Category: city centre

Flight Club is coming to Edinburgh

Stunning interiors, delicious cocktails and Social Darts … the perfect line-up for an unforgettable night out!

Flight Club, famous for making Social Darts a memorable night-out with friends, is opening a brand new and long-awaited venue in Edinburgh this November.

This will mark the 15th UK opening for Flight Club and the second in Scotland, closely following the opening of Flight Club Glasgow this October, and destined to be a highlight in everyone’s social calendar this autumn.  

Flight Club’s unique Social Darts concept promises to deliver a social experience like no other, loaded with unexpected, ridiculous, joy, and designed to bring people together through multiplayer games, show-stopping cocktails and tasty bites.

Flight Club will add a technology-charged twist to Edinburgh’s social scene and welcomes first-timers and fanatics alike. Automated scoring eliminates any need for counting and will seamlessly guide players through fast-paced, exciting games, whilst handy ‘push for service’ buttons will ensure not a moment of epic gameplay is missed when refreshments are required. 

Flight Club blends the nostalgia and warmth of a pub with the energy and excitement of a fairground in its atmosphere and decor; offering the ultimate escape from winter weather.

The new venue located in St James Quarter, the lifestyle district at the centre of Scotland’s capital, will give players the chance to discover an impressive 10 oche playing areas and will be neighbouring some of the biggest names in retail and hospitality.

The venue will celebrate the city’s heritage with a large mural featuring historical landmarks, and a model Victorian railway running throughout the height of the bar, calling at thoughtfully designed streets and stations.

If Prosecco and bottomless pizza sounds like more of a winning combination, Flight Club Edinburgh will be offering an incredible Brunch Social every Saturday & Sunday. Delivering on all those crispy base, ultra-cheesy cravings, the paddle board pizzas come with a variety of toppings and can be tailored to suit dietary requirements, whilst each guest will receive a bottle of Prosecco.

Located in the bustling St James Quarter, Flight Club Edinburgh is a one-stop destination for all group sizes, from groups of friends to corporate events, catering for up to 250 guests. Groups of 37 + can join Flight Club for an industry-leading Social Darts Tournament hosted by an expert Gamesmaster. Multiple oches are effortlessly connected for an immersive experience, perfect for team building, Christmas parties or company socials!

CEO, Steve Moore, said: “We love the atmosphere in Edinburgh and the existing hospitality and nightlife scene, so we are beyond excited to be opening a Flight Club in St James Quarter this autumn.

“It’s a busy and evolving city, and we will be bringing something a little different to the area, and can’t wait to see friends and colleagues celebrating every occasion with us.”

Booking enquiries HERE.

Open to book from 7th September. 

Scamp & Dude opens at St James Quarter this Saturday

Scamp & Dude, the renowned British purpose-led fashion womenswear brand, has announced it will be opening its newest retail location in the lifestyle district of Edinburgh, St James Quarter, on Saturday (9th September). 

Scamp & Dude was established with a clear mission: to bring accessible fashion, joy, and vibrancy into every wardrobe, whilst using its big heart to give back to those going through difficult times. Beyond just serving as a retail outlet, the new premises also doubles up as a friendly, supportive environment to welcome new and existing consumers which celebrates the power of community. 

The opening of the new 2,939 sqft store in Edinburgh comes after a year of expansive growth for the brand, which will also see the opening of a store in Battersea Power Station, London. Scamp & Dude’s only store in Scotland will be situated on Level 3 in St James Quarter, which is home to some of the best and most exciting brands the city has to offer. 

To kick off the Edinburgh store’s grand opening this weekend, Scamp & Dude will be hosting immersive and fun activities and will be giving away an Edinburgh-exclusive Scamp & Dude tote bag to all shoppers that spend £100* or more over launch weekend. The tote bag has been designed in a new floral leopard print and cannot be purchased in other stores or online. (*one per customer, whilst stocks last) 

The new store will showcase Scamp & Dude’s stylish collection of womenswear, kids wear as well as charitable products and will be a fitting location for the brand’s loyal and rapidly growing community in Scotland, who known as the ‘Duders’.

The retail space will also serve as a venue for the brands ongoing charity campaigns and events, which Scamp & Dude are renowned for and will continue to run at the new St James Quarter store.

