At the epicentre of Edinburgh, The Balmoral has welcomed families at Christmas for over a century, drawing on a wealth of experience to create cherished festive memories. With all the traditional details taken care of, and a few seasonal surprises sprinkled in, here’s why the most wonderful time of the year is best spent with us.
The entire family is welcome
Our award-winning suites are the ideal size for a family to share. Our signature suites are even more spacious, with sumptuous sofas to curl up on for a festive film, a roaring fire crackling in the hearth, and a private dining area for in-room family feasting. The warm welcome extends to four-legged guests, too – it wouldn’t be Christmas without the whole family, pets included. Our resident dog Lucy has put together a welcome pack for furry guests, including a bed, water bowl, treats, a list of pet-friendly Edinburgh venues and a range of dog walkers and sitters, which our Concierge is happy to arrange.
We’ve set the scene…
Glittering tinsel, gleaming baubles, and an immense, twinkling fir tree ensure you’re met with Christmas magic from the moment you come in from the frosty streets. Enthral little ones with our three Wishing Trees, upon whose branches children (and parents) are invited to attach paper ‘leaves’ inscribed with festive wishes. Up in your suite, the atmosphere of good cheer continues: we can arrange for decorations, including stockings hung from the mantelpiece and a beautifully decorated tree, to await your arrival.
…laid the table…
After taking in Edinburgh’s festive atmosphere and Christmas markets, refuel with a tiered Afternoon Tea, served in our elegant Palm Court and enhanced with delicious seasonal favourites such as homemade Christmas cake. Come the big day itself, take a seat in Brasserie Prince for a jovial atmosphere and four-course feast by celebrated chef Alain Roux, featuring fresh Dover sole, succulent turkey and an array of truly decadent desserts.
…And invited the guest of honour
Unwrapping gifts and tucking into a delicious festive banquet isn’t the only thing for children to look forward to on Christmas Day. Santa Claus stops in at The Balmoral every year, and this year is no different. After a festive breakfast, bring your little ones to meet Father Christmas himself. He will have a little something special for them to open as a souvenir of their stay.
To book your suite family Christmas at The Balmoral, please email reservations.balmoral@roccofortehotels.com or call +44 131 556 2414.
The sound comes first - the soft thud of a well-struck ball, rising into a clear blue Sicilian sky. Ahead, fairways unfold in undulating greens towards the blue calm of the Mediterranean. The air is warm, perfumed with orange blossom and sea salt. There’s no rush, only a meditative rhythm: swing, step, breathe and repeat, interrupted only by the sound of waves.
The festive season brings its own kind of sparkle - a flurry of celebrations, feasts, and time with those who matter most. To make gifting simple, we’ve curated a selection of bespoke experiences to delight everyone on your list. From candlelit dinners and Italian wine tastings to tranquil spa escapes and moments devoted to yourself, each experience thoughtfully crafted to offer moments of joy.
Preparations were in full swing at the North Pole - ribbons tied, sleigh bells polished, and lists checked twice - yet Father Christmas kindly agreed to pause his busy schedule for an interview. We met him at SCOTCH at The Balmoral, just as the famous clocktower struck 12:03 - it stands watch over Waverley Station, running three minutes fast, so no one ever misses a train. Settled into a deep armchair with a favourite dram in hand, he shared his most treasured places to pause, indulge and unwind across Europe every festive season.
