By Katie Wilson
Tucked away in a quiet square once owned by the Duke of Argyle, you’ll find The Gyle hotel.
Set across three heritage listed Victorian townhouses, this smart King’s Cross establishment has a Scottish theme running throughout.
But don’t mistake it for a themed hotel, it’s a stylish stay in the capital which is anything but ordinary.
We checked in to experience this surreal hotel for ourselves – and we’ll definitely be back.
The Gyle Hotel Review King’s Cross
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
From the outside, The Gyle looks like all the other grand Victorian townhouses on Argyle Square, but step through the double black doors and inside is a different story.
The stylish decor is a mix of green, grey and black hues and there are curiosities wherever you look.
As we walked through the bar on the way to our room we were mesmerised by all the little details. It felt like we had tripped and pleasantly fallen down Alice’s rabbit hole.
There is a grass ceiling, plenty of seating from bar stools to comfy tables for two, plus a quirky double swing seat.
While we were eager to see the room, our first thought was to head back to the bar for a gin and tonic, which is exactly what we did.
STYLE AND INTERIORS
There is no denying The Gyle is one of the most unique hotels we’ve ever stayed in.
While it’s clear there is a love for Scotland, the quirky decor also tells the story of its time travelling resident Scottie Dog, Archibald Campbell, who is the ‘voice’ of the hotel.
This doesn’t mean you’ll see a dog running around – although the whole hotel is dog friendly.
But everywhere you look there are are little nods to Archie, from dog-shaped lampshades to dog printed cushions. While the ‘Archiefacts’ in the bar are supposed to represent all the things he has brought back from his travels.
Don’t worry if you’re not a dog lover – it’s not overkill – it all fits in with the theme and the staff are more than happy to tell you stories about him. Join in with the fun.
THE ROOMS
There are 33 rooms at The Gyle hotel ranging from Tiny King to Junior Suite and each has solid oak flooring, huge comfy beds and vintage furnishings.
We stayed in room 7, a Feature King with Vaulted Bathroom. We loved that there was a chaise longue reading nook and 1950s style seats and drinks table that felt like you were in your own bar.
Now it’s no secret we love a bath tub, but this one was next level. The bathroom itself was huge and the circular bath, which was sunk into the floor, could have fit about four people in.
As we laid back in the tub, G&T in hand, we contemplated never getting out. The bath also doubles as a rainfall shower, which was one of the best we’ve ever had.
Other room extras we spotted were complimentary still and sparkling water in the fridge, a huge TV, and a hairdryer with a super long cord so you could use it at the full length mirror – something that is often overlooked by hotels.
Those travelling with dogs are well catered for and some rooms come with private terraces. It’s an extra £40 a night for dogs to stay over.
FOOD AND DRINK
The Gyle hotel has its own private bar which is for guests only, so you’re always guaranteed to get a seat. In fact, it’s so good, we wish it was available to non-guests too.
As you’d expect with a Scottish-themed hotel, there is a great selection of whiskies – but also come for the gin, as we had some great G&T’s while we were there. Cadenheads was a particular favourite.
There is no restaurant at the hotel, but guests can dine at their five-star sister hotel The Megaro, which is just round the corner and serves Italian food. Bar snacks such as Haggis crisps are available, plus platters of charcuterie and cheese, Scottish salmon and cheese.
Breakfast is continental and comes in the form of pastries, Scottish oats, seasonal fruits and yoghurt and granola pots.
Coffee lovers can rejoice as guests are welcome to drink as much as they like from the self-service machine near the bar.
THINGS TO DO
The Gyle hotel is perfectly positioned for people visiting the capital for the weekend. It’s also great for staying over if you’re jumping on the Eurostar.
And if you haven’t visited King’s Cross in a while, it’s completely changed in recent years. After undergoing a major redevelopment it’s now full of great bars, pubs and restaurants.
Make time to visit Coal Drop’s Yard, a new shopping destination and foodie hotspot. While Granary square by the canal is great for al fresco dining.
Idris Elba has just opened a new wine bar, Porte Noire, in the area. It’s a bit tricky to find, but once you do it’s well worth popping in. Book ahead to avoid disappoint. Tip: Look out for the Gasholders building and it will lead you to the entrance.
OVERALL VERDICT
If you’re looking for a boutique King’s Cross hotel, book The Gyle. It will be different to anywhere you’ve ever stayed before. Just make sure you ask for a Vaulted Bathroom room. We’re still dreaming about that epic bath tub…
Rooms start from £159 a night
Book a stay at The Gyle, King’s Cross here
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