This includes the #SuperScarfMission which for every scarf sold, another is donated to a woman starting chemotherapy. To date, over 23,000 have been donated via hospital partners with a mission to reach 63,000 by next year (the approx. number of women who start chemotherapy per year).

In addition, the new Scamp & Dude store will also be home to an interactive Superpower Button, a first for the brand, which will give shoppers the chance to be assigned their very own superpower at the touch of a button. 

Scamp & Dude founder and CEO, Jo Tutchener-Sharp, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing Scamp & Dude to Edinburgh as our first Scottish location as we feel there is already a real flavour for the brand here in Scotland.  

“Being located in St James Quarter alongside so many other great brands is an honour, and we cannot wait to officially launch on the 8th of September. Our loyal community of ‘Duders’ has grown rapidly, with many located here in Scotland.

“We are looking forward to bringing the store to where our community has expanded to and providing a physical space for customers to experience the Scamp & Dude magic in person.” 

Laura Bond set to open flagship store in heart of Edinburgh

Boutique will offer luxury jewellery piercings, pieces, and bespoke ear styling service

Edinburgh-born jewellery brand, Laura Bond, is set to open its flagship store, located on Thistle Street in Edinburgh on Saturday (9 September). Previously available online only, the new home of Laura Bond will allow customers to receive the full brand experience in person for the first time. 

The new headquarters, in Scotland’s capital, will showcase Laura’s full luxury jewellery collection, provide bespoke ear styling consultations, and will soon be offering piercing services.

Designed by Laura herself, every piece of jewellery is ethically produced and made with responsibly sourced gold. The brand has attracted a strong customer and celebrity fan base including Florence Pugh, Michelle Visage, and Nathalie Emmanuelle, who wore Laura Bond to the 2022 Oscars.

Speaking of the launch, Laura Bond said: “This is a huge opportunity for us and I’m so excited to be opening our first store in Edinburgh. To say it’s a dream come true is an understatement. I can’t wait to welcome customers – old and new, from near or far – to experience our bespoke ear styling service and to get pierced in our stunning piercing parlour.

“I really believe Laura Bond offers a unique experience in the world of luxury piercings and jewellery and I can’t wait to meet everyone in store.”

The new store was previously occupied by the award-winning and much-loved Edinburgh women’s boutique, Jane Davidson. After 53 years of business in the capital, the luxury brand carefully chose Laura Bond to be its successor.

Sarah Murray, Proprietor of Jane Davidson said: “The boutique had been a constant presence in my life; our customers were not only incredibly loyal, but many became dear friends. 

“As difficult as the decision was to close our doors last year, I was always determined that if we did, then we would have to find the perfect brand to take on our property. Laura Bond is just that; we can’t wait to watch Laura and her brand grow at 52 Thistle Street.”

With each collection, Laura Bond continues to push the boundaries of delicate and decorative pieces, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conscious luxury jewellery.

Laura said: “I really believe jewellery should be an expression of the person wearing it, and each piece I design is crafted with that in mind. 

“We are committed to creating jewellery that isn’t just saved for special occasions but tells a unique story and invites people to express themselves and mark relationships, milestones, or memories with others.”

Laura Bond is available to buy online and in their new flagship store on Thistle Street in Edinburgh from Saturday the 9th of September.

For more information visit www.laurabond.co.uk.

Music artists celebrate the finale of St James Quarter Sessions

St James Quarter Sessions artists celebrated the finale of St James Quarter Sessions – a free live music event series that took place at St James Quarter throughout August.

With an impressive line-up of over 60 live performances and DJ sets, the Quarter transformed into a music festival site with guests reserving tickets to enjoy exclusive sets from talent including Russell Stewart, Grace and the Flat Boys and Super French.

St James Quarter, Summer Sessions Fringe Busking event
St James Quarter, Summer Sessions Fringe Busking event
St James Quarter, Summer Sessions Fringe Busking event

Louis Vuitton expands its Multrees Walk store in Edinburgh

Multrees Walk, Edinburgh’s most stylish destination, announces the expansion of the designer retailer Louis Vuitton, in Edinburgh. Louis Vuitton – the world’s leading high-quality products group – has been extended from 3,072 square feet to over 6,500 square feet, doubling in size.

