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Best Hotels in Scotland

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About Scotland

Scotland is an incredible country: epically beautiful, with unique flora and fauna, and more historic treasures than any of us will ever get through… Naysayers may moan about the weather, but for some the unpredictable nature of Scotland’s climate just serves to make it a more exciting and adventurous destination. Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Scotland range across the land, from the remote islands of the Hebrides and Shetlands, through the Highlands, down across Aberdeenshire and Perthshire, and all the way to the Borders, via Edinburgh and Glasgow. We have discovered cheap and chic little B&Bs, boutique hotels, five star hideaways, gourmet restaurants with rooms and luxury resorts with all the bells and whistles.

Some of our Scotland Collections:

In our opinion, anyone visiting Scotland should throw themselves into hiking the Bens and glens, fishing the lochs, and hopping between the famous whisky isles. If you’re here for the golf the best places to stay in Scotland are around St. Andrews and Fife, in the Highlands, the northeast coast, or the south west coast around Troon. If you want to catch the Highland Games plan your trip for the summer, and if you want to see the northern lights, the best time is from September to March.

The Best Places to Stay in Scotland

For Highland Views

  • Inverlochy Castle sits regally at the foot of Ben Nevis, overlooking a small loch and the castle’s own elegant grounds. Its 17 rooms and suites are quite regal too, with antique canopied beds — or four-posters — original art, and luxurious fabrics. The fine dining restaurant is overseen by Michel Roux Jnr. There’s plenty to do onsite, for kids and adults. A special stay.
  • Forss House is an atmospheric country house, built in 1810, on 20 acres of relatively remote Scottish woodland. This is the perfect launchpad for fishing, walking, cycling, stalking and shooting, and other outdoor pursuits — there are a number of rivers, and Scottish links golf courses within easy reach of the hotel. There are 14 rooms and suites, a good selection of which are dog friendly, plus communal areas with welcoming fireplaces and a great selection of whisky.

For Historic Highlights

  • Surrounded by 20 acres of private parkland, Prestonfield feels more like a country house hotel than a city centre one, but this opulent manor house conversion is just five minutes from the Holyrood Palace end of the Royal Mile. Inside are 23 rooms and suites, many of which are among the most romantic in Edinburgh, with their canopied beds, heavy drapes, rich fabrics, antiques and roaring fires. There’s a fine dining restaurant too.

For a Countryside Escape

  • Cavens House gleams brilliant white against the expansive backdrop of green hills and the Solway Coast — a stunning mansion turned six room hotel. Traditionally designed rooms are all different, but all feel elegant and extremely comfortable. The public rooms are warmly lit by wood fires in the season, and the perfect place to have a pre-dinner drink. Dinner is one of the highlights of a stay here — indeed a three course evening meal is included in the price. Lots to do in the surrounding area.

For a Scottish Adventure

  • The Fife Arms in remote Braemar, is a seriously luxurious choice, with all the opulence of high Victoriana, and all the mod cons technology can provide. The 46 rooms and suites are individually themed and designed, and the art collection is really something — the hotel is owned by art dealers, so you can expect to see the odd Picasso or Freud on the walls.
  • Knockinaam Lodge is a hunting lodge turned small hotel, which can count Churchill and Eisenhower as previous guests. Expect unspoiled views of the Scottish coastline from beside a cosy tiled fireplace and fabulous food in the 3 AA Rosette restaurant. There are ten rooms, three of which are dog friendly.

For the Scottish Islands

  • Just a short drive from Skye Bridge, Kinloch Lodge is a converted 17th century hunting lodge, owned by food writer Clare MacDonald, and her husband Godfrey, who’s Clan Chief. So it’s got foodie, and historic credentials, and the result is a spectacularly beautiful hotel with 15 elegant, traditional rooms filled with natural light and beautiful antiques and a noteworthy restaurant with daily changing menu. The cosy sitting room has an open fire and an enviable collection of whisky, and the views are incredible.
  • Mull’s Glengorm Castle is a wonderful building, complete with turrets and crenelations. It’s also beautifully positioned, overlooking the sea, on a hill just outside Tobermory. There are only six guest rooms, all of them individually decorated, with a real home-from-home vibe. The grand dining room, lounge with wood-panelled walls and roaring fires, and library with its complimentary whisky complete the picture. There are also seven self-catering cottages on the estate, and a cafe inside the castle’s old stable and workshops. Families are most welcome.

