There’s still time to share your views on council plans to revitalise Princes Street, the Gardens and area around Waverley Station.
The survey closes at midnight TONIGHT – Friday (21 Feb). If you work, live, shop, enjoy visiting or just travel through the city centre, this survey is for you:
105 years young! The Famous Spiegeltent celebrates her ‘centenary plus’ this summer by returning to St Andrew Square, Edinburgh
The trailblazing original travelling venue invites you to celebrate over a century of spellbinding entertainment and the 21st birthday of her notorious, multi-award-winning house show, La Clique!
This summer, having travelled to countless cities across the world, the iconic and internationally acclaimed venue that’s “just too good to be true” (IYKYK) returns in style to Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square after almost a decade away from her home turf. An iconic fixture at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for 20 years since 1996, The Famous Spiegeltent has been instrumental in promoting the international careers of variety, cabaret, independent music and new circus arts.
2025 marks both The Famous Spiegeltent’s 105th birthday as well as the 21st birthday of her notorious, multi-award-winning house show, La Clique!
Crafted from timber, canvas, velvet and kaleidoscopic leaded glass, with her bevelled mirrors, intimate booths, ornate bar and parquetry teak dance floor, The Famous Spiegeltent is the oldest peripatetic spiegeltent in circulation today, and has launched a myriad of multi-award-winning shows and the careers of countless artists* in its travels to the four corners of the globe.
Built in 1920 by master craftsmen Oscar Mols Dom and Louis Goor, The Famous Spiegeltent is the largest and most beautiful of the last-remaining antique Belgian mirror tents and has spent a lifetime appearing at festivals and village fairs throughout Europe, Australia and beyond, playing host to the world’s greatest cabaret performers and musicians.
Since Marlene Dietrich sang ‘Falling In Love Again’ on The Famous Spiegeltent’s stage in the 1930s, its magic mirrors have reflected images of raucous laughter, awestruck oohs & ahs and rapturous applause. And the dance floor has thrummed to the beat of her guests ‘tripping the light fantastic’ as indelible memories have been created for crowd after crowd of devotees and newcomers alike.
Since its inception in 2004 in The Famous Spiegeltent at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, La Clique has taken the world by storm.
A theatrical phenomenon, a unique and inspirational night of live entertainment, La Clique is ‘variety’ reinvented and redefined for the 21st century — an inspired mélange of cabaret, new burlesque, circus and modern vaudeville.
For the past two decades, this prestige show has played to sold-out audiences of over one million people in 21 cities across 11 countries, showcasing hundreds of the world’s greatest, most innovative variety performers, and winning countless awards along the way – including Olivier Awards for Best Entertainment in London’s West End.
La Clique embodies the Zeitgeist as the original and definitive Spiegeltent production, single-handedly reimagining a genre, inspiring an entire generation of intimate cabaret circus and birthing a multitude of shows in its wake.
In 2024, La Clique kicked off its international 20th anniversary tour at the Sydney Opera House, followed by London’s Leicester Square, and is spending the first part of 2025 traversing the Antipodes.
La Clique hits its 21st Birthday milestone upon the show’s return to Edinburgh this summer, coming back to where it all began, for an unprecedented six-week season inside The Famous Spiegeltent, after nearly a decade out of the nest. For this coming-of-age celebration, audiences are encouraged to frock up and find their inner Spiegel for a house party like no other!
The very essence of live entertainment, La Clique is a unique blend of daring acrobatics, jaw-dropping stunts, scintillating burlesque and raucous comedy. Visceral, ethereal and in-your-face, each act a masterpiece of artistry and athleticism, La Clique showcases a riotous troupe of crème de la crème artists from around the world.
This extra-special 21st Birthday edition of the show is a triumphant celebration of La Clique’s history, with a cast spanning generations; this is a season where legacy meets latest, with all performers at the very peak of their powers.
Creative producer and Spiegel maestro David Batessays: “Leave your troubles at the doors of The Famous Spiegeltent and step into our Edinburgh-born international sensation, La Clique.
“This will be the sexiest, funniest and most dangerous birthday party in town, and we are honoured to share this celebration with the people and the place that has forever changed all our lives.
“To our Edinburgh audience, we can’t wait to return and raise a glass with you for La Clique’s 21st Birthday! Over your head, under your skin, below the belt – hang onto your hat and strap yourself in, as we present … La Clique!”
Businesses in Edinburgh are being invited to engage with dozens of Council services and business-facing partners face to face.
A Meet the Council event will be held on Tuesday 11 March at the Assembly Rooms on George Street between 10:00am and 2:00pm.
Local businesses are encouraged to register in advance to secure a space to the drop-in, with opportunities throughout the day to meet with key Council teams and hear about opportunities for business growth.
