Best Historical Hotels in Scotland

For the quintessential turreted fairytale castle experience, book a stay at Barcaldine, on the outskirts of Oban. Beams, wood panels, a great hall, a turnpike staircase, a secret passage and a bottle dungeon below stairs all contribute to the sense of stepping back in time here. The decor is traditionally Highland, with plenty of tartans, tweed, brown leather and claw-footed roll-top tubs. Accommodation is offered on a bed and breakfast basis, with friendly hosts Liz and Ronnie serving a full Scottish and an optional afternoon tea. If you don’t fancy an evening picnic, dinner can be served at the nearby restaurant.

Rufflets Hotel in St Andrews, Scotland, is a luxurious retreat set in ten acres of stunning gardens. Founded in 1924, this family-owned hotel boasts a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. Accommodation options range from classic rooms and suites to charming gatehouse lodges, all furnished to provide comfort and elegance. The on-site restaurant, Seasons, offers farm-to-table dining with produce sourced from the hotel’s own gardens. Guests can indulge in activities such as golf, located just a short distance away, and explore the historic town of St Andrews.

Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course is a unique property located in the centre of Aberdeenshire’s countryside. It offers luxury accommodations with gorgeous customised rooms and sophisticated dining. The Manor House offers relaxation in 10 rooms, each with an amazing style. Each room design maintains the lovely baronial character of the hotel. The New Wing offers a wide selection of 10 Standard Rooms and 18 Club Rooms. The Stables, which is attached to the Manor House, adds a contemporary style to the hotel, offering 13 modern large rooms.

Douneside House is located in Tarland, not very far from Aberdeen. With upscale amenities, fine dining and an exquisite location, it guarantees a chic and classy holiday. Each room has a customised design, including high-end media entertainment technology and top-of-the-line Wi-Fi access. A few rooms have a private garden and guests can admire the gorgeous surrounding landscape. The lodge’s restaurant offers a large range of food varieties all made with local products. Fruits and vegetables which are grown organically in the gardens of the property add exquisite flavour to the food. Guests can play either tennis or mini golf at the hotel’s Sports and Health Club. Sports enthusiasts can work out using modern equipment of the Fitness Club. For a bit of relaxation, the lodge offers specially designed yoga classes.

The superb Scottish mansion and lodge is situated at the heart of the Trump International Estate in Aberdeenshire. The lodge is surrounded by mountain ranges, rivers and lochs. The property’s secret stairways, extensive whiskey collection, and traditional log fires maintain and offer an authentic Scottish cultural experience. Charming and luxurious rooms have great entertainment amenities and free wi-fi access. The property’s restaurant offers fine dining and special diet menus on request. Traditional Scottish breakfast is served in the mornings including haggis, Stornoway black pudding etc. The elegant dining room is great for special cocktail events.

Located on the edge of Pitlochry in Perthshire and set within 10 acres of peaceful woodland, Pine Trees is Apex Hotels’ newest rural property, following a multimillion-pound refurbishment. This boutique hotel has already been named ‘Boutique Hotel of the Year’ at the National Hotels of the Year Scotland 2025, thanks to its inviting blend of comfort and Scottish charm inspired by the concept of ‘coorie living’. With 32 individually styled rooms—some featuring balconies, patios, four-poster beds, free-standing bathtubs or private lounges—the hotel encourages guests to slow down and unwind. The décor throughout is warm, contemporary and rooted in natural tones, with bespoke furnishings and thoughtful touches. Key facilities include the ground floor restaurant and bar, Flora and Fauna, which showcases modern Scottish cuisine using locally sourced produce, and the adjoining Flora Bar, home to a wide selection of whiskies and cocktails ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring the surrounding Highlands.

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.

The Scott Hotel provides a sophisticated retreat located within the historic Pollock Estate next to Holyrood Park and is approx. 20-minutes’ walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town. A former 18th-century baronial mansion originally built in the 1750s for merchant Alexander Scott has been meticulously restored to a beautiful boutique hotel within tranquil landscaped grounds. The hotel features 36 individually styled bedrooms and junior suites with striking marble-tiled bathrooms and contemporary furnishings. For guests who desire extra space and privacy, the Gatehouse offers a standalone cottage experience complete with a fully equipped kitchen and lounge.

Dining at the Scott Hotel is a must – the Bonnar’s Restaurant, led by Head Chef Pier Berretta, serves modern Scottish cuisine from an a la carte or tasting menu. Set in a stunning rococo-style ballroom guests can expect a warm and welcoming ambience and the Velvet Lounge is the perfect place for a relaxed drink, where a carefully selected menu of whiskies, wines and cocktails awaits.

The Resident Edinburgh, located in Edinburgh’s lively West End, provides both subtle elegance and carefully considered design. This boutique hotel is suitable for travellers looking for a classy but understated hideaway, with a focus on personalised service and attention to detail. It is conveniently located within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens, making it an excellent starting point for experiencing the city’s rich history and culture. The rooms and suites at The Resident Edinburgh are thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience, with sleek, modern decor and well-appointed amenities. Each room features a mini kitchen with a microwave, fridge, and Nespresso machine, making it ideal for both short and long visits. The hotel’s warm, friendly ambience and attentive team provide a stay that is both personal and memorable, providing a thoughtful perspective on luxury in one of the world’s most attractive cities.

Technically not in Glasgow, this 5-star hotel, golf and spa estate is just a 30-minute drive from the city centre and the airport. Set in 240 acres of luscious woodland estate, Mar Hall is an Edwardian Scottish mansion with 53 individually designed rooms, a championship golf course, a Decleor spa, a swimming pool and fine or casual dining options. Most rooms have windows on multiple walls boasting impressive views over the Clyde and the Kilpatrick hills, and 4-poster beds ready to sink into after a long day. The decor is traditional country manor-chic but the hotel is anything but old-fashioned. It’s definitely worth booking for dinner in the Cristal Dining Room for one night when staying at Mar Hall, as the award-winning chef serves up some incredible dishes and the room itself is an equally impressive sight!

Deep in the heart of Glasgow’s city centre, adjacent to Glasgow’s Central Station, The Grand Central Hotel shines a light on beauty, opulence and luxury. After its £20 million refurbishment and transformation, it is one of Glasgow’s most stylish hotels and the winner of 4 Scottish Hotel Awards in 2015, including the Gold Laurel Award. Whether you choose a Deluxe Double, Standard Twin, Junior Suite or one of their three Executive Suites, your stay will include exquisitely furnishings, large plasma screen TV, fluffy robes and free wi-fi throughout the hotel. More than just the hotel, don’t miss the chance to dine at one of Glasgow’s top restaurants and sip champagne and cocktails at their award-winning Champagne Central.

Glasgow’s maritime history – past and present – is pretty legendary and visible around the city. This is especially the case at Native Places, once HQ for the Anchor Line Shipping Company. Stepping inside feels much like boarding an art deco era cruise liner. Look out for the original safes, terrazzo flooring, timber wood panelling and fireplaces dating back to the 1900s. 24-hour reception, onsite breakfast and weekly housekeeping provide the benefits of a hotel, but you’ll also have access to washing and cooking facilities in your suite. And if you don’t fancy cooking your own dinner, the gorgeous Anchor Line Bar and Restaurant is on the ground floor.