9 Best Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh, United Kingdom 2023 (5 Star)
Which luxury hotels in Edinburgh, United Kingdom would you like to stay in?
When asked about the best luxury hotels in Edinburgh, several stand out due to their exceptional offerings and esteemed reputation. The Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket, The Witchery by the Castle, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, The Balmoral Hotel, and the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa are some of the renowned establishments that come to mind.
These prestigious hotels offer features tailored to individual preferences. The Witchery boasts a romantic atmosphere with rich decor, perfect for couples. In contrast, the Waldorf Astoria’s historical elegance combined with modern amenities makes it ideal for those seeking a blend of old and new. For wellness enthusiasts, the Sheraton Grand offers an urban thermal spa experience. Thus, depending on personal intent, Edinburgh’s luxury hotels cater to varied needs, ensuring a memorable stay.
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9 Best Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh: Price and Rating Comparison
Note: Data were collected from Google Travel in May 2024
Best For Digital Excellence
1. Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
4.5 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 1 Morrison Link, Edinburgh EH3 8DN
The Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket, boasting 282 spacious and stylish rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs and satellite channels, is an epitome of luxury nestled beneath the impressive Edinburgh castle. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability and digital excellence is evident in its accolades, having won The Green Award for Scotland in the 2010 Chamber of Commerce Awards and being recognized in the Top Ten for National Outstanding Online Presence. The hotel offers an exceptional dining experience in its relaxed eatery that serves classic regional fare, complemented by the assistance of a helpful and dedicated staff.
Why should you stay at Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket?
Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is centrally located, providing easy access to restaurants, attractions, and the train station. The rooms are clean, spacious, and equipped with amenities such as a safe, closet space, and a separate bathroom. The hotel staff is known for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a pleasant stay. The modern lobby adds to the hotel’s luxury appeal, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Dining options include room service with an extensive menu and a satisfying breakfast in the spacious dining area. An additional safety measure is the requirement of a room card to access the elevator, providing an extra layer of security.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 2.9 km
- Scottish National Gallery – 2.6 km
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – 3.7 km
- St Giles’ Cathedral. – 2.7 km
Best For Romantic Getaways
2. The Witchery by the Castle
4.7 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF
The Witchery by the Castle, an opulent landmark restaurant and hotel, offers a truly unforgettable romantic stay. This award-winning destination is renowned for its rich and captivating décor that adds to its spectacularly atmospheric ambiance. The lavish suites further enhance the luxurious experience, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an indulgent getaway. The Witchery has been recognized multiple times for its exceptional hotel and restaurant experiences, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for luxury and comfort.
Why should you stay at The Witchery by the Castle?
The Witchery by the Castle offers a unique and luxurious experience. The hotel features an elegant library, perfect for relaxation, and a charming atmosphere with hidden chambers and secret doors. Guests are provided with impeccable butler service, ensuring all needs are promptly attended to. The gourmet cuisine prepared by Butler James is highly praised, adding to the overall luxury experience. The decor is opulent, with a lily garden, mahogany table, and fine furnishings. The master bathroom features a luxurious soaking tub and a comfortable chair for a perfect view. The hotel’s attention to detail is evident, from the elegant place settings for supper to the hidden magic panel in the wall leading to the lavatory.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 63 m
- St Giles’ Cathedral – 308 m
- The Real Mary King’s Close – 332 m
- National Museum of Scotland – 588 m
Best For Historical Elegance
3. Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
4.8 out of 5.0 stars⚑ Princes St, Edinburgh EH1 2AB
The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, an award-winning luxury hotel, is recognized as one of Edinburgh’s most significant landmarks. Since its inception in 1903 as The Caledonian, a grand railway hotel, it has maintained its magnificent status, boasting 241 plush rooms with views of the castle. The hotel has been a recipient of the Readers Choice Awards from 2017 to 2023 and the World Luxury Hotel Awards, testifying to its high standards of luxury. It offers fine dining options at award-winning restaurants, including Grazing by Mark Greenaway, Dean Banks, and The Pompadour, a Michelin-worthy restaurant operated by the Galvin Brothers. The hotel also houses the Guerlain Spa with an indoor pool, adding to its luxurious offerings.
Why should you stay at Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian?
