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 glamorous 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 color scheme which reflects the wild colors of Scotland - the greens from vast, misty moors and purples from Scottish heather, yet the colors 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

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

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.

Speak to an Expert on United Kingdom

Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.

Inquire Now

or call us on 212 372 7009

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

Scotland in Ultimate Luxury

This memorable once-in-a-lifetime adventure is the ultimate was to explore the Scottish Highlands in luxury style. The Belmond Royal Scotsman offers simply outstanding personal service, fine dining, sumptuous comfort and the companionable atmosphere of a country house hotel as you glide past glens, castles and heather-clad mountains in the Highlands and explore the remote sea lochs, marine wildlife and island communities off Scotland’s West Coast.

View Tour
Family Fun in Scotland

Scotland's vast open landscapes and open stretches of waters offer the perfect canvas for a fun-filled family adventure, where you can enjoy the great outdoors together with a range of fun activities, as well as delving into Scotland's peppered history. Along the way we've included a plethora of exciting experiences for you to enjoy together as a family, including private wildlife boat tours, archery lessons, guided tours of castles and even a tour of Edinburgh in a Mini Cooper!

View Tour
Highlights of Scotland and Ireland

This multi-country itinerary is a perfect way to explore both Dublin and Edinburgh, as well as the glorious countryside of Scotland and Ireland. With your private guide, experience the local ways of life and admire the breathtaking scenery.

View Tour
Behind Edinburgh’s Doors: An Exclusive City Experience

Embark on a luxurious exploration of Edinburgh, where history, hidden gems, and indulgence come together in a truly unforgettable journey. Begin with a private tour of the city’s iconic landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and enjoy a unique afternoon tea aboard Fingal’s Yacht. Discover the city’s lesser-known treasures on a personalized Mini Cooper tour, exploring quiet neighbourhoods and scenic vistas.

View Tour

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.

View Experience
Private tour of Edinburgh Castle & Old Town

Discover the beauty of Edinburgh's Old Town with a private guided walking tour of the city. A fantastic family-friendly venture, you'll discover the winding cobbled streets of the Old Town before heading to the world-famous Edinburgh Castle.

View Experience

Why Scott Dunn for Luxury Hotels?

Unique to You

We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.

Seamless Service

Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.

Carefully Curated Collection

We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.

Luxury in Every Sense

We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 12 years in a row.