Scotland is a land where myths and legends intertwine with breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant, enduring culture. From the rugged peaks of the Highlands to the serene lochs that mirror the sky, and the bustling streets of its historic cities, Scotland offers an enchanting blend of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re drawn to the haunting melodies of bagpipes echoing across ancient castles, the allure of the world’s finest single malt whiskies, or the call of adventure amidst untamed landscapes, Scotland welcomes with a timeless charm that is sure to captivate all who venture to its shores. When it comes to finding the best luxury hotels in Scotland, there are plenty to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a five-star hotel in the city or a cosy country retreat, there’s something to suit every taste and desire, read on to discover our favourites.



City Centre, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Native Glasgow

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.

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland
Intercontinental Edinburgh The George, An IHG Hotel

Elegance and grandeur have long been associated with this historic hotel that is located on George Street in Edinburgh – a convenient setting to explore the great city. Set over five townhouses that date back to 1881, the hotel presents a range of rooms and suites (240 in total) all of which are relaxed, warm and welcoming. Destination restaurant Le Petit Beefbar at InterContinental Edinburgh The George marks the brand’s first-ever foray into Scotland, here guests can experience some of the best cuts in the world, surrounded by the classically chic décor of the magnificent dining room. For a light bite or caffeine fix Burr & Co is the perfect pitstop. Extensive meeting, conference and event spaces along with private dining facilities makes this hotel a popular choice for a great variety of business and leisure occasions.
Intercontinental Edinburgh The George, An IHG Hotel



Scone, Perthshire, Scotland
Murrayshall Country Estate

Murrayshall Country Estate, a luxurious haven in the heart of Perthshire, Scotland, invites you to escape to its 365-acre countryside retreat. Built in 1664 by Sir Andrew Murray, the estate served as the family home for over 260 years before its transformation into a hotel in 1973. The hotel offers 40 beautifully designed rooms and suites, some featuring period details and all inspired by the stunning natural surroundings. 22 pod-style cabins will open in 2025 which will mark a new form of luxury accommodation for the resort. Guests can experience exceptional fine dining at the award-winning Eolas Restaurant, enjoy relaxed dining in Cairns, and start the evening with cocktails at the stylish Barossa Bar – in the comfort of a roaring log fire. Golf enthusiasts will be in their element with two immaculate parkland courses, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy spa treatments using Ishga products at the Gate Lodge. Murrayshall Country Estate is conveniently located near Scone Palace and Perth and is approximately an hour and a half drive from both Glasgow and Edinburgh.



New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland
Kimpton Charlotte Square

The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, located in the city’s historic New Town, combines classic Georgian architecture with modern luxury. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a fitness centre, spa, and Tesla chauffeur service. The hotel features eclectically styled rooms and suites with luxurious details and innovative technology. Dining options include The Garden for cocktails and light fare, BABA for Levant-inspired dishes, and Aizle for seasonal tasting menus. The hotel is also pet-friendly and offers unique experiences like sound therapy suites and personal shopping services.



Ballater, Grampian, Scotland
Balmoral Arms

Previously known as the Deeside Inn, this historic property received a multi-million-pound refurbishment in 2022, ensuring its upgrade to the esteemed AA five-star rating. Now operated by Crerar Hotels and renamed, the Balmoral Arms boasts an enviable village location close to His Majesty’s summer retreat. This is complemented by authentic Highland hospitality, an Ishga spa and menus featuring produce from the Royal Balmoral Estate. Here is where period heritage meets contemporary design, with a homely feel and some regal flavour.

St Andrews, Fife, Scotland
Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa

This famous AA Resort Hotel overlooks both the 17th hole of the prestigious Old Course (known as having the trickiest par 4 in the world) and the West Sands – a long golden stretch of the Fife coastline. The 175-roomed Old Course Hotel is home to the only Kohler Waters Spa outside of the USA, as well as four fine restaurants and multiple bars. Its interiors have been designed by Jacques Garcia, creating an elegant and classic ambience. Don’t miss the uber-elegant afternoon tea.



Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Crossbasket Castle

Crossbasket Castle, located in High Blantyre just 12 miles south of Glasgow, offers 40 Art Deco-inspired rooms and suites in its new hotel along with, nine historical rooms in its castle. Designed to blend early 20th-century elegance with modern luxury, featuring unique dining experiences such as Foveran’s, a light-filled space serving breakfast and lunch, and Trocadero’s, an energetic, Roaring Twenties-themed restaurant with live entertainment. Guests can enjoy rooms with luxurious amenities like marble bathrooms, underfloor heating, and Penhaligon’s toiletries, as well as expansive historical suites. The castle is set within 14 acres of landscaped gardens, with easy access to Glasgow, Loch Lomond, and the Trossachs National Park, making it the perfect base for both relaxation and exploration.



