Category: city centre

Edinburgh Diwali kicks off winter festivals

Edinburgh city centre was awash with colour yesterday (Sunday 2nd November) as Edinburgh Diwali marked 10 years of uniting communities and celebrating diversity.

The annual celebration, which was launched in 2015 by the Lord Provost and Indian diaspora of Edinburgh, kick-started the city’s winter festivities with a vibrant parade and performance programme in central Edinburgh.

President of Edinburgh Diwali, Rajnish Singh said: “This year marked a special milestone for Edinburgh Diwali as we proudly celebrated 10 years with the theme that embodies our journey of bringing communities together through light, culture, and joy – Uniting Communities, Celebrating Diversity.

“From a humble beginning in 2015, the Festival of Light ( Diwali) has grown into one of Edinburgh’s most cherished community-led celebrations, thanks to the dedication of our committee members, the incredible talent of our performers, the unwavering support of our volunteers, and the enthusiasm of thousands of friends and audiences who have joined us over the years.”

The fun began at St Andrew Square, where the Lord Provost and Scottish Regiment Band lead a colourful procession of over 150 performers and community representatives through Edinburgh’s New Town.

The parade was enhanced with displays of traditional Indian dance and culture from Yatra Tamil, Uttarakhand, Malayali, and Telugu dance groups, University of Edinburgh’s Junoon Dance, and Edinburgh Banghra Crew.

The Glencorse Pipe Band kept the beat along the parade, while Edinburgh’s South American community joined in with performances from El Encanto and Mextli dance groups.

Following the parade, celebrations moved to West Princes Street Gardens, with a fun-filled afternoon of performance at the Ross Bandstad in the foothills of Edinburgh Castle, alongside a menu of Indian cultural activities and cuisine provided by Mr Basrai World Cuisine, Desh restaurant, treats and henna painting from Lidl.

Edinburgh’s leading classical Indian dance school, Nikkan Dance Academy told the story of Diwali through nine different forms of dance, while Alhalya demonstrated the intricate footwork and dynamic gestures and expressive gestures of Bharatanatyam, a traditional Indian dance known for its dynamic rhythms. Edinburgh’s own Udaan and Bollyfeat performed some contemporary Bollywood fusion, celebrating modern Indian culture.

Closing the day’s performances, the UK’s premier Bollywood Rock Band, Shoonya gave an electrifying performance, before fireworks lit up the sky above Princes Street Gardens to bring the day’s celebrations to a close with a bang.

Remarking on the 10th anniversary of the event, Lord Provost and Chair of Edinburgh Diwali, Councillor Robert Aldridge said: “Diwali is observed by over 1.5 billion people worldwide and we’re proud to bring this exciting tradition to the heart of Scotland’s capital.

“Diwali is a family-friendly celebration of the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair. Free and open to all, it has become one of Edinburgh’s unmissable events in recent years and this year celebrates the 10th anniversary.

“With a colourful parade, live performances, and spectacular fireworks, it’s a joyful occasion that brings communities together and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the festival of lights.”

Consul General of India, Edinburgh, Mr Siddharth Malik said: “Diwali is a festival that symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. It reminds us of the enduring power of truth, compassion, and goodwill to illuminate our lives. The spirit of Diwali continues to inspire and bring together people across the world.

“I am delighted that Edinburgh Diwali 2025 once again brought these timeless values to life in the heart of this beautiful city. The vibrant performances, cultural showcases, and enthusiastic community participation reflect the deep bonds of friendship and mutual respect that exist between India and Scotland.

“I warmly congratulate the team of Edinburgh Diwali and the City of Edinburgh Council for their dedicated efforts in promoting cultural understanding and tradition through this remarkable celebration over the past ten years.”

Edinburgh Diwali President, Rajnish Singh added: “Our sincere gratitude to our funding bodies and sponsors whose support has allowed us to keep the festival free and open to everyone.

“A special acknowledgement goes to City of Edinburgh Council & members of EPOG, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, and the Consul General of India, who have supported us every year since our inception.

“On behalf of the entire Committee, I extend a big thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey.”

