Hotel du Vin Edinburgh

Press Reviews

2009 Hot List, Condé Nast Traveler (US)
"The Du Vin chain has built its hip reputation on bold remodelings of unlikely edifices. Its latest effort may prove its most eccentric conversion yet: Set in a former lunatic asylum, this 42-room hotel has many glass walls—some looking inward to the old building's austerely handsome granite armature, some outward upon its architecturally interesting neighbors. These vistas and the high-raftered, angular rooms give the place a quirky charm, but the multi-level layout, accessed by various staircases and a small elevator, can be confusing. Befuddling, too, are the rooms, named for sundry vinous or tobacco substances, which also appear in the decor, bordering on product placement. Such problems aside, the hotel could not be better located for sightseeing, and, in true Du Vin form, guests' needs—be they for food, high-tech media, or skin products—could not be better cared for. At the heart of the hotel is an excellent bistro serving Scottish fare, and the overhanging mezzanine bar promises to become a local favorite.
When to go: Edinburgh's weather varies little between winter and summer, but August is the most popular because of its edgy Fringe Festival.
Which room to book: An Executive Suite for a view over the city to Arthur's Seat; for the frugal, a high-floor studio has ample space and rooftop vistas."

Sunday Times Scotland (restaurant review), January 2009
"The surroundings resembled the mocked-up study of a Sorbonne literature professor. The menu was intriguing, imaginative and deftly executed."

Sunday Herald (restaurant review), January 2009
"I love this sort of food. It feels like coming home and the bistro, which rekindles that old French brasserie atmosphere, albeit totally fake and made to look old from new, feels that way too."

Guest Reviews

Reviews are only from people who have stayed there and booked through i-escape.

• “The food is mediocre, and expensive for what it is. The steak I ordered was delivered well done even though I ordered it medium. As a comparison, we had better food at The Outsiders restaurant - more innovative menu, better service, better atmosphere and much more ingrained culture of knowledge of their food.”
  Trina, United Kingdom (07.05.12)

• “Service was friendly and efficient. Room was slightly small but overall in very good condition. Relaxing in the Whisky snug on a cold January day not to be missed. Arrived from London on overnight sleeper fantastic – made better by our room being available on arrival. The Whitchery Restaurant is well worth a visit, to get full effect of the gothic decor go for dinner. Food and service very good.”
  Julian, United Kingdom (12.01.12)

• “This was absolutely perfect, everything from the service level to the hotels location. I have nothing to complain about, and will never take a holiday in Edinburgh without staying in this fantastic hotel.”
  egon, Norway (30.10.11)

• “The staff is simply fantastic. Having a glass of wine served by Javi was a pleasure every evening.”
  Xavier, United Kingdom (02.10.11)

• “Wonderful hotel in a great area. We could have not have asked for a better experience or value.”
  Patricia, United States (20.09.11)

• “We had a wonderful time with the Sommelier, whose name is Seb. He showed us around their cellar and picked out a great bottle to share with dinner.”
  Byron, United States (01.09.11)

• “This is a lovely boutique hotel with a great location. The bistro is excellent and the service could not have been nicer. We will definitely recommend this property to our friends.”
  Lansford, United States (24.06.11)

• “Liked: the décor, touches of luxury in the room, the restuarant and the wine list! Disliked – surly receptionist.
  We ate in the Maison Bleue – very nice. Recommend a guided bus tour. (catch it at the Castle or Waverley station) – only £12 to find out all about Edinburgh and its history”
  Simon, United Kingdom (23.10.10)

• “We loved Hotel du Vin for the history, gorgeous decor and fabulous, friendly service. Our room had the most gorgeous freestanding bath with a view over the rooftops of Edinburgh. We also enjoyed drinks in the bar and dinner in the bistro. It was the perfect way to end our honeymoon and we would highly recommend this hotel.”
  Monica, Australia (03.10.10)

• “A lovely hotel. The staff were lovely especially the restaurant staff. The room was lovely although a little tight with a baby with us. Very central.”
  Cathal, Ireland (12.06.10)