100 Princes Street is the hotel widely acclaimed as Edinburgh’s “best” new luxury destination, offering a distinctively intimate, “cocoon-like” experience on the city’s most famous thoroughfare. Unlike the grand, sprawling railway hotels that traditionally dominate Princes Street, this Red Carnation Hotel property (opened in 2024) is a boutique sanctuary with only 30 rooms, designed to feel like an exclusive private members’ club. It distinguishes itself with a 2:1 staff-to-guest ratio, interiors inspired by the Scottish explorers who once frequented the building (formerly the Royal Overseas League), and unbroken, dramatic views of Edinburgh Castle that feel personal to every guest.
The “Cocoon” Concept: A Private Club Atmosphere
What sets 100 Princes Street apart from neighbors like The Balmoral or The Caledonian is its scale and atmosphere. It is deliberately designed to be a “cocoon” away from the bustling shopping district outside its doors.
Interiors and Design
The hotel’s design ethos is “Scottish maximalism” meets cozy intimacy. Upon entering, guests are not met with a cavernous lobby but a discreet, tartan-clad entrance that feels like returning to a wealthy friend’s townhouse. The interiors, designed by the team behind Ashford Castle, feature rich velvets, custom tartans by Araminta Campbell, and dark wood paneling. The “cocoon” effect is achieved through:
- Triple-glazed windows: Silencing the noise of Princes Street trams and tourists instantly.
- Layered Textures: Use of heavy wools, leathers, and warm lighting to create a sense of enclosure and safety.
- Storytelling Decor: Every corner is filled with artifacts—globes, telescopes, and hand-painted murals—celebrating Scottish adventurers, making the space feel inhabited and warm rather than sterile.
The “Anything, Anytime” Service
The “best” rating often stems from its service model. With so few rooms, the staff (known as “The team in the kilt”) can offer hyper-personalized service. There are no rigid check-in desks; instead, guests are welcomed into the lounge with a drink. The philosophy is to anticipate needs before they are spoken, reinforcing the feeling of being protected and pampered within a luxurious bubble.
Unrivaled Location and Views
While many hotels claim to be central, 100 Princes Street occupies arguably the most enviable position in the capital.
The View of Edinburgh Castle
The hotel sits directly opposite Edinburgh Castle, separated only by the sunken Princes Street Gardens. Because the building is a townhouse rather than a block, the views from the “Castle View” rooms and the main dining room, The Wallace, are intimate and eye-level. You aren’t just looking at the castle; you feel suspended in the air right next to it.
- Best Room for Views: The Archibald and Isobel signature suites offer floor-to-ceiling bay windows that frame the castle perfectly, allowing guests to watch the light change on the ancient rock from the comfort of their bed.
Princes Street Accessibility
You are located in the absolute center of the New Town.
- Shopping: The hotel is flanked by high-end retail and is a 5-minute walk from the luxury fashion hub of Multrees Walk (home to Harvey Nichols and Louis Vuitton).
- Old Town Access: A 10-minute walk across The Mound takes you straight to the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the historic winding streets of the Old Town.
- Transport: The tram stop to Edinburgh Airport is practically on the doorstep, yet the hotel’s soundproofing ensures you never hear it.
Dining at The Wallace
The hotel’s dining concept rejects the stuffy, formal dining rooms of the past in favor of a relaxed, exclusive space accessible only to residents.
The Wallace Dining Room
Named after William Wallace, this space is the heart of the hotel. It serves as a lounge, bar, and dining room throughout the day.
- The Vibe: Plush armchairs, a roaring fireplace, and a wall of rare whiskies create a club-like environment. It is designed for lingering—guests often spend hours here reading, working, or watching the castle.
- The Menu: The food is “bistro-luxe,” focusing on high-quality Scottish ingredients without over-complication. Expect dishes like Dunkeld smoked salmon, playful haggis bonbons, and grass-fed ribeye steaks.
- The Whisky Collection: A highlight is the bespoke whisky tasting experience. The hotel has partnered with rare whisky merchants to curate a “wall of whisky” featuring bottles you are unlikely to find anywhere else, including rare single malts from lost distilleries.
