Edinburgh is one of the cultural meccas of Europe – world famous for its history, theater, art and music. The George Hotel stands in the middle all of that culture and serves a worthy home base for any traveler eager to experience the lot.
Situated in the heart of George Street, practically in sight of Edinburgh Castle and a block over from shopping and dining on bustling Princes Street, The George Hotel combines classic Scottish touches with high end service and modern design cues. Offering dining and drinking options for travelers on different budgets, The George is as much a local destination for the business and professional crowd as it is with tourists.
There’s been a hotel on the site since the 18th century, and the service maintains much of the formal pleasantness that took root over the centuries. However, this is Scotland and formal hospitality here comes with an occasional bit of wit and a wry smile.
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The George Hotel recently went through a restoration and refurbishment with interior architects Goddard Littlefair, a process that used “sympathetic restoration” to maintain the building’s classic use of oak, brass, leather and marble while updating the overall facilities of the hotel. You’ll also find some very Scottish touches around the hotel, including the comforting use of classic Harris Tweed here and there.
The hotel’s re-creation also introduced The Printing Press, a new restaurant and bar space with a menu of classic and original cocktails leading into a list of hearty meat and seafood entrees sporting mid-range prices. The Printing Press main dining room also serves as the home of every morning’s hearty and bountiful buffet breakfast.
While in a town as culturally and artistically active as Edinburgh, it’s not advisable to remain in the hotel. There’s simply too much to see and experience on the ancient city’s streets. But, for those hours a traveler must spend on pure R&R, there are few more welcoming and sophisticated spots in Edinburgh than the George.
