The Waldorf Astoria – The Caledonian – One of Edinburgh’s most iconic hotels. Rich with history, and filled with every comfort a luxury traveller can ask for- This is the perfect high-end hotel located in Edinburgh city centre, near Edinburgh’s major tourist attractions.
Situated on Princess Street, the hotel offers luxurious hospitality inside a Victorian style building, featuring some of the best views of Edinburgh Castle.
The History
Located inside a building rich with history, the hotel combines modern comfort with historic elegance. The architecture of the building makes perfect sense once you find out it was a former railway station.
In 1895, the construction of the new Princes Street Station begun, with plans to incorporate a grand hotel into the development. 1093 saw the opening of The Caledonian. The citizens of Edinburgh gasped to the sign of the magnificent new railway and 205-bedroom Grand Hotel. The Caledonian quickly became the epitome of style and excellence for the people of Edinburgh.
The Caledonian was the hangout spot for the rich and famous of the time, with Hollywood stars such as Charlie Chaplin and Elizabeth Taylor ascending the hotel’s grand staircase. But it wasn’t just Hollywood stars; For centuries The Caledonian hosted VIPs, royalty presidents, prime ministers and diplomats.
Over the years, the Caledonian has seen various changes, merging and changing managements and ownerships. The changes were not only structural but also cosmetic. In 1948, under a new management, the interior designers Robert and Roger Nicholson were called in for a full refurbishment. In 2012, the hotel has seen its last major change after it was acquired by Hilton International. As a new a member of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, the hotel re-launched as a luxury landmark, following a 24£ million investment and renovation. Nowadays, The Caledonian continues its legacy and excellent reputation as one of the finest hotels in Scotland.
Afternoon Tea
The Caledonian serves afternoon tea at the Peacock Ally. Aimed to re-connect to the glamour and traditions of the original Waldorf & Astoria Hotels in New York, Peack Ally is the perfect place-to-be. “A Place To See And Be Seen”- as they say.
Peacock Alley’s Afternoon Tea showcases desserts made-to-perfection, along with savoury freshly cut finger sandwiches and a homemade selection of scones. Diners also have over thirty fine loose leaf teas and herbal infusions to choose from.
Breakfast
Guests can enjoy a wonderful breakfast spread served at the sophisticated surroundings of the Peacock Alley. Along with the famous Scottish breakfast dish, Haggis, there is also a wide variety of vegetarian or vegan breakfast options.
The facilities
The Caledonian is a home to the UK’s only Guerlain Spa. It also features an indoor pool with a sauna and steam room.
Guests have the choice of two restaurants: Dean Banks at The Pompadour & Grazing by Mark Greenaway. Dean Banks features modern fine dinning, while diners at Grazing can experience award-winning Scottish dining by celebrated Edinburgh chef Mark Greenaway.
To conclude
With its origins as a railway hotel, The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, provides modern hospitality combined with old-fashioned elegant ambience.
A visit to the Caledonian will not be complete without dinning at the Peacock Alley. Inspired by the grand social promenade that connected the original Waldorf and Astoria hotels, Peacock Alley provides ultimate elegance and sophistication.
Gallery
For more information visit the hotels website HERE.