Edinburgh Diwali’s 10th anniversary celebration took place on Sunday 2 November. The event was open to all, encouraging people from across Edinburgh and the surrounding area to participate in this family-friendly festival of light.

For further information about Edinburgh Diwali, visit edinburghdiwali.co.uk.

PICTURES: ROBIN MAIR

OMNi teams up with local school for creative milestone initiative 

Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre has teamed up with Scottish artist Helen Denerley and Edinburgh  Zoo to deliver a primary school design project in celebration of the leisure and entertainment  destination’s Dreaming Spires sculpture’s 20th anniversary this year. 

P6 students at St Mary’s RC Primary School were invited to take part in a special design project  entitled Sustainable Safari: Guardians of Tomorrow to commemorate the milestone. The Dreaming  Spires giraffes, Martha and Gilbert, took centre stage in the artwork, while the background showcased each student’s take on a world where nature and people thrive together. 

The OMNi team and Dreaming Spires Artist Helen Denerley attended St Mary’s on Friday 24 October  to judge the 52 designs. Artwork elements included trees, animals, clean energy sources, and the use  of abstract shapes and colours to show a healthy, sustainable environment. 

P6 student, Nathan Glowacki, aged 10 was crowned design project winner for their detailed  presentation of the giraffe form and the inclusion of a jumping calf. The design will be turned into an  animation for all to see on OMNi’s new digital screen on completion of the centre refurbishment.

As a  thank you, the participating students will enjoy a school trip to Edinburgh Zoo to learn about the  giraffes and the conservation efforts of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS). 

Earlier this year, OMNi announced a 12-month corporate partnership with wildlife conservation charity  RZSS and adopted a resident giraffe at Edinburgh Zoo. 

Nicola Kehoe, Head Teacher of St Mary’s RC Primary School, said: “It’s been wonderful to work closely with OMNi on this exciting design project.

“The P6  students were inspired by Helen Denerley’s use of recycled materials and Edinburgh Zoo’s  conservation work – and their individual take on this was reflected in the variety of designs  created.

“The children are incredibly excited for their upcoming reward trip to Edinburgh Zoo,  including a visit to OMNi’s adopted giraffe. The project has created a great start to the new  term – combining creativity, fun, and learning for all.”

Eilidh Parker, OMNi Deputy Centre Manager, said: “We were blown away by the creative talent of the P6 students. Each and every design was  truly terrific, and we cannot wait to see the winning design come to life on OMNi’s brand new  internal digital screen as part of our centre refurbishment. 

“Special thanks to St Mary’s and our project partners Edinburgh Zoo and Helen Denerley. An  inspiring collaboration, aligning beautifully with OMNi’s evolution towards a vibrant and  welcoming destination firmly rooted into the local community.” 

The school project brings the sculpture’s 20th celebrations to a triumphant close. Earlier this year,  OMNi adorned the giraffe sculptures with tassel party hats and created online excitement during a 4- week social media prize draw. 

Over the years, Dreaming Spires sculpture has become a favoured local landmark and a meeting  point for friends, families, and visitors.

As the centre undergoes a £5 million refurbishment, Martha  and Gilbert remain a symbol of creativity, connection and community – values that are central to  OMNi’s vision for the future.

Stay tuned for exciting things to come in the new year. OMNi and its brands remains open and welcomes visitors throughout the centre refurbishment.

Visit  the OMNi website for refurbishment updates: https://omniedinburgh.co.uk/

Edinburgh Poverty Commission: ‘We cannot say things have got better’

‘EDINBURGH IS NOT ON TRACK TO SOLVE POVERTY’

The Edinburgh Poverty Commission has published a report and action plan for tackling poverty over the next five years.

Five years on from their original report, they have joined forces with the End Poverty Edinburgh citizens’ group, to evaluate what has changed in the city since 2020, what has worked best to prevent people being trapped in a cycle of poverty, and to set out a practical pathway for the next five years.

Unveiled at a conference in the Southside yesterday (Friday 31 October), A Just Capital: 2025 Call to Action acknowledges positive progress has been made to support residents across the city – but reveals poverty rates remain largely unchanged and that the next five years need to be a period of accelerated delivery.