Offering a single point of access for business support, the event will bring together Council officers from:
• Building standards • Business Gateway • Commercial property • Cultural events • Economic development • Edinburgh Convention Bureau • Environmental health • Film Edinburgh • Forever Edinburgh • JET (Jobs, Education & Training) • Licensing • Non-Domestic Rates • Parental Employability Support • Planning • Procurement • The Edinburgh Employer Recruitment Incentive • The Edinburgh Guarantee • Trading standards • Visitor Levy
Throughout the day, external partners will also be on hand to present and share their expertise, including:
• Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, an independent membership organisation which supports over 1,000 organisations who employ more than 120,000 staff in the Capital • British Business Bank, a government-owned economic bank specialised in helping businesses in the UK access financial support • Federation of Small Businesses, a non-profit organisation that helps small businesses and the self-employed • Capital City Partnership, the anchor delivery body for Edinburgh’s employability strategy, working together to tackle inequality and poverty • Edinburgh Social Enterprise Network, which works to create opportunities for Edinburgh’s Social Enterprise community to develop and thrive • Forth Green Freeport, Scotland’s largest opportunity to deliver a just transition to net zero, to attract significant inward investment, to build international trade and export capability, and to create high quality and well paid jobs.
Councillor Lezley Marion Cameron, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “Edinburgh continues to have the strongest local economy outside of London and the highest number of registered Living Wage employers in Scotland.
“The entrepreneurialism, success and resilience of Edinburgh business owners contributes hugely to what makes our City of Edinburgh a unique and special place to live and work.
“We would like to work much more closely with the business community in offering meaningful support, understand more fully the views, concerns and aspirations of business owners and work jointly in securing a vibrant, sustainable, and resilient economic future for Edinburgh.
“We recognise that the current economic climate is challenging, and in working together with businesses and other partners, there is much we can do collectively to grow and sustain Edinburgh’s economy, promote the benefits of Fair Work, and become a fairer city for all. That’s why the Council is hosting this opportunity for businesses to meet us face-to-face and engage with our staff teams across a variety of services which support business.
“Whether you’re looking for advice on funding, navigating licensing, or exploring how we can support employers, this event is an ideal place to connect directly with the right people, who can provide the advice and support you need.”
The Meet the Council event is designed to support Edinburgh’s business community and help foster a thriving, greener, and fairer economy – as outlined in the Council’s Business Plan 2023-27.
Join us on Spaceship Earth as Edinburgh Science Festival blasts off from 5 – 20 April
From the depths of sea trenches to the far reaches of outer space; from the beginnings of life in the womb to living forever; from the sound of galaxies to the minibeasts in your garden, the Festival welcomes everyone to explore the theme of Spaceship Earth and how we can all live like astronauts for the good of planet Earth.
Edinburgh Science Festival 2025 delivers a programme which is both down to earth and out of this world, showcasing the cutting-edge technology and science to help us all live ‘like an astronaut’ aboard Spaceship Earth and together create a more sustainable future.
All-star names this year include Professor Richard Dawkins, former NASA astronaut and oceanographer Dr Kathy Sullivan, and Edinburgh-born Director of Community Clothing and judge on the BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee Patrick Grant
DiscoveryLab at City Art Centre gives families five floors of hands-on science to get to grips with: the perfect family day out this Easter break.
Guaranteed sell-out every year, Science Nights Out are back with more creative ways to get everyone hands-on with science in a relaxed environment.
The Festival, renowned for its unique presentations of arts colliding with STEM, creating STEAM, delves deep into the worlds of speculative fiction, art exhibitions, sci-fi film screenings and music of the spheres
The Festival takes place all over Edinburgh with events, talks, workshops and exhibitions taking place at the National Museum of Scotland, Dynamic Earth, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and Edinburgh Zoo.
This year’s Festival shows for children 5+ including a baking show that’s out of this world with The Great British Bake Off finalist Josh Smalley.
Edinburgh Science Festival is the first and still one of Europe’s biggest science festivals, taking place over the Easter holidays, between 5 and 20 April.
With the 2025 theme of Spaceship Earth, the Festival continues its years-long commitment to Programming for the Planet. It urges everyone to live like an astronaut, a battle to learn from the constraints of living on a space station where resources are impossibly constrained, and every gram of material and watt of energy is precious.
This year’s theme of Spaceship Earth draws on inspiration from science fiction and science fact, questioning how we might better live on Earth. As scientists begin to ponder the wonders of long-term space travel, the Festival invites visitors to enter the mind of an astronaut as a poignant reminder that resources on earth are finite and that we have the tools to utilise to create a sustainable future for us all.
Edinburgh Science Director and CEO, Hassun El-Zafar said: “It’s a great privilege to welcome guests and visitors, from near and far, to the 2025 Edinburgh Science Festival – my first as Director and CEO.
“For 35 years, Edinburgh Science has been fostering curiosity, discovery, and wonder, and this year continues that tradition. This Spring, we invite you to explore how we can collaborate to build a fairer, more regenerative world – one that preserves and nurtures our Spaceship Earth.
