A voyage back in time

A converted ship now permanently berthed on the working docks of Leith, Edinburgh’s revitalized port district, Fingal makes for an unlikely luxury hotel. And yet, hospitality and sanctuary have always played a part in this vessel’s history: Commissioned by the Northern Lighthouse Board in 1963, she once delivered provisions and assistance to the lighthouses that illuminated Scotland’s most treacherous waters. For keepers who spent weeks on duty, her silhouette on the horizon was welcome confirmation they were finally going home.

Scotland’s lighthouses are automated now, and these days the “passengers” travel to Fingal Hotel. Minutes from the famous Royal Yacht Britannia (former yacht of the British monarchy), the “flotel” is packed with nautical novelties and an innate sense of adventure. A red carpet now runs through the original engine room, immaculately restored; relics from a pre-digital age, including lighthouse keepers’ logbooks, are displayed on the bridge. 

Each of the 22 cabins is named after a Scottish lighthouse: The grandest, the Skerryvore Suite, offers a private deck for stargazing. Other cabins might feature porthole windows, wood paneling, bespoke tartans, and bathrooms tiled in mother-of-pearl and dark, swirling sea green. 

The hotel doesn’t only deliver on design: Leith is home to some of Scotland’s best dining and drinking, and Fingal Hotel doesn’t let standards slip. You’ll find the hotel buzzing with locals if you book in for afternoon tea, complete with fluffy scones, dainty sandwiches and delicate pastries. Of course, seafood’s on the menu during dinner at the Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar—think plump Orkney scallops and generous cuts of salmon, smoked on board—but so too are comforting dishes such as Scottish venison with cabbage and port-roasted fig. 

Afterwards at the bar, guests often gravitate towards the comprehensive selection of Scottish whiskies—as they should. But it’s worth starting off with Fingal’s signature martini: Made with botanicals from the ship’s own herb garden, it comes served in a miniature lighthouse, another whimsical nod to its past life at sea. 

The bigger picture

What guests say

“Nothing short of extraordinary. Beautifully restored 1960s ship, offers a unique blend of nautical history and modern elegance. The art deco interiors are stunning, and the attention to detail is impeccable, from the rooms to the dining at the Lighthouse Restaurant.”
Kevin, two-night romance trip



“Such a beautiful and unique hotel experience… The restaurant and bar were beautiful. Worth the stay.”
Matthew, one-night romance trip



“A fantastic experience, cabin was great, staff were great, food was lovely and nothing was too much trouble. Definitely something different to a ‘normal’ hotel.”
Ian, two-night trip