PRESTONFIELD

Baroque extravaganza packed with Wow factor

PRESTONFIELD HAS BEEN BILLED as the ultimate retort to minimalism. Think full-on theatrical Baroque here: expect to be stopped in your tracks. Multi-million pound refurbishment of this 17th century mansion on Edinburgh’s edge puts words like opulent and decadent in the shade.

It’s visual high drama from the word go: backdrops of velvet-upholstered walls and panelling, extravagant damask sofas, lavishly swagged and draped burgundy brocades, leopardskin throws and candelabra. Regency furniture is ornate, artefacts are quixotic, flower arrangements are glorious; gilded flourishes abound. It’s enough to make modernists blanch, and it pulls together superbly.

Bedrooms are no less flamboyant: expect luxurious Frette sheets, broadband, Bose wave sound, DVD players and plasma screens. Even the bathrooms (on the snug side) are suitably mirrored and mosaic-walled.

Tumble-into-bed appeal

Guests can chill in various beautiful salons splashed in scarlet, gold and black and scented by tuberose. Linger over cocktails before dining in the chandeliered Rhubarb restaurant, or arrange an intimate assignation in one of three other private dining rooms.

Bedrooms resemble boudoirs on a Gothic film set – summed up by style bible Tatler as "rich, ripe, almost dissolute" –  and tumble-into-bed appeal. A roll-call of showbiz stars have already stayed, and a bevy of  impeccably clad and black-kilted staff are on hand to ensure your stay – and theirs – goes seamlessly. Prestonfield isn’t all show either: this shamelessly OTT pleasure palace has been officially awarded five stars.

When you're ready to surface, take time to wander the estate's 20 acres – guarded by huge wrought-iron gates – where peacocks strut and Highland cattle roam. You're also just a hop from Edinburgh's myriad attractions, so take in the big sights before raiding the city's chic George Street stores.


Prestonfield was reviewed for Room for Romance by Valentina Heyton

Click on any picture to enlarge it and move through the gallery.

Dining in
Chef John McMahon created Madonna’s wedding breakfast so prepare to be impressed. Only the best seasonal ingredients are used including local unfarmed fish and in season game, and are all served with indulgent touches. Try sweet garlic-crusted cod, roast fillet of Angus beef Rossini and an assiette of Rhubarb’s rhubarb desserts. There are four bars – all with open fires – and plenty of antique filled corners to unwind in later. Throw yourselves on the black crocodile banquettes of the Yellow room, whisper together in the candlelit Tapestry room or get whipped into shape in the Leather room.

Breakfast
Served until 10am. Fill up on eggs Benedict and sausages from posh pigs reared on a local ducal estate.

Room service
Available 24 hours a day.




See & Do
A trip to Edinburgh Castle should be top of your list. Take in hilltop views of the city from Arthur’s Seat, see the best of contemporary art at the National Gallery of Modern Art or head off  to Leith, the city’s old docks, for a tour of the royal yacht Britannia.

Spa
Holyrood park is adjacent to Prestonfield and is the perfect place for walking, running, cycling or lazy afternoon picnics.

Diary Dates
August
Edinburgh’s famous International Festival takes centre stage – so be sure to book accommodation well ahead. You can also enjoy the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the famed Fringe festival.

December/January
Edinburgh’s Hogmany is the best in Britain – come for the fireworks, street parties and musical entertainment.

GETTING THERE

Location
Priestfield Road, Edinburgh EH16 5UT

Parking
There is free guest parking.

Trains
Edinburgh’s Waverley station is 1.5 miles away.

Taxis
GBP 5 to the station, GBP 20 to the airport. Transfers in Prestonfield’s black Range Rover with a black-kilted driver cost GBP 50.

Airport
Edinburgh – 14 miles

ESSENTIAL INFO

Rates guide
GBP 225 - 350. Rate includes a complimentary bottle of champagne.

Open/closed
Open all year

Check-in
3pm

Check-out
12 noon but late checkout is available for GBP 25

Minimum night stay?
No

Children
Children are not allowed in the restaurant after 7pm.

Pets
Dogs welcome.

Air conditioning
Yes

Wedding license?
Yes – with receptions for parties of up to 500.