Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Makes A Splash In Scotland’s Capital City

Anyone who’s been to Edinburgh and stayed at an upscale hotel knows all too well that the city’s most luxurious properties are mainly traditional and steeped in the past.

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is shaking up this same-old scene. In what’s a refreshing and much-needed addition to the Scottish capital’s lineup of high-end accommodations, the property opened this June in a prime location in the city’s historic Old Town right next to Edinburgh Castle.

Situated in the landmark India Buildings from the 19th century, the hotel is the brand’s first in the UK and has a eye on smart, contemporary design with its noteworthy art collection and stylish interiors. The amenities and warm, unstuffy service add to the appeal.

Virgin Hotels tasked three Scottish architecture and design firms to create its aesthetic: ICA Studio, Four-by-Two and Joelle Reid Interiors. Their work preserves the building’s history and original details but imbues it with a fresh modern look.

Features in the common spaces include vaulted ceilings, antiqued glass, a contemporary showpiece of a chandelier and wraparound couches. Art is a highlight: the hotel’s collection pays homage to local artists and Scotland and its people. One example is the “Chandelier” by Arthur Mamou-Mani- a nine-foot wide bioplastic 3D printed sculpture that hangs in the nave of the former medieval church within the property known as Greyfriars Hall.

Virgin Hotel Edinburgh’s 222 guest rooms are light filled and airy with city and castle views. They feature locally sourced furniture, custom wood flooring, soft colors and Moroccan rugs. Richard Branson’s Flat is the suite to snag: it has a living room with a breakfast table and a fully stocked wet bar. The massive bathroom features an oversized soaking tub.

When it comes to dining and drinking, guests will find four solid options, all of which have become popular local hangouts.

The all-day dining destination Eve debuted earlier this month. Decked out in floor-to-ceiling murals, it serves a variety of crowd-pleasing dishes using locally sourced produce, meats and seafood. The menu includes salad bowls, burgers, beef brisket, Scottish salmon crudo and shareable charcuterie boards.

Other F&B outposts include the Commons Club Bar, a hopping watering hole come 5 p.m., Common Club Restaurant, serving seasonally driven cuisine, and the Funny Library Coffee Shop, offering splurge-worthy house-made pastries.

The property also has a gym and is very pet-friendly. Dogs are spoiled with their own bed, food, a water dish and bandana.

Vibrant, happening and bright: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has made a splash in the city. And later this year: look for Virgin Hotels Glasgow to debut.