The 168-room Balmoral Edinburgh, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is fit for royalty—or some very lucky meeting attendees.
Not only does the historic building’s grand clock stand prominently in the Scottish capital’s skyline, but its premier address makes way for some of the best views of Edinburgh Castle in town. Even more, the long-standing property has a few quirks up its sleeve, with five unexpected experiences for groups to explore while meeting here.
Indulge in French & Scottish Fusion Cuisine
The biggest news for the Balmoral this year is the more than $4 million renovation underway on a new bar and restaurant concept that will combine the tastes of French and Scottish cuisines for an innovative menu with contemporary furnishings to match.
When in Scotland, Drink Whisky
In addition to the new restaurant concept, the Balmoral already has several dining experiences, including its Number One, Michelin-star restaurant and award-winning afternoon tea in Palm Court. But its Scotch whisky bar offers the quintessential whisky-tasting experience with more than 500 malts, blends and vintages available from around the country.
Feel Like Royalty in the Scone & Crombie Suite
Another new update: The property recently renovated the Scone & Crombie Suite with decadent furnishings throughout. Planners can book the room for VIPs or use it as a special rendezvous spot in lieu of meeting in the other 10 spaces on property. A personalized experience comes with the booking, including fast-track tickets to the nearby castle, a whisky tour or a visit to Hamilton & Inches’ silversmith workshop, one of the city’s most iconic jewelers.
Geek Out in the J.K. Rowling Suite
Planners can use the J.K. Rowling Suite in a similar fashion, while truly impressing Harry Potter fans in the process. This is, after all, the very spot where the famous author finished “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.” Rowling even signed a marble bust of the Greek god Hermes, situated inside the suite.
Let the Concierge Curate a Tour
Planners can turn to those who know Edinburgh best, the concierge, for help organizing hyperlocal experiences. Those range from music and dancing at a traditional Scottish event to ghost hunting in a Scottish castle. And if you’re looking to take your group out of Edinburgh, the hotel’s partnership with Silversea Cruises offers incentives for groups to do just that.
