History of The Scotsman Hotel in Edinburgh

Former Scotsman Newspaper offices now a luxury hotel in the heart of Edinburgh

In the 1900's the North Bridge running between the New and Old Town's of Edinburgh was widened and as part of this expansion a 190 foot high tower was built, into which the Scotsman Newspaper moved their offices.

The building cost around £500,000 and after the rest of the North Bridge extension was completed teamed with the Carlton directly opposite, it formed a imposing entrance to the Old Town.

The direct access from Market Street to the building was an ideal distribution outlet for the papers to be packed directly onto the trains at Waverley Station straight from the printing house that took up the entire basement. Across the middle floors of the building which is now home to some of the Scotsman's most luxurious rooms and suites were originally used for the editorial offices. What is today a stunning 2 floor Penthouse suite complete with its own Sauna used to be the Pigeon lofts where the news was sent far and wide across Scotland.

The Scotsman Newspaper was regarded as "radical" when it was first published but over the years it became Scotland's National Newspaper. It first opened its doors to the locals of Edinburgh for advertising in 1831 and what is today the North Bridge Brasserie was the original reception and trading rooms. With its stunning marble pillars and ornate balcony this room has witnessed much bartering and haggling over advertising costs. Today this stunningly majestic room is home to the Scotsman's Brasserie and bar offering a "truly" Scottish menu, imaginative cocktails and one of Edinburgh's largest collections of rare whiskeys.

In 2001 the Newspaper moved to their own purpose built offices in Holyrood whilst the stunning building was renovated into The Scotsman Hotel. Now with 56 rooms and 12 suites the hotel retained its originality and quirky features and this, along with the 5 star service we endeavour to deliver offers visitors a unique experience.

The Scotsman has many of the original features that made the building one of the iconic landmarks of the Capital City. Wood panelled rooms and romantic turrets remind you of years gone by. The Marble staircase, now in the centre of the hotel remains majestic with its stained glass window and glowing in the candles at night, as you make your way to your room you can imagine the editors running up and down from the trading rooms to ensure Edinburgh received its daily news.