FAMILY STAYS
A couple of weeks ago the four of us had the pleasure of staying at the Edinburgh’s finest – The Balmoral Hotel for the night and it was just what the doctor ordered. With so much uncertainty in the world right now all travels had to be put on hold this year, but at least we are still able to do something locally. For now at least. And while we could – we made the most of our little staycation. It was Luis’s birthday that weekend as well, so what better way to treat someone that with an overnight stay, dinner and breakfast. This was our first time at The Balmoral and definitely not the last. The building, the interior, the super tall stained glass windows and beautiful staircase… It was like being in a museum – just extra warm and welcoming!
I’ve always treated Edinburgh overnight stays and all city hotels in general as though they were for couples only until now. The Balmoral are SO welcoming when it comes to kids. From the extra beds in our suite to slippers for everyone (including little feet), to lotion and shampoo for kids in the bathroom. Not forgetting Bonnie – the soft toy and little story books to take home. We have them at home and they’re such lovely souvenirs to remember the trip by.
FOOD
Our visit was pretty much on the day that Nicola Sturgeon announced some further restrictions, which meant that we couldn’t have alcohol with our dinner at Brasserie Prince. Of course it didn’t make any difference to us because we had kids to look after anyway, plus there’s always room service and mini bar. We headed down to the brasserie to enjoy our incredible three-course dinner, but there’s an option for in-room dining that includes a range of wines beers and cocktails too. The brasserie was so welcoming – relaxing and not too busy. Staff were incredibly attentive and adhered to government guidelines fully. Oh and the food…. Where do I begin? 5 of out 5 from me for sure and just like everything else in the hotel, the kids’ menu was spot on. Breakfast the following morning was served at Brasserie Prince as well and included a generous serving of morning pastries, freshly squeezed juices and even boost shots to help start the day. Followed by Balmoral Classics or a choice of fruits, grains and bakery. Eat like a king in the mornings that say…
ROOM
Our room had the views of the Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street – I’d say it’s a must when staying in Edinburgh. We had fresh fruit and berries delivered to our room on the arrival and pre-bedtime room prep while we were down for dinner. I thought that was such a lovely touch. Kids’ and adult slippers laid out on an individual towel beside each bedside and more water brought in to the room. All of our mess was folded away nicely so we would’t have to worry about it coming back from our meal. A special thanks to our little Balmoral fairies for that. And to make things even easier for our family – we drove right up to the hotel entrance, left our car keys with the butler and picked up the car in the same spot the next day all for £35. I couldn’t recommend this more for families – especially in the rain and on such a busy street in Edinburgh. Worth every penny.
So as you can guess, we have had the best time as a family at The Balmoral. The attention to detail, the 5 star treatment throughout and just a very lovely little night away from home not having to worry about making dinners or housework. From the bottom of our hearts – thank you Balmoral!
This stay was a complementary Press Stay, but all content creation, words and opinions are my own.