Category: city centre

Whoopy Do! King and Queen are coming to Edinburgh

Viewing opportunities for the public at city centre events

Public viewing areas will be available along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh as part of events to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla on Wednesday 5 July.

Events will begin around lunchtime and will include:

  • a People’s Procession, involving around 100 people representing different aspects of Scottish life, walking on foot from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral, accompanied by a military escort and cadet force bands
  • the Honours of Scotland escorted from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral by The King’s Body Guard for Scotland (the Royal Company of Archers) and a Tri-Service Guard of Honour formed by contingents of the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force with a military band and pipes and drums
  • military pipe and drums, bands, and members of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment processing along the Royal Mile from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles’ Cathedral
  • a Royal Procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles’ Cathedral, attended by The King and Queen and The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay
  • a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication at St Giles’ Cathedral and presentation of the Honours of Scotland to The King. The Stone of Destiny will also form part of the ceremony
  • a 21 Gun Salute from Edinburgh Castle at the end of the St Giles’ Service, before the Royal Procession travels back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • a flypast by the Red Arrows (in the direction of Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse)

There will be pavement space along the Royal Mile for people who wish to watch events in person. Those intending to come are advised to arrive early and prepare for changeable weather conditions.

Traffic restrictions and temporary road closures will be in place around the Royal Mile on the day of the events.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Next week Scotland will welcome the new King and Queen with a series of events to mark their Coronation. Highlights include a People’s Procession, a Royal Procession, a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication, and a Gun Salute in Edinburgh.

“Many different people, charities and organisations from across the country will be involved. I will attend the Service at St Giles’ Cathedral and I look forward to representing the people of Scotland at this historic event.

“Any members of the public who wish to get involved will be able to follow TV or radio coverage, or view events in person along the Royal Mile. Space will be limited so those planning to come should arrive early and be prepared for whatever the weather may hold.”

King and Queen visit to Edinburgh July 2023: events – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Timings:

1315   People’s Procession departs Edinburgh Castle Esplanade

1330   People’s Procession arrives at St Giles’ Cathedral

1340   The Honours of Scotland leave Edinburgh Castle Esplanade under military escort

1340   Military pipe and drums bands and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment move from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to West Parliament Square

1350   The Honours of Scotland arrive at West Parliament Square by vehicle

1405   Royal Procession leaves the Palace of Holyroodhouse 

1410   Royal Procession arrives at St Giles’ Cathedral

1415   National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication begins

1515   Service ends

1520   The King and Queen exit St Giles’ to Gun Salute from Edinburgh Castle

1527   Royal party arrive at Palace of Holyroodhouse

1540   RAF flypast down the Royal Mile

POLICE SCOTLAND: ENGAGEMENT WITH PROTEST GROUPS

Engagement with protest groups is ongoing as part of preparations for a Coronation event being held in Edinburgh on Wednesday 5 July.

The event will take place during Royal Week where His Majesty King Charles III will be presented with the Honours of Scotland at a National Service of Thanksgiving at St Giles’ Cathedral, following processions on the Royal Mile. 

Police Scotland has been working with a number of key planning partners including the Scottish Government, Palace of Holyroodhouse, transport agencies and City of Edinburgh Council.

Police Scotland’s supporting role is to help the organiser deliver their event safely and securely and with dignity. One part of that is considering potential protests and a proactive engagement approach.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, police lead for the event, said: “Our priority is public safety and a policing plan is in place to maintain people’s safety, ensure the safe delivery of this significant event, enable peaceful protest and minimise disruption.

“Decisions about how to police protests require us to balance complex and often competing rights and issues.

“We have a legal duty to protect the rights of people who wish to peacefully protest or counter-protest. Our human rights based approach and legislation that applies in Scotland is unique amongst UK policing.

“Campaigning and demonstration is a legitimate, necessary and vital part of life. Abusive, threatening behaviour or activity intended to disrupt the event that risks public safety is not legitimate protest.

“Officers on the ground have to make dynamic assessments to quickly consider whether someone’s behaviour breaches the threshold of criminality. There are a range of factors and circumstances that affect this decision making, including considering the risk that behaviour has on the safety of those at the event, as well as any triggers that may lead to wider disruption.

“Every situation is unique. Safety is our priority, balanced against people’s rights.”

There will be road closures in Edinburgh and people should plan ahead by checking with City of Edinburgh Council and Traffic Scotland on their website and social media channels. Air restrictions for drones will also be in place.

Protest groups can contact Police Scotland by emailing OSDPLO@scotland.police.uk

More information about the event can be found on the Scottish Government’s website: Scotland marks Coronation of The King and Queen – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

The Public Order Act 2023, which has recently been referred to in England and Wales, does not apply to Scotland.

Hello, Bob!

An inspirational sculpture created by school children in Orkney goes on display at the National Galleries of Scotland: National

Your Art World

FREE

National Galleries of Scotland: National

24 June 2023 – 14 April 2024

A sculpture created by school children in Orkney will arrive at its new home in the National at the National Galleries of Scotland this month. Named Bob, the inspirational artwork has been travelling across Scotland touring to schools and communities to highlight the importance of art for young people. 

Bob has become a school mascot, spreading the children’s important message to protect our world from pollution.

Created by Dounby Community School the sculpture will join the Your Art World exhibition, which opens today (24 June). 

