Marriott International has officially launched The Edinburgh Grand, marking the debut of its Luxury Collection brand in Scotland. Nestled within the architecturally significant former Royal Bank of Scotland headquarters on St Andrew Square, the hotel represents a harmonious blend of heritage, luxury, and contemporary design in the heart of Edinburgh’s UNESCO-listed New Town.
The opening of The Edinburgh Grand not only enhances Marriott’s presence in the UK but also adds a high-profile restoration to the city’s portfolio of luxury accommodations. With this launch, the brand introduces a new standard of extended-stay hospitality, where guests can experience refined living while immersed in the rich cultural fabric of Scotland’s historic capital.
A New Chapter in a Storied Building
Occupying a grand 1940s neo-classical building known for its majestic columns and period detailing, The Edinburgh Grand is more than just a hotel—it’s a celebration of architectural preservation and adaptive reuse. Once the seat of Scottish banking, the building now offers 50 individually designed residences, suites, and apartments, each equipped with modern kitchenettes, dining areas, and plush living spaces ideal for long or luxurious stays.
Marriott’s design team worked in close collaboration with local conservation authorities to retain key architectural features, including stone carvings, ornate ceiling plasterwork, and polished wood paneling, while integrating contemporary comforts. According to Historic Environment Scotland, the building forms part of the protected Georgian grid of New Town, contributing to its designation as a World Heritage Site.
Elevated Dining and Historic Experiences
At the heart of the hotel’s social scene is The Register Club, a stylish all-day lounge and cocktail bar set within the former banking hall. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea, elevated small plates, or classic cocktails in a space that pays homage to the building’s heritage while embracing modern Scottish luxury.
For culinary enthusiasts, Hawksmoor Edinburgh—a name synonymous with premium British steakhouses—brings its signature offering to the property. The hotel is also home to Lady Libertine, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar that stretches across two floors, complete with vaulted brickwork and intimate dining nooks.
In a nod to Scotland’s revered whisky tradition, the hotel features a fully restored bank vault that now hosts private events and exclusive whisky tastings. This unique venue is expected to be a favorite for both visitors and local connoisseurs seeking an immersive cultural experience.
Expanding Amenities and Wellness Offerings
Guests looking to maintain their wellness routines will appreciate the state-of-the-art fitness center, which was fully upgraded during the hotel’s first refurbishment phase. Outfitted with the latest Technogym equipment and wellness technology, it aligns with the growing demand for fitness-conscious travel experiences.
The ongoing second phase of the redevelopment, set for completion by the end of 2025, will introduce a luxury spa, providing treatments inspired by Scottish botanicals and holistic traditions. This addition is expected to further position The Edinburgh Grand as a premier wellness destination in the capital.
Thoughtful Services and Personalized Touches
Marriott has integrated several bespoke services to elevate the guest experience. Highlights include:
- Made-to-order in-room omelette breakfasts
- Tartan-themed children’s pyjamas as a nod to Scottish heritage
- 24-hour concierge services offering everything from restaurant reservations to bespoke walking tours
These amenities underscore Marriott’s strategy of combining global luxury standards with locally rooted experiences, appealing to both domestic travelers and international visitors seeking authenticity.
Marriott’s Growing Luxury Footprint in Edinburgh
The Edinburgh Grand’s unveiling aligns with Marriott’s wider expansion strategy across Scotland and the UK. The launch follows the July 1st debut of Old Town Chambers, a sister property under Marriott’s Autograph Collection, also located in Edinburgh.
Looking ahead, Marriott plans to expand its boutique presence further with The Colourist, a Tribute Portfolio hotel set to open on Princes Street in 2027. This investment into Edinburgh’s luxury travel market highlights the city’s growing importance as a year-round destination for high-spending visitors.
According to data from VisitScotland, Edinburgh welcomed over 4.9 million international and domestic overnight visitors in 2024, with luxury accommodations seeing a 12% year-on-year increase in bookings. Marriott’s portfolio strategy reflects these trends, capitalizing on the city’s demand for immersive heritage travel paired with five-star service.
A Milestone for Marriott and Scottish Hospitality
With the opening of The Edinburgh Grand, Marriott not only strengthens its presence in Scotland but also contributes to the adaptive reuse of a nationally significant landmark. The hotel stands as a symbol of modern Scottish hospitality—historic, luxurious, and globally connected.
As Edinburgh continues to attract discerning travelers from around the world, The Edinburgh Grand sets a new benchmark for premium accommodation in the city, blending history with modern indulgence in an unrivalled location.
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