The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection

The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection on Greenside Place, you immediately understand why this five-star property has such a stellar reputation in Edinburgh. The building itself is striking — honestly, it’s one of those places where you pause before entering because the architecture just draws you in. What really caught my attention was how seamlessly it fits into the historic fabric of the area while maintaining this distinctly modern, luxury feel.

Prime Edinburgh Location

The location is absolutely unbeatable, and I mean that — you’re literally steps from Princes Street and the Royal Mile, but tucked away enough that you’re not dealing with constant tourist crowds right outside your door. Couples especially seem to love this spot (and honestly, I can see why), since you can walk to Edinburgh Castle in about ten minutes, yet still feel like you have this peaceful retreat to return to. The fact that it sits in what’s considered the best-rated area in the city isn’t just marketing speak — you really do have everything within walking distance.

The Room Experience

Now, about the room — this is where The Glasshouse really shines. The beds are genuinely some of the most comfortable I’ve encountered in Edinburgh, which matters more than you might think after long days exploring the city’s cobblestone streets. The rooms have this contemporary elegance that feels luxurious without being stuffy, and the attention to detail is impressive. You know what I particularly appreciated? The way they’ve managed to soundproof everything, so despite being in the heart of the city, you actually get a proper night’s sleep.

Breakfast Worth Waking Up For

The breakfast situation here is actually quite impressive — they offer everything from a full English to continental options, plus vegetarian choices and even breakfast to go if you’re rushing off to catch an early tour. I mean, having that flexibility when you’re trying to maximize your time in Edinburgh is really valuable. The quality is consistently high, and the buffet setup means you’re not waiting around when you’d rather be out exploring the Royal Mile or climbing Arthur’s Seat.

Why Guests Love It

What sets this place apart is how it balances luxury with practicality — you get the five-star treatment and amenities you’d expect, but it never feels pretentious or over the top. The staff genuinely knows the city well and can point you toward hidden gems that aren’t in every guidebook. Plus, there’s something to be said for having such a highly-rated location score — when couples are rating it 9.6 for romantic trips, you know they’ve found something special. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re experiencing Edinburgh from an insider’s perspective, not just passing through as another tourist.

The concierge service in Edinburgh arranges private castle archives, bespoke whisky masterclasses, and chauffeured tours of Borders abbeys.

Facilities