Scotland’s first Garner hotel opens in Edinburgh

IHG Hotels & Resorts has launched its flagship Garner hotel in Scotland, Garner Hotel Edinburgh – Haymarket.

The 195-room property, opening in partnership with Palm Holdings, marks the midscale conversion brand’s first entry into Scotland.

The hotel is also collaborating with neighbouring Belhaven pub and restaurant Platform 5, which offers breakfast and drink discounts for guests.

It comes soon after the UK’s first Garner hotel opened in Preston in March, featuring an on-site gym, restaurant and 24-hour shop.

IHG launched Garner in August 2023 in response to the growing demand from owners for high-quality conversion brands at a lower price point. It was billed to reach “over 500 hotels globally over the next 10 years”.

Joanna Kurowska, managing director UK and Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, told The Caterer earlier this month the region was a “prime target market” for the relatively young brand.

Rhys Worthington, business development manager at Belhaven, which is part of Greene King, said: “Our collaboration with Palm Holdings brings a unique offer to guests, a true taste of Scottish hospitality, backed by Greene King’s pub heritage.” 

Kurowska added: “With this new opening, we’re excited to see Garner by IHG arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital and one of the UK’s most iconic destinations. Garner hotels are built for comfort, value and simplicity, Edinburgh is the perfect fit.” 

There are currently 23 open Garner hotels, while 94 remain in development.

IHG operates more than 360 hotels across the UK and Ireland, with an additional 33 properties in the development pipeline. Globally, the group oversees more than 6,000 hotels under 20 brands across over 100 countries.