Now open: the most Scottish address in Edinburgh

The 30 rooms and suites are all individually designed – two signature suites named after Scottish explorers Archibald Menzies and Isobel Wylie Hutchinson have handpicked antique furnishings and exclusive views of the castle. Guests can learn more about the stories, and legacy of the explorers with reading materials placed in each of the suites.

The Wallace, the hotel’s dining room, bar and lounge, helmed by South African chef Willhelm Maree, provides guests with a all-day club dining experience. Menus, including afternoon tea, feature Scottish produce sourced from artisan providers in the Edinburgh and Lothian region. “Sitting by the fireside, in The Wallace, whisky in hand, will give your clients that quintessential Scottish experience,” says Jamieson.  

Alongside tasting rare Laphroaig whiskey and craft cocktails, the hotel also offers a series of expertly curated experiences which go beyond the historic heart of Edinburgh. From day trips to the seaside town of St Andrews, to fishing trips on the River Tweed, and excursions by helicopter over to Skye, there are plenty of opportunities for clients to immerse themselves in the idyllic Scottish countryside.

Guests can anticipate the high-quality service provided by Red Carnation Hotels across each of their properties. Jamieson says: “Our team are allowed to have a personality, and that’s what makes guests stay. It is about welcoming guests like it’s their home away from home, and making them feel comfortable.”

Jamieson began her journey with Red Carnation Hotels in 2015, where she spent three months completing the group’s management programme at its Guernsey properties. After that, she held the position of guest services manager at Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland and during the Covid-19 pandemic, Laura found herself living alone with her now-husband, Michael Jamieson, in the property for 98 days.

“We were quarantined in a five-star castle – there was a skeletal team but we were the only ones living there full-time as its custodians,” she explains. “The weirdest thing was being able to walk around in our pyjamas and casual clothes, with no one around. We couldn’t use the spa because the pool was drained, but we could use the cinema.”

She admits to finding the empty castle a bit unnerving at first, but she and Michael soon got used to the different creaks and noises: “It was very novel, and such a surreal experience, but it was really exciting to welcome people back.”

It was here that Jamieson was first approached with the idea for 100 Princes Street, and she’s been waiting for it to open ever since. With enthusiastic service, unforgettable experiences and the highlights of Edinburgh on the doorstep, this culturally-rich hotel will suit those looking for the ultimate Scottish adventure.