Landmark 1902 clock-tower hotel above Waverley station, with direct access to the station and a short walk to the Royal Mile. Home of the Palm Court afternoon tea and a spa.
The Balmoral occupies the corner of Princes Street and North Bridge at 1 Princes Street, directly above Edinburgh Waverley station in Scotland's capital. The Old Town, the Royal Mile and the Scott Monument are each a short walk away, while trams, buses and the airport link are all within a few minutes on foot. The hotel opened in 1902 as the North British Station Hotel, and its sandstone clock tower remains one of the best-known landmarks on the Edinburgh skyline. The clock is traditionally kept a few minutes fast to help travellers catch their trains. Interiors combine Edwardian grandeur with a contemporary Scottish palette, and the lobby and public rooms retain much of the original character. Accommodation ranges from Deluxe Rooms to Junior Suites and larger suites, with some rooms facing Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat or the city rooftops. Higher-category rooms and named suites are among the most sought after in the city. Dining is a major draw, with several venues including a fine-dining restaurant, a brasserie and a bar known for its extensive selection of Scotch whisky. The Palm Court serves afternoon tea beneath its glass ceiling and is a popular occasion booking for visitors to Edinburgh. Breakfast is served as a full Scottish spread alongside lighter continental options. The Balmoral Spa includes an indoor swimming pool, treatment rooms and a fitness suite, giving guests a quiet retreat after sightseeing. Service is formal and concierge-led, with staff able to arrange tours, restaurant tables and theatre or festival tickets. The hotel suits couples, special-occasion travellers and business guests who value a central address with direct rail access. Rates sit at the top of the Edinburgh market, with the widest range during the August festival season, Hogmanay and major rugby weekends. Families are welcome, and the Waverley location makes day trips by train to Glasgow, St Andrews or the Borders straightforward without needing a car.
| Price | £350–£1000/night (~$469–$1340) |
|---|---|
| Address | 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ |
Room types
- Deluxe Rooms
- Castle or city-view rooms
- Junior Suites
- Suites
Amenities
- Palm Court afternoon tea
- Spa and indoor pool
- Restaurants and Scotch bar
- Concierge
Location
1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
55.9524, -3.1892 View on map
Highlights
- Landmark 1902 clock tower above Waverley station
- Palm Court afternoon tea beneath a glass ceiling
- Spa with indoor pool and fitness suite
- Scotch whisky bar and several restaurants
- Castle and city-view rooms and suites
Tips for visiting
- Reserve Palm Court afternoon tea well ahead, especially at weekends and in August.
- Request a castle-view or Arthur's Seat-view room when booking, as views vary widely.
- Waverley station access makes airport tram and train connections simple without a taxi.
- Expect peak pricing during the Edinburgh festivals, Hogmanay and Six Nations weekends.
- Dress is smart casual in the main dining venues; check the policy for the fine-dining room.
When to visit
Late spring and early autumn offer the best balance of weather and availability. August and Hogmanay are the busiest and most expensive periods.
Accessibility
The hotel is a large historic building with lifts serving guest floors, and step-free access is generally available at the main entrance. Visitors with mobility needs should request an accessible room when booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is The Balmoral located in Edinburgh?
The hotel is at 1 Princes Street, directly above Waverley station. The Royal Mile and Princes Street Gardens are a few minutes away on foot.
Does The Balmoral have a spa and pool?
Yes. The Balmoral Spa has an indoor swimming pool, treatment rooms and a fitness suite for guests.
Is afternoon tea available at The Balmoral?
Afternoon tea is served in the Palm Court. It is popular, so booking ahead is advised.
Is the hotel close to the airport tram?
The tram stop at Princes Street and the Waverley station bus links are within a short walk, and the airport is roughly 30 minutes away by tram or bus.