Responding to the findings, City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “Since the Commission’s initial report, we’ve declared a housing emergency and experienced an unprecedented cost of living crisis. With food prices now 57% higher and electricity costs up 48%, it has become even more difficult to tackle poverty, but we are making progress.

“The Commission’s calls to action in 2020 have enabled us to focus as a city and to work better together. Our collective efforts have prevented thousands more people from entering poverty and homelessness and have helped many more into secure work. This is alongside putting millions of pounds worth of previously unclaimed benefits into people’s pockets and helping to establish a dedicated poverty prevention fund.

“And yet, poverty rates remain unchanged, and the figures are stark. Nearly a quarter of a million children are experiencing poverty in Scotland, and more than 80,000 Edinburgh residents are struggling to make ends meet, often being forced to choose between heating or eating.

“We cannot address this alone and I welcome the Commission’s latest report, which calls on all levels of government to respond.

“Over the next five years we will focus our efforts on prevention – establishing new neighbourhood prevention partnerships meaning people can get all the help they need in one place. We also need to increase the affordable and social rented housing Edinburgh so desperately needs. We’re determined to take every local action possible to make life fairer for everyone who calls Edinburgh home.

Linda Craik, Co-Chair of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission said: “During this review we’ve heard some quite distressing stories of the impacts and effects of poverty on families and we’ve heard the frustrations of those agencies and individuals who are trying to help them. But we’ve also seen some fantastic examples of collaborative working which is starting to make an impact on the poverty landscape.

“It can be so easy to look at the poverty, housing, health, employment statistics and feel deflated and disheartened, but we, as a city, made a commitment and we are moving forward. 

“Just keep listening to the people you are trying to help – they after all just might have some of the answers and the simple solutions that sometimes aren’t as obvious as you’d think they might be.

“End Poverty Edinburgh are such people and we’re more than happy to work with anyone who wants to be part of movement to eradicate poverty in our city.”

Jim McCormick, Co-Chair of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission, said: “We are five years on since the Edinburgh Poverty Commission set out calls to action for the city in A Just Capital. Published between two Covid lockdowns, Commission members could not have anticipated the long shadow of the pandemic on people’s lives, or the impact of the cost-of-living crisis that followed.

“We cannot say things have got better city-wide. Some things have become tougher. Overall, Edinburgh is not on track to solve poverty. Poverty levels appear to have flat-lined.

“At the same time, it is also true that we have seen signs of positive change. Powerful collaborative work is being done at neighbourhood level, while early but decisive steps are being taken to prevent homelessness.

“That this review has taken place at all is a mark of the city’s commitment. For things to improve, this needs to go further. We have found enough determination in the city to believe that the original calls to action can still be achieved by 2030.

“Longer-term and flexible funding, true collaboration between sectors and new forms of accountability are required for these examples to achieve their real impact.

“This is a time for renewed commitment from those we elect at local, Scottish and UK levels, via investment in social housing, education, fair work, social security, equity in education, health and social care and a just transition. There is no sustainable route to ending poverty otherwise.”

Edinburgh Poverty Commission 2025 Calls to Action (1)Download

Samhuinn Fire Festival 2025: Facing the Dark Together

AN EVENING OF REVELRY AND CELEBRATION ON CALTON HILL

Last night, revellers of 4700 gathered at Holyrood Park to take part in the annual Samhuinn Fire Festival, produced by Beltane Fire Society.

The festival brought to life the struggle between Summer and Winter in a night filled with drumming, dance, fire theatre, and a host of otherworldly characters.

At the heart of the celebration stood the Cailleach, the divine Crone, guiding audiences through reflection and transformation.

Copyright Bleu Hope for Beltane Fire Society, all rights reserved.

Her presence, alongside the deer and the battling Summer and Winter Courts, embodied this year’s theme of radical connection: the courage to face darkness, the strength found in community, and the wisdom of perspective.

Despite an initial spattering of rain, the wet weather staved off, and brought on an evening of fire, celebration and passion for the start of the darker season.

Jenny Bloom, Chair of Beltane Fire Society, said: “Another incredible Samhuinn! As the Cailleach ushers in winter, we carry her wisdom and strength into the dark months ahead.

“Thank you to our amazing volunteers and witnesses for an unforgettable night. See you at Beltane!”

