100 Princes Street Hotel reflects the beauty and history of Edinburgh
By Shelby Duffy | Photography by Joann Pai
Nestled along a row of Georgian-style townhomes at the edge of Edinburgh’s bustling city streets, 100 Princes Street Hotel offers front-row views of the lush, verdant greenery of Princes Street Gardens. Beyond the trees, the bronze Royal Scots Greys Monuments stands before the base of Castle Rock and historic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop the craggy hillside. One step inside the grand corridor of the hotel transports guests into another world—an inviting space that blends the comforts of home with the understated grandeur of another era. Inspired by Scottish explorers, the hotel’s interiors combine cultural sophistication with iconic Scottish imagery: lavish marble fireplaces, jewel-toned tartans. Oversized leather seating and thoughtful antiques invite guests to curl up by a fire, sip a dram of whisky, and savor the moment.
The hotel’s story dates back to 1866, when French entrepreneur Calixte Dejay transformed 99-101 Princes Street into the luxurious Dejay Hotel. After 10 years, Albert Theim took over and renamed it the Windsor Hotel, expanding it into a seven-story hotel. Architect Robert Paterson’s Prussian-style façade still graces the exterior. Half a century later, the Royal Overseas League made it a beloved spot across the commonwealth for decades.
Following its acquisition by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection in 2019, the building underwent a four-year transformation—thoughtfully restoring the structure as a luxury townhouse hotel and honoring its storied past. Inside, hand-painted murals of Scottish botanists surround emerald carpeted stairs and a bespoke chandelier inspired by a hot air balloon glows above. Staff in custom tartan uniforms welcome guests with warming Scottish hospitality. The 30 rooms and suites feature crisp white linens, custom furnishings, and tartans designed by Araminta Campbell. Nautical accents and antique treasures nod to the hotel’s layered cultural history—waiting to be discovered.
The Wallace, the hotel’s gastronomic heart, offers a lounge with views of Edinburgh Castle. Afternoon tea is a highlight—savories like egg mayonnaise sandwiches and Isle of Mull Cheddar with tomato are layered on fluffy brioche. Buttermilk and fruit scones arrive with rich clotted cream and preserves. Executive chef Wilhelm Maree curates a rotating “Cake of the Day,” and guests can pair their treats with a vast selection of teas, from smoky black blends (like the 100 Princes Street Blend) to delicate floral herbal infusions.
For more-spirited libations, the hotel’s whisky-tasting immerses guests in Scotland’s distilling heritage. Led by a Whisky Ambassador, the journey is tailored to your palate with expertly chosen pours and storytelling. The hotel bar also crafts artful cocktails using its extensive collection of Scottish spirits. Even a glass of whisky is served with a custom-stamped “100” ice cube—an emblem of the hotel’s signature polish.
Set within the storied walls of a centuries-old building, 100 Princes Street Hotel offers an unforgettable stay that merges Scotland’s rich heritage with refined, modern luxury. Whether you’re drawn by history, hospitality, or high tea, this is a destination you won’t soon want to leave.
Go There:
100 Princes Street Hotel
100 Princes Street Edinburgh
Edinburgh EH2 3AB, United Kingdom
Find it on Instagram at @100princesstreet, on Facebook at @100PrincesStreet, and at 100princes-street.com.