For Golfers

  • The Gleneagles Hotel is a beautiful grand dame resort hotel in a stunning Perthshire setting, surrounded by championship golf courses. These days as well as golfers it's perfect for a family holiday offering the opportunity to try falconry, take a riding lesson, go clay pigeon shooting, play tennis, go fishing, swimming or cycling, or use the pitch and putt course. There’s also a range of places to eat and a spa..
  • Links House is a really charming Highland hotel set on one of Scotland’s most picturesque golf links: Royal Dornoch. Feeling distinctly Scottish, with tartan soft furnishings, the odd antler, and oil paintings depicting the changeable beauty of the Highlands, this hotel has just eight rooms and suites, plus a fine dining restaurant known for its local sourcing, and an extensive wine and whisky collection. Also perfect for hunting and fishing.
  • The Old Course Hotel is a golfer's dream. Smart and sophisticated, the large property features opulent rooms and suites with fairway and beach views, as well as superb food and a world-class spa. A historic landmark for an indulgent stay in St Andrews — complete with lots of golf!

Best of Edinburgh

  • In a prime position at the top end of the Royal Mile close to Edinburgh Castle, and offering a combination of intimacy and Gothic decadence, it’s hard to find somewhere more memorable to stay in Edinburgh than the Witchery by the Castle. The nine rooms that occupy this 16th century building are theatrically opulent, with gilded ceilings over four-poster beds, oil paintings over wood panelling, candlelight and swathes of jewel-coloured velvet. The restaurant is known for its Scottish cuisine and for its atmosphere.
  • Fingal is a retired lighthouse tender turned luxury 23 room hotel, now anchored in the hip area of Leith. Cabins range from classic doubles to decadent suites. The design is luxurious with brass fittings, leather, and rich hues. The glamorous ballroom is ideal for a party and there's a fabulous little restaurant too. She's now part of the Royal Yacht Britannia trust, and is Scotland's first luxury floating hotel.

Best of Glasgow

  • Located in Glasgow’s West End, Blythswood Square is a spa hotel in a wonderfully central spot. We like the monochrome and pillared entry hall, the heather-coloured highlights, the tweed accents, and the excellent breakfasts.
  • Hotel Indigo Glasgow is a contemporary 94 room hotel, close to Glasgow’s Central Station. Expect bold patterns and great lighting, with a similar vibe in the Marco Pierre White restaurant downstairs. A very easy hotel to head out exploring from — most of Glasgow’s highlights are within walking distance.

For a Remote Retreat

  • Mint Croft is a couple of converted Highland buildings in a spectacular, water-view spot on Skye. The accommodation is all self catering, but they do offer breakfast. One of the buildings has a turf roof, with exposed stone walls and a freestanding stone bath. The other suite has two storeys and a good sized living room. Peaceful and secluded.
  • Killiehuntly is a luxuriously converted farmhouse, with just six rooms and self-catering cottages, in a picturesque spot within the bounds of the Cairngorms National Park. The decor has been recently reimagined Scandi-style, in a myriad of greys to match the exposed stone walls, but the open fires and woolly throws keep things cosy. Meals are served at a communal table, and the offering is traditional Scottish. Remote, peaceful, and ideal for getting back to nature.

For Loch Views

  • Elegant and intimate, the Loch Ness Lodge is a serene choice on the shores of Loch Ness. There are just seven rooms, all of them individually decorated with inspiration from their incredible Highland views. The lodge’s spa is impressive too: it’s got a hot tub and sauna and a very good therapy menu. There’s no restaurant, but the lodge offers breakfast and a fancy afternoon tea.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Scotland’s collection of airports includes Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport, Aberdeen Airport, Dundee Airport and Inverness Airport. And there are smaller airports and airfields serving the islands.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • There’s always a reason to visit Scotland. The most popular season to visit is probably the summer: you’ve got a chance of seeing some Highland Games events, and this is the busiest time of year for festivals and special events. If you’re not tied to school holiday travel, and especially if you’re a keen walker, spring and autumn are excellent times to visit, spring for the sunshine and wildflowers, and autumn for the colourful foliage. If you’re planning to play a lot of golf, the courses open in May. Whenever you’re visiting Scotland rain is possible, so it’s best to be prepared.

Still not sure where to stay?