“Our Festival programme showcases an inspiring line-up of distinguished scientists, intrepid explorers, and visionary thinkers, including Richard Dawkins, NASA astronaut Kathy Sullivan, The Great British Sewing Bee’s Patrick Grant, and sustainability expert Mike Berners-Lee. This year also marks the launch of DiscoveryLab, our reimagined family experience at the City Art Centre.
“We hope this year’s festival will spark ideas, ignite passions, and encourage a collective sense of responsibility for the world we share. We are thrilled to share these experiences with you and look forward to the journey ahead aboard our fragile, beautiful vessel, Spaceship Earth.”
Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “The Edinburgh Science Festival is an eagerly awaited event – sparking curiosity, showcasing innovation, and celebrating Scotland’s world-leading strengths in science and creativity.
“The Festival makes science accessible to all, while playing a vital role in inspiring young people, supporting STEM learning, and nurturing Scotland’s next generation of scientists.”
City of Edinburgh Council Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Val Walker said: “We are once again excited to support the Edinburgh International Science Festival, which transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of science and technology for all ages.
“Throughout the Festival, our City Art Centre will be a dynamic space filled with family-friendly events, offering five floors of hands-on science for children as young as three. Whether you’re making slime, becoming an animal conservationist, solving a crime scene mystery, or programming your own robot, there’s endless exploration to be had!
“Inspired by both science fiction and science fact, and with the theme Spaceship Earth the jam-packed programme has something for everyone and it’s the perfect way for families to enjoy the Easter holidays together.”
Edinburgh Science is a world expert in producing live science events and the 2025 Festival is the prime example of the power of bringing people together to explore the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering and maths and arts.
The Festival is pleased to continue the fantastic collaboration with the venues around the city, including National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Zoo, the Royal Botanic Gardens, The University of Edinburgh, and Dynamic Earth, each presenting a number of science events for children and adults. This year’s programme is spread across 30 venues and 40% of the offer is free to access.
2025 Highlights
DiscoveryLab, the Festival’s reimagined flagship experience at City Art Centre offers five floors of immersive workshops and activities for children between 3 and 12 years-old and their families to explore. From making your own slime, to becoming an animal conservationist, investigating a crime scene, or programming your own robot, DiscoveryLab is the most fun a family can have this Easter break! DiscoveryLab is supported by Cirrus Logic.
Edinburgh Medal (16 April) is a prestigious award founded by the City of Edinburgh Council in 1989. This year’s Medal’s recipient is Prof Johan Rockström, a scientist internationally recognised for his work on development of the Planetary Boundaries framework. Prof Rockström will be joining this year’s Festival with an address which examines Navigating Humanity’s Future on Earth. The award-winning professor was recognised in TIME100: Most Influential People, his TED talks have over seven million views, and his popular science books Big World, Small Planet, Breaking Boundaries, and The Human Quest encourage a shift toward more sustainable management of planetary resources.
Spaceship Earth, free at the National Museum of Scotland (5 – 20 April),is aninteractive exhibition explores the challenges of living on a planet with finite resources, through the lenses of science fiction and space exploration. Exploring the latest technological advances involving the burgeoning UK space industry, we look Earthwards to consider re-designing everyday life to run on less.
Starry Names
The award-winning author of The Selfish Gene, Prof Richard Dawkins introduces his latest groundbreaking book, The Genetic Book of the Dead (14 April).This is an unforgettable opportunity to hear from one of the world’s leading scientific figures and to unlock the door to evolutionary history, seen through wholly new eyes.
In Less with Patrick Grant (5 April), join Director of Community Clothing and BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant in conversation with broadcaster and climate writer Lucy Siegle as they consider the crisis of consumption and quality in fashion.
In Above and Below: An Astronaut’s View of our Planet (5 April), hear firsthand from Dr Kathy Sullivan, both the first American woman to walk in space, and the first woman to visit the deepest spot in the oceans, about her unparalleled experiences as a NASA astronaut and oceanographer, as well as an advisor to Joe Biden.
Every day, Arup works to shape a better world. But, in a rapidly changing environment what does “better” truly mean? Join Dame Jo da Silva, Arup’s Global Director for Sustainable Development, as she explores how we can tackle these changes in Shaping A Better World (17 April).
Get ready to make some noise at an unmissable night of fun, facts and fabulous entertainment with FameLab UK: Scottish Finals (7 April), the ultimate evening of quick-fire science. Scotland’s best new voices in science, technology and engineering will each have just three minutes to convey a scientific concept to you and our expert panel of judges, before a winner is chosen to represent Scotland at the final of FameLab UK.
Climate Change
Scotland has set ambitious targets for achieving net zero carbon emissions, but with 80% of Scottish buildings currently reliant on fossil fuels, how can this be achieved? Join experts in sustainable heating Vital Energi and grassroots movement Clean Heat Edinburgh Forum for a myth-busting discussion at Clean Energy Communities (9 April). In A Climate of Truth (15 April), sustainability expert Mike Berners-Lee looks at the challenge of the climate emergency from new angles and reveals how the need for radically higher standards of honesty in our politics, media, and business is the single most critical point for those seeking change. Researchers from Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI) will showcase our climate change work and together we’ll draw a vision of a thriving future, living with climate change In Decide Your Climate Future (14 April).
