Hannah WildRed Carnation Hotels added to its portfolio in April, opening the doors of a new character-filled property, which is the group’s first venture north of the border
A junior suite in 100 Princes Street with view of Edinburgh Castle
Nestled against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, Red Carnation Hotels’ latest addition embodies Scotland’s vibrant culture, offering guests an experience that is steeped in history.
Formerly the Royal Overseas League headquarters, the interior of 100 Princes Street is inspired by the Scottish explorers who would have sought refuge in the private members club. With custom-made tartan furnishings, nautical design elements and a private dining room lined with more than 100 bottles of whisky for tasting, the hotel recreates that timeless feel of an exclusive, intimate club.
Resident manager Laura Jamieson tells TTG that the property’s location, directly facing Edinburgh Castle and around the corner from Scotland’s National Galleries, is a key selling point: “We have a discrete doorway in the middle of Princes Street, eliciting that ‘If you know, you know’ feel. With the Castle and the old town skyline – the picture of Scotland – on our doorstep, I’m excited already for Hogmanay, it’ll be magical.”
In honour of the property’s architectural heritage, some of the lobby’s original features have been preserved, but redesigned with additional furnishings. A hand-painted mural stretching the length of the five-story staircase is the most striking of these, depicting the discoveries of Scottish botanists through a series of intricate illustrations in the style of vintage posters from the late Victorian, early Edwardian era.
“The decor is new, and the hotel has all mod cons, but it feels very traditional too, and lots of tartan gives it a sense of place,” Jamieson adds.
Part of the staircase mural depicting the journeys of Scottish botanists
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.
The Wallace is dining room, bar, lounge and tasting room
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.
Laura Jamieson (front, centre) and her team in uniform designed by No Uniform
“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.
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