Edinburgh Elegance: A Stay at Gleneagles Townhouse

Edinburgh in luxury

This was a luxurious Edinburgh staycation, blending the glamor of a five-star city retreat with the character and charm only Scotland can deliver. Gleneagles Townhouse is perfectly positioned on St Andrew's Square — right in the thick of Edinburgh’s New Town — with interiors that channel historic grandeur but with a playful, contemporary twist. The property has a boutique feel, yet it still delivers the elevated service and finesse of its Perthshire sister.

All photos are my own @theprivatetraveller

My highlights? Mornings started with a coffee at The Spence before exploring the city’s best shops, galleries and local haunts. Afternoons were for recharging in The Strong Rooms, the beautifully designed wellness space hidden beneath the hotel — think infrared sauna, cryotherapy, state-of-the-art gym and holistic treatments that rival top destination spas. Evenings kicked off with rooftop cocktails at Lamplighters, where the panoramic views over Edinburgh’s skyline added a special sparkle to the golden hour.

Gleneagles Townhouse is ideal for style-savvy travelers, couples, wellness lovers or anyone wanting a luxurious base to explore Edinburgh. It’s also perfect for those familiar with the original Gleneagles who are curious to see how the legacy has been reimagined for the city. I’d confidently recommend it for long weekends, birthdays or low-key celebrations — it's a Scottish city stay with soul.

Things to do nearby

Gleneagles Townhouse places you at the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, making it an ideal base for exploring both the city’s cultural highlights and hidden gems. Here are a few of my favorite ways to spend a luxe-filled day in the capital:

• Stroll through the Georgian Streets: Step outside the hotel and you’re surrounded by elegant Georgian architecture. Wander George Street for upscale boutiques, artisan coffee spots and a dose of local style. Pop into Hamilton & Inches for fine jewelry or browse the shelves at Topping & Company Booksellers, an independent bookshop full of charm.

• Visit the Scottish National Portrait Gallery: Just a short walk from St Andrew Square, this red sandstone landmark houses a stunning collection of Scottish art, set beneath a dramatic neo-gothic interior. It’s an inspiring space that blends art and history in a uniquely Edinburgh setting.

• Lunch or afternoon tea at The Dome: This opulent former bank-turned-restaurant is just a block away and perfect for a long, leisurely lunch or classic afternoon tea beneath its glittering chandeliers and domed ceiling.

• Sunset walk up Calton Hill: For panoramic views over the city, Calton Hill is only a ten-minute walk away. It’s a gentler climb than Arthur’s Seat and offers equally impressive vistas — ideal for golden hour photography.

• A nightcap at Panda & Sons: Hidden behind a faux barbershop facade, this speakeasy-style cocktail bar is full of surprises and ranked among the world’s best. It’s a fun contrast to Lamplighters' rooftop elegance and a great way to experience Edinburgh’s creative cocktail scene.

• For a unique extension: Combine your city stay with something truly special by hopping aboard Fingal, Edinburgh’s luxurious floating hotel docked in the nearby Leith Docks. It’s a former lighthouse ship turned five-star escape — ideal for a romantic overnight or celebratory dinner onboard.

• Gleneagles Townhouse guests receive exclusive perks when booked through Fora: daily breakfast, $100 F&B credit, room upgrade (subject to availability), and early check-in/late checkout.

• The Strong Rooms spa is open to hotel guests and members — booking treatments ahead is essential as there is only one treatment room and one therapist.

• Don’t miss Lamplighters rooftop bar at sunset — the views over the Edinburgh skyline are incredible.

• Edinburgh is very walkable, and the hotel’s location makes it easy to explore both Old and New Towns without the need for taxis.

• The Spence, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, is as much a local favorite as it is a guest perk — ideal for a leisurely breakfast or elegant dinner without having to leave the property.

For more inspiration and travel recommendations, check out our Edinburgh page.