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, with over a century of history, offers a stay steeped in historical elegance and classic Scottish design, including thistle motifs. The hotel provides luxurious amenities such as a welcome gin and tonic set and Ferragamo bath products. The junior suite is spacious with high ceilings, enhancing the sense of grandeur. The service is attentive, with thoughtful touches like USB phone chargers in the alarm clock. The bathroom features a deep soaking tub, a round magical showerhead, and Ferragamo bath amenities for a spa-like experience. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the hotel’s central location provides easy access to the city’s attractions.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 2.7 km
- Royal Mile – 3.2 km
- Princes Street Gardens – 1.9 km
- Scottish National Gallery – 2.4 km
Best For Historic Luxury
4. The Balmoral
4.9 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, renowned for its luxury and elegance, boasts 187 opulent rooms. This prestigious establishment has been recognized as the best hotel in Scotland in the Condé Nast Traveller 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards and has also received the special accolade of the 2022-23 AA Hotel of The Year Scotland. Further enhancing its reputation, The Balmoral has been awarded a five-star rating in the 2023 Forbes Travel Guide. The hotel is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Number One, offering an exquisite dining experience. Guests can also indulge in lavish afternoon teas and unwind in the relaxing spa, all while enjoying the best service in town.
Why should you stay at The Balmoral?
The Balmoral offers a stay steeped in historic significance, with a suite featuring a desk once used by Sir Rocco Forte during negotiations. The suite is spacious and elegant, providing a calm and comfortable atmosphere. It also offers stunning views overlooking Princess Street, adding to the overall charm. Entertainment options include a collection of vinyl records and a turntable. The dining room is perfect for hosting, offering premium beverages such as Macallan 12 years old and a carafe of gin with tonic water. Thoughtful amenities like an Illy coffee maker are provided to ensure a comfortable stay. The luxurious bathroom features a gargoyle sculpture, a view of Princess Street, and premium Asprey toiletries, enhancing the bathing experience.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 1.5 km
- Royal Mile – 2 km
- The Real Mary King’s Close – 1.4 km
- Scottish National Gallery – 906 m
Best For Sustainable Luxury
5. Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh – Formerly Jurys Inn
4.3 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 43 Jeffrey St, Edinburgh EH1 1DH
The Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh, formerly known as Jurys Inn, is a luxurious establishment boasting 190 spacious and elegant rooms. Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, this hotel offers an on-site gym and fitness facilities for the health-conscious traveler. Guests can indulge in a fine dining experience at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves international cuisine, or unwind in the stylish and sophisticated bar and lounge area. The hotel’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its receipt of The Green Award for Scotland in the 2010 Chamber of Commerce Awards.
Why should you stay at Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh – Formerly Jurys Inn?
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh, formerly known as Jurys Inn, offers a range of benefits for guests. The hotel’s breakfast is highly praised for its excellent selection and attentive staff. Its location is convenient, providing easy access to major attractions and the train station. The staff is known for their helpfulness, assisting guests with various needs such as luggage handling and taxi arrangements. The rooms are clean, modern, and offer stunning views of notable landmarks and the cityscape. For guests with vehicles, the hotel provides information on obtaining parking discounts at a nearby multi-story car park. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, allowing guests to relax and unwind during their stay.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 1 km
- The Royal Mile – 526 m
- Holyrood Palace – 890 m
- Scottish National Gallery. – 737 m
Best For Family Stays
6. Novotel Edinburgh Centre
4.2 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 80 Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9DE
The Novotel Edinburgh Centre, a luxurious hotel with 180 well-appointed rooms, offers an array of high-end amenities for a comfortable stay. Each room is equipped with an LCD TV for your entertainment needs. The hotel boasts an indoor pool, perfect for a refreshing dip, and a modern restaurant and bar where you can indulge in exquisite culinary delights. For relaxation, guests can unwind in the sauna or hot tub, adding an extra touch of luxury to your stay.
Why should you stay at Novotel Edinburgh Centre?
