IHG has relaunched its flagship Intercontinental Hotels and Resorts brand in Edinburgh, with the return of an historic George Street property to the brand.
Previously known as the George Intercontinental Edinburgh, the hotel was sold to the Principal Hotel Company in 2005, and eventually renamed The Principal Edinburgh George Street.
IHG then purchased 12 properties under the Principal Hotels and De Vere brands last year, including the George Street hotel, and has now brought it back under the Intercontinental portfolio following “significant renovations”.
Now known as the Intercontinental Edinburgh – The George, the property is made up of five townhouses dating back to the 1780s, and features 240 rooms, the Printing Press restaurant and bar, and a ballroom which previously served as the banking hall for Caledonian Insurance Company’s headquarters.
Two other properties which had previously operated under the Principal brand in Glasgow and Edinburgh have already been reflagged under IHG’s Kimpton portfolio.
The Intercontinental Edinburgh – The George joins two other Intercontinental hotels in the UK – Intercontinental London – Park Lane and Intercontinental London – The O2.
Business Traveller reviewed the Capital Suite at the Park Lane property last year, as well as the O2 hotel in 2017.
Commenting on the rebranding Karan Khanna, Managing Director, UK and Ireland, IHG, said:
“We are excited to grow our luxury presence in Scotland as we continue the integration of the Principal portfolio. Edinburgh is a key city in our home market so it’s great to reintroduce our flagship brand, InterContinental, to the city. I am confident its arrival will receive a warm welcome and the team will deliver a great service to guests.”
