The Caledonian Hotel

Five-star railway hotel in Edinburgh City Centre

If the Balmoral Hotel is the 'grand old lady' of the East End, the Caledonian Hotel, also known as 'the Caley', is the other prestigious five-star hotel in Edinburgh's West End.

Edinburgh City Centre with its historic Castle, relaxing gardens and bustling main shopping street are nudged between the Caledonian Hotel and the Balmoral Hotel, the most famous 5-star hotels in Edinburgh.

The Caledonian Hotel and the Balmoral Hotel have been in competition since the early 1900s when they were owned by two rival railway companies. Each of the two companies owned a train station at opposites end of Edinburgh's main street, Princes Street.

The hotel has all the modern facilities you'd normally expect from a luxury hotel as well as a gym, sauna and pool which, although quite small compared to that of other Edinburgh hotels, is nicely kept. A paid car park available.

The staff at the Caledonian Hotel seem to follow the unwritten rule of Edinburgh's luxury hotels. They are extremely friendly, helpful and nothing seems to be too much trouble for them in accommodating their guests.

Nicer touches are the occasional complimentary drinks to the hotel room and upgrades to executive rooms where required.

Staying in a historic hotel that overlooks Edinburgh Castle can be a holiday highlight. Its location is ideal for watching the fireworks at New Year's or at the Fireworks Concert marking the finish to the Edinburgh Festival.

The Caledonian Hotel also gives exclusive views of the Festival Cavalcade marching down Lothian Road, the parade marking the start to the Edinburgh Festival. It would certainly be one of the top two contenders for luxury accommodation in the centre of Edinburgh.

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