Novotel Edinburgh Centre is a family-friendly hotel with amenities such as extended pool hours and baby cribs. The staff, including Charlotte and Martin, are known for their exceptional service and understanding. The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to access major tourist attractions and explore the city. The rooms are clean, spacious, and comfortable. The hotel also offers business-friendly conference facilities with excellent staff and communication. Some rooms offer stunning views, enhancing the guest experience. Additional amenities include a pool, breakfast buffet, and in-room coffee machine for added comfort and convenience.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 1.3 km
- Royal Mile – 2.1 km
- National Museum of Scotland – 845 m
- Holyrood Park – 2.7 km
Best For Business Travelers
7. Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
4.6 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 19 North Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1SD
The Hilton Edinburgh Carlton, a historic Victorian hotel located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, overlooks the famous Royal Mile and offers stylish accommodations with unmatched quality service. With 211 modern rooms, this award-winning hotel was named Business Hotel of the Year 2017 (Edinburgh & Lothians) at the regional Scottish Hotel Awards. The hotel boasts a gym, restaurant, and bar on-site, providing guests with a luxurious and convenient stay. Additionally, the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton features a ballroom for events and functions, further enhancing its reputation as a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers.
Why should you stay at Hilton Edinburgh Carlton?
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton offers spacious, well-maintained rooms with daily service, ensuring guest comfort. The hotel manager is known for going the extra mile, assisting guests with parking needs. Its central location allows for easy exploration of Edinburgh, with major attractions like Edinburgh Castle nearby. Staff members, particularly Isabella and Eva at the bar, are recognized for their warm welcome and excellent service. Some rooms offer stunning city views, enhancing the guest experience. The interior is luxurious and eye-catching, contributing to a relaxing stay. High-tech features are also a notable aspect of the hotel, likely improving the guest experience.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 1.5 km
- Royal Mile – 969 m
- St Giles’ Cathedral – 1.3 km
- Scottish National Gallery – 1.2 km
Best For Luxurious Spa Experience
8. Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre
4.4 out of 5.0 stars⚑ The Royal Mile, 80 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TH
The Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre, a 4-star spa hotel, is renowned for its sleek and sophisticated design, offering 238 luxurious rooms. The hotel is ideally located near the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, providing guests with easy access to the city’s top attractions. The hotel’s upscale amenities include free WiFi, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, sauna, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and two exquisite restaurants and a bar/lounge. The hotel has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Responsible Business and Sustainable Tourism, the 2011 Best Employer in Hospitality Award, and the ParkMark award for its multi-storey car park. It was also nominated for Scotland’s Leading Business Hotel award in 2023 and received recognition at the 2021 Travelers’ Choice Awards. The hotel boasts a TripExpert Score of 82 and has been awarded the Experts’ Choice Award. Guests have particularly praised the hotel’s breakfast, further enhancing its reputation for excellence.
Why should you stay at Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre ?
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre, offers spacious and well-equipped rooms with modern facilities, including multiple power sockets, USB ports, and a coffee maker. The staff, including the manager, are known for their helpfulness and accommodation, assisting with everything from booking errors to parking. The hotel’s central location in the heart of Edinburgh allows guests to easily explore city attractions such as Edinburgh Castle. The on-site gym, while not expansive, provides sufficient equipment for a decent workout. The hotel’s restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including smoked salmon, chicken wings, and desserts, along with a variety of beverages. Some rooms offer captivating views of the city, and the hotel’s central location provides easy access to Edinburgh’s historic buildings and landmarks.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 2.4 km
- Royal Mile – 2.9 km
- Scottish National Gallery – 2.1 km
- Holyrood Palace – 2.9 km
Best For Urban Thermal Experience
9. Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh
4.5 out of 5.0 stars⚑ 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR
The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, a multi-award-winning establishment, boasts 269 stylish and modern rooms, including the exquisitely appointed Grand Suite with views of Edinburgh Castle. The hotel’s commitment to luxury and sustainability has earned it the prestigious Green Key certification. Guests can indulge in award-winning dining options and experience the renowned urban thermal experience at One Spa. The lively restaurant, with its vibrant atmosphere, further enhances the luxurious experience. Nominated for the World Travel Awards, the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, offers an elegant decor that complements its reputation for excellence.
Why should you stay at Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh?
Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, ensuring guests feel comfortable and relaxed upon arrival. Its central location provides easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it an ideal base for city exploration. The hotel rooms are equipped with luxurious amenities such as a well-stocked minibar, complimentary water, robes, and slippers. The hotel’s spa, featuring a rooftop terrace with stunning views, offers a tranquil retreat for relaxation. Attention to detail is evident in the thoughtful room amenities, including a light control system and complimentary pens. Dining at Henderson’s offers a quality experience with well-presented food in a charming atmosphere. The staff’s friendly demeanor and helpfulness contribute to a feeling of being well-cared-for and valued.