Crail, Fife, Scotland
The Shoregate
Located in the heart of Crail in Fife, The Shoregate is a coastal treasure reimagined by Nicholas Frost and Damon Reynolds in 2019. This historic 18th-century building, which has operated as a hostelry since the late 1800s, underwent a meticulous two-year restoration and reopened in May 2022. The restoration emphasised local craftsmanship and historical authenticity, ensuring every detail reflected its rich heritage. The Shoregate offers a destination restaurant, cosy bar along with four stylish guest rooms, three with breathtaking views of Crail and the Firth of Forth and one a two room suite. Inspired by old photographs, original architectural plans, and local features, the bar retains its historic character with Victorian pitch pine panelling, etched glass ceiling fixtures, and brass ship’s lighting. Stained glass, both original and newly commissioned, adorns the space, alongside reclaimed pews from a chapel near New Lanark, upholstered in Ross-shire woven fabric. The dining room offers a calm yet dynamic atmosphere with light oak tables, Carl Hansen chairs, and accents of near-burnt orange and teal panelling. Mirrors enhance the space, creating depth and ambience. The room is furnished with Crail pottery and Harris tweed lampshades and cushions, contributing to its unique charm. The four guest rooms focus on spaciousness and comfort. The first floor features three large ensuites, transformed from five original rooms, with bespoke wardrobes by a local furniture maker. The top floor, previously staff quarters and storerooms, now houses a stunning two-room family suite with expansive views across the Forth.

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland
Nira Caledonia

Stay in an elegant New Town Georgian townhouse with 26 rooms, which, like The Dunstane Houses, are spread across two buildings. Nira Caledonia offers a Jacuzzi Suite, ideal for soothing tired legs after a day of exploring the city’s cobbled streets. All rooms and suites come with PMD Tea, minibars, 2,000-pocket sprung beds, goose-down pillows and L’Occitane toiletries as standard. The hotel boasts its very own 12-year-old ultra-limited edition whisky, bottled in partnership with Adelphi Distillery and served onsite. Guests can try the tipple and dine at Blackwoods Bar & Grill, which has a farm or fishery-to-fork ethos (around 40% of the menu ingredients come from Scotland).



City Centre, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa

Experience the timeless elegance of Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa, a landmark property in Glasgow, Scotland’s most vibrant city. Located in a stunning Georgian building overlooking historic Blythswood Square gardens, this beautiful five-star hotel seamlessly blends rich history with contemporary luxury. Enjoy superior service, luxurious room, and its destination spa which cannot be missed, it’s an underground sanctuary of relaxation. Also enjoy its destination restaurant iasg offering seasonal dining and classic cocktails along with free wine every day from 4pm till 5pm. Immerse yourself in nearly two centuries of heritage at this only AA five-star accredited hotel in the heart of the city.
Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa



Oban, Argyll and Bute, Scotland
Knipoch House Hotel

Overlooking Loch Feochan with panoramic views of rugged mountains and tranquil islands, Knipoch Hotel is just a short six-mile drive from Oban. This historic boutique 4-star hotel dates back hundreds of years and it became part of the Sonas Collection in early 2024 following a £1 million renovation. The property has been carefully restored to preserve its original charm, featuring stone walls, fireplaces and wood-panelled interiors while enhancing the guest experience with modern comforts such as super king-sized beds, luxury fittings and a relaxing outdoor hot tub. Knipoch Hotel’s newly launched destination restaurant ‘1635’ offers a seven-course, high-end Scottish dining experience, blending the finest local ingredients with seasonal flavours from across the country. This peaceful retreat is surrounded by stunning highland views and is an excellent base for exploring the local area.



Tain, Highlands, Scotland
Glenmorangie House

One of only a handful of Scottish hotels to boast the Michelin Hotel Guide single ‘Red House’ symbol, this country house is found on the coast, an hour from Inverness. Deeply romantic in setting, Glenmorangie House is surrounded by a walled garden and located beside a ruined castle. And with just nine bedrooms, the intimate atmosphere lends itself to an exclusive couples’ escape. Award-winning menus are served in a dinner party style to provide a sociable element to your stay and camaraderie with fellow guests. As you may expect from a hotel inspired by the national beverage, whisky tastings are frequent – plus you might even be surprised by a spontaneous post-dinner ceilidh featuring local musicians. Read our expert review here.