting that even higher-priced rooms did not escape connectivity problems.

Overall, while the hotel offers some rooms with excellent WiFi service, many guests experienced unreliable internet access, suggesting a need for improvement in the hotel's network infrastructure.

Family
The Scotsman Hotel provides an excellent stay for families, accommodating various needs and ensuring memorable experiences. Rooms are noted for being spacious and suitable for families, even those with toddlers, offering playful and comfortable environments. Multi-generational trips are well-catered to with good-sized family rooms that can easily host adults and children alike.

The hotel's central location is advantageous with easy access to Edinburgh's attractions via tram from the airport and proximity to Waverley station. Visitors have praised the beautiful gardens and the family-friendly policies, including dog-friendly amenities. Special touches, such as providing cards and complimentary drinks for significant celebrations like birthdays, enhance the overall experience.

The staff generally receive positive remarks for their friendliness and helpfulness, though there are occasional instances of not fully accommodating specific needs, such as those of a baby or timely service in the restaurant. Despite a few minor issues, the hotel's focus on providing a family-friendly atmosphere makes it a good choice for family breaks, pre-wedding events and celebratory stays with ample reading materials and areas for family use. Visitors appreciate the hotel's efforts in organizing family-friendly tours of Edinburgh, contributing to the enjoyment of their stay.

Nightlife
The Scotsman Hotel boasts a prime location for those looking to explore the vibrant nightlife. It's situated near a plethora of bars and restaurants, making it central for nighttime activities. Guests have praised the quality of the restaurant food and drinks and enjoyed the cinema on-site. Despite its distance from the castle and the Royal Mile shops and restaurants, it remains easy to reach key areas like Princes Street. The hotel’s proximity to local theaters adds to the allure for evening entertainment. Although some faced issues accessing the bar and restaurant within the hotel, the nearby bar facilities and the friendly, helpful bar staff are highlights. The luxurious touch of Prosecco in rooms has also been appreciated. Overall, it's an excellent base for those wanting to dive into the local nightlife scene.

4 Star
The Scotsman Hotel, a four-star establishment, offers a blend of both commendable and less-than-ideal experiences, according to guest reviews. On the positive side, the hotel is frequently praised for its extensive breakfast menu, superb overall service, clean and luxurious decor and historical charm. Guests often mention that their accommodations were clean, stylish and secure with the rooms being described as fancy and well-equipped with modern bathroom toiletries. The hotel's location is also highly regarded with city views and a perfect setting contributing to its appeal.

Guests received first-class service and accommodations with a welcoming atmosphere and the quality of food, dining experience and facilities often met and sometimes even exceeded expectations. A clean and lovely staff atmosphere in the restaurant added to the positive dining experience. The hotel's value for money was also noted, being almost perfect and offering amazing value when compared to nearby five-star hotels.

However, not all feedback was glowing. Some guests expressed disappointment, feeling that the hotel did not fully live up to the four-star rating, comparing some aspects to a three-star level. Comments about the hotel being somewhat worn-out and run-down were noted and there were mentions of cold breakfast and the hotel not meeting expected standards for a four-star property. Concerns were raised about the reception staff and value for money, considering the hotel's premium pricing.

In summary, while The Scotsman Hotel provides a generally luxurious, comfortable and well-appointed stay with high-quality service and facilities, it faces challenges in consistently meeting the high standards expected of a four-star rating.

Business
The Scotsman Hotel presents a mixed scenario for business travelers. While some aspects of its business services are top-tier, others leave room for improvement. On the positive side, the hotel's excellent business facilities, great conference rooms and strategic location make it ideal for business activities. Additionally, the lift provides easy access and the client service tailored for business travelers is commendable. The presence of a PC and printer in the study area further enhances the convenience for guests on business trips.

However, there are some downsides to consider. The business center is noted as poorly equipped and there have been occasional issues with the internet, which is crucial for business purposes. Some reviews highlight that the hotel is not entirely suited for business-focused stays or the crowd and accessible travelers. Despite these drawbacks, the hotel does offer comfortable accommodations and caters reasonably well to business needs.

