Imagine waking up on a ship that once sailed Scotland’s wild seas, delivering supplies to remote lighthouses.
Today, Fingal is a luxurious floating hotel permanently berthed in Leith, Edinburgh.
You start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast before heading out to explore the charming streets of Edinburgh. Fingal’s story is woven into every detail—from cabins named after famous lighthouses to the Skerryvore Suite, which honours one of the world’s most iconic lighthouses.
Whether you’re staying overnight or just popping in for a special dinner or afternoon tea, Fingal is the perfect place to experience a touch of luxury and history. I’ve tried it myself and loved every moment of it! Fingal is no ordinary hotel – this former Northern Lighthouse Board ship has been transformed into a 5-star luxury floating hotel. It’s been named 2024 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best, ranked as one of the top-rated hotels in the world.
I was kindly invited by Fingal for a PR review, and I was truly pleased to enjoy my experience and share it with you. Let’s get started!
Arriving at the Port of Leith was incredibly easy, thanks to the new tram link that takes you directly from the city centre to just a few minutes’ walk from Fingal. I hopped on the tram at Haymarket station, and it brought me straight to the stop near the ship, making the journey super convenient.
Tip: While you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to explore The Royal Yacht Britannia, located just a 15-minute walk away.
Stepping on board, I was greeted by the warmest and most attentive staff. From the moment I arrived, they made me feel completely welcome, offering a personal touch that immediately set the tone for a memorable stay.
As I made my way to my cabin, I couldn’t help but admire the sleek corridors, lined with beautiful images of lighthouses. These thoughtful touches really added to the atmosphere, giving a sense of place and history before I even stepped inside my room.
Inside my cabin, I was welcomed with a handwritten note and a black box of delicious handcrafted chocolates featuring the Fingal logo. It was a thoughtful touch that made me feel right at home.
I stayed at Bass Rock, and Fingal’s cabins are a true tribute to maritime heritage. Each cabin is named after a Stevenson lighthouse, connecting guests to Scotland’s coastal history. The heritage fabrics by Scottish designer Araminta Campbell added a luxurious touch.
My cabin was warm and inviting, featuring elegant curves and circular windows that offered lovely views.
Dining at Fingal
Afternoon Tea
One of the highlights of my stay at Fingal was the delightful afternoon tea in the Lighthouse Bar & Restaurant. The ambiance was enchanting, with its Art Deco charm creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
I truly enjoyed the Jasmine Green Tea alongside the selection of treats, particularly the Henderson’s rare breed pork sausage roll and the Beetroot Royale, which combined potato, horseradish, and dill beautifully.
For dessert, the Arabica cappuccino cheesecake and the passion fruit and coconut meringue were truly exceptional. It was a lovely experience to relax and savour these culinary delights.
Dinner
As the evening approached, I looked forward to dinner crafted by the talented new Head Chef, Pedro Barreira, and Restaurant Chef Andrea Sendon Alonso. Their passion for using fresh, local Scottish produce was evident in every dish.
I started with a sourdough roll paired with creamy Edinburgh butter, which was delightful. For my starter, I savoured the Eyemouth crab, beautifully complemented by hazelnut, dill apple, mandarin, and avocado – each bite was a burst of freshness!
The star of the evening was the Black Isle beef picanha, served with a rich tomato fondue, mushroom croquette, and potato fondant, all bringing together the essence of Scottish cuisine.
To finish, the tonka bean panna cotta was simply exquisite, with a shortbread crumble and a scoop of Edinburgh coffee ice cream that left me wanting more.
Every dish reflected the chefs’ dedication to quality and seasonal local ingredients, making for a truly memorable dining experience.
Breakfast
In the morning, after a lovely sleep in my cosy bed, I enjoyed a nutritious Full Scottish breakfast at Fingal. It featured a delicious array of flavours: unsmoked bacon, pork link sausage, black pudding, haggis, and a perfectly poached egg. The dish came with slow-roasted vine plum tomatoes, grilled flat mushrooms, baked beans, and a potato scone—truly a hearty way to start the day!
I also had some smoked salmon separately because I love salmon and can enjoy it at any meal.
Special Occasions
I was told that Fingal has dedicated areas designed for special occasions, and I took some time to explore these stunning spaces after my dinner.
Fingal Hotel is undoubtedly a fantastic venue for events and celebrations. The unique setting of a luxury floating hotel, combined with exquisite dining options, makes it a memorable choice for anniversaries, birthdays, or any milestone worth celebrating.
Fingal offers two beautifully appointed rooms for private dining: The Bridge, perfect for intimate gatherings of up to 10 people, and The Ballroom, which I thoroughly enjoyed exploring.
The Ballroom is a stunning double-height space with a mezzanine level featuring a private bar, ideal for Champagne receptions and exquisite canapés. Guests can make a grand entrance down one of two sweeping staircases, while a raised gallery allows musicians to create a relaxed ambiance for up to 60 guests.
In Conclusion
My experience at Fingal Hotel was a delightful journey of culinary exploration and comfort. The attentive service, beautifully crafted dishes, and elegant atmosphere left a lasting impression. Fingal truly provides a luxurious escape from the ordinary, offering a unique blend of history and elegance.
Nestled away from the bustling tourist hotspots, it’s the perfect retreat for those looking to enjoy Edinburgh while also seeking a peaceful haven in the evenings. Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s a fantastic place for a special dinner or afternoon tea with friends or family – I’ve tried it myself and loved every moment of it!
The exceptional quality of service, alongside the outstanding culinary offerings, elevates this hotel to something truly remarkable.
And here’s something you might not know – there’s an indirect link between Fingal and the famous writer Robert Louis Stevenson. His grandfather, Robert Stevenson, designed many of Scotland’s lighthouses, as did his sons and grandsons. It’s likely that these family adventures inspired Treasure Island and Kidnapped.
In fact, Treasure Island was one of my favourite books growing up, and I’m sure it’s been a favourite for many of you as well! Stevenson even spoke with pride about his family’s work on the Bell Rock and Skerryvore Lighthouses – both key parts of Scotland’s rich maritime history.
For anyone seeking a memorable stay in Edinburgh, Fingal Hotel is the perfect choice, and it certainly deserves a spot on the list of the best luxury hotels in the city.
Contact Details
Website: www.fingal.co.uk
Address: Alexandra Dock, Edinburgh EH6 7DX
By the way, if you’ve ever been confused about what to pack for your Edinburgh trip… you’re not alone! Many travellers have asked this question in the comments and DMs on Instagram and Facebook, and I’ve even sent pictures of what I wear daily to give a clearer idea. To make it easier for all of you, I’ve put together a helpful Packing guide and checklist that’ll remove the guesswork and help you stay organized. While Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, I’ve done my best to make this guide as useful as possible. Click here for a free download.
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