How do we ensure that later life is a healthy life? Join Professor of Elderly Care Gillian Mead, Patient and Public Involvement Coordinator Daria Ihnatenko, Senior Lecturer in Global Health Policy Dr Emily Adrion, artificial intelligence expert Prof Jacques Fleuriot and Immunologist Prof Neil Mabbott for an interactive session Who Wants to Live Forever? (7 April). Memory Lane: The perfectly Imperfect Ways We Remember (18 April), psychologists Ciara Greene and Gillian Murphy explore the cutting-edge science of human memory, the ethical implications of memory manipulation and the pitfalls of false recollections. Are sins really moral failings or are they simply important and useful functions that aid us? Join Professor of neurology Guy Leschzinefor Seven Deadly Sins (15 April) as he reveals the hidden science and humanity behind our so-called flaws and follies.
Soon it will be possible to diagnose health conditions such as Alzheimer’s years ahead of time – but would you want to know? A panel of experts put together by the University of St Andrews will come together for Alzheimer’s: To Test or Not to Test (9 April) to discuss the complex, ethical questions that society must face. In Transplanting Hope (10 April) renowned surgeons Prof Richard Smith and Isabel Quiroga share the extraordinary and world-changing story of a 25-year journey which led to the first UK human womb transplant in 2023.
Join women’s health expert and documentary maker Kate Muir in Demystifying the Menopause (13 April), a shame-free discussion fighting the myths and sharing the truth about the perimenopause. Known for her activism and approachable, practical advice, Kate was the Producer for Channel 4’s documentary Davina McCall’s Pill Revolution, investigating contraception chaos. Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine (27 April), at the National Museum of Scotland is a new, free exhibition at that presents the science behind the COVID-19 vaccine and explains the logistics behind its global roll-out. A curator tour with Sophie Goggins, Senior Curator of Biomedical Science, will also take place on the 9 April.
Mosquitoes might be the world’s most dangerous animal, but they are also a cool tool for encouraging an interest in biology. Dr Aidan O’Donnell and Dr Petra Schneider have been awarded the University of Edinburgh’s Tam Dalyell Prize for Excellence in Engaging the Public with Science in recognition of their work to help pupils experience being a scientist and improve teachers’ confidence with STEM. They will present the Tam Dalyell Prize Lecture on 6 April.
The worlds of STEM and arts combine in this year’s programme for a selection of genre-defying events. Hear exclusive first readings at Sci-Fi Futures (8 April), a creative collision of science fiction and science fact, bringing together Scottish writers Martin MacInnes, L R Lam and Eris Young, and Professor of Applied Space Technology and Scotland’s leading space expert Prof Malcolm Macdonald. This exciting collaboration between Edinburgh Science Festival and Edinburgh International Book Festival, commissioned three brand new writings envisioning a utopian future truly living within our means.
Theoretical physicist and industrial musician Prof Bob Coecke is here to open our minds and ears with Quantum Music (10 April). Bob illustrates how the coming quantum revolution can be used to compose new kinds of music and will “play his guitar on a quantum computer”. In The Sound of Galaxies (16 April), an interactive sound-forward session, you’ll listen to galaxy data and gain a deeper appreciation for the innovative ways scientists explore the Universe.
Can arid lands be spaces for new ecological world-making? Desert Future (11 April) is a film screening of Wanuri Kahiu’s Pumzi and discussion explores climate fiction, environmental humanities, history of science and Black/Africana studies.
The Edinburgh Conservation Film Festival (19 April) is a celebration of conservation stories from around the world that will inspire, engage, and inform you about some of the many projects helping to protect the world’s biodiversity.
Enjoy a series of unique and engaging nights out in the city this April with Science Nights Out. Awaken your inner detective at Who Dunit? (8 April) and experience a behind-the-scenes tour of the oldest medical library in Scotland while you delve into the ghastly and most extraordinary world of historic forensic science. Celebrate An Evening of Cosmic Exploration (4 April) at this intergalactic night out that’s just for adults! Choose from a programme of quick-fire talks, interactive experiences, or relax with a drink.
Join expert astronomers at Dynamic Earth’s Planetarium Lates: You are Here (10,11, and 12 April) on a journey and delve deeper into the Universe than ever before. There’s cause for optimism with Planetarium Lates: Don’t Panic! (17, 18 & 19 April) and you can enjoy your favourite science fiction films at Planetarium Lates: Earth from Above (10 – 19 April), including Gravity, Moon, Apollo 13, Star Trek IV, The Martian and Contact.
Brace yourself for an out-of-this-world collision of science and fact, as the doors of the National Museum of Scotland are thrown open for Spaceship Earth After Hours (11 April). At this adults-only event, immerse yourself in the Spaceship Earth exhibition, marvel at new works in a costume show from the Edinburgh College of Art, and ask what it’s really like living on the International Space Station when you meet Turkish Astronaut Alper Gezeravci.
