So, here’s the thing about Principal Edinburgh George Street. If you’re searching for it by that name today, you’re technically looking for a ghost—or at least a very well-dressed memory.
The building is still there. The history is still there. But the brass plaques on the door now read "InterContinental Edinburgh The George." It’s one of those classic hotel identity crises that happens when big global brands realize they’ve got a masterpiece on their hands and decide to put their own stamp on it. Honestly, locals still call it "The George." They have since 1881. You probably should too, but let’s get into why this specific spot on George Street remains the gravity well for anyone who actually knows Edinburgh.
The Secret History of Those Five Townhouses
Most people walk past the grand facade and see one big, unified hotel. It isn’t. Principal Edinburgh George Street—as it was branded during its massive £9 million glow-up—is actually a Frankenstein’s monster of five separate Georgian townhouses. These were built around 1775. Back then, George Street was the "it" spot for the Enlightenment crowd.
You’re literally sleeping where the Scottish literati used to drink too much claret. Robert Burns stayed here. Sir Walter Scott was a regular guest of the Ferrier family at Number 25. There’s something kinda cool about knowing you’re brushing your teeth in the same physical space where the guy who wrote Auld Lang Syne was probably nursing a hangover.
The architecture reflects that ego. In 1840, the Caledonian Insurance Company took over a chunk of it and hired David Bryce to build that massive, imposing front. It was designed to look like a bank because, well, insurance is boring and they wanted to look rich. Today, that old insurance hall is the King’s Hall. It’s got these insane chandeliers and gold leaf details that make you feel like you should be wearing a tuxedo just to check your emails.
The Evolution from Principal to InterContinental
Wait, so is it still the Principal? No. But also, sort of.
In 2018, the French group Covivio and IHG bought the Principal portfolio. By 2019, they officially rebranded it. But here’s the nuance: they kept the "Principal" aesthetic. That means you still get the leather-bound books, the vintage suitcases used as decor, and those moody, dark-wood vibes that the Principal brand was famous for. It’s basically a luxury hotel with a boutique soul.
What the Rooms are Actually Like (Beyond the Photos)
You’ve seen the glossy Instagram shots. They look perfect. But if you’re actually staying at Principal Edinburgh George Street, you need to know about the layout. Because it’s five old houses joined together, the hallways are a labyrinth. You will get lost. You’ll go up three stairs, down a ramp, and through a door that looks like it leads to a broom closet but actually opens into a palatial suite.
- Classic Rooms: These are the entry-level ones. They’re small. I’m being honest here—15 to 20 square meters isn't huge. If you’re a heavy packer, it’s going to feel tight. But the "tweed and wool" Scottish aesthetic is executed perfectly.
- The Ferrier Suite: Named after Susan Ferrier (the Scottish Jane Austen), this is the one you want if you’re splurging. It’s got the high ceilings and the view of George Street that makes the price tag hurt a little less.
- The Tech: They use "intuitive technology," which is hotel-speak for "the light switches actually make sense."
One weird detail? The "George Street blend" coffee. They worked with Caravan Coffee to create a specific roast that has notes of chocolate and berries. It’s genuinely better than the usual Nespresso pods you find in most five-star joints.
The Printing Press: Gone but Not Forgotten
If you’re looking for a table at The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen, I have bad news. It closed in 2023.
It was a staple of the Principal Edinburgh George Street experience for eight years. It was named after the publishing heritage of the building—Susan Ferrier’s family ran a printing house here. People loved the braised pig cheeks and the "all-day" vibe.
Right now, the hotel is in a bit of a transition period with its dining. They’ve been using the King’s Hall for breakfast and Burr & Co. (the attached coffee shop) for lighter bites. Rumor has it a "globally renowned operator" is taking over the main restaurant space, but until that’s fully launched, don't expect the old Printing Press menu.
Burr & Co. is still worth a visit, though. It feels less like a hotel lobby and more like a proper New Town cafe. It’s where the local freelancers hide out with their laptops because the Wi-Fi is fast and the Victorian tiles are gorgeous.
Why This Location Wins Every Time
Look, you could stay at the Balmoral or the Waldorf Astoria (The Caledonian). Those are the big dogs. But they’re at the ends of the New Town.
Principal Edinburgh George Street is dead center.
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- St. Andrew Square is a 2-minute walk.
- The Standing Order (the famous pub in an old bank) is right across the street.
- You’re exactly 15 minutes from the Castle.
George Street is wider and less "tourist-trap" than Princes Street. It’s where the high-end boutiques like Anthropologie and Hollister live, alongside the fancy cocktail bars. It’s the difference between being in the middle of a parade and being in the VIP lounge watching the parade.
The Verdict: Is it Worth the Hype?
If you want a sterile, modern glass box, stay at the airport.
This hotel is for the person who likes history but doesn't want to smell "old building." It’s "A-List protected," meaning they can't mess with the original features, so you get the 18th-century grandeur with 21st-century plumbing. That’s a rare combo in Edinburgh.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Stay:
- Ask for a room on the higher floors. The views of the Firth of Forth or the New Town rooftops are worth the extra flight of stairs.
- Skip the hotel breakfast once and go to one of the independent bakeries on Rose Street (the narrow lane right behind the hotel).
- Check the labels. Even though the branding is InterContinental, look for the "Principal" touches in the library and the common areas—they are the best parts of the interior design.
- Book directly. In 2026, loyalty points for IHG One Rewards are the only way to make the George Street prices feel reasonable, especially during the Fringe Festival in August.