Edinburgh is packed with tourists, theatre-goers, day-trippers and locals enjoying all that Scotland’s capital has to offer.
And the streets around the country’s largest theatre, The Playhouse, are always a hive of activity.
However, just a stone’s throw away is The Glasshouse, a tranquil gem of a hotel that offers guests a stunning World Heritage-listed backdrop.
In 2003, the 172-year-old Lady Glenorchy Church was converted into a five-star boutique hotel in the heart of the town.
Disguised by the original entrance, guests are greeted by staff in the modern reception (complete with the hotel’s own tartan), where they can choose from the Signature, Autograph, Calton Hill or Terraced rooms or opt for a more luxurious stay in one of the suites.
Ashlie McAllenly checks into the Glasshouse Hotel (pictured) – a “beautiful conversion of an old church, with luxury considered throughout.”
She says: ‘The suites have king-size beds and a welcome shot of whiskey that references the name of the suite.’
All 77 rooms include Elemis toiletries that guests can use to pamper themselves, adding an extra touch of luxury to any stay.
Calton Hill rooms and suites offer guests direct access to the rooftop garden with seating area and spectacular views.
All rooms include Wi-Fi and smart TVs, as well as complimentary tea, Nespresso coffee and a minibar, a digital newspaper and magazine app.
For added luxury, suites feature king-size beds and a whiskey drink associated with the suite’s name.
The garden is a popular location for weddings, after which newlyweds can take advantage of a complimentary honeymoon stay at one of the numerous hotels owned by parent company YTL.
Ashlie says: ‘To maximise the adventure, guests can enjoy the hotel’s whisky experience with a selection of our expertly curated national spirit from over 200 bottles.’
Ashlie writes: “Visit Edinburgh Castle and surrounding tourist attractions or take a refreshing stroll along Arthur’s Seat.” Nightly rates at The Glasshouse start from £200 per room.
To maximise the adventure, guests can enjoy the hotel’s whisky experience with a tasting of our expertly selected national spirit from over 200 bottles, and a food platter in the hotel’s Snug Bar as part of their stay, in addition to breakfast the following morning.
For those keen to learn more, the Johnnie Walker Experience is just a short walk away on Princes Street, with a flavour tour and the chance to visit the 1820 rooftop bar for unbeatable views of Edinburgh Castle.
As well as whisky, The Glasshouse has teamed up with The Botanist gin for the summer to create a relaxing rooftop bar, turning the hotel into a luxurious base for enjoying everything Edinburgh has to offer, from budget eats to Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end theatre shows and basement comedy clubs.
Visit Edinburgh Castle and the surrounding attractions or take a refreshing stroll around Arthur’s Seat before returning to the tranquility of The Glasshouse and its friendly staff.