In summary, The Scotsman Hotel brings several advantages for business travelers, especially regarding location and certain business amenities, but may require improvements in some areas to fully meet the expectations of all business guests.

Historic
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel offers a remarkable blend of historical significance and modern conveniences, creating an unforgettable stay for its guests. Originally home to The Scotsman newspaper, the hotel is steeped in tradition and echoes with stories from the past. Guests are captivated by the beautiful and ornate architecture, including lovely period features like the marble staircase and the original printing press, which all contribute to the hotel's unique charm.

The hotel’s location is highly praised, situated on the Royal Mile and directly opposite Edinburgh Waverley station, making it a prime spot for exploring the historic attractions of the city. The central setting combines beautifully with the hotel’s old-world warmth and character, presenting visitors with an authentic taste of Edinburgh's rich heritage.

The interior design is exquisite with rooms that seamlessly meld historical decor with modern amenities. The preservation and thoughtful incorporation of the hotel's historic elements, such as the printing press, are particularly appreciated by those who stay here. Visitors often remark on the hotel’s "lovely historic feel" and its "old school feel," both of which add to its unique appeal.

Staff members, including the helpful and informative concierge Barry, enhance the experience by sharing the fascinating history of the building. Guests find themselves drawn to the hotel's rich historical background, feeling a palpable connection to its storied past.

Overall, The Scotsman Hotel stands out as an embodiment of historical beauty and modern luxury, set within one of the best locations in Edinburgh. Its mix of heritage, architecture and convenience ensures a memorable and captivating stay for anyone wanting to experience the essence of the city.

Luxury
The Scotsman Hotel in Edinburgh exudes luxury and elegance, as highlighted by numerous guest reviews. Nestled within a grand and beautiful building, the hotel's stylish decor and lavish marble and wood interiors create a sophisticated atmosphere that complements the area's charm. Many visitors found their rooms to be beautifully appointed and luxurious with high-end finishes, sumptuous beds and luxurious bathrooms. The well-maintained rooms, noted for their cleanliness and comfort, provided a delightful stay for guests, who often enjoyed the comfort of spacious, well-equipped accommodations.

Guests frequently highlighted the hotel's luxurious ambiance with some remarking on the luxurious services and suites available. The presence of beautiful silk headboards and complimentary whiskies added to the feeling of opulence. The staff received high praise for their superb service, contributing to an overall sense of being well looked after.

However, there were mixed feelings on whether the hotel's luxury level entirely lived up to its 5-star rating with some visitors mentioning that their expectations for a higher level of luxury were not fully met. Issues such as the need for an upgrade at the Grand Cafe and the exclusion of drinks in the stay were noted. Despite these points, many found the lavish touches and extras to be worth the experience.

Overall, The Scotsman Hotel delivers a largely luxurious stay with its beautiful, grand settings and top-notch service, making it a fitting choice for those seeking elegance and comfort in Edinburgh. Whether for a special occasion or a high-end retreat, it offers an inviting blend of luxury and classic charm.

Romantic
The Scotsman Hotel offers an ideal setting for a romantic getaway, making it a popular choice for couples celebrating special occasions like anniversaries, engagements and even weddings. Its historic charm and prime location in the heart of the old city add to the romantic allure, providing stunning luxury rooms and a cozy ambiance. Guests often appreciate the warm welcome and attentive service from the employees, which enhances the overall experience. While some wished for breakfast in the Grand Cafe, the romantic theme and ambiance of the space contribute significantly to the romantic appeal. The Penthouse suite also stands out as a particularly romantic option, making stays feel even more special and memorable.


No, The Scotsman Hotel doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at The Scotsman Hotel.

No, The Scotsman Hotel doesn't allow dogs.

No, parking facilities aren't available at The Scotsman Hotel.

No, The Scotsman Hotel doesn't have a gym.

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