The Scotsman

About The Scotsman

This red sandstone building was once home to the offices of the Scotsman newspaper (hence the name). The location, on North Bridge, is a (very) short walk from Waverley Railway Station, Princes Street, and the Royal Mile. From the exterior, this is quite obviously a historic location. Inside, the sense of history is still evident in such touches but the design, even in some of the more retro-themed spaces, is anything but stuffy. The Scotsman features one certain convenience that we can't wait to mention: The Hatch. Never again will guests be forced to actually open their doors to receive room service, or laundry, or freshly shined shoes. The Hatch is a cross between a dumbwaiter (one that does not actually traverse floors, but passes from corridor to room) and the slot in the cell door through which prisoners' meals are delivered. The result is utter privacy — one could conceivably lounge in one's bathrobe for the duration of the stay. But to do so would be a shame, for one would miss out on certain of the hotel's amenities. Take, for example, the traditional drawing-room-styled bar, the breakfast room with replica Versailles chandeliers or the The Picturehouse, a beautiful Art Deco styled cinema hidden within the hotel itself. Essentially, the Scotsman is about bringing the luxury escape hotel and the modern business traveler's hotel together under one roof. And in this it succeeds. Neither a drafty old castle nor a trendy nightspot, this hotel is a solid luxury experience with personality - unique, charming, and historical.

Recognized By

2025 Michelin Selected Hotels

Michelin

2025