Experience 200 years of Scottish history blended with modern luxury at this property.
Edinburgh is one of the most popular destinations to explore in Scotland — and as a self-proclaimed Potterhead, visiting felt almost like stepping into the Wizarding World. From its cobbled streets and alleys to its Gothic architecture, the city is every bit spellbinding. Naturally, I wanted a stay that matched this charm, and that led me to InterContinental Edinburgh The George.
Sitting proudly on George Street, one of the city’s most prestigious addresses, InterContinental Edinburgh The George places you right in the middle of the action. The hotel is a short walk to Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh Castle, and Calton Hill, with Waverley Station nearby, making it accessible.
History meets luxury
Coming from a city of sleek apartments and contemporary office blocks, the Georgian facade immediately caught my eye. The building, over 200 years old, was once a collection of five townhouses that hosted Scotland’s literary legends, including Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. Through the years, it served many roles — from a sorting hall for the Navy, Army, and Air Force Institute during World War II to the George Hotel, and finally joining the InterContinental family in 2019. Now, it stands as a living testament to Edinburgh’s past, marrying historic grandeur with contemporary luxury.
Storybook setting
Walking into the InterContinental Edinburgh The George felt like stepping into a period novel. Standing at the entrance was a doorman in a traditional kilt, whose presence felt as timeless as the hotel itself; yet, his warm smile and manners instantly made me forget the drizzle outside — not that I minded it.
Inside, the recent refurbishment struck a perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary comfort. High ceilings, marble floors, and fireplaces blended in with a soothing palette of greys, greens, and rich wood tones — all inspired by the landscapes of 19th-century Scottish painters.
The charm continued at the check-in counter. Understated yet sophisticated, with warm wooden accents that echo the hotel’s historic elegance, the space was bustling with arriving guests. As a pet-friendly property — and coming from Dubai, where this is far less common — I nearly stepped on a little pup. But the staff were warm and professional, making the packed lobby feel intimate and welcoming.
Homely stays
FACT checked into two interconnecting Premium King Rooms, each mirroring the other in layout and design. Stepping through the white wooden doors, I was instantly reminded of the Riyadh home where I grew up. There was a comforting change from the sleek, tiled, or wooden floors so common in modern homes, as the plush carpet immediately set a cosy, lived-in vibe.
To the left was the bathroom, compact yet thoughtfully designed, with wooden flooring, a bathtub, and a separate toilet — functional without feeling cramped. Opposite the bathroom was a walk-in wardrobe tall enough to hide a 6’1 human, complete with a minibar tucked inside.
Venturing further into the room, a flat-screen TV sat above a neat study desk, with a chest of drawers nearby for extra storage. Across from it was the king-size bed, framed in woven beige textures, crisp white linens, and teal cushions and bed throw that added a splash of colour to the otherwise soft palette. The headboard featured built-in sockets and nightlights, while bedside lamps added a warm, old-world charm. Above the bed hung a framed piece — a blueprint of the city’s development plans — grounding the room in its Edinburgh setting.
Additional seating included a comfortable couch, perfect for curling up with a book or simply gazing out the window at the quiet residential streets behind the hotel. The overall colour palette — beiges, greys, and whites — made the room feel cosy and warm.
Beyond the stay
When it came to dining, the hotel hit all the right notes. Le Petit Beefbar served up the finest cuts of beef from around the world with a chic Paris-meets-Edinburgh flair. With halal options on the menu, you’ll often spot Arabs dining at this destination.
For something more relaxed, Burr & Co, the hotel’s cafe, opened right onto George Street. It’s the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee while people-watching or to retreat with a book and a warm muffin when Edinburgh’s drizzle makes an appearance.
Although the hotel doesn’t have a pool and spa, it more than makes up for it with its other offerings. There’s a compact fitness centre to keep your routine on track, and if you’re lucky enough to have Club InterContinental access, you can unwind in style with complimentary drinks and snacks throughout the day. Every space has been thoughtfully restored, including the King’s Hall. This space was once a grand banking chamber and is now an event venue.
Verdict
InterContinental Edinburgh The George is a piece of the city’s history. Every corner here whispers stories from the past while keeping you perfectly comfortable in the present. With its unbeatable location, rich heritage, and quietly luxurious vibe, it’s easy to see why this landmark has been winning hearts for over 200 years. So if you’re visiting Edinburgh and want a stay that feels authentically local yet refined — and close to all the action — this is the address to bookmark.
GO: Visit https://edinburgh.intercontinental.com for more information.