While the train station is no longer active, the hotel remains as popular as ever and has earned the affectionate nickname, “The Caley.” Today, the luxurious hotel features a tranquil spa in the stone vaults located below. The vaults once stored goods and equipment for the Caledonian Railway. The Spa at The Caledonian is where the cacophony of steam engines has been replaced by the gentle sounds of relaxation. This subterranean retreat is more than a wellness destination; it is a testament to Scotland’s industrial heritage and the adaptive reuse of a beloved transportation landmark.

The Spa at The Caledonian’s design honors its architectural roots, preserving the original stonework while introducing modern elegance. Guests descend into a world of calm, where vaulted ceilings and soft lighting create a soothing atmosphere. The space includes a heated indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room, and a two-floor fitness center—all seamlessly integrated into the historic framework. Treatments range from rejuvenating facials to full-body therapies.


What sets this spa apart is its partnership with ishga, a Scottish skincare brand that harnesses the restorative powers of organic seaweed. The name ishga is derived from the Gaelic word for water. ishga harvests from the Isle of Lewis, located in the northern part of Lewis and Harris, it is the largest island of the Western Isles or Outer Hebrides archipelago in Scotland. The isle is known for its pure, clean waters. The skincare company’s harvesting process is certified by the Biodynamic Association and to ensure sustainable practices, they let nature replenish stocks by changing where they harvest and only taking what they need.

Accessed via a discreet entrance on Edinburgh’s Lothian Road or through the 1st floor of the hotel, the spa welcomes both hotel guests, members and day visitors. In a city steeped in tradition, The Spa at The Caledonian is an underground haven that invites guests to pause, breathe, and reconnect, all while surrounded by Edinburgh’s past. Appointments and inquiries about the spa can be made with the hotel concierge.



This has been a Historic Hotels History Mystery.

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