The Balmoral Edinburgh

Best for… traditionalists

This iconic hotel remains as charming as ever. The Brasserie Prince is alive at lunchtime as locals and guests alike tuck into smoked salmon and clink champagne flutes, while Michelin-starred Number One, led by chef Mathew Sherry, serves an unmissable seven-course dinner with tasting wines. Opt for a suite with a dramatic panorama over this historic city, where sea, hills and an urban buzz meet.

Rooms from £280; roccofortehotels.com