Hilton Worldwide today announced the signing of a franchise agreement with BDL Select Operations Limited, to open DoubleTree by Hilton Dundee, the brand’s third property in Scotland, joining hotels in Dunblane and Aberdeen.

The deal will see the conversion of the former Landmark Hotel, a two floor and 95 guestroom property, into a DoubleTree branded hotel expected to open next spring.  The grounds incorporate a magnificent 100 year old listed mansion house and its ornate surrounding gardens.  The grandeur of the hotel, coupled with its high profile location off the main road in to Dundee, marks it out as the gateway to the city.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “DoubleTree by Hilton is one of our most successful growth brands in the UK and we’re delighted to be introducing it to Dundee. The hotel will join more than 9 other UK properties which have been welcomed into the brand in less than 12 months, for a total of 18 in the UK, 36 across Europe with a further 20 in the pipeline for the continent.”

“Once converted, DoubleTree by Hilton Dundee will serve as a perfect example of the benefits the brand offers guests and owners alike.  The hotel will keep a strong sense of its unique heritage and identity whilst also benefiting from Hilton Worldwide’s global systems and Hilton HHonors guest loyalty programme.”

DoubleTree by Hilton Dundee will contain five meeting room spaces, two of which are set within the classical confines of the mansion building.  Its eye-catching glasshouse restaurant adjoining the garden area is also expected to be a popular venue for events, including weddings.  Additional facilities available at the hotel include a health club, spa and indoor swimming pool.

Stuart McCaffer, BDL Chairman said, “At BDL we have a strong track record in both the ownership and management of hotels and this franchise agreement with Hilton Worldwide regarding the Landmark Hotel is a clear indication of what can be achieved by working in partnership to deliver a better offering to our customers. This development of one of Dundee’s best known hotels is good news for the city.”

The hotel is located directly opposite the Discovery Business Park which itself is currently undergoing a multi-million pound redevelopment. Sitting just off the A90 between Edinburgh and Glasgow, the property is easily accessible, with Dundee Airport only 3km away, with its daily flights to London City Airport.

Rob Palleschi, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, said, “As we continue our growth in the UK, we look to partner with developers who share our DoubleTree by Hilton belief in offering consistency through a superior guest experience while allowing a property to keep its natural character.  DoubleTree by Hilton Dundee is a unique, ideally located property which will be a fantastic addition to the brand.  We look forward to welcoming our first guests with our delicious, signature chocolate chip cookie at check-in.”

Attractions for leisure guests include Dundee’s vibrant waterfront area which is currently home to HMS Discovery, the ship commanded by Arctic explorer Captain Scott.  The waterfront area is also planning a significant redevelopment set to include a new Victoria & Albert Museum.  The legendary St Andrews golf course, recognized as the spiritual home of the sport, is also a short drive away across the Tay Bridge.

Hilton Worldwide operates a total of 15 properties in Scotland.  Its portfolio includes The Caledonian, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, which recently re-opened following a £24million renovation and Hilton Garden Inn Aberdeen which was ranked as the UK’s #1 hotel by the 2012 Expedia Insider’s Select List.  DoubleTree by Hilton has two further Scottish properties in Aberdeen and Dunblane and recently opened its latest UK hotel at Marble Arch in London.