Hotel Review: The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh

You can't get more city-centre than the corner of Princes Street and the North Bridge, perfectly positioned between the Old and New Towns. It's ideal for getting everywhere and exploring everything.

By car: 1 hour from Glasgow, 2 hours 40 minutes from Newcastle and just over 4 hours from Manchester. Paid parking is available nearby.

By train: Glasgow Queens Street is around 50 minutes away, Manchester Picadilly around 3 hours and London Kings Cross around 4 hours 45 minutes. Book trains to Edinburgh.

By plane: Edinburgh Airport (30-minute drive).

Victorian baronial via Renaissance Italy on the outside; cooly classy on inside. There's sparkle without straying into bling; a subtle hint of Scotland that avoids full Brigadoon. And although the napkins may be perfectly starched, the warm feeling of easeful enjoyment is enough to melt the butter on your scone.

Service is seamless, from the incredible concierge to the barman who remembers your name (and the bespoke cocktail he created for you the night before). As for facilities, perhaps start with the spa and techno-gym, then head for the Scotch Bar where a 'whisky ambassador' will gently guide you.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Swimming pool
• Spa
• Parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Expect soft colours reflecting the Scottish landscape, perhaps with a touch of tartan. The feel is tailored; cosy yet quietly expensive. Classic rooms overlook a courtyard, trade up if you want a view.

Room types: Classic, Executive & Deluxe Rooms, Junior Classic & Grand Suite, Castle View Suite, Bowes-Lyon, Balmoral, J.K Rowling, Glamis, Scone & Crombie

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Irene Forte toiletries, TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, Wi-Fi

The bustling Brasserie is French with a Scottish accent, from the lace café curtains to the haggis with 'neeps and tatties' boulangère gratin with whisky sauce. Tucked away downstairs is the Number One restaurant, where chef Matthew Sherry surprises and delights with his starry take on modern Scottish cuisine.

Number One Restaurant: four AA Rosettes, fine dining menu. Open Thu-Mon, 6-9:30pm.

Brasserie Prince: French cuisine made with Scottish produce. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Palm Court: opulent ballroom serving afternoon tea. Open Mon-Fri, 12-5pm.