Prestonfield House is a magnificent 17th-century mansion at the foot of Arthur's Seat, set within 20 acres of landscaped grounds with peacocks and Highland cattle. The hotel is lavishly decorated with Jacobean furnishings, antiques, and an atmosphere of theatrical splendour. The award-winning Rhubarb restaurant serves Scottish cuisine in a setting of extraordinary opulence.
Prestonfield House is one of Edinburgh's most extraordinary historic hotels, a magnificent 17th-century mansion built in 1687 and set within 20 acres of private grounds at the foot of Arthur's Seat, the ancient volcanic hill that rises dramatically behind the property. Located on Priestfield Road in the Prestonfield area, approximately two miles south of the Old Town, the hotel combines an atmosphere of theatrical baroque splendour with the intimacy of a private country house. The building was originally designed by Sir William Bruce, architect to King Charles II, and the interiors have evolved over three centuries into an extravagant layering of gilded mirrors, oil paintings, Jacobean antiques, deep velvets, and rich textiles that create one of Scotland's most memorable hotel atmospheres. The hotel comprises 23 rooms and suites, each individually designed to reflect the character of the building. No two rooms are alike, and the overall aesthetic is one of deliberate, unapologetic opulence. Roaming freely across the grounds are peacocks and Highland cattle, which add an almost surreal grandeur to the setting, particularly in the early morning mist. The award-winning Rhubarb restaurant is set beneath the original painted and gilded ceilings of the main dining rooms and is among Edinburgh's most theatrical dining experiences. The menu celebrates Scottish seasonal produce — game, fish, and foraged ingredients — prepared with classical technique and presented with the theatricality appropriate to the surroundings. The wine cellar, housed in the original 17th-century vaults, holds an extensive and carefully curated collection. Afternoon tea at Prestonfield is among the finest in Scotland and must be booked in advance. Prestonfield is consciously adult in character: there is no gym, no spa, no conference centre. The experience revolves around the house, its grounds, the restaurant, and the exceptional library bar, which stocks one of Edinburgh's finest selections of Scotch whisky. The hotel is a favourite for romantic breaks, milestone celebrations, and those seeking an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Gardens
- Room service
- Concierge
Location
Priestfield Road, Edinburgh EH16 5UT
Highlights
- 17th century mansion
- Rhubarb restaurant
- Peacocks and Highland cattle in grounds
- Jacobean interiors
- Arthur's Seat setting
Tips for visiting
- The Rhubarb restaurant is one of Edinburgh's most sought-after tables — reservations are strongly recommended even for hotel guests, and are essential during the Edinburgh Festival in August.
- The library bar stocks an outstanding selection of single malt Scotch whiskies; the bar team can guide visitors through a curated tasting, particularly of Highland and Speyside expressions.
- Prestonfield is approximately a 10-minute taxi ride from the Royal Mile; the hotel can arrange taxis for guests and has a shuttle service for groups.
- The hotel's 20-acre grounds, where Highland cattle and peacocks roam freely, are accessible to guests and make for a remarkable early-morning or late-evening walk.
- For the Edinburgh Festival in August, rooms should be booked months in advance — Prestonfield's limited room count and atmospheric setting make it one of the festival's most popular bases.
Accessibility
Prestonfield House occupies a 17th-century mansion where certain historical architectural features, including steps between levels and uneven stone surfaces, present challenges for guests with limited mobility. Some ground-floor accommodation may be more accessible than upper-floor rooms. Guests with specific mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hotel directly before booking to discuss the most suitable room and access options.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Prestonfield House suitable for families with children?
Prestonfield House has a sophisticated, deliberately adult atmosphere and is better suited to couples and solo travellers than families with young children. The hotel does not have a children's programme, dedicated family rooms, or child-specific facilities.
Does Prestonfield House have a spa?
Prestonfield House does not have a spa, gym, or pool. The experience is centred on the historic house, its restaurant, library bar, and 20-acre grounds rather than fitness or wellness facilities.
How far is Prestonfield House from Edinburgh city centre?
The hotel is approximately two miles south of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Taxis take around 10 minutes to reach the city centre, and the hotel can arrange transport on request.
Can non-guests dine at the Rhubarb restaurant?
Yes, the Rhubarb restaurant is open to non-guests for lunch and dinner. Reservations are highly recommended and are essential at weekends and throughout August during the Edinburgh Festival.
Is Prestonfield House available for weddings and private events?
Prestonfield House is a celebrated wedding and private events venue. The hotel's historic rooms, dining rooms, and grounds can be hired for exclusive use. The events team handles full coordination from enquiry through to the day itself.