UK HOTEL REVIEW
ONCE home to the newspaper of the same name, The Scotsman overlooks Waverley Station and North Bridge from one of Edinburgh’s most impressive buildings. If arriving by train, you should seek out the lift taking you directly into the hotel lobby, through a basement adjoining the station from which papers were once sent out.
The printing presses have now been replaced by the tranquility of The Scotsman Spa, a spacious haven of the most stylish kind, re-launched last year. I found a dip in the stainless steel pool – all dimly-lit industrial chic – perfect relaxation, even before discovering the pampering afforded by seven treatment rooms, a sauna and a spa pool.
The rest of the hotel is a place of wood-paneled, marble-floored elegance. We stayed in one of the two-level Publisher/Director suites (the newspaper theme runs through the hotel). The Edinburgh Monopoly board in the living room downstairs was a nice touch, while high-tech met stylish, minimalist luxury in the bedroom.
The North Bridge Brasserie restaurant has won awards and one AA rosette for its Scottish and modern European menu, and it fully justified its reputation on our visit. And whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure – it’s a great hotel for both – the bar’s huge whisky collection provides the perfect Scottish nightcap.
Two-night Scotsman Spa Experience, with £200 spa credit and champagne, from £325 per room per night. www.scotsmanhotel.co.uk