The Balmoral and Brown’s Hotel: A Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality

Let’s step into a realm of timeless elegance and culinary artistry in Edinburgh, Scotland and London, England at The Balmoral and Brown’s Hotel, where luxury, history and hospitality are brought to modern life as part of the Rocco Forte Hotels portfolio of extraordinary properties.  

The Balmoral, a majestic hotel that captures the spirit of Scotland is located in the heart of Edinburgh and overlooks Edinburgh Castle. The hotel’s iconic clock tower, a prominent feature of the city’s skyline, has become a beloved symbol of Edinburgh. The hotel’s elegant interiors adorned with bespoke
Balmoral tartan and inspired by the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, create a truly unforgettable experience.

Settle in for a dram of whisky in Scotch , the hotel’s world-class whisky bar.   Tasting experiences are also available. 

Brown’s Hotel is in the heart of London’s elegant Mayfair. Founded in 1832 by James and Sarah Brown, it’s one of London’s oldest luxury hotels and exudes traditional Victorian sophistication with modern amenities.

A true highlight at The Balmoral and Brown’s Hotel is experiencing Afternoon Tea, where you are transported to a bygone era to experience the luxurious traditions and intricacies of the quintessential tradition. It was a delightful honor to meet Chef Ross Sneddon, the Executive Pastry Chef at The Balmoral while my friend May Wong and I were having Afternoon Tea in the gorgeous Palm Court.

Chef Sneddon and I had our Kitchen Chat the following week at Brown’s where he was helping launch a special summer collaborative Afternoon Tea with Lock & Co in the opulent Drawing Room Drawing Room, a sumptuous space where royalty and luminaries have indulged in the exquisite pleasures of Afternoon Tea. Many of the pastries were inspired by Lock & Co hats.

Both May and I donned our hats, and she even brought along her precious rescue dog, Lulu who joined us for tea.

Chef Sneddon describes how The Balmoral and Brown’s have their own personalities and special traditions of Afternoon Tea. Both properties procure the finest loose leaf tea from The Rare Tea Company. The Balmoral features a ceremonial presentation where the teapot is held high above the table and poured in grand display. Omar, the manager at The Palm Court even creates and curates special tea offerings such as Chai and Bubble Tea, a modern twist to Afternoon Tea. Chef Sneddon enjoys including exquisite tea as a back note ingredient to enhance the depth of flavor of the pastries. The pastry with green matcha and Scottish strawberries was divine at The Balmoral.

Chef Sneddon describes the sourcing of the luxurious Italian pistachios which are treasured by pastry chefs. The Bronte pistachios from Sicily are some of the world’s finest pistachios with their vibrant green nuts encased in royal purple. The pastries are traditional with a modern look.

Enjoy a Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality at The Balmoral and Brown’s Hotel. I look forward to exploring additional Rocco Forte hotels in future travels. Always remember take a moment and Savor the day AND Savor the sip of Afternoon Tea!

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