The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel, 1 Princes St., Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, United Kingdom
Gumo's take
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel in Edinburgh, is a five-star luxury hotel renowned for its elegant charm, exceptional service, and prime location on Princes Street. It is best suited for travelers seeking a refined and indulgent stay, whether for business, special occasions, or leisure. The hotel is famous for being the place where J.K. Rowling finished writing the Harry Potter series and for its Michelin-starred dining and iconic afternoon tea at the Palm Court. Guests consistently praise the attentive staff, luxurious accommodations, and the hotel’s proximity to Edinburgh’s top attractions.
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Research this stayHow guests rate it
- Location
- 92
- Facilities
- 85
- Staff & Service
- 95
- Room Comfort & Cleanliness
- 90
What guests love
- Exceptional staff service with friendly, professional, and highly responsive personnel
- Prime location on Princes Street, adjacent to Waverley Station and within walking distance of Edinburgh’s major attractions
- Luxurious and well-designed rooms with quiet, clean, and comfortable environments
- Michelin-starred dining at Number One and a Michelin-starred afternoon tea experience at Palm Court
- Historic and iconic status, including the famous JK Rowling Suite and the hotel’s clock tower
Worth knowing
- Higher price point may not be justified for all guests, especially those seeking more budget-friendly options
- Some guests mention the hotel’s clock is set three minutes ahead, which could be confusing for non-locals
- Limited on-site parking, requiring guests to use nearby paid parking or hotel-assisted parking services
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Breakfast
- Accessible
- Indoor Pool
- Air-conditioned
- Laundry service
- Pet-friendly
- Room service
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Bar
- Smoke-free
Common questions
Is The Balmoral pet-friendly?
Yes, The Balmoral is pet-friendly and welcomes guests traveling with their pets.
What are the key strengths of The Balmoral in terms of location and service?
The Balmoral offers a prime location on Princes Street, adjacent to Waverley Station and near Edinburgh’s major attractions. It is also known for its exceptional staff service, with friendly, professional, and highly responsive personnel.
Does the hotel have parking facilities for guests?
The Balmoral has limited on-site parking, and guests are encouraged to use nearby paid parking or hotel-assisted parking services.
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