Known locally as 'The Caley', this grand Edwardian railway hotel at the west end of Princes Street is a Edinburgh landmark. Operated by Waldorf Astoria, it features luxurious rooms with Edinburgh Castle views, the Peacock Alley bar and lounge, Grazing by Mark Greenaway restaurant, and a superb spa. The hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the city.
The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh, known locally as 'The Caley', is a grand Edwardian railway hotel at the western end of Princes Street, positioned at the corner of Lothian Road directly beneath Edinburgh Castle. The building was constructed in 1903 in distinctive red Dumfries sandstone to serve passengers of the Caledonian Railway at the now-demolished Princes Street Station, and is one of Edinburgh's most recognisable architectural landmarks. Today the hotel operates as a Waldorf Astoria property under the Hilton Hotels portfolio, having undergone a comprehensive £24 million refurbishment. The hotel's 241 rooms and suites include some of the finest accommodation in Edinburgh, particularly the Castle View Rooms and the Caledonian Suites, which offer unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle rising above the gardens. Interiors throughout blend traditional Scottish character — tartan textiles, thistle motifs, and warm oak panelling — with a thoroughly contemporary standard of comfort and technology. Dining centres on Grazing by Mark Greenaway, a Scottish-focused restaurant reflecting the celebrated Edinburgh chef's commitment to seasonal local produce and modern technique. Peacock Alley, the hotel's central bar and lounge, occupies a beautifully proportioned grand room with ornate plasterwork ceilings, serving cocktails, light food, and afternoon tea throughout the day. The afternoon tea is among Edinburgh's most popular and often books out days in advance, particularly during festival season. The Spa at The Caledonian features an indoor swimming pool, thermal suite with sauna and steam room, gym, and a full range of treatment rooms. Spa day packages are available for non-resident visitors. The hotel's extensive business and events offering, including a magnificent Grand Ballroom, makes it a regular choice for corporate gatherings, product launches, and weddings. Haymarket Station is a five-minute walk and Waverley Station is ten minutes along Princes Street, giving excellent rail connectivity.
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa
- Pool
- Gym
- Room service
- Concierge
- Business centre
Location
Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB
Highlights
- Edinburgh Castle views
- Waldorf Astoria brand
- Grazing by Mark Greenaway restaurant
- Afternoon tea
- Luxury spa
Tips for visiting
- Request a Castle View Room when booking; rooms on the upper floors of the north-facing wing offer the clearest sightlines to Edinburgh Castle, particularly dramatic when the castle is floodlit at night.
- Afternoon tea in Peacock Alley should be reserved at least several days in advance, and several weeks ahead during the Edinburgh Festival in August.
- Haymarket Station is five minutes on foot and provides direct ScotRail services to Glasgow Queen Street, making The Caledonian an excellent base for day trips west.
- The spa offers day passes that include access to the pool and thermal suite; these can be booked without an overnight stay and are particularly popular at weekends.
- Princes Street, the main shopping thoroughfare, Edinburgh Castle, and the National Galleries are all within a comfortable 10-to-15-minute walk from the hotel.
Accessibility
The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh provides step-free access to the main entrance via a ramp, and lift access to all guest floors. A selection of accessible rooms with adapted bathrooms, lowered fixtures, and additional floor space for wheelchair users is available and should be requested at the time of booking. The hotel's ground-floor public areas, including Peacock Alley and the restaurant, are fully wheelchair accessible.
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Frequently asked questions
What does 'The Caley' refer to?
'The Caley' is the local nickname for The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh, derived from the Caledonian Railway company that built the hotel in 1903. The name has persisted through the hotel's various ownerships, including its current operation as a Waldorf Astoria property.
Does The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh have a pool?
Yes, The Spa at The Caledonian includes a heated indoor swimming pool, alongside a thermal suite, gym, and full range of treatment rooms. Spa day passes are available for non-guest visitors.
Which restaurant operates within The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh?
The principal dining option is Grazing by Mark Greenaway, a Scottish-focused restaurant from one of Edinburgh's best-known chefs. Peacock Alley also serves food throughout the day in the hotel's grand central lounge.
Is The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh close to Edinburgh Castle?
The hotel stands at the west end of Princes Street directly beneath the castle. Many rooms face the castle, and the castle esplanade is approximately a seven-to-ten-minute walk away via the West Bow or Castlehill approach.
Is The Caledonian Hotel Edinburgh family-friendly?
The hotel is family-friendly and can arrange connecting rooms on request. The concierge team can assist with family-specific activities, childcare recommendations, and sightseeing planning throughout Edinburgh and the wider region.