Edinburgh's most iconic luxury hotel, housed in the landmark Victorian railway hotel at the east end of Princes Street. The Balmoral's clock is kept 2 minutes fast by tradition so guests never miss their trains. Features the award-winning Number One restaurant, the Michelin-starred signature restaurant, and the Palm Court afternoon tea. Rooms and suites offer views of Edinburgh Castle or the Old Town.
The Balmoral Hotel stands as Edinburgh's most celebrated grand hotel, occupying the landmark Victorian railway building at 1 Princes Street at the junction of the Royal Mile and the city's principal shopping thoroughfare. The building, completed in 1902 to serve passengers arriving at Waverley Station directly below, retains its distinctive clock tower — kept two minutes fast by long-standing tradition so that travellers never miss their train departures — as one of Scotland's most recognisable silhouettes. Part of the Rocco Forte Hotels collection, The Balmoral comprises 168 rooms and suites, many offering views across Princes Street Gardens towards Edinburgh Castle or southward over the rooftops of the Old Town. Accommodation ranges from Classic Rooms finished in warm Scottish tartans and tweeds through to palatial suites, each individually appointed to reflect the hotel's strong Scottish identity. Dining at The Balmoral is exceptional by any measure. Number One, the hotel's Michelin-starred flagship restaurant in the basement, serves contemporary Scottish cuisine with outstanding wine pairings and is consistently ranked among Edinburgh's finest dining experiences. The Palm Court offers one of Edinburgh's most elegant afternoon teas in a magnificent marble and glass atrium. Brasserie Prince provides a more relaxed all-day dining setting for breakfast and casual meals. The Olympus health club and spa includes a 15-metre swimming pool, gymnasium, steam room, sauna, and a full range of treatment rooms offering massages and beauty therapies. The spa makes excellent use of Scottish skincare brands and is a popular destination for day visitors as well as hotel guests. The Balmoral's concierge team can arrange everything from helicopter excursions to Gleneagles to private Highland tours, and the hotel is well-suited to both leisure travellers and corporate guests. A comprehensive events and meeting offering, with function rooms overlooking Princes Street, makes it a regular venue for conferences and private celebrations. The location directly above Waverley Station makes it among the most transport-accessible five-star hotels in Scotland.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa
- Pool
- Gym
- Concierge
- Room service
- Valet parking
Location
1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
Highlights
- Edinburgh Castle views
- Number One Michelin restaurant
- Palm Court afternoon tea
- Iconic clock tower
- Olympus health club and spa
Tips for visiting
- Book Number One restaurant well in advance — the Michelin-starred dining room fills quickly, especially during August's Edinburgh Festival when the city is at maximum capacity.
- Request a room on the upper floors facing north for the clearest views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument rising above Princes Street Gardens.
- The Palm Court afternoon tea is served daily and is among Scotland's finest; reservations are strongly advised, particularly at weekends.
- Waverley Station is directly beneath the hotel, making it exceptionally convenient for rail arrivals from London King's Cross or Glasgow Central.
- The hotel's clock is kept 2 minutes fast — a tradition from its original railway hotel role — so do not use it to judge train departure times.
- Ask the concierge about exclusive whisky tastings and private whisky distillery transfers to Speyside or Highlands, which can be arranged for hotel guests.
Accessibility
The Balmoral Hotel provides lift access to all guest floors and a ramp at the main Princes Street entrance for step-free access. Accessible rooms with wider doorways and adapted bathrooms are available on request. The concierge team is trained to assist guests with mobility requirements throughout their stay.
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Frequently asked questions
Does The Balmoral Hotel have a swimming pool?
Yes, the Olympus health club and spa includes a 15-metre indoor swimming pool, alongside a sauna, steam room, and gymnasium. Spa treatments and pool access can be booked through the hotel; day passes are available for non-resident guests.
How close is The Balmoral to Edinburgh Castle?
Edinburgh Castle is approximately a 10-minute walk from The Balmoral along the Royal Mile. The castle is also clearly visible from upper-floor north-facing rooms across Princes Street Gardens.
Is The Balmoral Hotel suitable for families?
The Balmoral is family-friendly and can arrange connecting rooms and family suites. The concierge team can organise children's activities, city tours, and age-appropriate dining arrangements.
Is the Number One restaurant open to non-hotel guests?
Yes, Number One is open to non-guests for lunch and dinner. Reservations are essential; the restaurant holds a Michelin star and is consistently ranked among Edinburgh's top fine-dining destinations.
Is there parking at The Balmoral Hotel?
Valet parking is available at the hotel. The nearest public multi-storey car parks are at the St James Quarter and NCP Castle Terrace, both within a short walk of the hotel.