Inside The Balmoral: Scotland's Finest Hotel

The staff hosts France's national rugby team, and their entourage, who are in town for their Six Nations clash with Scotland.

After four months of lockdown, the hotel emerges from its enforced hibernation. Manager Omar can't wait to welcome guests back to his beloved Palm Court, where intricate pastries and award-winning loose leaf teas await. The staff prepare to welcome the boss, when one of Britain's most famous hoteliers, Rocco Forte, pays a visit to celebrate a five-star win for employees.

It's now autumn and the hotel is in a bid to attract new guests. It goes hi-tech, with an indoor drone shoot for Visit Scotland. Resident hotel manager Rob gets Instagram-ready, welcoming social media celebrity Mildred - a kilt-sporting sausage dog with 60,000 followers.

Staff at the Edinburgh hotel prepare for a very different Christmas, with Covid-19 restrictions on restaurants and bars in Scotland meaning the focus is on in-room dining. Executive housekeeper Vicky transforms Palm Court into a winter forest and lights up Princes Street with a sparkling display at the front of the establishment.