Families
Families this year have plenty to explore at this year’s Festival, including with a special talk from NASA’s Dr Kathy Sullivan with Walk Like An Astronaut (5 April). Specially curated for younger science curious minds, this a family-friendly opportunity to ask an astronaut and eyeball an oceanographer.
At The Ornithopter (5 April), a pioneering step in human powered flight, a visionary creation set to change the course of human history… or maybe it’s just a complete disaster. A celebration of spectacular failure based on the myth of Icarus, this new work-in-progress is an intimate walk-through performance experience. At The Ultimate Bubble Show (5 April) Help Ray, International Bubbleologist (yes, that’s a real job!) and Guinness World Record Holder, on his quest to make… The ultimate bubble! This is chemistry as you’ve never seen it before!
At The Rocket Show (13 April) our backyard scientist discovers what it takes to build a rocket fit for space in this explosive family-friendly adventure. And at Incredible Inventions (6 April) discover how to design your own amazing inventions in this hilarious, interactive show with Blue Peter award-winner, writer and cartoonist Mike Barfield.
Beastlands with Jess French (12 April) will transport you to a magical world full of imaginative creatures with presenter of the BBC’s Minibeast Adventure with Jess and zoologist Jess French.
From hot cross buns to chocolate eggs, chemist and Great British Bake-Off finalist Josh Smalley explores the science behind our Easter treats in The Easter Baking Show (18 April). Josh also presents Mission Bake: From Bake Off to Blast Off (18 April) showcasing the wonders of space through the art of baking.
At the National Museum of Scotland learn how to use Scratch computer programming with a mini LEGO® rover at Code Your Own Mars Mission (11 April), or learn a new language not spoken anywhere in the world at Let’s Grow a Language! (14-17 April). Unleash your creativity at Your Robot Friend (15 April) by designing the robots you want for the future. Meanwhile Eye, Eye Doctor! (16 April) gives you the chance to be an optometrist and uncover the mysteries of how our eyes reflect our overall well-being. Or become an e-waste scavenger and make some amazing robotic musical instruments from upcycled electronic junk at E-Waste Scavengers (19 April).
Free Events for Kids:
At Discover Our Science with The University of Edinburgh (7-10 & 14-17 April) meet scientists and discover what they’re working on in the drop-in space and have a go at being a scientist. Activities will be different each week of the Festival.
Calling all child scientists –the Festival is conducting a survey that aims to understand how children and adults think about conservation and insects, with prizes offered to those who take part in Moral Minds (7-10 April).
There is lots more to enjoy for families across the city at Edinburgh Science Festival partner venues The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh Zoo and Dynamic Earth.
At the Botanic Gardens, highlights include hands-on workshops, Botanic Labs, talks on Plant Power, Botanics Lab, events using LEGO® bricks to explore how plants thrive, and explorations of the incredible Botanics’ Herbarium. More Royal Botanic Garden highlights here.
Families can have a wild day out at Edinburgh Zoo with animal experiences, natural resource workshops and conservation events aimed at all ages. More Edinburgh Zoo highlights here.
At world-class science centre and planetarium Dynamic Earth, families can meet microorganism, marine and sustainability scientists, explore a nature nursery trail, come face to face with some real creepy-crawlies and find their inner palaeontologists. More Dynamic Earth highlights here.
Around the City and beyond
You’ll find Science Festival events all over the city and in some of Scotland’s picturesque coastal towns. Let the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) experts lead you on a free and exciting journey, answering questions on the possibility of life on other planets and the technologies of the future with Family Day in Space (5 April).
Discover Edinburgh’s storied history of theoretical physics in Higgs Theoretical Physics Walking Tour (5,7,12,14 April), a tour which guides you through the nooks and crannies of beautiful Edinburgh, highlighting places associated with extraordinary physicists who have called the Scottish capital home.
At Edinburgh’s Veterinary History (9, 11, 12 April) veterinary Prof Andrew Gardiner and cairn terrier Annie treat you to a creaturely 2km walk exploring the history of veterinary education in Edinburgh and the links between human and veterinary medicine.
Perfect for all ages, dive into hands-on space-themed activities at Wonders of Space Family Festival (11 April) at Archerfield Walled Garden. Be sure to also embark on a captivating tour of the solar system along the Dirleton Solar Walk, stretching from Archerfield Walled Garden to Dirleton Village. Geologists from the Edinburgh Geological Society explore local beaches at Beach Explorers (15-18 April).
At Sustainable Skies (14-18 April), explore the future challenges faced by flight through fun, family activities with a guided tour of the Civil Aviation Hangar to find out more about the future of sustainable flight at the National Museum of Flight.
