Originally Posted by Duke777

I think this is the first post for the new Hyatt Destination hotel, Schloss Roxburghe, in Scotland.

We redeemed 2 nights using category 1-4 certificates. The hotel was charging 18k per night. As a result of using the certificates, we were unable to apply advanced upgrades. We ended up receiving a Castle Junior Suite Balcony, which was the best available room and I believe the only room of its type. We were glad to have a room in the historic castle, although the new rooms looked nice.

For transfers, we used excelsior tours recommended by the hotel. From London we arrived in Berwick upon Tweed. It was about 30 minutes and £75 for a Mercedes transfer. Departing to Edinburgh, we took the train from Galashiels at a cost of £60 and about 30 minutes. Note that Tweed station is actually closer to hotel and £50 pounds.

The hotel itself recently opened this spring following a significant renovation and construction of a new wing , spa, and cottages. Several dozen more cottages are under construction. Our room had been renovated, featuring a new bathroom and some technology. We had a large physical key to open the room (and only one). There were quite a few dogs around and allowed in the restaurants. One dog was left in its room next to us and barked nonstop in the evening. Otherwise, we weren’t disturbed by noise. We love dogs so enjoyed watching them roam on the grass.

The hotel built a new spa that had an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a plunge pool, and two saunas. Overall, it’s a very nice spa and we spent time reading inside and I enjoyed some of the pools and saunas. Very relaxing. The gym has new equipment - two treads, a rowing machine, a bike, and weights. Small but a good gym with modern equipment.

For food, we dined at Charlie’s for dinner the first night and for both breakfasts. Food was quite good, although service is working out some kinks. Very well intentioned, but quite slow. A lot of the staff are uni students working the busy summer and we were early in the season. Again, super friendly, just don’t expect a ton of polish. We ate in the bar one night (slightly reduced menu). We also did tea, which we enjoyed. Breakfast is a buffet with made it order egg dishes and waffles. This was a step up from lounge breakfast at other hotels. I believe breakfast is included for all guests.

We didn’t partake in any activities. We did walk I to Roxburghe along the old viaduct (there used to be a lot more rail lines until the 60s when the government shutdown and removed to reduce costs, which limited a lot of the regional growth according to our transfer drivers). Very peaceful walk. We didn’t go to Kelso. Unfortunately, the Defender parked out front isn’t for use (?) so we would’ve needed a taxi each way (£10) and decided to just relax and eat at the hotel.

Overall, a very relaxing 48 hours between London and Edinburgh. Seemed like quite a few locals who are members and short holidays. Food was good, facilities were quite nice, and location was pretty. Service was very friendly albeit not polished (not that we care - much prefer friendly, just don’t expect five star finesse right now). Would recommend if looking for something a bit different. Other than globalist upgrade, we weren’t aware of any other special perks or treatment.