W Edinburgh: A Luxurious Addition to the Scottish Capital
A highly anticipated addition to the Scottish hotel scene, W Edinburgh has officially opened its doors in the heart of Edinburgh’s St James Quarter. This new luxury hotel, part of the Marriott brand, offers a unique and stylish experience for travelers visiting the Scottish capital.
The hotel is spread across three buildings, each with its own distinct design and character. The 12-story Ribbon Building features a striking ribbon-like design, while the historic James Craig Walk dates back to 1775 and showcases a stone facade, high ceilings, and tall sash windows. The Quarter House, inspired by traditional Edinburgh architecture, adds to the charm and authenticity of the hotel. Situated in the city center, W Edinburgh is just a five-minute walk from the Edinburgh Waverly train station and in close proximity to The Balmoral, the hotel where J.K. Rowling famously finished writing the “Harry Potter” series.
With 199 rooms and 45 suites, W Edinburgh offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. Many of the rooms and suites come with outdoor terraces, allowing guests to enjoy stunning views of the city. Rates start at 293 British pounds ($372) or 71,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night through the start of 2024, making it an attractive option for luxury travelers.
George Fleck, vice president and global brand leader of W Hotels, expressed excitement about the hotel’s opening, stating, “The unveiling of W Edinburgh not only signifies our exciting entry into Scotland, but it also proudly marks our second property and continued expansion in the United Kingdom. Our bold approach to luxury hospitality, complemented by culture-driven programming, and cutting-edge design will surely infuse the city with a playful, yet refined ambiance. W Edinburgh invites locals and global travelers alike to explore the city through the brand’s distinct lens.”
One of the standout features of W Edinburgh is its rooftop deck, offering panoramic views of the city, including Arthur’s Seat and the Firth of Forth. Guests can relax and take in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Scottish capital. Additionally, W Edinburgh is home to the U.K.’s first W Hotels Sound Suite recording studio, which provides a space for musicians, podcasters, DJs, and artists to record their work while being inspired by Edinburgh’s diverse influences.
The interior design of W Edinburgh reflects the city’s unique character. Inspired by the fire and water elements of Edinburgh, the hotel’s public spaces feature dark paneling that resembles charred wood, accented by copper features. Volcanic rock, a nod to the city’s volcanic origins, is incorporated into the check-in desk, adding a touch of authenticity to the overall design.
For dining and unwinding, W Edinburgh offers three food and beverage venues located on the top floors of the hotel. Sushisamba, a popular fusion restaurant in London, brings its unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine to Scotland for the first time. Joao’s Place, a Brazilian-inspired apartment speak-easy, provides a vibrant and intimate setting for drinks and socializing. The W Lounge serves Gaelic cuisine, showcasing the best ingredients sourced from Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.
In addition to its luxurious accommodations and dining options, W Edinburgh features an Away Spa, offering a range of treatments using products from Scottish brand Ishga. Known for incorporating Hebridean seaweed into its skincare line, Ishga provides a truly indulgent and rejuvenating experience for guests.
W Hotels is currently undergoing a brand refresh, with several properties undergoing major renovations and new hotels debuting with a refreshed look. W Edinburgh is a welcome addition to the brand, offering a blend of contemporary luxury and nods to Edinburgh’s rich history. Whether visiting during the bustling holiday season or at any other time of the year, W Edinburgh is a compelling choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and stylish stay in the Scottish capital.