    See all » 53 hôtels in Edinburgh

    • The Roseate Edinburgh Edinburgh 35 rooms from CA$369

      Sights nearby  -  Easy access to all of Edinburgh's top attractions including the Royal Mile, Old Town and Prince's Street
      Restaurant  -  The Dunstane Restaurant & Bar serves fine dining dishes created from seasonal, local ingredients
      Great walks  -  Climb Arthur's seat for a great view over the city and beyond.
      Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors
      RestaurantGardenParking
      Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith

      In a peaceful corner of Edinburgh’s West End, a short walk from Haymarket and 15 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh airport, The Roseate is an independent, 5 star, 35-bedroom boutique hotel spread over two stately Victorian townhouses. Smart interiors and great food present the ideal city base. See More

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    • Brooks Edinburgh Edinburgh 46 rooms from CA$99

      Local exploring  -  Well located in Edinburgh's West End, just a 10 min walk from the Old Town and five mins from Haymarket Station
      Value chic  -  Clean, comfortable accommodation at extremely affordable prices
      Less £  -  Elegant central Edinburgh B&B that won't break the bank
      Sights nearby  -  Easy walk to the sights; both Old and New Towns are a short stroll from Brooks
      Garden

      Amazingly good value in not quite central Edinburgh. Clean, tidy, comfortable, friendly and for those on a budget a great find. See More

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    See all » 38 hôtels in Argyll

    • Woodlands Glencoe (Argyll) from CA$336

      Active Holiday  -  Glencoe is the ideal destination for outdoorsy types: hike, bike, play golf, try a segway tour and much more!
      Groups  -  The Lodges are ideal for small group getaways — and the team are happy to organise special events
      Romantic Break  -  With their secluded setting, lovely views and private outdoor hot tubs, romance is guaranteed
      Private Hot Tub  -  All of the lodges come with a private outdoor hot tub
      GardenPet friendly

      A collection of luxury lodges — all with private hot tubs — just outside Ballachulish. Interiors are smart and modern but it's the finer details that resonate: Egyptian cotton sheets, wet rooms, super-comfy mattresses and breakfast delivered to your door. A romantic highland hideaway. See More

      Hotel Website
    • Riva Boutique Hotel Helensburgh (Argyll) 14 rooms from CA$135

      Great walks  -  There is fabulous walking country within a short drive and plenty of options from the town itself
      Sights nearby  -  The Hill House in Helensburgh is one of Charles Rennie Mackintosh's most famous works
      Restaurant  -  The restaurant serves Italian inspired cuisine with a hint of the Mediterranean
      Views  -  Fantastic views over Gareloch
      RestaurantPet friendlyViews

      A chic little property right on Helensburgh's seafront. Fourteen rooms are finished in contemporary style with great touches including underfloor heating and record players with accompanying albums! The restaurant serves Italian cuisine & the views over Gareloch are stunning. See More

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    See all » 30 hôtels in Perthshire

    • Ballathie House Hotel Perthshire 41 rooms from CA$169

      Active Holiday  -  An excellent choice for enjoying the best of British country pursuits such as fishing, walking, golfing and riding.
      Local exploring  -  Ideally placed for exploring the Scottish Highlands as well as the nearby town of Perth.
      Great walks  -  Wonderful walking on the hotels private estate, or wander a bit further into the Scottish Highlands.
      Fishing  -  Don't forget to pack your rods, the hotel overlooks the River Tay, a famed salmon fishing spot.
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

      Long-established country hotel in splendid surroundings. Elegant rooms feature traditional patterned wallpaper and some have free standing baths. Grand reception rooms with fireplaces are ideal for unwinding in after a day outdoors. Award winning Scottish cuisine. A lovely rural escape. See More

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    • Royal Hotel, Perthshire Comrie, Perthshire 11 rooms from CA$202

      Local exploring  -  A charming country house, yet in a town, near Loch Tay and Pitlochry.
      Foodies  -  One AA Rosette awarded restaurant
      Great walks  -  Find both local walks from the door and the Monroes for the more adventurous close by.
      Fishing  -  On the River Earn.
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
      Recommended by  -  Sawdays

      Charming small hotel in the heart of Perthshire. Elegant rooms, some with four poster beds, antique furniture and traditional artworks. Wonderful Scottish cuisine served in a cosy dining room. A charming country house well positioned to access this beautiful corner of Scotland. See More

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    See all » 16 hôtels in Skye

