Balmorals hotel in Edinburgh is situated right in the center of the city and part of the rooms has a beautiful view of the castle. It seems to be a pretty fancy place, and near the entrance there are always beautifully dress people heading somewhere. The building looks impressive, that’s why when you actually find yourself in the room you are a little disappointed. Although our room was huge and clean, it was way too average considering the design. We slept well and were delighted to find a bottle of Champaign and personal letter from the manager wishing us all the best since it was the last day of our honeymoon. I would probably recommend the hotel, if only you are not looking forward to getting a luxury experience you would expect.

After seven visits to Edinburgh, we decided we should try the Balmoral because it is such an iconic sight when going to or from the Waverley train station or walking along Princes Street. I was pleasantly surprised at the price of the rooms whch I had expected to be much more than they were. We originally booked an executive king but when checking the hotel's website later, the prices had gone down, so booked the upgraded deluxe king.

The room size was not particularly large for a room three levels above the standard size but the bathroom was very spacious and beautiful. There were lots of extra amenities like bathrobes, slippers, bottled water and large bottles of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and lotion. A shoe shine was not added to the cost of the room. The TV had video games and other capabilities which we did not explore. The bed was very comfortable and at night, the room was very quite so we had very restful sleeps. I expect a key element of the upgraded room was the top floor with a view of Edinburgh Castle, which could be enjoyed even when sitting on the toilet!

I used the business centre and had to pay for internet use. Room service for a pot of coffee and tea was a bit pricey: 11 pounds.

Service was impecable in the hotel although we found it quite slow when having breakfast in Hadrian's Brasserie. I had a pedicure at the spa which was very nice indeed. It was done in a private room which I have not experienced before. My experiences in Canada and the US have been in a room with a number of stations for others having a pedi or manicure.

If I had one complaint it would be the rather snooty attitude of the doorman when we first arrived. We had been hill walking earlier that day and got rained on so our trousers were spattered with mud and undoubtedly our hair was more than a bit windblown. The doorman asked whether we were checking in with a tone that suggested we were too bedraggled to be entering the Balmoral. He could have been a bit more sympathetic. We wanted to check in so we could clean up!

In any event, we would definitely stay at the Balmoral again especially if the price is reasonable.

Booked the hotel.Our room was a "Rabbit hutch" at the top.It was £716 for two nights , no breakfast that was an additional £18 each.
Staff were arrogant .Would not use again very overrated and overpriced for what it is.

We chose this hotel as the venue for our 3 day honeymoon break and I can honestly say it was the best decision we have ever made.

The staff are courteous, polite, informed and impeccably dressed 24/7. No request was too much trouble and was carried out swiftly.

The building is an awesome sight as you come up Princes Street. It is distinguishable from all others by its sheer elegance and style and the interiors do not disappoint either!

We stayed in a classic double room and were very impressed with the decor and the size. The bathroom was immaculate and of a good size too with huge bath and power shower and the obligatory robes and slippers!

Overall I cannot say a bad word about this beautiful old hotel in the heart of a city steeped in history and charm.