Best Luxury Spa Hotels in Edinburgh

W Edinburgh opened in November 2023 and has revolutionised the city’s hospitality scene. Located in the vibrant St James Quarter, this Marriott Bonvoy property combines Edinburgh’s rich history with modern luxury. The hotel features three distinct buildings, Ribbon Building, James Craig Walk, and Quarter House, each offering a unique perspective of the city. Its innovative design includes references to the city’s cultural, historic, and geographical aspects and the unique rooftop W deck rewards visitors with the finest unfettered 360-degree views of Edinburgh and beyond. Inside, elements of fire, water, and local materials create a compelling narrative. W Edinburgh has also introduced exciting dining experiences and social spaces, including Scotland’s first SUSHISAMBA restaurant celebrating Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine, the signature W Lounge ideal for all-day dining, and a secret speakeasy bar, João’s Place serving creative cocktails and premium spirits.

The century-old Perthshire spa resort brings its famous quintessential Scottish luxury to the heart of Edinburgh. In 2022 the brand completed the refurbishment of the iconic former Bank of Scotland HQ, a Grade A-listed building on St Andrew Square. The boutique property has a small number of bedrooms decorated in a modern style, but reflecting a timeless Georgian townhouse elegance. Guests and the general public can mingle in The Spence, an art deco all-day dining establishment, or in the rooftop bar. The bank’s old vault accommodates the wellness area, including a cryotherapy chamber and infrared sauna.

The 269 rooms at this Grand Hotel overlooking Festival Square, feature Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience beds and marble bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs. Set right in the commercial heart of Edinburgh, close to financial institutions, the shops of Princes Street and walking distance from the Old Town, this hotel suits all types of travellers. But many (including locals) come here purely for its remarkable spa. At the very top is an outdoor infinity hydropool with stunning views, while inside, there’s an upscale thermal suite, a large swimming pool and treatment rooms. Also onsite is the One Square restaurant and One Square Bar.

Housed in a Victorian building that dates back to 1903, this hotel is considered to be one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and was one of the British grand railway hotels. Nowadays The Caledonian is perhaps most renowned for its excellent cuisine. Dean Banks at The Pompadour, the flagship restaurant by a star of TV’s Masterchef, has been awarded a coveted Michelin star. Then there’s Grazing by Mark Greenaway and Peacock Alley for drinks and snacks. This Curio Collection property also offers a Guerlain Spa, with treatments using 111SKIN face and body products. 

Liveried doormen await those arriving to stay this grand dame, Edinburgh’s most famous hotel. The Balmoral stands sentinel over the city, straddling the Old and New Towns from its sizeable perch on Princes Street and North Bridge. Steps from Waverley Station and a minute’s walk from the Royal Mile, its location is hard to beat for tourists. The Number One restaurant has a Michelin-star, art pieces lent by London’s Royal College of Art and a Scottish oak triptych. Brasserie Prince caters for relaxed meals, with its French menu, lamps and banquette seating. And Palm Court is the regal setting for The Balmoral’s award-winning Afternoon Tea.

Located in 1,000 acres of beautiful parkland, just seven miles from Edinburgh city centre, the Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club is a 4-star hotel that offers guests refined accommodation across its 215 rooms and suites. Guests can choose from period rooms and suites within the original manor house or more contemporary rooms in the north wing. There is lots to do at the hotel including a luxurious leisure club, indoor swimming pool, two 18-hole golf courses, and a refurbished driving range. Guests can also enjoy an excellent choice of Scottish gastronomy in a period drama-style setting; from the signature restaurant with views out to Edinburgh Castle and beyond through to an elegant Afternoon Tea and cocktails or a wee dram at the cosy bar. Mary, Queen of Scots is said to have once been a visitor to Dalmahoy in days gone by – so stay and follow in the footsteps of Royalty.

Set in 55 acres of beautiful grounds, Norton House Hotel is a four-star hotel approx 20 minutes drive from the city centre. The former manor house still boasts the welcoming splendour of a private country home and comprises 83 rooms and suites. Suites with period features and panoramic views are found in the main house whilst contemporary rooms are located in the west wing – whatever the choice guests will not be disappointed. Dining experiences include the Brasserie for a classic menu, opt for an indulgent Afternoon Tea in the light and bright  Conservatory and when the sun shines enjoy al fresco dining at its finest – with private dining options too it’s the ideal place to stay over and celebrate any occasion. An award-winning luxury spa and health club invites guests to enjoy exceptional spa facilities designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind.

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