"I hadn’t been to Edinburgh in recent years and decided to check out the Balmoral Hotel again. The visit started out well with the bell staff coming into the train station to pick us from our train. Exceptionally friendly service. Walking into the hotel, less than impressed with the lobby area. A crush of people, giving it a bit of a mass market tourist feel. Also, decor really didn’t feel fresh or luxe. The whisky bar in particular had a sterile feel. Elevators felt old. Pretty flowers. Our room had some very pretty fabrics and decor, but the basic amenities of the room were average. Bathroom was pretty old feeling for the prices we were paying. Air conditioning was very necessary and hugely loud. Saw no sign of fire sprinklers in this very old building, and I like old buildings. Breakfast buffet was a big disappointment. Felt like something created for a tour group. Nothing at the buffet was presented in an attractive way. Muffins, etc were nothing special. Oatmeal ordered from the kitchen was the worst I ever had in Scotland over multiple trips. I’ve stayed in other Rocco Forte properties and did not find this in same category."

"My wife and I chose The Balmoral Hotel for our Ruby Wedding anniversary dinner. I can only say that it was everything that we hoped it would be. On arriving we were shown to the lift which took us down to the fine dining restaurant. Once down we were met and shown to our table. The setting was beautiful. Calm and serene. Pre-dinner drinks ordered and given plenty of time to peruse the menu. At no time did we feel hurried. The menu was explained and orders taken. The food was of a fantastic standard. Canapes that melted in your mouth and steak cooked to perfection. The service was brilliant. Everybody treated you like a king. They were even happy to act as photographer's for that souvenir picture. Yes it was expensive but you got what you paid for. We were delighted with our visit and the staff really made our anniversary one to remember. We can't thank them enough and would recommend them every time. Such a pity it rained on the way in!! Still that Edinburgh for you."

"The Palm Court is grandeur befitting Edinburgh's finest hotel. The Champagne Afternoon Tea was fantastic, from the Amuse Bouche, excellent savouries and sandwiches, lovely scones through to the wonderful pastries. The meal was presented by a team who appeared to be delighted to attend on you and for you. The opulence of the room from the setting, furniture, floral displays and chandelier provides comfort and quality. The toilets are immaculate, pristine and spotless. The 1841 7th Duchess of Bedford would have approved. It was a delight to experience."

"The Brasserie, Whiskey Bar, and Tea Room had AMAZING food and great staff! The spa was AMAZING, as well! Our room, a suite, was lovely. Until…it was time to go to bed. The mattress was the HARDEST we have ever slept on. It was nearly impossible to have a good night sleep, and we both woke up with cricks in our neck/back. There was nightly road construction outside and one of the nights it was so bad, it reverberated the room. Also, be sure to leave the do not disturb sign out and/or lock your door. Staff will come in after one knock, if you don’t respond quick enough."

"Really nice hotel, great staff, tasty food, comfy bed, best icecream (Joelato), very pleasant scent in the lobby. Would definitely come back!"