Principal Hotels scoops five top awards


Two of Glasgow and Edinburgh’s top hotels have been recognised at this year’s Scottish Hotel Awards.

In Edinburgh, the newly-refurbished Principal Edinburgh took the evening’s top prize – Scottish Hotel of the Year – as well as City Hotel of the Year.

It was also awarded a prestigious Gold Laurel Award as a result of its recent multi-million pound refurbishment and rebrand.

The General Manager of five-star Blythswood Square, Murray Thomson, scooped Large Hotel Manager of the Year while the Glasgow hotel’s Stuart Chapman was named Hotel Restaurant Manager of the Year.

Andreas Maszczyk, General Manager at Principal Edinburgh, said, “It is an honour to win three awards at such a prestigious ceremony. Being named Scottish Hotel of the Year and City Hotel of the Year is testament to the hard work of the hotel team. We believe in offering the best experience for guests visiting Edinburgh, and both awards are a true reflection of this.

“The Gold Laurel was just the icing on the cake, and recognises the sheer scale of investment that has gone into the hotel over the past year. I’m exceptionally proud to look after such an iconic hotel and to lead such a wonderful team.”

Murray Thomson, general manager of Glasgow’s Blythswood Square, said, “Winning two titles at the Scottish Hotel Awards is a real highlight. I’m honoured to be considered one of the country’s top general managers, but I firmly believe that a manager’s success is as much a reflection of their team – and that is certainly the case for Blythswood Square.

“Stuart’s award is very well-deserved – he’s a top-notch restaurant manager and ensures our guests get the best possible experience when they dine with us.

“The hospitality sector in Glasgow is so vibrant that this is the best time to be working in the industry.”

The Principal Edinburgh, formerly, The George Hotel is one of Edinburgh’s oldest and most iconic hotels. In 2016, the hotel was refurbished from head to toe, courtesy of a multimillion-pound investment by owners Starwood Capital Group.

Following the opening of brand new restaurant The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen and coffee shop, Burr & Co., the main hotel has also undergone its own transformation.

As well as the lobby and library, the stunning King’s Hall – which plays host to major functions and many city centre weddings – has been fully refurbished to showcase many of its original period features.

Blythswood Square is one of the city’s most exclusive five-star spa hotels with 100 stylish guest rooms including a number of suites and a spectacular penthouse.

The elegant Salon, rated ‘one of the world’s best bars’ by Class Magazine, offers beautiful garden views along with delicious food, fizz, cocktails and one of the city’s best afternoon teas.

Renowned for its champagne collection, The Salon offers some of the world’s most loved champagne brands such as Moët & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Ruinart and Cristal.