Opening in Edinburgh over 20 years ago, Louis Vuitton was the second store to open in Multrees Walk. Over the last 2 decades, the retailer has established a loyal clientele throughout both Edinburgh and Scotland. Coupled with the added benefit from the recovery in international travel and tourism and a demand from international students, the Edinburgh store has gone from strength to strength. 

The solid growth for the brand and outstanding performance and demand for the fashion and leather goods, has granted the retailer the opportunity to double in size.

Commenting on the expansion, Adam Stone, Head of Retail Asset Management UK at Nuveen said: “Multrees Walk has become home to many leading and exclusive fashion brands, and we are proud to announce the next chapter for Louis Vuitton. 

“As one of our first retailers to open, to see Louis Vuitton trade so successfully to the point where they decided to upsize their store and expand their product offering in Edinburgh is fantastic and testament to the strong trading environment offered by Multrees Walk.

“We look forward to continuing to evolve the retail offering by welcoming further High-End Luxury retailers in the near future.”

Offering a prime location, Multrees Walk provides a luxury shopping experience in the heart of Edinburgh and houses many exclusive fashion brands including Louis Vuitton.

Louis Vuitton, Edinburgh is the only store in Scotland and has cemented its reputation as the destination for designer leather goods.

The Monarch of the Glen moves to its new home 

ONE MONTH UNTIL OPENING OF NEW GALLERIES AT THE NATIONAL

One of the most celebrated paintings in the world – the iconic The Monarch of the Glen by Sir Edwin Landseer – is on the move to its new home.

With only one month to go until the opening of the new Scottish galleries at the National in Edinburgh, The Monarch of the Glen is one of over 130 exquisite art works taking up residence in the stunning new spaces.

A new free experience for everyone to discover, right in the heard of Edinburgh’s city centre, the new Scottish galleries at the National will open on 30 September. In contemporary and fresh spaces, the new galleries will showcase the very best historic Scottish art like never before. With 150 years of Scotland’s art to discover, visitors might recognise some much-loved favourites as they travel through the new galleries.

Painted in 1851, Landseer’s work of art famously depicts a proud stag imperiously surveying a majestic Highland landscape. Closely associated with Scotland, The Monarch of the Glen is an extremely powerful painting, and a rich source of debate about the issues of history and identity. Through its widespread use in commercial advertising and in popular culture, the iconic painting has become instantly recognisable today.

Sir Edwin Landseer (1802-73) was intoxicated by the Scottish Highlands. He first visited the country in 1824 and was overwhelmed and inspired by the experience of the landscape and its people.

The artist returned on sketching expeditions annually in late summer and the autumn, developing a particular affinity with the novelist Sir Walter Scott and his work. The resulting paintings range from intimate and remarkably fresh landscape studies, painted on the spot, to his most famous large-scale picture, The Monarch of the Glen. His works played a key role in formulating the deeply attractive and romantic image of the Highlands, which still resonates today. 

The Monarch of the Glen was originally intended as part a series of three works to be displayed in the House of Lords, but the scheme was never realised and the painting was sold to a private collector soon after its completion.

From the moment it was first exhibited in 1851 at the Royal Academy in London it proved immensely popular, and the admiration has continued right up to the present day. The work was widely reproduced in the nineteenth century, especially through steel engravings, and in 1916 it was purchased by Sir Thomas Dewar. From that point it was regularly used as a marketing image, first by Pears Soap, then by John Dewar & Sons Distillery and Glenfiddich, and later by Nestlé and Baxter’s soup.

Following a four-month fundraising campaign, the painting was acquired by the National Galleries of Scotland in March 2017, with overwhelming support from the public, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Art Fund, private trusts and foundations, Scottish Government acquisition grant funding and by a part gift by previous owners Diageo Scotland Ltd.

Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland, Sir John Leighton, said: “Landseer’s The Monarch of the Glen is one of the most potent and familiar images associated with Scotland. The proud stag is recognisable across the world from his long career in marketing, adorning just about every kind of product imaginable, from soap and whisky to countless shortbread tins.

“Today, it remains a compelling and contested image, viewed by some as the ultimate evocation of the romance of the Highlands, by others as a gloss on the harsh realities of life in the Scottish countryside in the 19th century. Love it or hate it, no one can deny that it is an extraordinary, powerful painting. You are warmly invited to see this incredible work of art in its new setting at the National.”

