The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh New Town
Vibe
A grand social salon unfolds beneath high ceilings, where afternoon arrivals, resident guests, and city locals create an energetic, bustling gathering scene.
“Grand railway beacon”
Anticipatory concierges, bespoke cashmere turndowns by Johnstons of Elgin, and two-key service at an Edwardian address.
A baronial railway landmark opened as the North British Hotel, soaring prominently above Waverley Station.
An enduring civic institution at No. 1 Princes Street, defined by Highland welcomes from kilted doormen.
On Princes Street above Waverley Station, right where the Old Town and New Town converge.
“This majestic old Edwardian landmark is still one of Edinburgh’s most elegant hotels, every bit as grand as it was a century ago.”
Rooms
Subtle heather tones and bespoke tartans complement Italian marble bathrooms, with views framing Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, or tranquil inner courtyards.
“Classic yet contemporary, it’s an environment where soaring ceilings, sweeping staircases and shimmering chandeliers meet floral-print furnishings, soft pastel shades and stunning landscape photographs.”
Wellness
The subterranean spa pairs Irene Forte botanical treatments with a 15-meter heated indoor lap pool, Finnish sauna, and Turkish steam room.
“The reception area is gorgeous with latte-colored walls, crown moldings, ornate chandeliers, dramatic staircases, and artistic floral statement centerpieces that change seasonally.”
Backstory
Opened in 1902 for railway travelers, the landmark tower clock remains intentionally set three minutes fast so passengers never miss their train.
“the majestic Rocco Forte Hotel The Balmoral located at 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh. Its own restaurant Number One, led by Chef Mathew Sherry, counts with 4 AA Rosettes.”
Eat & drink
Afternoon tea accompanied by live harp music fills Palm Court, while the bar SCOTCH pours drams from an extensive 500-bottle collection.
The neighborhood
Anchoring 1 Princes Street above Waverley Station, the landmark sits right at the threshold connecting the Georgian New Town with the historic Old Town.
More like this
Prestonfield House
“Theatrical baroque country manor”
Secluded
Gleneagles Townhouse
“Restored banking heirloom”
Central
100 Princes Street
“Caledonian explorer sanctum”
Central
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.