The Balmoral Review

Sitting at the crossroads of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and Georgian New Town, The Balmoral meaning ‘majestic dwelling’ in Gaelic is more than just a hotel, it’s one of the Scottish capital’s most iconic landmarks. Behind its grand sandstone façade discover refined guest quarters and exceptional dining experiences all delivered with Rocco Forte’s signature hospitality. At The Luxury Editor, we have long admired Rocco Forte Hotels, from experiencing its Mayfair elegance at Brown’s Hotel to having the honour of interviewing Charles Forte, Sir Rocco Forte’s son. Now, we turn our attention to their Scottish property, a hotel that embodies timeless grandeur and a true sense of place. Read on to discover what makes The Balmoral ‘the’ place to stay whilst visiting the Scottish capital.

Originally known as The North British Station Hotel when it opened in 1902, to this day it remains one of the city’s most prestigious addresses sitting at Number 1 Princes Street. Purchased by Sir Rocco Forte and brought into the Rocco Forte Hotel collection in 1997 it sets the benchmark for refined service and hospitality in the city. A true masterpiece of Scottish Baronial design, its exterior is a romanticised interpretation of medieval Scottish castles brought to life through its warm sandstone façade. While intricate carvings along with decorative turrets, gables and ornate columns, all add to its sense of history and grandeur.

A masterpiece outside is equally matched inside, including 187 rooms, suites and one-of-a-kind signature suites including the J.K Rowling Suite where the novelist herself finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Experience award-winning fine dining at Number One, sophisticated Afternoon Tea in The Palm Court, stylish brasserie dining and bar Brasserie Prince, and an exceptional whisky collection at SCOTCH. The Balmoral Spa adds to the experience with indulgent treatments, making the hotel a true resort-like escape in the heart of the city.

A Prestigious Address

The Balmoral’s clock tower defines the Edinburgh skyline, a landmark so integral to the city its hands are set three minutes fast helping ensure travellers heading to Waverley Station catch their train on time. And that’s also exactly how much time you need to reach the station concourse from the Balmoral’s front steps making it one of the most perfectly positioned properties in the city.

Outside trams from York Place and Princes Street whisk you down to Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Docks, while heading in the other direction takes you to Edinburgh Airport in just 35 minutes. Airport transfers along with valet parking can be arranged in advance via the hotel too.

The city’s main shopping destinations, St James Quarter and Multrees Walk, sits directly across the road, alongside Harvey Nichols, while the historic Royal Mile is a five-minute stroll in the other direction. For those drawn to Edinburgh’s Georgian elegance, George Street in the New Town offers stunning architecture, boutique shopping, and refined charm.

Entrance and Lobby

A warm Scottish welcome is offered by the tweed-clad doormen, who proudly stand at the main entrance of the hotel, with assistance readily available for luggage as you step through the revolving doors. Inside the lobby, to the right a concierge desk, while to the left, a crackling fireplace invites you to rest your feet for a moment at its armchairs. At the very heart of the lobby, a floral display, carefully curated and changed weekly and I was told it is such an attraction now many Edinburgh residents even stop by just to admire the latest display. To the left, the hotel’s main reception and above a wrap-around mezzanine level offers guests a private nook to relax, read a paper, do some work or just have a coffee.

Rooms and Suites

The Balmoral offers 167 rooms and 20 suites designed by Olga Polizzi, sister of Sir Rocco Forte, spaces are sophisticated and refined, using a palette of blues, greens and greys inspired by the woodlands, heather-covered hills, and lochs of Scotland, which provide the perfect calming retreat to escape back to after a day exploring the city.

Rooms categories include Classic Rooms which provide a cosy setting with queen-sized beds and armchairs. Executive Rooms, bathed in natural light, offer city or courtyard views and the option of an extra bed, while Deluxe Rooms elevate the experience with spacious layouts, king-sized beds and a curated selection of furnishings.

All rooms feature beautiful marble bathrooms and Irene Forte amenities. Many rooms are further enhanced with views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat and the historic Old Town.

My Room During My Stay – Deluxe Castle View Room

I stayed in room 514 on the fifth floor, which is a Deluxe Castle View Room. This room category provides guests with a private front-row seat view of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street. Interiors of neutral tones and elegant floral wallpaper with leaf-shaped wall lighting help connect you with the serenity of the Scottish countryside.

