Editors' Picks

Waldorf Astoria Caledonian

Grand, old world, centrally-located

Princes Street., Edinburgh EH12AB

(44)-131-222-8888

See Website

At a Glance

Having undergone a $40 million renovation, the former Caledonian Hotel has gracefully emerged as one of the leading hotels in Edinburgh as part of the Waldorf Astoria brand.

Indagare Loves

  • Peacock Alley lobby lounge and bar with its original railway station façade
  • The only Guerlain Spa in the UK, with wellness facilities including a nail salon, large swimming pool and impressive fitness center
  • Unobstructed, close-up views of Edinburgh Castle

Review

One of Edinburgh’s grand railway hotels, the Waldorf Astoria Caledonian boasts bright, airy public spaces with an impressive sunlit grand staircase. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea or cocktails in Peacock Alley, a recently enclosed lounge area between the hotel and the original façade of the train station. When the Caledonian first opened, guests would disembark their train and walk directly into the hotel. Today, guests can sit down and relax surrounded by art deco furniture.

Whether you’re just beginning your trip or you’re winding down your time in Edinburgh, the hotel’s award-winning spa is a rejuvenating oasis for the body, equipped with a two-story fitness center overlooking Edinburgh Castle, a yoga and pilates studio, a heated swimming pool and whirlpool, five treatment rooms, a nail salon, and a complimentary makeup bar.

The hotel’s 241 rooms and suites vary in design and size, from the tastefully-decorated Premier rooms to the chic Carriage Queen rooms, which allude to the hotel’s railway history. While some rooms still feel a bit corporate, their enormous size and unobstructed castle views easily make up the difference. Similarly-sized rooms would cost twice as much in London and possibly three times as much in Paris. Such space allows many rooms to have two queen beds, making the Caledonian a perfect option for families traveling with small children.

On-site dining establishments include the casual, all-day restaurant Grazing , as well as snacks and bar food (plus more than 100 whiskies) at the Caley Bar. Note that the well-regarded Pompadour restaurant has recently closed, with a replacement expected to be announced in the near future.

Who Should Stay

Members who appreciate the Waldorf Astoria’s high service standards and elegant décor.

Written by Ried Stelly

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