Best Luxury Hotels in Scotland
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.
Scotland, Fife, St Andrews
Fairmont St Andrews
The Fairmont St Andrews resort is a luxurious five-star destination located on the cliffs of eastern Fife. It offers stunning countryside views and is known as the ‘Home of Golf.’ The resort spans 520 acres and features two Championship golf courses, 212 beautifully furnished guestrooms and suites, and two Manor Homes with scenic views. Guests can enjoy a blend of luxury, wellness, sports, and local charm, with top-notch spa facilities, golfing options, and five dining choices (including two AA-Rosette restaurants). The property provides an ideal combination of outdoor adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect getaway for individuals, couples, families, and corporate retreats.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, Old Town
House Of Gods Hotel
If you want pure decadence and lashings of theatrical opulence for your next stay in Edinburg, look no further. House of Gods’ design is infused with deco-style drama at every turn – velvet cushions and heavy drapes, curtained four-poster beds, mahogany antique furniture, parquet flooring, fringed lampshades, oak panelled walls, gleaming freestanding gleaming Victorian tubs and palms. The colour palette revolves around dark, rich hues of deep red and rooms come full of surprises, like hidden TV mirrors and coffee machines secreted out of immediate sight. Lilith’s lounge features a curated cocktail list that’s inspired by rock n’ roll’s tales of hotel debauchery.
Scotland, Lanarkshire, Glasgow, West End
One Devonshire Gardens by Hotel du Vin
Located on a tree-lined street in Glasgow’s West End, away from the hustle and bustle, the One Devonshire Gardens is a luxury boutique hotel with a class that is part of the Hotel du Vin family. Peaceful and classic, this hotel is a nod to the culture and elegance of centuries past. There are just 49 rooms and suites in the five adjoining townhouses that make up the hotel, and guests can enjoy unparalleled service from some of the world’s best hotel staff.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
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.
Scotland, Grampian, Aberdeen
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa is located 9 km away from Aberdeen Airport. Its 12 five-star rooms offer astonishing luxurious facilities. The lovely surroundings add to the comfort of each spacious room. A comfortable lounge overlooks the beautiful gardens which are very quiet at night. Guests can relax in the amazing spa or work out after enjoying a morning traditional English/Irish breakfast. It’s a fabulous hotel offering great service by well-trained and attentive staff.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
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.
Scotland, Argyll and Bute, Crinan
Crinan Hotel
Found beside a canal, in a little fishing village where the sea meets Loch Fyne, it follows that this hotel would be the go-to place for seafood. Freshly caught shellfish is served at the relaxed Crinan Seafood Bar (don’t miss the huge local prawns and Colonsay oysters ). Guests can also eat in-house at its L’Assiette Michelin fine dining establishment, The Westward, Lock 16 Restaurant on the top floor and a cafe laden with home-baked goods. The hotel itself is family-run, with a total of 20 bedrooms – each themed on a Scottish artist, and all with ocean views. Any visiting artists have access to an onsite studio and there’s a magical secret garden at the rear.
Scotland, Lanarkshire, Glasgow, City Centre
Apex City of Glasgow Hotel
This modern boutique hotel, wedged between traditional tenement buildings in Glasgow’s city centre, is a welcome retreat in the busy city. Only steps away from some of the best shopping, theatre, art galleries and museums in Scotland, it’s the perfect place to sojourn. With 104 rooms, there is something for all budgets and needs. From standard twin and double rooms to superior twin and double rooms through to family rooms. But it’s the duplex suites that flex the Apex’s luxury muscles. Each of their five duplex suites are split over two floors, with open mezzanine levels overlooking some of the best views of the city. Take some time to gaze at the beautiful skyline.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, Old Town
Market Street Hotel
A Carlton Collection Hotel, Market Street hotel is the first Design Hotels member in Scotland and it is clear to see why. The hotel interior design has been led by award-winning team FG Stjil and showcases a perfect balance of contemporary finishings whilst firmly acknowledging the historic charm and local artistic influences. Market Street hotel is located in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town the hotel boasts 98 boutique rooms and suites and for hotel residents and non-residents Nor’Loft the rooftop Champagne lounge on the seventh floor is THE place to enjoy a sophisticated drink coupled with stunning panoramic views of the city.
Scotland, Highlands, Tain
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.
Scotland, Perthshire, Blairgowrie
Kinloch House Hotel
25 acres of pastoral Perthshire countryside envelop this ivy-clad mansion house hotel. It dates back to 1840, with a grand oak-panelled staircase, log fire, portrait gallery and rumoured resident ghost. 18 bedrooms and suites sport a baronial and chintzy style, befitting a family-run country estate. Chef Steve MacCallum prepares feasts of game, wild salmon, shellfish and leafy produce from the onsite kitchen garden, all served in the intimate and homely candlelit dining room. While whisky tastings take place in the comfort of a plush sofa, fireside, in the bar lounge. 4×4 adventures, world-class golfing, fishing and shooting outings can all be arranged close by.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
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).