It was once the home to Adam Bothwell, the Bishop of Orkney who officiated at the marriage of Mary, Queen of Scots to the 4th Earl of Bothwell, in the 16th century.But five centuries on the Grade A-listed property has been given a £1 million restoration and transformed into luxury accommodation.
The four one bedroom studio serviced apartments in Advocate’s Close, off the Royal Mile, is the latest contemporary offering from the Old Town Chambers.
Blending state-of the-art facilities with centuries old architectural features, such as solid stone walls, existing blocked windows re-opened, and former doorways reinstated with original timber panels and doors reused wherever possible; contrasting against double smoked French oak wooden flooring and Italian tiling, alongside the latest home entertainment system and a 24 hour concierge service, makes it one of the most historic places to stay in Scotland.
The nine month project is been part of the £45 million redevelopment by the Chris Stewart Group to open up some of the Old Town’s hidden closes into a thriving leisure and business destination.
Julie Grieve, CEO of the Old Town Chambers, said:
“The house, itself, has a level of notoriety, having been home to Adam Bothwell, who was criticised for agreeing to the exchange of lands, rights and revenues of his northern diocese for the commendatorship of Holyrood Abbey.
“But nearly five hundred years on we’re delighted to have given this significant building with a remarkable heritage a new life and a fresh future.
“As with every aspect of this development we have carefully considered the historic features within our designs and have undertaken a sensitive restoration of the key features to create a set of stylish apartments that reflect the very best of Edinburgh past and present.”
The Old Town Chambers contains 36 apartments comprising of studio, one, two and three bedrooms, as well as a stunning penthouse and the 15th century townhouse. Unique features include original period wall paintings, exposed brick, through to bluetooth Bose sound systems, Smart TVs and a multi-zone heating system in every room. Entry is via a keypad for which every guest has a specific code.