The modern Samhuinn Fire Festival has been running since 1988 and is the autumn and winter counterpart to Beltane Fire Festival, which is held at Calton Hill on 30th April.

The events are immersive experiences, which involve modern re-imaginings of ancient Celtic festivals to mark the turning seasons, and the turning of the wheel.

The Beltane Fire Society is a charity run by volunteers, dedicated to marking the fire festivals of the ancient Celtic calendar and keeping traditional Scottish skills of street theatre, music and pageantry alive.

PICTURES:

Bleu Hope, Cass Senior, Ana Fridrichova, Zhi Kang Chua, James Armandary and Nicholas Feathers.

Edinburgh’s Christmas: Full Ross Bandstand programme unveiled

Red Hot Chilli Pipers announced to headline the community programme

  • Excitement mounts as Edinburgh’s Christmas opening is less than 3 weeks away
  • Traditional Norwegian Christmas Tree & Advent Concert to light-up The Mound and herald beginning of Edinburgh’s winter celebrations
  • Plus, Scottish bagpiping icons, silent discos, ceilidhs, carol concerts and more top the bill for the beloved Ross Bandstand

With just under three weeks until Edinburgh’s Christmas events and attractions open to  Edinburgh residents and visitors, the full Ross Bandstand programme has been unveiled,  promising a lively hub of family-friendly and community events, taking place across four  weekends leading up to Christmas. 

From a showstopping performance from the world-famous Red Hot Chilli Pipers to St.  Andrew’s Day ceilidhs, carol concerts, Santa Runs and more, the much-loved Ross Bandstand  stage will be at the centre of Edinburgh’s seasonal celebrations for 2025.

 A full list of highlights includes: 

Norwegian Christmas Tree Light-Up – Tuesday 18 November, 6pm (Public switch on at 6.15pm):

A beloved annual tradition which recognises the help given to the Nordic country by Scots  during World War II, this special event stands as a powerful symbol of friendship between the  two nations. Each year, the must-see light-up of the gorgeous Norwegian Spruce Christmas  Tree on the Mound marks a cherished moment in the city’s festive calendar, heralding the  beginning of Edinburgh’s winter celebrations. 

The ceremony is followed by Scottish-Norwegian advent concert at St Giles’ Cathedral at 7pm,  where locals and visitors alike are invited to join in for a night of musical reflection. This event  is free to attend, with St Giles’ providing an atmospheric, accessible venue for elves of all ages  to enjoy! 

Light Night Concert at West Princes Street Gardens – Sunday 23 November, 2pm until 6pm:

Edinburgh’s Christmas team is busy decking the halls – and the stage! – for an afternoon of  Christmas magic, featuring an appearance from the Big Man himself.

Between 2pm and 4pm,  the warm-up features local community groups, choirs and dancers taking over the stage with  roaming entertainment, from juggling elves and face painting to dazzling Snow Queens.

From  4pm until 6pm, the main event includes enchanting magical acts, big choir singalongs and a  special visit from Santa, with a lantern parade and collaborations with Edinburgh’s cultural  venues adding extra festive sparkle.

This is a must-attend for families – giggles and jingles  guaranteed! Free entry and no tickets required, just turn up on the day and get ready to sing!  

A Taste of Scotland – Saturday 29 November, 12pm until 6pm (free to attend):

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers take centre stage at the Ross Bandstand to headline a free day of  fun celebrating Scotland’s culture, craft and community spirit. Renowned across the world for  their signature “bagrock” sound, the group’s high-energy performances fuse traditional pipes  with rock anthems, promising to round off the day in unforgettable style. 

Earlier in the day, explore stalls from Scottish makers in recognition of Fair Saturday – the  global movement that celebrates artists, cultural organisations, and social projects the day  after Black Friday. With live music from local performers, Highland dancers, hearty stovies  and more, it’s the perfect way to celebrate Scotland’s creativity and charm! 

St Andrew’s Day Ceilidh & Market – Sunday, 30 November, 12pm until 6pm (free to attend):

Celebrating St. Andrew’s Day, Ross Bandstand comes alive on 30 November with a special  free Family Ceilidh. This year, The Sensational Jimi Shandrix Experience will take to the  stage – a band renowned as one of the top ceilidh acts in the world.