At DiscoveryLab within City Art Centre, sensory backpacks and ear defenders are available free of charge from the ticketing desk on the ground floor, and there will be a Quiet Space on the third floor where visitors can take a break from the excitement. Although particularly designed for those with autism or sensory needs, these resources are available to everyone.
As in previous years, the Festival presents a series of BSL-interpreted events.
Visit the Festival website for more information on accessibility.
Special offers revealed for over 50 city-centre restaurants, cafes and bars taking part in the festival
Eat Out Edinburgh, the highly anticipated city-centre restaurant festival run by Essential Edinburgh, today reveals the full list of incredible dining offers running throughout March.
This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup of over 50 top restaurants, cafes and bars, featuring exclusive deals, curated set menus, and the introduction of a brand-new supper club series as a first for this year’s festival.
Diners can now explore the special offers live online at www.eatoutedinburgh.com, with deals from some of Edinburgh’s best-loved venues from Princes Street and Charlotte Square to St James Quarter – all designed to showcase the city centre’s vibrant hospitality scene.
With a wave of exciting new restaurant openings in the capital, this year’s Eat Out Edinburgh welcomes several first-time participants, bringing fresh flavours and experiences to the festival, including:
Dishoom: Enjoy a special Bombay-inspired menu for £29 per person, including dishes like Tandoori Chaat, Goan Monkfish Curry, and Makhmali Paneer.
Roxy Lanes: Perfect for a midweek catch-up, offering 20% off food Sunday through Thursday – grab a bite and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The Botanist: Whether you’re in the mood for two courses (£20) or three (£25), The Botanist offers an incredible deal Monday to Thursday throughout March.
Manahatta: Bringing the big city buzz to Edinburgh, the NYC inspired venue is offering two courses for £15 or three for £20, valid Monday – Friday throughout March.
The Court: In the heart of The Caledonian Edinburgh, discover a seasonally-inspired selection of dishes with a delicious three course lunch menu, showcasing the best of local, Scottish produce for just £29.
SUSHISAMBA: The Samba Express menu brings together the bold and vibrant flavours of Japan, Brazil, and Peru for an unforgettable dining journey, offering two courses for just £25 or three courses for £30.
Le Petit Beefbar: Offering Eat Out Edinburgh diners an exclusive 20% off, a set-lunch menu is available Monday to Thursday featuring everything from their famous rock corn to the classic steak frites. Now we’re offering Eat Out Edinburgh guests an exclusive 20% off.
Returning favourites such as Chaophraya, Lady Libertine, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, Duck & Waffle, and BABA among many others have also unveiled exclusive menus and special offers available to book now, ensuring there’s something for every taste, budget and occasion throughout the month.
This year introduces a new highlight: a series of intimate supper clubs bookending the festival offering food lovers a unique opportunity to enjoy exclusive dining experiences in a social setting, hosted by hot-ticket venues Hawksmoor and Dean Banks at the Pompadour.
Kickstarting the festival on the 6th of March, Hawksmoor Edinburgh will host a special evening celebrating British seasonal produce, featuring a three-course sharing menu with wine, set within the stunning McLellan Room.
Guests will be welcomed with a Portobello Road Gin cocktail before indulging in a showcase of the Hawksmoor classics served family style – including a selection of their signature prime meats – and walk away with a box of the restaurant’s ‘Tributes’ salted caramel chocolates, as a sweet reminder of the evening. Tickets are available to book now at just £75 per person.
Copyright – Grant Anderson / www.grantanderson.me / @grantandersondotme
Bringing the festival to a spectacular close, Dean Banks at The Pompadour will offer their own supper club with an unforgettable seven-course tasting menu on 27th March, available at an incredible 50% discount for just £65 per person.
Hosted in the venue’s stunning private room within the Caledonian Edinburgh, Chef Banks himself will walk guests through each course, celebrating Scotland’s best produce of the season.
Tickets are available to book now. Guests are encouraged to book their spot for both events soon through the Eat Out Edinburgh website, as spots are limited to these exclusive evenings.
Following the success of Eat Out Edinburgh 2024, which saw a 9.2% increase in hospitality sales and over 18,700 bookings for city centre venues, this year’s campaign is set to be even bigger. The initiative encourages locals, visitors, and city centre workers to explore and support Edinburgh’s dynamic food and drink scene.
Copyright – Grant Anderson / www.grantanderson.me / @grantandersondotme
Emily Campbell Johnston, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications at Essential Edinburgh, said: “With so many exciting new venues opening in the city centre, this year’s Eat Out Edinburgh is set to be our most diverse and engaging yet.
“The addition of supper clubs will bring a whole new level of exclusivity and experience for diners. Whether you’re discovering a new favourite spot or revisiting a beloved classic, March is the perfect time to celebrate Edinburgh’s incredible hospitality scene.”
A full list of participating venues and offers is available at
As part of the ongoing refurbishment of North Bridge, there will be a northbound closure for six weeks from Monday 17 February.
During this period traffic will only be permitted to proceed southbound (from Princes Street towards South Bridge).
