CELEBRATING SCOTLAND'S FIRST SCIENTIST

Edinburgh has long been home to and welcomed great and curious minds.

The city was at the heart of the Scottish Enlightenment, a period in the 18th century of great intellectual and scientific accomplishment, when our townhouse was built.

Our two-bedroom suite is named for a key figure of Edinburgh’s enlightenment, for whom the term ‘scientist’ was coined. Mary Somerville was not just an astronomer, physicist, or chemist, she was a visionary thinker.

Growing up on the Fife coast, the young Mary was fascinated by with learning. She trawled the beaches for shells and stones, and spent her time reading. She took every opportunity to expand her knowledge in languages, science, astronomy, music and maths.

In later life she tutored some of the most eminent academics of the day and became famous as a published academic. In 1829, David Brewster, the inventor of the kaleidoscope, described her as “certainly the most extraordinary woman in Europe”.

In 1834, Somerville made a mathematical prediction that there was a planet orbiting beyond Uranus. Thanks to her calculations, Neptune was discovered in 1846.

Be inspired by our signature Somerville suite, and make your own discoveries, as your tread in the steps of great thinkers through the city of Edinburgh.

Sumptuous and spacious, this is a curated two bedroom suite, made to capture the New Town’s rich history and heritage with elegant design touches.

Soak up entrancing views of George Street from a space inspired by Scotland’s striking natural landscape.  Unwind in the airy, sumptuous bedrooms. And fully indulge your senses with walk-in showers and roll-top baths.

Enjoy every moment with luxury amenities, including:

  • Executive transfer from the airport or train station
  • Bose speakers
  • Dyson hairdryer
  • GHD Straighteners
  • Fresh flowers​
  • Complimentary mini-bar​
  • Seasonal evening turndown service​
  • Marble bathroom with roll-top bath and walk-in shower​
  • Luxury Swedish toiletries by Byredo
  • Nespresso coffee machine ​ and luxury Scottish shortbread

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