With a caller to teach the  steps, it doesn’t matter whether you are a dab hand at the Dashing White Sergeant or a first time Highland Flinger, everyone’s in for a lively whirl. These traditional Scottish dances are as  fun and joyful to watch as they are to join, with local Highland Dancers on hand to show how  it’s done. 

This event also brings back the local makers’ market and delicious food stalls from A Taste of Scotland on Saturday, offering another chance to browse unique crafts and enjoy a taste of Scotland’s finest fare. 

Nativity Scene Carols on The Mound – Sunday 30 November, 5pm until 6pm, Mound Place: 

Once again, the beautiful Nativity Scene, crafted by Munich sculptor Thomas Hildenbrand,  returns to The Mound as a central part of Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations. Since 2023,  the stunning display has become a much-loved seasonal landmark, offering a quiet space for  reflection amid the bustle of the festive period.

This year, the scene will be blessed by Reverend Leo Cushley, Archbishop of St Andrews &  Edinburgh, marking the beginning of the city’s Christmas celebrations and inviting residents  and visitors alike to pause and share in the message of peace and hope that lies at the heart  of Christmas.

After the blessing, visitors are invited to join the annual Nativity Carol Concert held in  collaboration with Edinburgh Churches Together in Assembly Hall’s beautiful Courtyard,  featuring performances from local school and church choirs. This event is free to attend, with  everyone welcome!

Edinburgh Sings – Saturday 6 December, 2pm until 5pm:

Enjoy a wholesome afternoon of free festive music with performances from community and  performance choirs. Audiences can expect performances of their favourite carols and  Christmas classics at the Ross Bandstand, with plenty of opportunity to join in! 

Santa Run and Santa Paws – Sunday 7 December, 11am (registration 9.30am to 10.30am – starts 11am):

Edinburgh’s Christmas is delighted to welcome the beloved When You Wish Upon a Star  Edinburgh Santa Fun Run & Walk, celebrating 21 years this winter.

The event sees Santas,  Elves, Olafs and other festive creatures run, jog or walk around the 2.5km circuit in West  Princes Street Gardens to fundraise money for a very deserving cause.

When You Wish Upon  a Star is a Scottish charity that makes the dreams of children with life-threatening diseases  come true. Those who would like to take part, can register and purchase tickets here. 

If you are worried about your furry friends feeling left behind, worry no more: Santa Paws is  here! A Santa Run but for animals, Santa Paws sees our canine friends throw on their best  festive outfits and make a run for it.

With photo opportunities, activities throughout the  afternoon and a dog show of best dressed pups on the Bandstand stage, West Princes Street Gardens is paw-sitively the place to be this festive season! 

Silent Disco Christmas Cracker – Saturday 13 December, 6.30pm-8pm:

Get ready to dance the night away beneath the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle as  the Christmas Cracker returns to the Ross Bandstand.

Partygoers can choose from three  music channels packed with festive favourites, with both a static DJ and a roving DJ going  head-to-head to deliver the ultimate Christmas playlist.

A lively, feel-good celebration, this  event promises an unforgettable night of music, lights and festive cheer right in the heart of  the city.

For tickets, visit www.edwinterfest.com.

Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “Christmas is beginning to arrive in Edinburgh, and  there’s so much to look forward to across this year’s celebrations. From festive performances  and community celebrations to special moments for families, most of the events on offer are  free so there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.

“I’m especially delighted to welcome the ever popular Red Hot Chilli Pipers to the Ross  Bandstand for what promises to be a showstopping performance. I’m sure it will be a real  highlight of the season and a fantastic way for people to get in the holiday spirit.”

A Unique Assembly spokesperson said: “West Princes Street Gardens will be bursting with  festive cheer this winter, with a packed programme of free and ticketed community events  spreading Christmas cheer and a warm Scottish welcome to locals and visitors alike.

“Whether  singing loud for all to hear at the Light Night Concert and Silent Disco Christmas Cracker,  birling beneath Edinburgh Castle to live ceilidh bands, watching the world-famous Red Hot  Chilli Pipers sleighing the stage on St. Andrews Day weekend, or joining hundreds of Santas for a run around West Gardens, there is festive fun for everyone!’

