It was a pleasure! (Balmoral Hotel Edinburgh)

Member Name: Penny_Wise

Product:	Balmoral Hotel Edinburgh
Date:	13/09/09 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Central location for sighseeing and shopping, super pool and spa with free refreshments

Disadvantages: Five star prices, though we managed to bag a bargain nightly rate of £125 last minute

We stayed at the Balmoral on a Saturday night having chosen the hotel for its proximity to Waverley Railway Station and it's prime position in the heart of the city, being right on Princes Street, the main shopping thoroughfare of the Georgian 'New Town'. The welcome at reception was warm and friendly, check-in was a breeze, and a special request I had made on booking was acknowledged.

Our room was a couple of floors up and faced the internal atrium, so no great view, but the room itself was beautifully appointed, as was the bathroom. I do enjoy a room with a view, but on this occasion we did not spend much time in the room apart from sleeping, so an internal room was perfect - not a sound could be heard from the railway station or the busy streets below so a restful night's sleep ensued.

The room had most of the essentials that you would expect of a five star hotel, though a note advised guests to ring room-service for the tea and coffee making paraphenalia to be brought. This was done very promptly. The kettle came already filled with hot water and was accompanied by a package of the most delicious fresh shortbread.

As check-out was not until midday we made the most of the crystal clear swimming pool in the hotel's Spa. A special lift at the rear of the hotel took us straight down to the Spa (in our robes, slippers and swimming costumes) where we were welcomed by a member of staff and shown to the pool, steam room etc. There were plenty of loungers where you could just chill out reading the newspapers or just relax with a glass of juice or a cup of coffee. The changing rooms were spacious and well designed, and had everything you could possibly need in terms of shampoo, conditioner, handcream, hairdryers and even a GHD hair straightener.

Even before departing we were discussing how long it would be until we returned to the Balmoral, and that we would definitely try and make it for more than just one night next time. Due to our itinerary we didn't get the chance to eat at the hotel, but I have my eye on an afternoon tea in the Palm Court in the not too distant future. It was lovely hearing the live music wafting out of there in the middle of the afternoon, and it looked like a very attractive place in which to while away and hour or two.

The location was perfect for us in every way, especially as we were arriving and departing by train and spending the evening across the road. In a city full of good hotels The Balmoral definitely deserves its place at the top. If you are considering a visit to the fabulous Fringe Festival next August it's worth booking as soon as you can.

Summary: Highly recommended classy hotel, centrally located, great advice & maps from concierge