As well as The Monarch of the Glen, the new Scottish galleries at the National will be home to work by artists from across Scotland, including the West, Highlands, Islands, Scottish Borders, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Large windows will offer spectacular views of Princes Street Gardens, enticing visitors to come inside and experience the artists who created the images of Scotland the world knows today.

Discover the work of pioneering Scottish artists such as William McTaggart, Anne Redpath, Phoebe Anna Traquair, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Boys.

Goodbye, Stories; Hello, Journeys

  • Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo celebrates triumphant conclusion to 2023 show, STORIES
  • Tattoo also looks ahead to 2024’s Show JOURNEYS – tickets on sale from today

After an immensely successful 2023 run with Show Stories, this year’s Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has now officially come to an end.

Starring over 800 international performers and engaging over 200,000 audience members, with only a handful of tickets unsold across the run, this year’s Show has proven to be one of the Tattoo’s most successful to date thanks to continued partnerships and a loyal customer base.

The loyalty of its valued customer base; the continued support from the Festival Edinburgh partners, plus a wider collaboration with many of the city’s stakeholders has all contributed to a successful August for the Edinburgh event.

The Tattoo’s emphatic run was all set against the challenging backdrop of navigating the Cost-of-Living crisis, for both the business and audiences, while also recovering from the ongoing challenges of reduced income during the Covid pandemic, as it delivered its second year of the Tattoo’s bold new brand proposition, Performance in a New Light.

The continued investment and enhanced offering of the Tattoo, including a variety of new hospitality packages and experiences, coupled with the ongoing support from its official supporters including Presenting Partner, Innis & Gunn, has also allowed the Tattoo to continue to grow, evolve and diversify as a business.

International performers from across the globe – including Norway, Switzerland, Trinidad & Tobago, the USA, and homegrown talent from around the UK – dazzled and delighted audiences with performances ranging from Highland dance, fire breathing, to marches performed to tunes from contemporary video games, all underpinned with the strong military heritage and precision that the Tattoo has made its celebrated name on.

In a Royal Air Force lead year, the Tattoo hosted seven flypasts during the August run, which included the RAF Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, taking to the skies above Edinburgh Castle.

With the triumphant conclusion of the 2023 Show Stories, the Tattoo team is already getting set to lead audiences onto the next performance with Journeys.

The 2024 Show will transport audiences on an international cultural journey, bringing together the voices and stories that connect the cast, audiences, and cultures of the Tattoo. Tickets for Journeys are now on sale, with the first 25,000 tickets available at 2023 prices.

Jason Barrett, Chief Operating Officer of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “The success of this year’s Tattoo is measured in many ways but nowhere more so than in the faces and genuine emotion expressed by those who attended. 

“Stories was the Tattoo’s latest atmospheric spectacular enjoyed by almost a quarter of a million people, illuminating on Edinburgh Castle and filling the capital city’s August nights with the skirl of the massed pipes and drums. We couldn’t be prouder of the team for yet another great performance.”  

“But as one chapter closes, another begins, and the team has already embarked on planning next year’s Show, Journeys. Tickets for the 2024 Show, Journeys are on sale from today (28 August 2023), and we are delighted to offer the first 25,000 tickets secured at 2023 prices to ensure as many people as possible get to experience watching the Tattoo live. Book now – you won’t want to miss it.”

**Pics Free to use** Pictured: His Majesty the King’s Guard Band and Drill Team of Norway THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO KICKS OFF AUGUST RUN WITH STUNNING SHOWCASE FOR 2023 – STORIES More than 800 performers graced Edinburgh Castle’s Esplanade to share their stories through song, dance, and military precision – Thursday 3 August 2023: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo makes its anticipated return with this year’s Show, Stories as performers from across the globe wow audiences with sensational music, dance, costume, and spectacle. Running until 26 August, the Show is a celebration of sagas, myths, and legends, transporting audiences on a journey of ideas – from the earliest campfire stories through to the world stage and showcasing an international cast telling tales that connect us through our unique and shared military and cultural heritages. From the musical prowess of the Massed Pipes & Drums, the physical storytelling of dance and precision drill, and stunning imagery captured through light and projection, audiences will be transported and enthralled. Edinburgh Castle Esplanade will play host to performers from Australia, Norway, Switzerland, The United States, and Trinidad and Tobago, alongside homegrown acts from across the UK and Ireland. As ever, the military play a prominent role in the Show, with the Royal Air Force as the lead Service. Audiences will also be treated to the rousing sound of the Massed Pipes and Drums supported by the Tattoo Dancers and Fiddlers. Making their Tattoo debut on the Castle Esplanade, The United States Air Force Band will entertain the crowds with a freestyle musical performance with music from the Great American Songbook. The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra will bring a vibrant burst of colour and excitement true to their traditional art forms, including the limbo and fire dance, performing their take on contemporary Caribbean music. Exploring the legends and traditions of Sw

Journeys will run from 2-24 August 2024, and as always, will feature the military at the heart of the showcase.