Winter Festivals

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#edinburghchristmas

Edinburgh set to come alive for City Poppy Day 2025

Scotland’s capital city is gearing up to host what has become a firm fixture in its calendar this week. Supporting the Scottish Poppy Appeal, Edinburgh Poppy Day returns tomorrow (Thursday, October 30), live from St Andrew Square throughout the day. 

Working in partnership with Poppyscotland to provide the day’s entertainment is BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) with presenters Mark McKenzie and Jim Gellatly who will host a concert with music from the Band of the Royal Marines Scotland, Edinburgh Military Wives Choir, Rosyth Military Wives Choir, RBLS Dunfermline & District Pipe Band and Wave of the Flood, Royal Marine veteran Richard Kerr and George Heriot’s School Pipe Band.

They will also speak to a host of special guests live on air throughout the day from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Scores of volunteers will also be out on the day to collect the vital funds the charity needs to continue supporting the Armed Forces community in Scotland.  

Richard Todd, National Poppy Appeal Manager – Scotland, said: “Edinburgh Poppy Day is always a huge hit across our capital city with locals and visitors taking in the atmosphere and entertainment in St Andrew Square and further afield.

“It is a day where people come together to show their support for the Scottish Poppy Appeal as we lead up to our national day of Remembrance. So, please pop along, donate what you can, wear your poppy with pride and say hello to our wonderful team of volunteers.”

Radio presenter Mark McKenzie, of BFBS, said: “This is always a great day where BFBS teams up with fantastic musicians to highlight the work done by Poppyscotland and how the charity supports our Armed Forces and the veteran’s community.”

Money raised from the Scottish Poppy Appeal and Poppyscotland’s year-round fundraising enables them to deliver support to members of the Armed Forces community in Scotland by providing tailored funding and assistance. The charity also funds services in advice, employment, housing, mental health and mobility. 

Family History – Getting Started

Want to trace your family tree, but not sure where to start?

Come along to our beginners’ #FamilyHistory session Edinburgh Central Library to find out about the free resources that can help you with your research.

We’ll guide you through the basics and show you how to navigate Ancestry and British Newspaper Archive, two brilliant resources for family history and both free to use in all Edinburgh Libraries.

The session ends with a short tour of the physical genealogical resources held in the Edinburgh and Scottish Collection.

The next session is on Thursday 30 October at 2pm.

Book your place by emailing informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk

Edinburgh 900: Salty Seas

EDINBURGH MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL

CORNERSTONE at ST JOHN’S CHURCH PRINCES STREET

FRIDAY 31st OCTOBER from 12 – 12.45pm

As Black History Month UK is coming to an end we invite to a musical storytelling event at Cornerstone Centre Edinburgh at St John’s Episcopal Church Edinburgh on 31 October.

Join us to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and unwavering spirit of humanity as we share stories of John Edmondstone, Joseph Knight and Ann Thompson, Malvina Wells and Jack Gladstone whose lives were marked by the Slave Trade and fight for freedom while discovering the darker side of the Scottish Enlightenment.

Reserve your free tickets, supported by The City of Edinburgh Council Edinburgh 900 Civic Fund, ahead of the Friday event at:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/salty-seas-series-of…

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Five-star spa in the capital awarded top UK accolade

Sheraton achieves elite Five Bubble Luxury status

ONE OF Scotland’s most luxurious spas has secured the highest honour from the UK’s most prestigious spa authority.

The One Spa, located within the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh’s city centre, has been awarded the coveted Five Bubble Luxury status by the Good Spa Guide, making it the only spa in Edinburgh to receive the top ranking.

The award cements One Spa’s position as a leader in wellness and relaxation, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit destination for both visitors and residents seeking a high-end holistic experience.

Run by the independent Good Spa Guide, the Five Bubble Luxury status is awarded following rigorous assessment by trained “Spa Spies” and is reserved only for venues delivering exceptional standards of luxury, treatments, customer service and facilities.

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has long been recognised as a landmark in Scottish hospitality, offering refined five-star experiences and exceptional service in the heart of the capital.

