Prestonfield House

Prestonfield House, a five-star hotel in Edinburgh

Prestonfield House is a five-star hotel located in Edinburgh, just minutes from the city's Old Town, Waverley railway station and the Royal Mile. The property occupies a historic building constructed in 1687 by the architect Sir William Bruce as the private residence of Sir James Dick, Provost of Edinburgh. The property remained in the family's hands until 1958, when it was transformed into a hotel. In 2003 it was acquired by Edinburgh restaurateur James Thomson, who has spent two decades restoring it.

The hotel presents itself as a retreat with the privacy and seclusion of a country estate within the city, surrounded by 20 acres of gardens and green spaces at the foot of Arthur's Seat. The house combines opulence, theatre and luxury, with jewel-toned interiors, sumptuous drapes, ornate wood panelling and antique furnishings.

Accommodation: 23 rooms and suites

The hotel has 23 luxury rooms and suites, furnished in an opulent and individual style. The property's description highlights the use of warm, rich colours, statement antiques and tactile fabrics and linens.

Rhubarb Restaurant and other dining options

Rhubarb Restaurant is open every day from 12:00 to 22:00 (last reservation). The dining offering is completed by afternoon tea, a wine list and The Whisky Room. The hotel also offers private dining in a collection of rooms, from breakfasts to formal dinners for fifty guests. For parties or events of nine or more guests, the restaurant handles enquiries directly via events@prestonfield.com.

Celebrations, events and private spaces

Prestonfield House has several spaces for celebrations and events: the Garden Room, Italian Room, Stuart Room, Salon Privee and the option of exclusive use of the house. The Stables, a circular space, is set up for spectacular dinners, dances, corporate events and award ceremonies. The hotel also hosts weddings and offers menus and wine lists for these occasions.

Offers and packages

The hotel's website shows several offers current at the time of analysis: a 20% discount on the flexible rate with a two-night bed and breakfast stay between October and December; a 15% discount on the best available rate when booking direct with the Advance Purchase rate; a 20% discount on the best available dinner, bed and breakfast rate for stays from Sunday to Wednesday on selected dates in October and November; a dining experience with the Gourmet Delights tasting menu and the option of wine pairing selected by the sommelier; and a January offer with accommodation, welcome Champagne and a three-course dinner for two. In addition, direct bookings include a complimentary bottle of Champagne in the room each night of the stay.

Accolades and reviews

The hotel has received a MICHELIN Key for 2026. The Good Hotel Guide distinguished it as Best Hotel in Scotland 2025. Media such as The Telegraph, The Times, The New Zealand Herald and Gentle Traveller have published glowing reviews of the property.

History and ownership

Built in 1687 by Sir William Bruce, the King's architect, after completing the Palace of Holyroodhouse for Sir James Dick, Provost of Edinburgh, Prestonfield was the Dick family's private residence until 1958. In 2003 it was acquired by James Thomson, an Edinburgh restaurateur, who has worked for two decades on its restoration. The hotel is part of POB Hotels and its sister property is The Witchery, located on the Royal Mile, near Edinburgh Castle, with two candlelit dining rooms and nine suites.

Surroundings and location

The hotel is five minutes from Edinburgh's Old Town, close to Waverley station, the main shopping streets and the historic attractions of the Royal Mile. Despite this urban proximity, the estate is surrounded by gardens and green spaces that give it the privacy of a country property. The property is dog friendly and offers parking.

Location and contact

Email: events@prestonfield.com