Ultimate Luxury

The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel

The Balmoral is Edinburgh's 'Grande Dame', opened in 1902 it retains a wonderful old-world charm, but has been given a loving splash of luxury and style by Rocco Forte. With its attentive service, it is the go-to hotel in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the hotel bridges the glamourous Georgian splendour of the New Town and the atmospheric streets of the Old Town.
Impeccable Rocco Forte service ensures the every guest is truly pampered throughout their stay.
Home to one of the city’s finest restaurants, Number One serves Michelin-starred Scottish cuisine.
Settle down at Scotch, the hotel’s signature whisky bar, and sample over 500 of Scotland’s finest bottles.

The Balmoral was opened in 1902 as the 'North British', and is located just up the steps from Edinburgh Waverley Station at the top of Princes Street - the best address in town. It was taken over by Rocco Forte and given a loving make-over by his designer sister, Olga Polizzi, retaining its historical and charming atmosphere, yet adding contemporary touches making it a classic example of getting the blend of old and new spot on.

The 168 rooms and suites use a colour scheme which reflects the wild colours of Scotland - the greens from vast, misty moors and purples from Scottish heather, yet the colours are softly muted with only the odd dash of tartan.

The dining is exceptional, and you have to try Number 1, suitably deserving of its Michelin star. Hadrian's offers contemporary dining. Sit back and relax at Palm Court for afternoon tea, or The Balmoral Bar for a pre-dinner drink. If you like your whisky, then Scotch is the place to go - and they have over 500 on offer and we particularly find the tweed sofas very relaxing.

The Balmoral's excellent location means you are within walking distance of the beautiful Georgian terraces of the New Town, and just on the other side of the North Bridge from the Royal Mile, which leads up to Edinburgh Castle and down to Holyrood Palace.

When to visit

Best time to visit

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Top tip:

Number One restaurant has been rated Michelin starred for the 18th year in a row. Try out the seasonal ingredients in dishes such as highland wagyu beef sight beetroot.

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Scone & Crombie Suite - The Balmoral Hotel

Rooms

Executive Room

Comfortable and welcoming, the executive rooms at Balmoral have a combined bedroom and living space with king size or twin beds & a spacious en-suite.

Decorated to reflect traditional Scottish style, these elegant rooms can be interconnected, making them suitable for families.

2 people

Deluxe Castle View Suite

All of these six suites are named after Scottish rivers or castles - Rothesay, Dee, Drummond, Brodick, Bothwell and Spey. Most have original working fireplaces and offer views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens are possible and there is the option to add an extra bed for children. (Each measure between 47 and 58 sqm)

2 people

Balmoral Suite

The Balmoral Suite offers guests a king size master bedroom, the option to interconnect with a Classic Room, separate dining room for six people, living room, bathroom and guest powder room. At 66 sqm this suite is ample in size and located so as to provide views of Arthur's Seat and the historic old town.

2 people

Facilities

Dining
Nearby

Bars

Restaurant

Spa

Location

Edinburgh, Scotland

Centrally located next to Waverly station, less than half a hours drive from Edinburgh International Airport. The Balmoral benefits from beautiful views overlooking the famous Edinburgh Castle.

Our Top Tours Featuring This Hotel

A Scottish Family Odyssey: Luxurious Adventures for All Ages

Discover the best of Scotland on this Family adventure, blending historic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife experiences.

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England beyond the Ordinary: A Luxe Exploration

Journey through the United Kingdom with an immersive experience of the region’s cultural, historical, and natural treasures.

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Harry Potter - A Magical Journey Through the UK

Step into the enchanting world of Harry Potter as you embark on a spell-binding family adventure from the bustling streets of London to the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland. This thoughtfully designed itinerary invites you to uncover the iconic locations that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life on the big screen.

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Unlock Edinburgh: An Exclusive Luxury Experience

Experience Edinburgh in style with a private tour of its iconic landmarks, a unique afternoon tea aboard Fingal’s Yacht, and a bespoke Mini Cooper adventure through hidden gems and scenic neighborhoods.

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Enchanting Scotland: A 13-Day Journey of Luxury, History, and Natural Beauty

Embark on a luxurious 13-day adventure through Scotland, exploring historic Edinburgh, the majestic Highlands, and the rugged Isle of Skye, with exclusive guided tours, foraging experiences, and indulgent tastings, all set against the backdrop of Scotland's rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

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Top Things to Do Nearby

Evening tour of Edinburgh's Catacombs

Today, head underground in Edinburgh to enjoy a private tour of the Blair Street Underground Vaults – the largest system of underground caverns in Edinburgh.

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Glasgow’s Musical Journey: A Walking Tour

Discover the captivating places, people and performances that have shaped Glasgow’s musical landscape with your private guide.

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Savor Glasgow: A Food & Walking Experience

Spend the day exploring this port city of Scotland's Lowlands.

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Falconry at Gleneagles

Guests of Gleneagles have the unique opportunity to learn the Sport of Kings at one of the world's most acclaimed falconry schools. Whether you are a complete beginner or would like to perfect your technique, you will find falconry utterly absorbing.

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Bespoke Whisky and Food Pairing Experience

Set out into the whisky hills for a bespoke cookery workshop in the cosy kitchen of a charismatic writer, broadcaster and food anthropologist.

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Edinburgh Yacht Experience

Board a private catamaran in South Queensferry and sail along the Firth of Forth with an expert captain.

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Private Insight Tour: The University of Glasgow

One of Scotland's four ancient universities and of course the model for Bethany College's "Old Main", a nostalgic sight for your father and his times as the President of Bethany College.

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Discover Glasgow: A Guided City Tour

Spend the day exploring this port city of Scotland's Lowlands.

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Kiltmaker Experience

Meet an acclaimed Edinburgh celebrity kilt-maker and enjoy an exclusive custom-fitting experience

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