Overview

We immediately booked when we heard the Palm Court had reopened at the Balmoral Hotel, we usually go once a month, so we really missed it. The service and quality of their afternoon tea is what you would expect and it doesn’t disappoint.

Transport & Parking

The Hotel is at No1 Princes Street, so parking is limited but available right outside the main entrance - disabled access is via a gradual ramp to the left of the Hotel entrance, the wide doors are opened by a door man who is covid compliant. We as always travelled by bus, Lothian Buses service has ample services on routes from all parts of the City, this includes services operated by Lothian Country and East Coast, Airlink. A taxi rank is also outside the entrance. Being a former railway Hotel, Waverley Station is underneath. Bus Stops from the South and East are adjacent to the Waverley Steps 50 meters from the entrance, North and West services across the street from the Hotel next to accessibility crossing point. For services further afield k First Bus, Border Buses and McGills are also available. The Bus Station is also in St Andrew Square 450 meters from Waverley Station, Access to and from Waverley is by lift, the Tram is 350 meters for either direction in St Andrews Square.

Access

As a Victorian Hotel they have modified where possible, there is a ramp at the front entrance, a ramp up 4 steps into the Palm Court and ramp down 3 steps to the toilet areas, everywhere is very spacious and obstacle free. The explanations on the covid protocols are clearly explained on the Balmoral Hotel Palm Court Website, inside the Hotel and by the Palm Court Staff.

Toilets

The disabled toilets are fully accessible and spacious for a large chair and carer support. Lower level basins, and toilet plinth, grab rails easier access dispensers and fully covid compliant.

Staff

After we booked via email, we received a phone call from the Palm Court welcoming us back and advising us of changes in the layout of the Palm Court for covid compliance. Again when you pay £49.00 per person for an Afternoon tea you expect the service that goes with it. Although we attend once a month, it’s money well spent in the loveliest of surroundings and ambiance. If you look there is value for money in this experience - service, quality, surroundings unlimited tea and coffee of any type available as you know beverages bought individually add up.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

At the Hotel entrance, the doorman is masked and sanitising equipment is visible and strongly encouraged in its use. Before entering the Palm Court, the sanitising regime is continued, they have a one way movement scheme in place, at the table the covid protocols are clearly explained from sanitised menus to cutlery, glass and crockery handling, all staff are masked and socially distancing, after each course sanitising wipes are provided at the table.