Edinburgh has no shortage of hotels, but every so often somewhere new arrives promising to do things a little differently.
I recently had the opportunity to experience NYX Hotel Edinburgh, attending its press night before staying overnight to get a proper feel for what the hotel has to offer.
And it’s fair to say this isn’t your traditional Edinburgh hotel.
Located on Jeffrey Street in the heart of the capital’s Old Town, NYX is ideally positioned for anyone wanting to explore the city. It’s just a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley station and within easy reach of the Royal Mile, making it a convenient base whether you’re visiting for business, a weekend away or a little bit of sightseeing.
But location is only part of the appeal.
Stepping inside, the hotel has a distinctly contemporary personality. The interiors move away from the traditional Scottish hotel aesthetic, embracing bold design, statement details, striking artwork and atmospheric lighting.
There’s a real emphasis on creating somewhere that feels like more than just a place to put your bags down at the end of the day.
One of the highlights of my visit was getting to experience CLASH Bar and Restaurant, located on the hotel’s first floor.
It’s a central part of the NYX experience, designed to bring together hotel guests and locals in a lively social setting. With its distinctive interiors, cocktails and food offering, it feels like somewhere you could comfortably spend an evening without needing to venture too far beyond the hotel doors.
The venue also hosts DJ sessions, adding to its nightlife-inspired atmosphere and giving it a different feel from a conventional hotel restaurant.
After enjoying the press night, I had the chance to experience the hotel from a guest’s perspective by staying overnight.
And that’s where you really get to appreciate what a hotel offers beyond its public spaces.
NYX has 125 rooms, with interiors that continue the property’s modern design theme. The rooms feature DREAM beds, mood-setting lighting, Nespresso coffee machines and Soapsmith bathroom amenities.
It’s the little details that help make a stay feel more comfortable, particularly when you’re spending the night in a busy city centre.
For me, one of the biggest advantages is having so much of Edinburgh within walking distance. Whether you’re heading out for dinner, exploring the Old Town or making the most of the city’s shops and attractions, you don’t have to spend much time worrying about transport.
The hotel also offers a breakfast buffet, giving guests the opportunity to start the day before heading out to explore everything the capital has to offer.
What makes NYX interesting is that it isn’t trying to replicate Edinburgh’s traditional hotel experience. Instead, it brings a more modern, lifestyle-led approach to the city, combining accommodation with a social space that aims to attract both visitors and residents.
It’s also a significant addition for the brand, with Edinburgh becoming the first Scottish location for NYX Hotels, which already has a presence in other European destinations.
Having experienced both the press night and an overnight stay, I can see the appeal for visitors looking for somewhere central, contemporary and with a little more personality than a standard city-centre hotel.
Edinburgh is a city built on history, but that doesn’t mean its hospitality scene has to stand still.
And NYX Hotel is certainly bringing something different to the capital.
61 Jeffrey St, Edinburgh EH1 1DH
You can book your stay here.