W Edinburgh

W Edinburgh Overview

First Impressions

Walking into W Edinburgh feels like stepping into someone’s incredibly stylish private club — if that someone happened to have impeccable taste and unlimited funds. This five-star property sits right on St James Square, and honestly, the location couldn’t be more perfect for exploring Edinburgh. The lobby hits you with this dramatic mix of contemporary design and subtle nods to Scottish heritage, though it’s done in a way that feels fresh rather than touristy.

The Heart of the City

You’re literally a two-minute walk from Princes Street, which means all the main shopping and attractions are right there. What I really love about this spot is how it puts you in the thick of things without feeling chaotic — St James Square has this lovely, almost residential feel despite being so central. The castle views from certain angles are pretty spectacular, and you can actually walk to the Royal Mile in about five minutes. Couples seem to gravitate toward this place, and I can see why — there’s something undeniably romantic about the setting.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in had this sleek, modern vibe with floor-to-ceiling windows that made the space feel enormous. The beds are seriously comfortable — that perfect firmness that luxury hotels seem to nail every time. What struck me most was the attention to detail: the lighting actually works for both getting ready and winding down, and the bathroom feels like a proper retreat with its rainfall shower and premium toiletries.

Dining and Social Spaces

The restaurant and bar areas buzz with energy, especially in the evenings when locals mix with hotel guests. The cocktails are creative without being gimmicky, and the food menu strikes a nice balance between Scottish ingredients and international flavors. I mean, you’re not going to find traditional haggis here, but what they do serve feels thoughtful and well-executed. The social spaces encourage lingering — there are these cozy nooks where you can actually have a conversation.

Why Guests Love It

This place gets the balance right between luxury and livability. The staff genuinely seem to enjoy working here, which shows in how they interact with guests — helpful without being hovering. The whole property feels like it belongs in Edinburgh rather than just being dropped there, and that makes a real difference when you’re trying to get a feel for the city. Plus, with an 8.4 rating, it’s clear that other travelers are having similarly positive experiences here.

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

Facilities