CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
Hitting the city high street on a Christmas shopping spree can be a chore, so why not recover from the queues and rainy sodden streets in stylish and luxurious accommodation
SF’s subscribers hit Scotland’s streets to review Christmas city breaks
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian Reviewed by Gary Gilday and Dr Colin Pegrum from Glasgow
If you are looking for the perfect base for the weekend on a break to Edinburgh, here it is! The Waldorf Astoria – The Caledonian sits perfectly at one end of Princes St and the view from our comfortable and spacious room was ridiculously beautiful – the castle in all its glory, nothing between us and it, lit up at dusk. If there is a finer view in Edinburgh I’ve never seen it, and I used to live and work just yards from the ‘Caley’...
We had set out to our capital with a mission. Much relaxed walking, shopping and eating. Simple as that. And staying where we were, it couldn’t have been an easier mission to accomplish. Just yards from the New Town, the Old Town in full view and a nice stroll up to Bruntsfield with its myriad boutiques and deli’s, we were spoilt for choice. Not to mention Princes Street itself with its collection of world famous names. But I truly believe one of life’s greatest pleasures is wandering aimlessly around a city chancing upon this curio shop, that quaint little pub or that stunning architectural delight, and there is no finer place to do this than in Edinburgh.
And after just the right amount of traipsing we headed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner. By getting ready for dinner I of course mean drinks and nibbles in the gorgeous Peacock Alley in the heart of the hotel. This done, we were warmly welcomed into Galvin’s Brasserie De Luxe by some of the friendliest staff I have ever encountered. Our waitress was a joy – so informative and all of her recommendations for wine pairings were spot on too. And of course, as you would expect from a kitchen with the pedigree of the Michelin-starred brothers Chris & Jeff Galvin, the food was simply stunning. A true delight. Our outstanding breakfasts were taken in the Brasserie too, and everyone looked as relaxed and happy as we did in the morning. Maybe they had been visiting the Guerlain Spa in the hotel for a weekend of pampering or maybe, like us, they were simply enjoying Edinburgh at its best. Prices from £210 per room per night
Blythswood Square, Glasgow Reviewed by Madeleine Smith and Andrew Price from Edinburgh
Although situated in the heart of Glasgow city centre and close to some of the best shopping in Scotland, Blythswood Square is a quiet spot. The building is an impressive sight – it was formerly the headquarters of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club and there are plenty of original features and pieces of artwork inside to remind you of its history. The foyer is similarly impressive, with its black and white marble floor and imposing chandelier.
After checking in, we were shown up to our superior room, which was comfortable and luxurious with a view of the square. The marble bathroom had a waterfall shower and a deep bathtub. The huge bed was very comfortable with Egyptian cotton sheets and thick pillows.
We didn’t wait long before taking advantage of the hotel’s thermal spa. We were lucky to enjoy a very quiet Sunday afternoon relaxing in the various warm pools, saunas, steam rooms, and laconium and tepidarium. We revived ourselves with drinks in the ultra-stylish Salon bar. They have a wide selection of cocktails, wine and beers and the atmosphere is relaxed.
The restaurant was a lively place, even on a Sunday night and the service was warm and friendly. The main menu had lots to offer, while the seasonal market menu was great value for money. The ham hock terrine with sweet onion chutney and supreme of chicken with seasonal veg and buttery mashed potatoes were the real highlights.
There is much to love about Blythswood Square – the spa, decor and plush bedding for a start – but it’s the attentiveness and efficiency of the staff that really make it memorable with everyone we met welcoming and professional. A great example of the friendliness that Glasgow is known for. Prices from £120 per night
Skene House, Aberdeen Reviewed by Bill and Emma Leitch from Auchterarder
The Skene House Group have three locations in Aberdeen Centre: Holburn, Whitehall and Rosemount. We arrived at Rosemount on a very wet afternoon and were greeted by friendly and helpful staff. The complementary bottle of champagne was very welcome.
The granite building was built around 1900 and is an imposing design. Our one-bedroom duplex suite was spacious, modern and extremely comfortable. The kitchen area was very well-equipped with easy-to-use microwave oven and two ring hob plus dining table should you wish to do your own catering. The lounge had comfortable seating with TV and wifi connections. Upstairs was a very comfortable king size bed, plenty of storage and an excellent shower room with hairdryer.
There is secure parking via electric entrance and exit gates and the complex is only ten minutes away from Union Street and the main shopping malls, while the theatre, art galleries and museum are a mere five-minute walk. The location was quiet, ensuring a good night’s sleep. For those interested in ships, the harbour is close to the Union Square shopping mall.
Continental breakfast is included with cooked available at a small charge and there are many restaurants close by for lunch and dinner.
A walk along the beach promenade is strongly recommended, if only to blow away the previous night’s indulgence. We would certainly visit again. Prices from £72 per night
The Salutation Hotel, Perth Reviewed by Colin and Chris Walker from Cumbria
The Salutation Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1699 and is Scotland’s oldest established hotel. Situated in the centre of Perth, it is within walking distance of many shops, pubs and restaurants.
On arrival we were shown around the hotel by Lawrence the assistant manager; an absolute gentleman. Of particular interest was room 20 where Bonnie Prince Charlie held meetings with the Jacobites, making plans for the 1745 rebellion. More recently, guests have included The Beatles, David Bowie, Boris Johnson and Rick Astley.
We were then escorted to our ensuite room which was modern and offered everything we could possibly need for a comfortable stay, including a four-poster bed.
Our evening meal was delicious, chosen from a menu offering plenty of fresh locally-sourced produce. If I recommend only one thing it has to be the haggis, tatties and neeps. Absolutely wonderful!
Whilst checking out we had already decided to return. We have booked the three-night Twixmas Break between Chrsitmas and New Year and are now looking forward to enjoying the festivities in the city with good food, plenty to drink and a chance to relax beside the roaring log fires. Prices from £49 per person DBB
ABode, Glasgow Reviewed by David and Louisa Gardiner from West Linton
ABode hotel is beautifully situated in the centre of Glasgow making it an ideal place to stay for all the entertainment that Glasgow has to offer, or just for a short city break.
On entering its classical Edwardian facade the building reveals a very tastefully designed interior which nods to the building’s former use as the headquarters for the Corporation of Education. Its signature features are the charming original cage lift and the internal granite staircase, which are at the centre of the covered atrium leading to the rooms.
We were warmly greeted by the friendly and informative receptionist who directed us to our room on the quiet second floor. It was stunning and very thoughtfully decorated in a modern style but still very much in keeping with the historical features of the building. We very much enjoyed our bottle of chilled Prosecco and the handmade chocolates that were waiting for us in our room.
At dinner we felt the décor in the restaurant, was not quite in keeping with the rest of the building and the food was not particularly memorable. That said, the experience was much improved by our waiter who was incredibly helpful and filled with Glaswegian charm.
Breakfast the following morning was an improved affair, with the eggs benedict being of top quality. We would happily stay again. Prices from £95 per double room per night B&B