Here are some of the most historic hotels in the Capital.
Edinburgh is home to many of the most impressive, historic hotels in the world, even dating back to the 16th century when witches were burnt at the stake.
Some of the top heritage hotels include Georgian townhouses that were built in the 18th century, a former national newspaper’s headquarters and a striking 17th-century baroque mansion just outside of the city centre.
Another has a clock tower which is a prominent part of the Edinburgh landscape, best viewed from the top of Carlton Hill. The time on the clock is three minutes fast, helping commuters make their train at Waverley Station since the 1900s.
These hotels are steeped in the rich history of the Old and New towns and many have retained some of their original character features, blending them with modern touches.
Take a look at ten of the oldest hotels in the Capital.
Another has a clock tower which is a prominent part of the Edinburgh landscape, best viewed from the top of Carlton Hill. The time on the clock is three minutes fast, helping commuters make their train at Waverley Station since the 1900s.
5. The Principal Edinburgh - George Street
The Principal was originally part of a series of six Town Houses in the 1780s. By 1860 number 23 became the George Hotel and then in the 1950’s the hotel occupied all six properties. Today the luxury hotel is renowned as something of an institution in the city and has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. Guest reviews describe it as 'old school' which fits the style of the building. Photo: Supplied
The Brooks Bed and Breakfast Hotel on Grove Street is an early 20th century Victorian townhouse. Built in 1840, the hotel is a listed building that was used to house workers during the industrial revolution. The Gothic stone building preserves many of its original features. Photo: Supplied
Prestonfield House was built by Kings architect Sir William Bruce in 1687 on his completion of the Palace of Holyroodhouse for Sir James Dick, Provost of Edinburgh as his private residence. Prestonfield remained his family's private home until 1958 when it became a hotel. Some antiques and paintings were installed centuries ago. The hotel was bought in 2023 by restaurateur James Thomson. It is rich in history and the historic public rooms are great places to enjoy a drink, dine or enjoy the stunning surroundings. Photo: Tom Parnell (creative commons)
The Parliament House Hotel at the foot of Calton Hill is made up of a number of townhouses. Numbers 9-13, at the centre of the hotel, date back to the 1760s. The historic hotel is on a steep slope and when it was converted into a hotel they had to work with the quirks of the architecture. Inside guests will find a sloped corridor, which connects the reception area to the breakfast room. An old wrought iron lift shaft is now a very unique phone box. The ornate hotel interiors reflect the classical style of the Georgian era. Photo: Parliament House Hotel
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