It's the time of the year when we get offered tempting deals on exotic getaways everywhere we look. But if you're looking for a weekend minibreak that's both cheaper and more culture-packed to break up the winter, Edinburgh is ready and waiting. British tour company Evan Evans has reported an increase in demand for Scottish tours following the return of the BBC’s The Traitors. The +44% surge in Google searches for Edinburgh-related stays in January (and +27 in Scotland-wide searches) means there are plenty of us looking to head North to experience Scotland for ourselves.
So, whether you want to head to the Scottish capital for some sight-seeing, to walk in the footsteps of the One Day cast, or to show off your new Claudia Winkleman Traitorcore-inspired wardrobe, we have just the hotel for you to make your stay just as special as an exotic getaway. Here, our head of shopping shares her experience of the 5*Virgin Hotels Edinburgh – and her delight at finding the surprisingly affordable (yet very luxurious) hotel has a fun link to the Harry Potter books...
If you love being right in the middle of all the action, then you’re in luck. The hotel, which only opened in 2022, is on Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh’s most iconic roads. Here's a fun fact I found out: It’s said to have inspired Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. So, if you’re a fan of the wizarding world, like me, you’re already off to a magical start. You’re also just minutes from the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle (some of the hotel's rooms even look out over it!) and all the boutique shops, bars and restaurants that make the Old Town so special.
It's really the perfect base for a city break – whether you’re here for sightseeing, shopping, or just soaking up the historic charm. I'd even go as far as to say it's the best-situated hotel in Edinburgh. READ MORE: 'I went to Claudia Winkleman's go-to exotic holiday spot and copied her adventurous activities'. The rooms, or "chambers," as they're aptly named, are a delightful mix of comfort and quirky-but-modern Scottish charm. I stayed in a Chamber King, which boasted a seriously comfy king-size bed and views of Victoria Street. The open-plan design featured a cosy vanity area and a spacious rainfall shower. Thoughtful touches like a welcome bag with local chocolate, candles and gin really added to my arrival into the room.
It also came equipped with a Nespresso machine, plenty of tea choices and a fully stocked mini-bar with local sweets and liquors. I loved how the mini fridge was a bright retro red to match the brand colours and the other pops of crimson like the doors and room keys. This hotel has thought of everything. The OculusLounge is a gorgeous space filled with natural light, and it's the perfect place to head to for afternoon tea. If you’re a book lover, you’ll adore the Funny Library, which is packed with quirky books and comfy seating for a chilled-out reading session.
For me, though, the rooftop terrace is the real showstopper. Edinburgh’s skyline is breathtaking, and being able to take it all in from a stylish rooftop bar is a serious perk. Whether you’re sipping on a morning coffee or an evening cocktail, the views are just stunning. I didn't head to the gym because I only stayed two nights, but there is a 24-hour gym on-site. After walking 20k steps each day I was there, there was no way I could manage hitting the treadmills!.
I always judge a hotel by its breakfast, and let me tell you, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh did not disappoint. The Commons Club serves up a delicious Scottish breakfast (yes, including haggis for those feeling adventurous) alongside a range of international options. Everything was fresh and cooked to perfection. The buffet, which you can work into your package for an additional £25, was one of the best UK buffets I've experienced, with top-quality smoked salmon, cooked sausages, scrambled eggs, bagels and granola on offer, to name just a few.
For lunch or dinner, Eve is a fantastic option. It’s got a laid-back vibe, and the Italian menu is packed with comfort food favourites. Fun fact, it's named after Richard Branson's late mother. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger, fresh seafood, or just a really good cocktail, you’ll find something to love here. Plus, the decor is super stylish – think exposed brick, warm lighting, and a buzzing atmosphere.
Top tip: Ask the bartender in Eve to make you an Old Fashioned with some local whisky – it's excellent! Also, if you're staying for dinner, order the slow-cooked beef risotto because it was delicious. Zoe shares her list of top spots to visit and eat at below... Considering it's a 5* hotel with plenty of luxurious little touches, an excellent location and top-quality service, I really think the pricing is reasonable. Rates start from £180 for a room per night on Booking.com with the more premium suites costing a bit more. For rates including breakfast and cancellation options, you're looking at around £250 per night. You can also check out Virgin Hotels' website here directly for offers.