Nearby Luxury Destinations
- Edinburgh Castle – 2.4 km
- Royal Mile – 2.9 km
- Princes Street Gardens – 1.5 km
- Scottish National Gallery. – 2.1 km
Why should you stay at a luxury hotel in Edinburgh?
Staying at a luxury hotel in Edinburgh offers a blend of style, sophistication, and splendor with abundant amenities and authentic service. One of the top recommendations is The Balmoral, known for its glamour and exceptional attention to detail, providing a lavish experience with elegantly furnished rooms and plush bedding. The hotel’s location in the city’s historical heart, Old Town, puts guests within walking distance of major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Additionally, Edinburgh’s unique blend of old and new, including gothic architecture and a surprising food scene, further enhances the luxury hotel experience.
Are there luxury hotels near Edinburgh Castle?
Yes, there are several luxury hotels near Edinburgh Castle. One of the highly recommended options is the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, which is known for its luxurious accommodations and close proximity to the castle. Other notable mentions include The Balmoral Hotel and the Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh. For a unique experience, you can also consider staying at the Dalhousie Castle Hotel & Spa, which is a castle hotel located just a short distance from Edinburgh.
What defines a luxury hotel in Edinburgh?
A luxury hotel in Edinburgh is defined by its high-end amenities, exceptional service, and unique features. One such example is The Balmoral, a grand Victorian hotel with 187 rooms and suites, located at the east end of Princes Street. This hotel is frequently mentioned in various lists of top luxury hotels in the city. Luxury hotels in Edinburgh often offer features like full-service, Michelin-starred restaurants, 24-hour room service, and aesthetically pleasing and spacious rooms. Some, like the Fingal, even provide unique experiences such as a stay on a luxury floating hotel. These hotels are designed for the ultimate comfort of their guests, with highly customized services to suit individual needs.
Which luxury hotels in Edinburgh offer rooftop pools?
The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh offers a rooftop pool. This luxury hotel, rated 4.5 stars, is located at 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR, United Kingdom. The hotel features modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, a spa, and a lively restaurant. It is known for its One Spa, which includes a rooftop Hydropool, offering guests a relaxing and rejuvenating experience with panoramic views of the city.
Which are the top 5 luxury hotels near Edinburgh’s Royal Mile?
The top five luxury hotels near Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, according to various sources, include The Witchery by the Castle, The Scotsman Hotel, The Inn On The Mile, Radisson Blu Hotel, and Cheval Old Town Chambers. These hotels are highly rated and offer a range of luxury amenities, making them popular choices for visitors to the area.
Are there any luxury hotels in Edinburgh with jacuzzis in the rooms?
Yes, there are luxury hotels in Edinburgh that offer rooms with jacuzzis. One such hotel is the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, which is highly rated and offers jacuzzi suites. Other options include the Novotel Edinburgh Centre, Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, and Nira Caledonia. These hotels provide a range of amenities and are popular choices for travelers seeking luxury accommodation with the added comfort of a jacuzzi in the room.
Which luxury hotels are closest to Edinburgh’s main train station?
The Balmoral Hotel, located at 1 Princes Street, is a luxury hotel that is closest to Edinburgh’s main train station, Edinburgh Waverley. It has received numerous positive reviews for its proximity to the station and its luxurious offerings.
How do luxury hotels in Edinburgh near the airport compare in terms of amenities?
The DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh Airport is a luxury hotel near the airport that offers a range of amenities. It is conveniently located just a 7-minute walk or a 2-minute shuttle bus ride from the airport. The hotel offers rooms ranging from $93 to $950, catering to different budget needs. The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa is another luxury hotel in Edinburgh known for its immaculate, pristine, and luxurious rooms and a wide range of amenities including a plentiful and fresh breakfast. However, specific details about the amenities offered by these hotels are not provided in the search results.
Which luxury hotels in Edinburgh offer exclusive spa services?
The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian is a luxury hotel in Edinburgh that offers exclusive spa services. Known for its modern facilities and exceptional service, the tranquil spa at this hotel provides a range of treatments for its guests. The hotel’s prime location at No. 1 Princes Street in the heart of Edinburgh makes it an urban oasis for those seeking a relaxing escape.
About the author
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