The six-week closure is to undertake resurfacing on both the southbound approach to the bridge (both lanes outside Waverley Gate toward Princes Street) and the southbound departure of the bridge (both lanes from the entrance to the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton on North Bridge to the junction at High Street).
The wider work on North Bridge has included refurbishing the cast iron bridge facades, grit blasting and repainting structural steelwork, repairing and improving the footway paving and underdrainage amongst a host of other improvements. A full list of the improvements and the wider project benefits is on our website.
The council is targeting the end of this year for the end of major repair works.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “I appreciate this temporary closure will be frustrating for our residents and businesses. I want to thank them for their continued patience as we carry out these essential works.
“These works are part of the wider project to restore this crucial link between the north and south of the city – and of course preserve it for future generations.
“I’m conscious that this work is taking longer to complete than we had initially anticipated, but this is this a hugely complex project, with the historic nature of the bridge requiring painstaking and specialist work to restore it to its former glory.”
Have you heard the exciting news? Café Portrait is open again with a fresh new look!
Join us for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch in The Nook, our new and tranquil dining space. Enjoy signature dishes prepared right in our kitchen, inspired by the beautiful Portrait gallery’s artworks.
The menu will include delicious food made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, with everything prepared onsite. Under the guidance of Head Chef Alec, new signature dishes have been crafted, inspired by the gallery’s artwork.
One standout from The Nook’s menu is the Smokie Hash, a vibrant dish of smoked haddock, sweet potato hash, poached egg, wilted kale, spinach, grilled vine tomato, and cava beurre blanc.
It’s inspired by John Bellany’s Queen Street Café painting, which hangs in the Café and prominently features fish.
We’ve missed you, and we’re excited to welcome you back from 10am-4:30pm, daily. See you soon!
An OPEN LETTER from ALISON NOLAN, chief executive officer of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC)
Did you know that over the past decade, 53 public libraries across Scotland have closed their doors for good – without replacement ?
The same public libraries which provide essential access to trusted information and education for all, which ignite a lifelong love of reading from early years, and which serve as warm, welcoming spaces where everyone is welcome without any expectation to spend. The same public libraries which, time and again, deliver enormous value to communities across the country, only to find themselves at risk when budgets are debated.
I’ve written to councillors across Edinburgh, before crucial budget decisions are made for the next financial year, to remind them what investment in public libraries truly means.
At the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), the advocacy body for Scotland’s network of over 500 public and mobile libraries, we understand the delicate financial situation that councils must navigate but we would urge those considering cuts to their library services to think again.
It’s no secret that the cultural sector is under unprecedented pressure but the narrative that austerity measures justify these cuts is shortsighted. This isn’t just a story of diminishing buildings and bookshelves; it’s a story of lives disrupted.
These closures are deeply felt because libraries represent so much more than the sum of their parts. Public libraries remain the most popular service local government delivers. Closing these doors means cutting off opportunities — a cost far greater than any savings achieved.
Libraries are proven to deliver significant economic and social returns, with research from Suffolk Libraires revealing a £6.95 return of economic benefit for every £1 invested through improved literacy, better mental health and stronger communities. And of course, when this investment figure is flipped, we see that the closure of public libraries will result in the community losing out on £6.95 of economic and social benefit for every £1 that is invested elsewhere.
The troubling trend of closures and cuts to library services across the country all too often disproportionately affects rural communities, exacerbating existing inequalities by stripping away vital access to education, digital resources and safe spaces for social interaction.
For these communities, libraries are not a luxury but a necessity. They provide essential services to support job applications, digital literacy training and social connection. To lose them is to deepen the isolation already felt by many.
Ask yourself: where else can citizens turn for support with their health, finances and employment? Libraries do it all under a single roof. They make real change to people in communities right across Edinburgh and play a central part in how the council brings about change.
Libraries drive forward crucial national agendas including preventative health – with the Health on the Shelf research report showing they save NHS Scotland £3.2m every year, bridging the digital divide by offering free access to PCs, Wi-Fi and digital support for a range of essential services, and fostering social cohesion by hosting a diverse range of community events. And this is all in addition to their core function: to encourage reading and provide a range of trusted reference materials.
As cuts and closures loom across the country, we’re urging local decision-makers to prioritise sustainable investment in libraries. Cutting library budgets is a false economy. The cost of losing libraries extends far beyond financial savings, impacting education, mental health and community cohesion. But it’s not just closures that we’re concerned about.
The slow, salami-slicing effect that has been seen over recent years, with opening hours cut – decreasing by 13%, on average – budgets slashed and staffing numbers reduced is felt across communities, with 1 in 3 voicing fears that their whole service is at risk.
Where councils have embraced the importance of libraries, the benefits are clear. 22 out of the 32 local authorities have not made any cuts to their library services in the last decade; instead, they are choosing to invest in their future, from creating learning hubs which have seen unprecedented loan figures, to developing dedicated ‘Maker Spaces’, reinforcing the role that libraries play as the originators of the sharing economy by offering access to emerging technology, such as 3D printers and laser cutters, as well as sewing and embroidery equipment.
