From Edinburgh Castle and the medieval Old Town to the Royal Yacht Britannia and the iconic Fringe Festival, Edinburgh’s abundance of history, impressive architecture and attractions has established the city as a major draw for tourists and operators alike.
Despite considerable drops in tourism over the past 18 months due to Covid, many leading operators are forging ahead with plans to plant their inaugural Scottish flag in the near future.
In fact, according to pipeline data collected by Tophotelprojects, 23 projects totalling 3,907 rooms are currently in the works in Edinburgh. Of the 23 new arrivals, two will open before the end of the year, seven are slated for 2022 with one more on course to debut in 2023. There are also five projects set to will arrive in 2024, with a further eight still TBA.
Featured below are just a few of the key properties in the pipeline for the Scottish capital. If you would like further information – including contact details for the developers, operators, designers and procurement teams behind each project – please visit www.tophotelprojects.com
W Hotel Edinburgh
Situated in the heart of St James Quarter, W Hotels’ Scottish debut will feature stylish guestrooms and suites, as well as the brand’s signature Extreme WOW Suite. With architecture and interiors designed by Jesico + Whiles and Allan Murray Architects, the 12-storey hotel will embody the festival spirit of Edinburgh through its striking exterior façade, adding a contemporary twist to the capital’s ever-changing skyline. W Edinburgh’s rooftop spaces will feature a destination bar, chef’s table, outdoor terrace and upmarket fusion restaurant Sushisamba.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening: 2022 • Owner: TH Real Estate, APG Asset Management Amsterdam Symphony • Developer: TH Real Estate • Operator: Marriott International • Architecture: Jestico + Whiles - London, Allan Murray Architects • Interior Design: Jestico + Whiles - London
Doghouse Edinburgh
Following the success of its Kennels outpost which opened in 2019, brewer and bar group BrewDog is set to launch its first Edinburgh hotel – Doghouse – later this year. Located in a former schoolhouse on East Market Street, guests can expect beer on tap in all rooms, a fully-stocked mini-bar and fridges in the shower, according to BrewDog co-founder James Watt.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening: Q3 2021 • Owner: Brewdog • Architecture: Staran Architects
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Sir Richard Branson selected Edinburgh as the home of the first Virgin Hotel in the UK and across Europe. Located in the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town near The Royal Mile, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will feature 222 Chambers and multiple dining and drinking venues including the brand’s flagship Commons Club, as well as numerous meeting spaces. The property will be a mix of old and new reflecting the city’s eclectic and energetic style, while remaining true to its historic heritage.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening: 2022 • Owner: Flemyn, India Buildings • Developer: Jansons Property, Dreamvale Properties Development • Operator: Virgin Hotels • Architecture: ICA Glasgow •
Gleneagles Townhouse
Gleneagles has transformed the former Bank of Scotland buildings on St Andrews Square into its first city outpost: Gleneagles Townhouse. Designed by Ennismore Design Studio, the five-star hotel will comprise 33 individually designed bedrooms featuring quirky yet contemporary interiors that embrace the building’s heritage; an all-day restaurant and two bars, including a roof terrace with panoramic views over the Scottish capital; and a spa and holistic wellness area. There will also be a members’ club with a series of exclusive private spaces, set to become a hub for Edinburgh’s creative community.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening: Q3 2021 • Developer & Interior Design: Ennismore • Architecture: 3D Reid
Hyatt Regency Edinburgh Marina
Set to open in 2022, Hyatt Regency Edinburgh Marina will mark the hotel group’s debut in Scotland. Overlooking the new 340 berth Edinburgh Marine, the 187-key hotel will include a two-bedroom Presidential suite and 98 serviced apartments. Guests will also gain access to a 20,000ft2 health spa and fitness centre, a 10,000ft2 conference and banqueting centre, as well as restaurants and bars.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening: 2022 • Owner: Octopus Property • Developer: Edinburgh Marina Holdings • Operator: Hyatt Hotels Corporation • Architecture & Interior Design: Wilson + Gunn Architects • Main Contractor: McLaughlin & Harvey
