The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh — The Caledonian is a landmark 5-star hotel occupying the former Caledonian Railway terminus at the west end of Princes Street. Built in 1903 from red Dumfriesshire sandstone, the building’s clock tower is one of Edinburgh’s most recognisable skyline features. The hotel has 241 rooms and suites, the Guerlain Spa (the first Guerlain spa in the UK), and two restaurants including Grazing by Mark Greenaway. Dogs are accepted on request.
The hotel sits at the junction of Princes Street and Lothian Road — the busiest intersection in the West End — but the rooms face either toward Edinburgh Castle or south toward the Meadows, providing a quieter experience than the street-level activity suggests.
Location & Nearby Dog Walks
The Waldorf Astoria occupies the corner of Princes Street and Lothian Road at the west end of the city centre. Princes Street Gardens are immediately to the east — a 5-minute walk to the nearest entrance. The West Gardens section closest to the hotel is the quietest part of the park, running from the Caledonian Hotel end toward the Ross Bandstand. Dogs must be on a lead throughout the gardens.
The Water of Leith Walkway is accessible from Belford Road, a 10-minute walk northwest. This riverside path runs 12 miles from Balerno to Leith through Dean Village, Stockbridge, and the Botanic Garden — Edinburgh’s best extended dog walk from a city-centre hotel. The Union Canal towpath at Lochrin Basin (Tollcross, 15 min south) offers flat off-lead walking stretching all the way to Falkirk.
Dog Policy
The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh accepts dogs on request — both the fee and any size restrictions are confirmed at the time of booking. Unlike The Balmoral’s strict 20lb limit, the Caledonian does not publish a blanket weight cap, though it is worth confirming for very large breeds. Dogs must not be left unattended in rooms. The Guerlain Spa, pool, and restaurant areas do not permit dogs. For a confirmed size limit up to 35kg with no ambiguity, Kimpton Charlotte Square is the more transparent alternative at the same price tier.
Who It Suits
The Waldorf Astoria suits guests who want Edinburgh’s most iconic 5-star address — the red sandstone tower at the end of Princes Street is as close to a landmark stay as the city offers. The Guerlain Spa (first in the UK), castle-view rooms, and Grazing by Mark Greenaway make it a strong choice for a special occasion. Dog owners should confirm the pet policy at booking rather than assume, as the on-request basis means terms vary. If you want a confirmed 35kg limit and pool access in the same area, Kimpton Charlotte Square is more explicit.
Practical Tips
- Pet policy on request — call to confirm fee, size limit, and any deposit before booking
- Dogs not permitted in Guerlain Spa, pool, or restaurant areas
- Dogs must not be left unattended in rooms
- Castle-view rooms: request when booking — south-facing rooms face Princes Street
- Princes Street Gardens: 5-minute walk east, dogs on lead
- Water of Leith Walkway: 10-minute walk northwest via Belford Road
- Valet parking available (additional cost) — no self-park on site
- Haymarket Station: 5-minute walk west — useful for west coast train routes
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh accept dogs?
Yes — the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh (The Caledonian) accepts dogs on request. Both the pet fee and any size restrictions are confirmed at booking. Unlike some hotels on this list, no blanket weight limit is published — call ahead to confirm your dog is welcome before reserving.
What is the Guerlain Spa at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh?
The Guerlain Spa at the Waldorf Astoria was the first Guerlain spa to open in the United Kingdom. It includes a pool, steam room, and a full treatment menu using Guerlain products. The spa is not accessible to dogs — they must remain in the guest room during spa visits.
Is there parking at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh?
The hotel offers valet parking at an additional charge — no self-park facility is on site. The nearest public car park is Castle Terrace NCP, approximately a 10-minute walk east. If free parking is a priority, The Dunstane Houses in the West End includes free parking.
