Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Review: A Design Hotel in the Heart of Old Town

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From the outside, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s façade is surprisingly understated — nothing immediately hints at the unique atmosphere waiting inside.

Once inside, the space instantly draws you in: a bright corridor leads to a snug library lined with books, passing a softly lit red room centered around a coffee station.

In seconds, the Virgin spirit becomes unmistakable — bold and confident, yet warm and cocooning in its own way.

A Historic Building with a Contemporary Edge

Housed in the former India Buildings, a Victorian landmark meticulously restored, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh artfully blends history and modern design.

The goal was clear: preserve the building’s historical character while introducing the brand’s contemporary, design-forward aesthetic.

What truly sets the property apart is the way it reimagines heritage through a contemporary design lens.

Original stonework, arches, dark wood paneling, and impressive volumes have been carefully retained and enhanced with modern artistic touches and a strong visual identity. The result is a thoughtful balance between heritage and modernity, where each space feels distinct yet cohesive.

Spread across several interconnected levels, the hotel also features direct access to Upper Victoria Street. On the upper level, a terrace offers open views over Edinburgh’s Old Town — one of the hotel’s standout features and a great vantage point to take in the city from a different perspective.

Rooms and Suites

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh features 222 rooms and suites, spread across multiple interconnected buildings.

The Chamber King I stayed in is cleverly divided into two zones: a bathroom and dressing area with well-designed storage and a generous walk-in shower; and a cozy sleeping space anchored by a comfortable bed.

Notable highlights include the quality of the finishes, the comfortable bedding, thoughtfully designed lighting, and small details that elevate the stay, such as a yoga mat provided in the room.

As expected for a hotel located in a historic city center, the room size is relatively compact, and views vary depending on room orientation.

Bars and Dining: An Experience That Complements the Stay

Beyond the rooms, food and drink are central to the hotel experience. The Commons Club serves as a social hub and is spread across two distinct levels.

On the main level, the Commons Club Bar functions as an elegant cocktail lounge with a refined, intimate atmosphere.

Housed in a grand room with sculpted wood paneling, patterned flooring, and a dramatic ceiling, the space blends classic sophistication with contemporary finishes.

The long, back-lit bar showcases an impressive selection of spirits making it a popular spot for aperitifs or late-evening drinks.

The Commons Club Restaurant offers a more intimate setting within stone-vaulted rooms that create a cozy, almost private ambiance.

The menu focuses on seasonal cuisine, prepared with precision and an emphasis on local ingredients. During my visit, highlights included an excellent beef tartare served with bone marrow, a well-executed lamb dish, and a seasonal tomato salad that stood out for its simplicity and balance.

For more casual dining, EVE brings a colorful, relaxed energy to the property.

In the mornings, it serves a generous breakfast designed to fuel a day of exploring Edinburgh.Later in the day, the space transitions into an Italian restaurant, offering comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes in a bright, lively setting.

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