Virgin Hotels announces Edinburgh opening for 2020

Virgin Hotels has announced that its first UK opening will be a 225-room hotel in Edinburgh, expected in 2020.

The hotel arm of Sir Richard Branson's company had previously operated solely in the US.

It has revealed plans to transform the Scottish capital's historic India Buildings, in Victoria Street, into a hotel with multiple dining and drinking outlets, including the brands flagship Commons Club.

Branson said: "Edinburgh is such an iconic city and we're thrilled to be able to say it will be the home of the first Virgin Hotel in the UK and across Europe. My grandparents were from Edinburgh and my wife Joan is also Scottish, so the country has always held a special place in my heart. The people of Edinburgh have been so great in welcoming us to their great city; we can't wait to open our doors to people across the country and, indeed, the world."

Virgin Hotels CEO Raul Leal added: "Edinburgh has so much to offer, as a top travel destination in the UK and internationally, it's an ideal location for our next hotel. This project, from an award-winning hotel brand such as Virgin Hotels, will further highlight the city's eclectic style while remaining true to its historic heritage, all while offering guests and locals alike an experience like no other."
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will be completed in partnership with owner Flemyn and developer Jansons Property and will be managed by Virgin Hotels, and asset managed by Siggis Capital.

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