The spacious layout features a king-sized bed, armchair and coffee table along with a dressing table/workspace. The double-height ceiling adds to the sense of space and grandeur while a turreted alcove houses a bust and a small reading library.

Amenities include a flat-screen TV, mini bar, Nespresso machine and a selection of refreshments. Two large wardrobes offer plenty of luggage space along with safe and slippers.

The long sleek Italian marble-finished bathroom features a spacious deep bathtub (it was big enough for me to recline fully and I am 6 foot 4) and rain shower, complemented by a marble-topped vanity with an open steel frame and Irene Forte amenities. An additional dressing area includes a mirror and hairdryer, positioned next to the WC, while striking black and white art prints of Sean Connery as James Bond add a playful element to the interior design.

One of the most captivating aspects of the room is watching the ever-changing cityscape unfold throughout the day. In the morning, the city awakens under a crisp blue sky (at least, on those lucky days when the Scottish weather allows!), as the day progresses, the golden hues of sunset bathe the skyline and by evening, Edinburgh transforms once more as the castle and Scott Monument both stand in dramatic silhouette.

A set of binoculars is provided, allowing guests to appreciate the city’s skyline with greater clarity.

Turndown service includes freshly replenished mineral water, a refreshed and tidied bathroom, and slippers placed beside the bed. The timing of this can arranged to fit your schedule upon check-in, ensuring a seamless end to the day.

Suites

The hotel has twenty suites, ranging from Junior Suites to Signature Suites and the exclusive Forte Suites. Starting with Junior Suites which offer a refined retreat with elegant furnishings, comfortable lounge areas and the option of an additional bed, making them ideal for families and longer stays.

Classic Suites feature a seating area, sophisticated objets d’art and king-sized beds while botanically inspired artwork enhances the décor. The hotel’s Grand Suites, Braemar, Stirling, Dunrobin and Tay pay homage to Scotland’s heritage with tartan details, soothing blue tones and turreted alcoves. These suites offer views of Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill, while their generously sized, light-filled bathrooms, complete with separate bathtubs and showers.

Castle View Suites named after Scottish rivers and castles, Rothesay, Dee, Drummond, Brodick, Bothwell and Spey embrace Scotland’s natural beauty with rich blue hues, and offer increased floor space at 47-58 sqm, elegant tartan upholstery and curated literature.

The finest suites at The Balmoral, the Forte Suites, are exceptional in both design, size and comfort. Each is individually named and inspired by Scotland’s history, offering an unparalleled level of luxury.

Forte Suite guests enjoy personalised concierge services before and during a stay, a full in-room bar and a choice of exclusive experiences; a whisky journey at SCOTCH, fast-track tickets to Edinburgh Castle, or a private tour of the silversmith workshop at Hamilton & Inches. In addition, a complimentary unpacking and packing service is included and pressing of up to four garments further enhances the effortless luxury of these extraordinary suites.

The Bowes-Lyon Suite, named after The Queen Mother, exudes character with its unique layout, porthole-style windows and verdant interiors, offering stunning views over Princes Street.

The Balmoral Suite offers a colour palette inspired by Scotland’s lochs and woodlands, a working fire in the sitting room and two beautifully appointed bedrooms. The J.K. Rowling Suite, where the final Harry Potter book was completed, is an enchanting retreat filled with whimsical touches, antique furnishings and turreted alcoves, with views of Calton Hill.

While the Glamis Suite, named after Scotland’s most beautiful castle, embodies baronial splendour with velvet sofas, period antiques, a grand dining space and a regal king-sized bed, all bathed in natural light from large windows overlooking Princes Street.

Presidential Suite – Scone & Crombie Suite

The Scone & Crombie Suite holds a special distinction as Sir Rocco Forte’s preferred suite of choice when staying at The Balmoral, and The Luxury Editor had the privilege of viewing it during our stay. Regal in both design and atmosphere and expansive at 120 sqm, it’s named after Scone Palace in Perthshire and Crombie Castle in Aberdeenshire.

