The Glasshouse Hotel

There is nowhere quite like The Glasshouse Hotel in the Scottish capital. A swath of sleek glass architecture weaves around a more than 170-year-old stone church in a breathtaking fashion guaranteed to excite design enthusiasts. Lady Glenorchy Church had seen better days before it was resurrected in 2003 as a boutique hotel. Push beyond the grand Gothic façade of this central bolthole to find a modern marvel. The 77 bedrooms and suites have a fresh vibe, and the windows make the most of the light and help conjure up a feeling of airiness. That sense of space is echoed throughout, not least on the expansive rooftop garden, which is a major draw. Other reasons to linger at The Glasshouse: it offers superb room service and a welcoming whisky lounge.