Practical Information and Planning
Prices and Booking
- Cost: As one of the city’s most exclusive properties, rates typically start from £450 – £600 per night for a double room, rising significantly for suites and during peak seasons (August/Hogmanay).
- Booking: It is highly recommended to book directly or via luxury travel advisors (like Virtuoso) to secure perks like room upgrades or dining credits.
- Minimum Stay: During the Edinburgh Festival (August) or Hogmanay (December), minimum stay requirements (2-3 nights) often apply.
Getting There
- From Edinburgh Airport: Take the tram directly to the Princes Street stop. The hotel is a 2-minute walk from the platform. Alternatively, a private transfer takes 30 minutes.
- From Waverley Station: The hotel is a 5-10 minute walk from the station exit. Due to the cobblestones and hills, a taxi is recommended if you have heavy luggage.
Tips for Visitors
- The “Resident Only” Rule: The Wallace dining room and bar are typically reserved for hotel guests only. If you have friends in the city, you generally cannot invite them in for a drink unless pre-arranged, maintaining the “cocoon” privacy.
- Pack for the City: While the hotel is a sanctuary, Edinburgh is a walking city. Bring sturdy boots for the cobblestones and layers for the unpredictable weather.
- Book the “Explorer” Experiences: The hotel offers bespoke itineraries, such as private after-hours tours of the castle or fishing trips, which can be arranged by the concierge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 100 Princes Street open to non-guests? Generally, no. The bar and dining room are exclusive to residents to maintain the private club atmosphere. This exclusivity is a key part of its appeal as a “cocoon.”
How many rooms does 100 Princes Street have? The hotel is very intimate, featuring only 30 rooms and suites, which allows for the high staff-to-guest ratio.
Does 100 Princes Street have a spa? No, due to the constraints of the historic building, there is no on-site spa. However, the concierge can arrange in-room treatments or book you into nearby luxury spas (such as the one at The Balmoral or Sheraton).
Is 100 Princes Street better than The Balmoral? It depends on what you value. The Balmoral is a “Grand Dame” with a large spa, multiple restaurants, and a bustling lobby (better for those who want a lively scene). 100 Princes Street is better for those seeking privacy, quiet luxury, and a boutique, personalized experience.
Is the hotel dog-friendly? Yes, Red Carnation Hotels are famously pet-friendly. 100 Princes Street offers VIP (Very Important Pet) service, including custom beds and menus for dogs.
What is the best room at 100 Princes Street? The Archibald Suite and Isobel Suite are considered the best. They are the signature suites with the finest views of the castle, spacious living areas, and unique decor artifacts.
Does the hotel serve afternoon tea? Yes, a traditional Scottish Afternoon Tea is served in The Wallace, featuring custom blends and pastries, but it is primarily for guests.
Is there a dress code? The vibe is “smart casual.” While there is no strict tie requirement, the elegant surroundings mean most guests dress smartly for dinner.
Can I park at the hotel? There is no on-site parking due to the location on Princes Street. The hotel offers valet parking services or can direct you to nearby secure car parks (like the St James Quarter).
Is breakfast included? This depends on your room rate, but most bookings include a high-quality a la carte breakfast served in The Wallace.
Who owns 100 Princes Street? It is owned and operated by Red Carnation Hotels, a family-owned hotel group known for exceptional service and properties like Ashford Castle in Ireland and Hotel 41 in London.
Is it noisy being on Princes Street? No. Despite the busy location, the hotel has invested heavily in soundproofing (triple glazing), so the rooms are remarkably quiet.
What was the building before it was a hotel? It was the headquarters of the Royal Overseas League, a private members’ club, which inspires much of the current decor.
Does the hotel have a gym? There is no large fitness center on-site, but they may have a small fitness room or arrangements with local high-end gyms. It is best to check with the concierge for current fitness partnerships.
When did 100 Princes Street open? The hotel opened its doors in Spring 2024 after a meticulous, years-long restoration project.
Video: I Tested the Best Hotels in Scotland | The Balmoral vs. 100 Princes Street This video is highly relevant as it directly compares 100 Princes Street with its main competitor, The Balmoral, providing a visual tour of the “cocoon” atmosphere and castle views described in the article.
