Our recent stay at The Balmoral in Edinburgh was a truly memorable experience, blending luxury, Scottish heritage, and unmatched hospitality. Situated on the city’s iconic Princes Street, this Rocco Forte property stands as one of Edinburgh’s most renowned landmarks, with its towering clock tower visible from miles away. The Balmoral, a classic historical hotel, feels less like a place to stay and more like an integral part of Edinburgh’s vibrant cityscape.
Words by Adam Chan.
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly, receiving a local gin and other delightful welcome amenities that set the tone for our stay. The hotel’s commitment to Scottish tradition is evident the moment you step inside, where beautiful floral displays in the entrance change regularly to reflect significant events and celebrations. These details instantly connect guests to Edinburgh’s cultural calendar, adding a personal and seasonal touch to the grand décor.
Our room, an Executive Room with twin beds, was impressively spacious and thoughtfully decorated. The Balmoral embraces Scottish aesthetics through tartan patterns, earth tones, and textures that echo the natural beauty of Scotland’s moors and heathers. With elegant wallpaper, plush bedding by Johnstons of Elgin, and a well-appointed marble bathroom complete with Forte Organics toiletries, every detail was meticulously curated. Our room overlooked the bustling Princes Street, offering a charming view of the city centre. Rooms on the opposite side have sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and the lush Princes Street Gardens — a sight we’ll surely return for.
Dining at The Balmoral was a highlight of our visit. At Brasserie Prince, we savoured French cuisine with a Scottish twist, overseen by Executive Chef Paul Hart. The restaurant harmonises quintessentially French flavours with locally sourced Scottish ingredients, resulting in seasonally inspired, classic brasserie dishes. The ambiance was relaxed yet refined, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring Edinburgh.
For a more exclusive dining experience, Number One, The Balmoral’s 4 AA Rosette restaurant, offers a seven-course tasting menu that showcases the finest seasonal produce from Scotland. Chef Mathew Sherry and his award-winning team combine classic Scottish flavours with a modern flair, creating an unforgettable culinary journey. Though we didn’t dine at Number One this time, its reputation for excellence and innovative Scottish cuisine is well deserved, and it’s an experience we look forward to on a future visit.
The Palm Court, another gem within the hotel, was captivating even as we passed through. With its grand floral arrangements and a central tree adorned to match the season, it’s the ideal setting for The Balmoral’s acclaimed afternoon tea service. Though we didn’t indulge this time, the atmosphere was inviting and perfectly suited for special occasions. No visit to The Balmoral would be complete without exploring the renowned Scotch Whisky Bar. Here, an impressive array of whiskies lines the walls, with a unique offering for members: for a fee, they can store a personal bottle alongside a dedicated whisky glass, creating an exclusive experience unique to The Balmoral. Even the bar’s décor, with its warm wood tones and old-world charm, reflects the hotel’s “old money” sophistication.
This is more than a place to rest; it’s a destination in itself, a testament to Edinburgh’s grand heritage.
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