The One Spa is considered a cornerstone of this experience, combining modern design with therapeutic excellence.

Fiona Young, Spa Director at One Spa, said: “Achieving Five Bubble Luxury status is a remarkable milestone for our team.

“This recognition is not only a testament to the hard work and passion of our spa professionals but also reflects the commitment we have made to delivering a world-class wellness experience.

“From our rooftop hydropool to our extensive Thermal Suite and range of expertly delivered treatments, every element of One Spa has been designed with relaxation, rejuvenation and luxury in mind. It is incredibly rewarding to see our dedication acknowledged at this level.”

The Good Spa Guide’s assessment praised One Spa for its calm and spacious atmosphere, top-tier facilities and highly trained therapists. In particular, it highlighted the rooftop hydropool, which offers guests roof top views while soaking in warm, restoring waters.

Set across multiple levels, One Spa offers a unique blend of advanced wellness facilities and relaxing design features, with standout elements including a 19-metre infinity-edge swimming pool, holistic treatment rooms, state-of-the-art gym, and the city’s most extensive Thermal Suite.

The spa’s comprehensive treatment menu ranges from personalised facials and massage therapies to signature rituals and high-performance skin care using both local and globally renowned products.

Copyright Matthew Shaw All rights reserved and all moral rights asserted. See licence supplied with this image for full terms & conditions. Copy available at: www.matthewshaw.co.uk/copyright.html Not for use by architects, interior designers or other hotel suppliers without permission from Matthew Shaw

Martijn Zengerink, General Manager of the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, said: “This award underlines our long-standing commitment to excellence across every part of the Sheraton Grand experience.

“One Spa has always been a cornerstone of our guest offering, and to be recognised at the very highest level reinforces Edinburgh’s reputation as a world-class destination for wellness and hospitality.”

With wellness tourism and staycations continuing to grow in popularity, industry accolades such as this are expected to play an increasingly influential role in helping guests choose where to invest their relaxation time and budget.

The accolade is on the back of the hotel marking its 40th anniversary in 2025 and celebrating four decades of iconic hospitality in Scotland’s capital.

Fiona added: “We’re proud to be flying the flag for Edinburgh as a top-tier spa destination. With a growing focus on wellbeing and self-care, our aim is to continually raise the bar and this award is both a recognition and motivation to keep pushing boundaries.”

To learn more and book an experience at the One Spa visit: https://www.onespa.com/

WICKED INSPIRED: Halloween at The Ivy Edinburgh

This spooky season, take a stroll down the yellow brick road and into The Ivy On The Square, Edinburgh as it transforms into The Ivy Emerald City. With a magical dessert, perfectly pink and gloriously green cocktails, Halloween is not to be missed this year at The Ivy.

From 25th October, The Ivy in Edinburgh will be serving up a wickedly delicious dessert, perfect for rounding off a meal this spooky season. Crafted exclusively for the occasion, The Emerald City Apple sees a chilled apple parfait perched on a golden blondie bed with milk foam, accompanied by a raspberry coulis.

Complete with a green witch’s hand and a cloud of candy floss, the dessert is an indulgent and enchanting treat for guests with a sweet tooth.

A hand reaching for an apple in a bowl AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Sip like a “Good Witch” or a “Bad Witch” with The Ivy’s spellbinding cocktails

Carefully crafted by The Ivy Collection’s expert team of mixologists, this Halloween sees a duo of delicious cocktails launch to celebrate the season:

Bound to be a popular choice for those with a taste of something tart but sweet, the Rhubarb Bubble sees Ketel One vodka, Rhubarb Mead and Doppelgänger Aperitivo blended with a touch of vanilla and served with a magical sprinkling of raspberry sugar dust.

Meanwhile, the Emerald Magic Margarita is definitely a good deed, combining Casamigos tequila with Beesou Honey liqueur and matcha cold brew with a dash of lime and geranium syrup – a dusting of Tajin on the rim casting a spell of heat.

A glass with a drink in it AI-generated content may be incorrect.A glass with a green drink and ice cubes AI-generated content may be incorrect..

Guests are invited to book their table [here] to avoid disappointment.