Prestonfield Edinburgh

Prestonfield Edinburgh, a distinguished Michelin Key One-Key property, offers guests a "very special stay" characterized by high comfort and a unique personality. This 17th-century baroque mansion, transformed into a luxurious five-star hotel, is frequently lauded for its opulent interiors, exceptional service, and serene setting, despite its proximity to Edinburgh's city center.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The overall sentiment for Prestonfield Edinburgh is overwhelmingly positive, with guests often describing it as a "unique and beautiful and luxurious place" and a "magical" experience. The hotel consistently receives high guest scores, with a Booking.com rating of 9.6, including high marks for comfort (9.8), staff (9.7), and cleanliness (9.6). Its Michelin Key One-Key status further solidifies its reputation for outstanding stays, recognizing its excellence in design, service, character, value, and contribution to the local setting.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise Prestonfield for several key aspects:

• Opulent Design & Character: The hotel is a "feast for the senses" with its sumptuous baroque interiors, rich fabrics, priceless antiques, and a "more is more" aesthetic that evokes a sense of stepping back in time. Each space, from the Tapestry Room to the Whisky Room, exudes drama and historical charm.
• Exceptional Service: The service is frequently described as "faultless," "outstanding," "attentive," and "intuitive". Staff are noted for being welcoming, friendly, and knowledgeable.
• Tranquil Location: Despite being just minutes from Edinburgh's Old Town, the Royal Mile, and Waverley station, the hotel is surrounded by 20 acres of private gardens and parkland, offering the seclusion of a country estate. Views often include Arthur's Seat or the adjacent golf course.
• Unique Amenities: Beyond the standard offerings, guests appreciate touches like complimentary champagne, confectionery, and fruit in rooms, and the presence of resident Highland cows and peacocks on the grounds.

3. Room Quality

Prestonfield House features 23 individually decorated luxury bedrooms and lavish suites, starting from around £375 a night. The rooms are furnished in the hotel's distinctive opulent style, featuring rich, warm colors, tactile fabrics, statement antiques, and comfortable beds piled high with cushions. Suites often include separate sitting rooms and multiple bathrooms. Bathrooms are elegantly appointed with marble, quality fittings, and fluffy towels. Modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, plasma TVs, and well-stocked mini-bars are discreetly integrated into the historic setting. Views typically overlook the secluded gardens, parkland, Arthur's Seat, or Craigmillar Castle.

4. Dining Experience

Dining at Prestonfield is a significant highlight, centered around the critically acclaimed Rhubarb restaurant. Rhubarb is renowned for its Scottish fine dining, focusing on high-quality local produce and served in two beautifully proportioned oval rooms. Guests can enjoy exquisite à la carte dinners, with dishes like Scotch beef en croûte and roe deer being mentioned. The restaurant also serves a memorable gourmet breakfast, including options from a Full Scottish (with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices) to various egg preparations, and a buffet of pastries, fruits, and cereals. Luxurious afternoon tea is a Prestonfield tradition, served in the elegant Tapestry Room or, weather permitting, in the rose-filled gardens. The hotel also offers 24-hour room service and a selection of four private dining rooms suitable for various occasions, including the intimate Salon Privé for two.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Prestonfield House is consistently described as "impeccable" and "outstanding". Staff are noted for being welcoming, attentive, courteous, friendly, and intuitive, often anticipating guest needs without being obtrusive. Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the staff's dedication to creating a comfortable and luxurious experience. The hotel also notes its staff are "committed enthusiastic hospitality professionals".

6. Location & Accessibility

Prestonfield Edinburgh boasts a unique location that combines seclusion with accessibility. It is situated just minutes (approximately 1.9 to 2.2 miles) south of Edinburgh's Old Town, the Royal Mile, and Waverley railway station. Despite this proximity to the city center, the hotel is nestled within 20 acres of private gardens and parkland, offering a tranquil country estate atmosphere. This allows guests to feel far removed from the city bustle while still having easy access to attractions. Public transport, with bus stops, is a 5-minute walk away, and free parking with valet service is available on-site.

Regarding accessibility, while it is a 17th-century listed building, Prestonfield has made efforts to be inclusive. There is a VIP entrance with ground-level access and an accessible lift to the restaurant and bedroom floors. The hotel offers at least one accessible guest bedroom with a level entry wet room. Some public rooms may present challenges due to the building's age, but staff are willing to assist.

7. Value & Pricing

Prestonfield is considered a luxury retreat, and its pricing reflects the high-end experience it offers. Room rates for bedrooms and lavish suites start from approximately £375 a night. While a specific "value for money" rating on Booking.com is 8.6, guests generally find the experience to be "well worth the money" for the unique luxury and exceptional service provided. Special offers like "March into Spring" or "Luxury Midweek Escape" may provide discounts. It's seen as a place for a truly unique and indulgent stay, rather than a budget option.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are largely glowing, some recurring minor issues or criticisms have been noted:

• Traditional Bathroom Fixtures: Some guests have mentioned bathrooms with two separate faucets for hot and cold water, which is traditional in older British buildings but can be less convenient. The hot tap can also get very hot.
• Dim Lighting/Natural Light: A few guests have found bedroom lighting to be dim and natural light limited in some rooms.
• Occasional Damp Towels: One review mentioned bath towels having a damp smell.
• Noise from Upper Floors: There was an instance where a guest could hear others walking in the suite above them.
• Amenities not "Modern 5-star": Some guests looking for very modern amenities (e.g., numerous strategically placed charging outlets, glass shower doors) felt that while luxurious, the hotel leans more towards traditional elegance than contemporary functionality.
• Aging Decor: Isolated comments noted some common rooms appearing dusty and dark with minor chipping paint.

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