100 Princes Street
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh New Town
Vibe
Operating like an exclusive private members' club, this intimate townhouse pairs rich velvets with views directly facing Edinburgh Castle.
“Caledonian explorer sanctum”
Five bespoke tartans, leather-clad walls, and a five-story stairwell mural honoring historic Scottish botanists and explorers.
Dedicated residents lounge spaces, nearly two-to-one staff ratios, custom minibars, and attentive personal service overlooking Castle Rock.
Curated single malt tastings at Ghillie's Pantry, castle views, and tailored artisan weaving atelier visits.
On Princes Street facing the gardens, with Edinburgh Castle directly opposite and Old Town across the valley.
“It feels more like a private members’ club than a conventional hotel, with all facilities reserved exclusively for resident guests.”
Rooms
Custom-woven tartans line the walls, while sporran door signs and white marble bathrooms ground each individually designed interior.
“Befitting an Edinburgh hotel, tartan plays a starring role in the design of 100 Princes Street.”
Backstory
Dating to 1800, this Georgian townhouse served as the Royal Over-Seas League for decades before Red Carnation restored it in 2024.
“Inside, it’s a place of low-lit and low-key velveteen elegance, with 30 discreet rooms over five floors.”
Eat & drink
The Wallace serves Scottish comfort classics against castle panoramas, while Ghillie's Pantry hosts guided tastings from over a hundred whiskies.
“The Red Carnation group worked with several Scottish craftspeople to bring a sense of place with a dose of drama to the interiors.”
The neighborhood
Set along New Town's premier thoroughfare, Princes Street Gardens lie right outside, with the medieval Old Town a short stroll across the valley.
“an upscale property in the New Town neighborhood where, much like a members’ club, drinking and dining is for residents only”
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.