It was once the gateway for cattle into Edinburgh and a hideout for pariahs. Now renovated, the Cowgate area is home to one of the most eccentric hotels in the Scottish capital.
The House of Gods is announced from a distance, with a neon sign shining on the façade. Beyond the door is Lilith’s Lounge, an intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar inspired by the Garden of Eden.
At the end of the bar is the small reception of the hotel created by the brothers Ross and Mike Baxter.
The duo’s goal was to democratize access to luxury hotel experiences and they spared no efforts.
Throughout the building, including the 22 rooms, with prices starting at 140 euros per night, maximalist design reigns, in an exuberant miscellany of styles that invites guests to immerse themselves in a world of “without remorse” extravagance.
Staterooms evoke the opulence of the Orient Express, decorated in burgundy velvet and exotic patterns, oak paneling, private bar and marble bathroom, all wrapped in dim lighting.
The palette is repeated in the classic rooms, inspired by Versailles, and in the suite with a four-poster bed and Victorian bathtub.
Booking directly with the hotel, guests are entitled to butler service and a late bedtime snack of milk and cookies.
Additionally, they have a package available that elevates the entire experience even further. “Treat Me Like I’m Famous” includes a bottle of Prosecco upon arrival, roses, balloons and chocolates in the room, in-room cocktail service, breakfast basket with mimosas, and late check-out.