In a recent survey from the Association of Public Libraries in Scotland, over 93% agreed that using the public library improves their quality of life, reminding us of the immense value that a public library holds, evolving to meet the needs of modern Scotland with the emergence of whole-community assets that can be used by educators, small businesses, community groups, and individuals to help people right across Edinburgh achieve their potential, while retaining their fundamental purpose: to connect, inspire and empower.
These services are a source of inspiration, but they remain the exception rather than the rule. To fulfil this potential, they need more than goodwill — they need sustainable funding.
No other community asset can deliver the vast economic and social benefits that a thriving public library service can, and so we would urge decision-makers to prioritise investment in their communities.
Anything less would be a failure we cannot afford.
ALISON NOLAN
Chief executive officer of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC)
This month we are showing the work of Jane Murray (1952-2024). The exhibition, titled Starting With A Line, was organised first by Jane herself and latterly by friends and family and includes paintings on wood, oil pastel on paper and mixed media works.
In a short introductory text in her own words, Jane shared reflections on her art practice which conclude: “As I have got older there is the realisation that the genre of my work was less reliant on observation and more on the expressive and instinctual, similar to that early child who put together visuals to make sense of her world.”
Jane was also a much-loved member of Edinburgh International Book Festival’s Citizen Writers Group and some of her old pals have already visited the exhibition on George IV Bridge.
To celebrate the life and learnings of revolutionary 19th and 20th century Scottish social thinker Patrick Geddes, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival in partnership with the Sir Patrick Geddes Trust is holding a day of workshops, screenings, talks and discussions as part of Edinburgh’s 900 programme on Saturday, 22 February.
Patrick Geddes by Kenny Hunter on display at the Scottish Storytelling Centre
The day looks to the future, structured around Geddes’ key sayings including ‘By Creating We Think’ and combining ideas with practical initiatives that can open pathways into ecology, culture and creativity to create a city rich in local, national and international identities.
Speakers include environmental artists Kenny Munro and Claudia Zeiske; Murdo MacDonald who is a leading writer and original interpreter of Patrick Geddes; environmentalist and nature writer Mandy Haggith; Bengali storyteller Neel Debdutt Paul; Samuel Gallacher who is Director of Sottish Historic Buildings Trust and has had close involvement with the ideas and legacy of Geddes; and many other writers, activists and thinkers.
Patrick Geddes was an ecologist and town planner who believed that our future lies in the merging of the natural world with human culture. He also championed the need for science and society to work together, citizen action, creative learning, and the need for green space.
Donald Smith, Director of the Scottish Storytelling Festival and Programmer of ‘By Creating We Think’ said: “Geddes would have loved to be at this event.
“His method was to bring people together and let the ideas and passions flow. Of course in a sense he will be there, and I can’t think of anyone more important to have at Edinburgh’s 900th celebrations.”
Samuel Gallacher, Director of Scottish Historic Buildings Trust said: “Geddes’ revolutionary thinking has influenced more than a century of practice, and yet still, his ideas and methods have still so much to offer to society today as we reflect, as Geddes did in his own time, on our rapidly changing world.”
‘By Creating We Think’ is supported by the City of Edinburgh Council as part of Edinburgh’s 900th year celebrations and The Sir Patrick Geddes Memorial Trust. It will be the final event in the Scottish International Storytelling Festival’s programme of over 40 community events across the city that have been attended by more than 1600 people.
By Creating We Think Saturday 22 February from 10.30am to 5pm Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR.
A day of talks, workshops, screenings and lively discussion to celebrate the life and learnings of revolutionary 19thcentury Scottish social thinker Patrick Geddes,
The event is ticketed on a ‘pay as you can’ basis.
Introduction and hosting by Andrew Bachell, environmentalist and Chair, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland.
Re-Naturing a Nation:Mandy Haggith, poet, novelist and nature writer. Greening the City: Bridgend Farmhouse with John Knox and Will Golding.
Think Global, Act Local
Cultures in Conversation: environmental artist Kenny Munro and storyteller/writer Neel Debdutt Paul explore a web of connections between Patrick Geddes and India.
Cultures in Conversation: Tom Hubbard writer and researcher; Claudia Zeiske, environmental artist, producer and community curator; and Iliyana Nedkova Curator of the Traditional Dance Forum of Scotland, explore a web of connections between Geddes, France and Europe.
Place, Work, Folk
Remaking and restoring – a participative session led by Claudia Zeiske, environmental artist, producer and community curator.
By Living We Learn
Geddes, Tagore and Education – the work of Stewart A Robertson and Bashabi Fraser introduced by Donald Smith
The Making of Books: By Publishing We Think – Murdo MacDonald, Art Historian and Essayist.
A Geddes Future in Edinburgh’s Old TownSam Gallacher, Scottish Historic Buildings Trust
Roddy Scott Photography