The entrance hall, decorated with bespoke Devonshire Swans tapestry wallpaper, sets the tone for the suite’s refined elegance. Throughout, rich fabrics and sophisticated furnishings celebrate Edinburgh’s royal heritage, while a soothing palette of soft blues and greys, inspired by Scottish skies and lochs, is enriched with warm golden hues reminiscent of wild gorse. Delicate botanical motifs add a touch of natural grace, and floor-to-ceiling and bay windows frame views of the Old Town skyline.

A working fireplace enhances the living room’s sense of grandeur, while the Italian marble and mosaic bathroom includes a freestanding bathtub, separate shower and large connecting walk-in wardrobe.

Alongside a private dining room for intimate gatherings, a favoured choice among celebrities and A-listers seeking privacy during their stay. The Scone & Crombie Suite can also be transformed into a two- or three-bedroom retreat by connecting it with the suite next door.

Number One

Number One is a culinary destination in its own right, holding a 4 AA Rosette and under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Mathew Sherry. Guests can choose from a refined three-course menu, but the real highlight is the seven-course tasting experience, where Scottish cuisine is elevated to its finest. Using the best seasonal ingredients sourced from across Scotland each dish is presented with exceptional precision and finesse, a testament to the dedication of the entire team.

The restaurant’s atmosphere strikes the balance between warm and welcoming, yet refined and polished. Tables are generously spaced, ensuring both privacy and a relaxed ambiance. Unlike many fine dining establishments, Number One offers guests the luxury of keeping their table for the entire evening, allowing for a truly unhurried dining experience.

A restaurant is only as strong as its team, and Restaurant Manager Emma leads with passion, ensuring every guest receives an exceptional experience. Her team’s genuine enthusiasm is evident in every interaction, from their attentive, seamless service to the way they convivially present each dish with knowledge and passion.

To enhance the experience even further, the tasting menu can be paired with matching wines selected by Head Sommelier Calum, complementing and enhancing each flavour and creating the ultimate gastronomic journey.

Brasserie Prince

For more casual lunch and dinner options head to Brasserie Prince located on the ground floor. Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Gary Robinson, it brings together the finest Scottish produce with the timeless techniques of classic French cuisine. The menu is a celebration of seasonality, offering bistro-style dishes that balance authentic French flavours with the best locally sourced Scottish ingredients.

Breakfast

Taking place in Brasserie Prince breakfast is as refined as the dinner service. Indulge in a buffet-style continental breakfast featuring freshly baked pastries, artisan bread, and a selection of cheeses and charcuterie. While a variety of cereals, yogurts, and fresh fruits are also available. For large hot dishes, the à la carte menu includes classics like Eggs Benedict, Eggs Royale, and a traditional full Scottish breakfast.

The Palm Court

The heart of The Balmoral is renowned as one of the most elegant destinations for Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh. The Palm Court’s central atrium is bathed in natural light, showcasing a Venetian chandelier, doric columns and signature palms. A harpist in the upper minstrel’s gallery provides a gentle background soundtrack as you enjoy artisan teas, delicate finger sandwiches, homemade scones, and pâtisserie.

SCOTCH

A haven for whisky connoisseurs, SCOTCH boasts one of Scotland’s most impressive collections, featuring over 500 whiskies sourced from the country’s finest distilleries. The warm, wood-panelling and intimate low seating foster an inviting atmosphere, ideal for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

Wellness

At the time of my visit, the spa was undergoing a renovation project, with spa treatments still available in temporary rooms and guests can access the pool and gym at the Apex Hotel, only a few minutes walk from The Balmoral.

Experiences

The Balmoral offers one of the most comprehensive list of city experiences I have seen, during your stay, you can indulge in a variety of curated experiences that showcase Scottish heritage and the city’s culture. Experiences range from tailored whisky journies at SCOTCH, personal shopping excursions with award-winning stylist Zoë Rodrigues, visits to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, The King’s official residence in Edinburgh; the Royal Yacht Britannia, The Queen’s former floating palace; and Edinburgh Castle. The list is extensive and there is something to suit all interests.

Final Thoughts

We couldn’t think of better custodians for this cherished Edinburgh landmark. Rocco Forte has preserved its grandeur while elevating its legacy. More than just a hotel, The Balmoral is a symbol of the city’s rich history where impeccable service, exceptional experiences and breathtaking views come together to capture the true spirit of the Scottish capital.