Gleneagles Townhouse

Hotel review

This urban outpost of the tried and tested Gleneagles brand is nothing short of spectacular. The owners have taken an iconic old bank building on the South Eastern corner of St Andrews Square and lovingly re-formed it into a luxury boutique hotel/members club that you’ll want to come back to time and again. The columned, dramatic entrance leads you up to the reception area where you’ll find plenty of original features — sweeping staircase, period floor tiles — juxtaposed with a changing collection of modern artworks, chosen to reflect the best of local contemporary artists. The elegant, classic styling can be seen throughout in both rooms and common areas. There’s a distinctly art-deco feel to some of the furnishings, but in general the vibe is of a comfortable, but sophisticated Georgian pad, with plenty of plush furnishings, antique pieces, amazingly comfy beds and lovely bathrooms with seriously good monsoon showers. For dining, there’s The Spence, a huge space with stunning ceiling and cupola (this was the main room of the old bank — indeed the open kitchen is now where the tellers used to be). Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available and the place has a lively buzz whatever time of day you decide to visit. The food is a revelation. The menu looks fine, if a little uninspiring, but the dishes were superb — very delicious and very well executed — and a credit to the chef and his team. For cocktails and views head up to Lamplighters (only available if you’re a hotel guest or club member). This 5th floor space has a regular calendar of events and there’s a fabulous terrace with views across town and over to the Forth. Downstairs in the old bank vaults (and with two jawdropping strong room doors to prove it) there’s the wellness space with gym, treatment rooms, fitness classes, infrared sauna and more. If you’re looking for a luxury stay in the heart of Edinburgh, with easy access to designer shopping (you’re right beside the St James Quarter and Mulberry Walk) and all the sights it’s a no-brainer. You get the Gleneagles style, friendly ethos and great service, all wrapped up in a seriously chic townhouse.

Sarah Empson Review published: 12/03/2024