    • Woodbine House Portree, Skye 5 rooms from CA$116

      Back to Nature  -  Skye is the ideal place to get back to basics and return to the wind and the wild.
      Local exploring  -  A great base for exploring the beauitful west coast of Skye.
      Kayaking  -  Guests can hire sea kayaks to explore the surrounding coastline.
      Birdwatching  -  Skye is a great spot for puffin watching.
      Views

      A delightful B&B on the west coast of the isle of Skye. The rooms have a homely feel and there's an excellent family suite. With self-catering options, it could be perfect for a family or group trip to Skye. Friendly owners and a great location prove a winning combination. See More

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    • Glenview Portree, Skye 3 rooms from CA$152

      Back to Nature  -  Escape to the picturesque, wild Scottish island of Skye with it's dramatic landscapes and stunning wildlife.
      Local exploring  -  The perfect base for exploring the amazing island of Skye, with cosy beds and hearty meals.
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the iconic natural landmarks such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Trotternish Ridge.
      Great walks  -  There is superb walking around the nearby Trotternish Peninsula.
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

      A charming and homely B&B run by helpful owners, on the picturesque island of Skye. The rooms are cosy and comfortable with stunning views of the Trotternish peninsula. The superb restaurant focuses on local produce such as oysters and venison. Perfect for a remote getaway. See More

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    See all » 15 hôtels in Inverness-shire

    • The Lime Tree Fort William 9 rooms from CA$118

      Kayaking  -  The coast offers a number of paddling areas to get up close to nature
      Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
      Boutique
      Fishing  -  Excellent fishing nearby.
      RestaurantGardenPet friendly

      This stylish hotel is situated in the heart of the North West Highlands. Being the 'outdoor capital of the UK' there are a plethora of activities on offer. The in-house gallery has contemporary art on show and the award winning restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced food. A great country escape See More

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    • Smiddy House Spean Bridge 4 rooms from CA$126

      Great walks  -  Fort William is at the base of Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis and is also the gateway to walks in the picturesque Glen Nevis
      Fishing  -  The surrounding areas offer excellent wild brown trout, northern pike lochs and wild Atlantic salmon rivers
      GardenParking

      Set in the quiet village of Spean Bridge just 11 miles from Fort William and close to Loch Lochy. The four rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated in a traditional style, and the self contained cottage is ideal for small groups. The garden room offers the perfect spot for a quiet drink. See More

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    See all » 13 hôtels in Aberdeenshire

    • Malmaison Aberdeen Aberdeen 80 rooms from CA$160

      Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
      Restaurant  -  Recommended.
      Spa
      SpaRestaurant
      Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection

      Typical of the Malmaison brand. Castle-like hotel bedecked with tartan upholstery and dark furniture. Intimate whisky snug, brasserie, bar, and relaxing spa. See More

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    • The Cock and Bull Aberdeenshire 6 rooms from CA$160

      Foodies  -  An award-winning restaurant serving locally sourced food.
      Views  -  Great views from hotel
      Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
      Restaurant  -  Recommended.
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

      Stylish gastropub with rooms in Balmedie offering boutique accommodation in a cottage opposite the restaurant. Winner of Scotland's Gastropub of the Year in 2012 and 2013, it is a cosy and intimate setting serving locally-sourced produce. Great for golf trips to Cruden Bay and Royal Aberdeen. See More

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    See all » 12 hôtels in Glasgow

    • Grasshoppers Glasgow 30 rooms from CA$148

      Sights nearby  -  Ideally situated to access Glasgow's best sights including the Science Centre, Botanic Gardens and Modern Art Gallery
      Restaurant  -  Kitchen restaurant
      Restaurant

      A budget-friendly hotel located near Glasgow's Central Station. 30 rooms decorated in a serene, clean Scandinavian style. A laid back kitchen restaurant serves up local produce. A great crash pad from which to enjoy this bustling city. See More

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    • citizenM Glasgow Glasgow 198 rooms from CA$150

      Value chic  -  With rooms from as little as £69 per night, what's not to like?
      Restaurant  -  CanteenM offers a wide range from sandwiches to sushi, and is open 24hours a day.
      Sights nearby  -  Situated in the heart of the city close to all attractions.
      Lively  -  Hip and happening.
      Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled access
      Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

      The most northerly outpost of CitizenM's luxe for less brand. Simple rooms with huge beds and fab rain showers, plus a 24hour bar and canteen, and huge lounge area. A great central location plus trendy interiors and high-tech gadgetry, make this the perfect choice for a fun filled city break. See More

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