Scotland's Top Hotels 2026: ‘Outstanding’ Scottish hotel named among the world’s best at global awards
A luxury floating hotel has won a top accolade at the “Oscars of the travel industry” awards.
The rise of Edinburgh's Port of Leith as one of Europe's most exciting waterfront destinations received a major boost this week as luxury floating hotel Fingal was crowned both Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel and Scotland's Leading Boutique Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2026.
The double accolade places an international spotlight not only on Fingal Hotel, but also on Leith, whose vibrant waterfront has become a magnet for visitors seeking hospitality, food, culture and heritage.
Voted for by travel industry professionals and the travelling public, the awards recognise Fingal's commitment to excellence and the dedication of the crew whose attentive, personalised service has helped establish the hotel among Scotland's most distinctive luxury stays.
Often described as the "Oscars of the travel industry", the World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to celebrate excellence across the global travel, tourism and hospitality sectors.
The award is also a significant moment for Leith and Edinburgh's waterfront visitor economy. Guests travelling from around the world to stay aboard Fingal support local businesses, restaurants, attractions, suppliers and tourism partners, helping bring new visitors and valuable investment to the area.
Since opening in 2019, Fingal has welcomed guests from across the globe, many of whom extend their stay to explore Leith and Edinburgh. Alongside neighbouring attraction The Royal Yacht Britannia, the hotel has helped showcase the area's maritime heritage while contributing to its emergence as a destination in its own right.
Commenting on the award, Franck Bruyere, chief executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, said: “To be recognised as both Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel and Scotland's Leading Boutique Hotel is an incredible honour.
“These awards mean so much because they are voted for by our guests and industry peers. Since opening, our ambition has been simple: to deliver world-class hospitality with warmth, personality and a genuine Scottish welcome. This achievement reflects the passion and dedication of every member of the Fingal crew.
“We're particularly proud that this success shines a light on Leith. In recent years, the area has established itself as one of Scotland's most vibrant visitor destinations, celebrated for its waterfront setting, heritage, restaurants, independent businesses and warm hospitality. When visitors choose Fingal, they're not just choosing a hotel, they're discovering everything Leith and Edinburgh's waterfront have to offer.”
Owned and operated by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, Fingal was originally built as a Northern Lighthouse Board vessel serving Scotland's remote west coast communities.
Following a transformation into a luxury floating hotel in 2019, she now welcomes thousands of guests each year, helping showcase Leith to an international audience.
Today, Fingal offers 23 elegant nautical-inspired cabins, including the spectacular Skerryvore Suite with private deck and four duplex cabins; a dramatic ballroom accessed by sweeping staircases, and award-winning dining in the Lighthouse Restaurant, holder of 2 AA Rosettes.
This latest World Travel Awards success reinforces Fingal's place among Europe's finest boutique hotels while highlighting Leith's continued evolution as one of Scotland's most compelling waterfront destinations.
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