Audiences can expect the magnificent sounds of the Massed Pipes and Drums filling up the Esplanade alongside performances from the incredibly talented Tattoo Pipes and Drums and Tattoo Dancers. International acts will join the 2024 line up bringing new cultures and vibrancy to this sought-after spectacle.

Further details about Journeys will be announced in the coming months.

Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 performance and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone on 0131 225 1188.

Tattoo: Final Inspection!

The King’s Colour Squadron carry out a final drill rehearsal ahead of the last weekend of this year’s Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

As the Tattoo approaches its final weekend, King’s Colour Squadron Royal Air Force (RAF) line up against the picturesque backdrop of Edinburgh’s skyline for some final inspections.

Dressed in full military uniform, during the RAF lead service Show, the King’s Colour Squadron has been delighting audiences nightly with its precision drills and entertaining the crowds with popular gaming tunes from Battlefield and Final Fantasy.

Alongside the other 800 performers from across the globe, the 2023 international cast will take to the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade this weekend for the final time as they bring this year’s Show Stories to a conclusion.

With sensational music, dance, costume, and spectacle, please find a selection of stunning Show images HERE, showcasing the unique and shared military and cultural celebrations of sagas, myths, and legends.

The Tattoo completes its run for 2023 on Saturday 26 August with a small selection of tickets still available.

Tickets for the 2024 Show Journeys are on sale from 28 August 2023, and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone on 0131 225 1188.

Gleneagles Townhouse welcomes artist Paul Yates for a month-long residency in September

Paul Yates: The Scottish Works: 5th-30th September

British artist Paul Yates is set to captivate audiences with a month-long residency at Gleneagles Townhouse in September. Yates is well known for his unique style which blends traditional and modern techniques to create works of art that are both captivating and thought-provoking.

Yates, has gained international recognition for his poetry, film and paintings. His artwork is known for its intricate details and clever combinations of contrasting elements, and through his ‘Scottish Works’ collection he invites viewers to uncover layers of meaning and embark on a visual adventure that challenges expectations.

Through his innovative approach, Yates has become a in contemporary art, showcasing his work in prestigious galleries globally and making a lasting impact on the art scene.

Paul said, “I am thrilled to be able to showcase my work in such an iconic Scottish location. Scotland’s deep-rooted significance in my family’s identity has led me to undertake frequent trips that have influenced a substantial body of my painting and poetry, so I cherish this opportunity to be able to showcase my creations within a country that has played such a big part in my artistic journey.”

Further information on his work is available on his website.

Lobby 37 is a gallery space within Gleneagles Townhouse on St Andrews Square, hosting exhibitions from artists each month an open to members, guests of the hotel and visitors.

Launch of Edinburgh Waverley Taxi Zone

This week sees the official launch of a new dedicated taxi zone at Edinburgh Waverley station. It’s the result of a collaboration between Network Rail and APCOA which is designed to enhance the overall journey experience for passengers using the station.

With space to accommodate up to 40 taxis, the facility in the New Street car park is the largest in Edinburgh city centre, offering a dedicated fleet of both hackney cab and private hire vehicles, including people carrier options for groups of up to eight, and standard TX taxis for customers with mobility impairments.

Agents are on standby throughout the station to take specific bookings at no extra cost, and passengers will receive real-time waiting updates if a vehicle isn’t available immediately.

Edinburgh Waverley’s station manager Chris King commented: “We’re delighted to have worked with APCOA to create a dedicated facility within the station area which will be great for passengers, particularly for those with reduced mobility, or those travelling with children, prams or luggage.

“It has also generated employment opportunities for local people and offers convenient onward travel options to those who need it, with the reassurance of either getting a taxi straight away or knowing for certain that one is on its way.”