The Spence at Gleneagles Townhouse

Afternoon Tea was superb! My first time in Scotland and first time and The Spence and I was blown away! Beautiful decor, amazing tea and even better service from Jess and Sasha who made the experience a 10/10 🥰 I loved it so much I’m lost for words which may be unhelpful but honestly you just have to go. Treat your day with a visit and be as happy as I am right now! So glad I had the extras too to take my Afternoon Tea to the next level.

Fantastic experience at the Spence! The interior is very impressive, plenty of space - in addition to the quality of the food and service, it is definitely worth coming for a special occasion. My daughter and I were having Afternoon tea together. Thank you for your wonderful service!

The Spence – Elegant Dining in the Heart of Edinburgh Tucked inside the stately Gleneagles Townhouse on St. Andrew Square, The Spence is a refined yet welcoming restaurant that offers an elevated take on all-day dining in one of Edinburgh’s most architecturally impressive spaces. Whether you're a hotel guest or a local looking for a polished meal in an unforgettable setting, The Spence is a place that delivers on both substance and style. Ambience: Grand, Inviting, and Uniquely Edinburgh Set in what was once a grand banking hall, The Spence is a masterclass in adaptive reuse. High ceilings, a soaring dome skylight, and original architectural details lend the space a sense of historic grandeur, while modern furnishings and warm tones ensure the environment is anything but formal. The layout is thoughtfully designed to suit both intimate meals and lively gatherings, and the natural light during the day adds a particularly welcoming feel. Dining Experience: Seasonality, Simplicity, and Sophistication The menu at The Spence embraces seasonal ingredients and Scottish provenance, interpreted through a modern lens. The food is elevated but approachable — confident without being fussy — making it suitable for everything from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. There’s a strong emphasis on quality, balance, and refined execution. One of the highlights is undoubtedly breakfast, which is exceptional both in its variety and quality. Whether you're in the mood for something classic or contemporary, it’s the kind of breakfast that sets a positive tone for the entire day — thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and full of character. On Sundays, The Spence also offers a traditional Sunday Roast, making it a popular spot for locals and travelers alike. The experience is hearty, elegant, and distinctly British — all served with the level of care and attention to detail you’d expect from Gleneagles. Service: Friendly, Discreet, and Impeccably Trained Service at The Spence is another standout element. Staff are professional and attentive, with an intuitive approach that makes guests feel comfortable and cared for. The team is knowledgeable, responsive, and clearly trained to high standards, striking the right tone whether you’re stopping by for a quick brunch or enjoying a multi-course dinner. Final Thoughts: A Destination in Its Own Right While many restaurants inside hotels can feel secondary to the accommodation, The Spence stands firmly on its own merits. With its stunning interior, thoughtful menu, standout breakfast, and relaxed-yet-polished service, it’s more than just a convenient choice for hotel guests — it’s one of Edinburgh’s most distinctive dining destinations. Whether you're in the mood for a luxurious start to your day, a relaxed weekend roast, or an elegant evening meal, The Spence is consistently impressive. A strong recommendation for anyone seeking elevated, stylish dining in the city centre.