San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants pioneered the concept of unique, distinctive and design-forward hotels in the United States. The brand has since made its way across the pond, and one of its newest U.K. properties is Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel in Edinburgh — the first Kimpton hotel in Scotland.
“Kimpton has built its brand on the belief that heartfelt human connections make people’s lives better, thus creating truly meaningful guest experiences,” said Johan Scheepers, general manager of Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel. “Each Kimpton hotel is an escape from the ordinary, and Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel will offer vibrant Scottish service — full of charm and personality — in one of the world’s most historic cities.”
Open since March 2019, the 199-room Kimpton Charlotte Square consists of seven interconnected Georgian townhouses that combine traditional Scottish architecture with Kimpton’s signature eclectic design style. The hotel infuses the historic buildings with a warm and welcoming spirit that honors their original character.
Guestrooms are full of character.
Credit: 2019 Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Kimpton Charlotte Square sits in the shadow of the spectacular Edinburgh Castle in one of New Town’s private garden squares. As a result, it puts clients only a short distance from the city’s shopping, dining and historic sites while remaining far enough away from busy tourist hubs to have a peaceful place to unwind. For me, being greeted by a view of the castle each time I stepped out of the hotel’s front door provided an immediate sense of place.
Jeffrey Roy, vice president of marketing and sales for Los Angeles-based Eurobound, highly endorses the property.
“Kimpton Charlotte Square feels more like a manor house than a hotel,” he said. “In my opinion, the first moment of truth [for any hotel] is the welcome and the location, and both scored high in my book.”
Michaela Cox, manager of Authentic Vacations, echoes his sentiment about the location.
“The hotel is a gorgeous hidden retreat in the heart of the New Town, so a fantastic location for our clients,” she said.
Guestroom decor at the luxury boutique hotel is also intended to create a feeling of escape, celebrating the golden age of travel through artwork and furnishings. However, it still incorporates the technology and amenities that modern travelers might expect, such as complimentary Wi-Fi access, Nespresso coffee machines, cozy robes and even in-room yoga mats.
Each guestroom also has a gratis “Tuck Box,” featuring local gourmet treats that are replenished daily — a welcome sight after a long travel day or an afternoon exploring Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Plus, Kimpton’s “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” service provides or loans travel essentials, from toothbrushes and razors to cellphone chargers and international plug adaptors.
Kimpton Charlotte Square offers two distinct on-site restaurant options: Baba, a trendy George Street hot spot with a Levant-inspired menu that blends Middle Eastern cuisine with Scottish influences; and The Garden, an urban oasis beneath a glass greenhouse roof. Breakfast in The Garden features a farmhouse-style buffet laden with fruit and baked goods as well as a menu of freshly prepared hot items, including both traditional and vegetarian Scottish breakfast.
Clients will love dining at Baba, which features Middle Eastern cuisine with Scottish influences.
Credit: 2019 Kimpton Charlotte Square HotelThe Kimpton brand’s signature hosted evening social hour takes place from 6 to 7 p.m. each evening in the Baba bar. Additionally, the hotel’s turquoise-colored lounge with views of one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful garden squares is a lovely spot for morning coffee, afternoon tea or evening cocktails.
A particularly unique feature is the “hotel within the hotel” concept: The “No. 33” at Charlotte Square encompasses The Townhouse Suite, three signature suites, three junior suites and six additional bedrooms. With its own private entrance, No. 33 can accommodate up to 20 guests, making it a perfect option for clients who want their own space while still enjoying all the amenities of the main hotel. Clients can also take advantage of amenities including a personal host and private dining and drawing rooms.
No. 33 provides guests with private dining room for entertaining.
Credit: 2019 Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel“Edinburgh has a real demand for a lifestyle luxury brand,” said Karan Khanna, managing director of U.K. and Ireland for Intercontinental Hotels Group. “I’m confident that Kimpton’s relaxed approach to luxury will suit the market well.”
The Details
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
www.kimptoncharlottesquare.com