The exhibition aims to engage with young people and encourage them to think creatively, supporting future generations of artists. 

Digital screens will also display the artwork from over 270 incredible 3-18 year olds who uploaded their creations to the website. The young people could be as imaginative as they liked and use any type of materials for their creations, resulting in a superb and broad range of artwork.

The exhibition is a celebration of what happens when young people are encouraged to be wildly imaginative with no limitations.

Families and young people inspired by the creativity will also be able to get involved in making their own creations in the galleries this Summer.

With a specially created ‘make and share’ area allowing them to produce and upload their own work to the website. There is also the added bonus of having their artwork added to the digital showcase on the screens.

Four core groups have created spectacular physical installations for the exhibition, which will be displayed alongside the collection of digital art works.

Dounby Community school’s installation will feature, as well as creations from young people in their final year at Galashiels secondary school and Granton Primary.

A group of children and their families from PAMIS, an organisation in Scotland working with people with profound and multiple learning disabilities for a better life, are also featured.

Touring to schools and communities, Bob has challenged children across the country to make and share their own creations.

Giving them the opportunity of having their own works displayed on digital screens as part of the final exhibition at the National. Bob visited Inverness, Skye, Aberdeen, West Lothian, Dundee, Fife, Stirling, Glasgow and Galashiels along the way.

Even taking a trip to Holyrood to join Orkney MSP Liam McArthur (top), where the school pupils were commended in the Scottish Parliament for their hard work.

The creation was inspired by Dounby Community School’s chosen theme of ‘protect’, with the children making a life size character named Trashy.

Made of rubbish found on the beach, the sculpture is a meaningful representation of their desire to protect the world from climate change. As a friend for Trashy they created Bob as their mascot. 

Bob will soon re-join Trashy at the Your Art World exhibition, as part of the wider installation created by the 152 pupils from Dounby Community School.

Dounby Community School Head Teacher, Islean Gibson, said: “Being part of such an amazing gallery exhibition has given everyone here at Dounby School such a sense of pride and motivation.

“Sharing our thoughts and ideas as part of a national project has really inspired our whole school community. The power of creation will have a lasting legacy.

“It makes me swell with pride every day seeing just how impactful creativity can be for a wee school and its community. I would wholeheartedly recommend everyone take that step into Your Art World and see where it takes you!”

Siobhan McConnachie, Head of Learning and Engagement, National Galleries of Scotland, said: ‘I feel so excited and proud to be showcasing the art work of the talented young artists of Scotland.

“The response to challenges has been truly inspiring and we have been so impressed with everyone’s creativity. The Your Art World project is incredibly important to us at National Galleries of Scotland as it hands over the creative process to young people and celebrates their work.

“Art has its place in every school, home and young person’s life, whether that be encouraging people to think creatively, use it as an expressive outlet or simply for some fun, this project and exhibition celebrates that art really is for everyone.’

This exhibition is made possible thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who have raised more than £5 million awarded by Postcode Culture Trust to support National Galleries of Scotland.

All submissions can be viewed via the online gallery and will also be displayed digitally at the National until spring 2024. 

Edinburgh to show support for Armed Forces Day

West Princes Street Gardens will welcome a parade of serving personnel, veterans and their supporters today as special events are held to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

Celebrations in Edinburgh will start from 10.30am on Saturday 24 June as the annual parade of up of 300 – 500 serving personnel and veterans takes place along George Street and round to Castle Street. Then they will reassemble in West Princes Street Gardens where they will be welcomed by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, and there will be live music until 3pm.

Highlights will include: The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Amy Hawthorn, Stuart Mclean, Maria Townsley and Angus Munro. The event will be hosted by BFBS Broadcaster Mark McKenzie.

On Monday (19 June), the Armed Forces Day flag was presented to the Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron and Council Leader Cammy Day and raised above the City Chambers to honour Armed Forces personnel past, present and future.

‘Raise the Flag Day’ is when hundreds of civic and government buildings throughout the United Kingdom will fly the Armed Forces Day flag until just after the weekend.

The Armed Forces Day events in Edinburgh are open to all to show their support for the Armed Forces and veterans.

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, said: “This city has a long and proud tradition of supporting the Armed Forces and our veterans. Holding a day of celebration in their honour is just one of the ways the people of Edinburgh can show their support.

“This is the city’s way of saying thank you and allows us to show our gratitude and appreciation for the enormous sacrifices being made every day on our behalf by so many courageous men and women.”

Brian Ward at Legion Scotland, said: “Legion Scotland is proud to play a part in the Edinburgh Armed Forces Day parade to honour Armed Forces personnel and show our gratitude and support for our veterans.

“We stand together to pay tribute to so many brave members of our Armed Forces who made enormous sacrifices to help protect our freedom.”

Similar events will take place across the UK, enabling people to come out and show their support, and giving a much-valued morale boost for Armed Forces personnel and their families.

Edinburgh to celebrate Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Military bands, veterans, and senior Armed Forces personnel will join a parade through Edinburgh’s city centre on Saturday to show support for our Armed Forces and their families.

The Lord Provost Robert Aldridge will take part in the event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

The parade will commence on George Street close to St Andrews Square, led by the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and Legion Scotland standard bearers, starting at 10:30 am. The route will follow George Street until reaching the saluting dias which will be outside the Assembly rooms. From there, it will make a left turn onto Castle Street and conclude.

Afterwards, the parade will move towards Princes Street Gardens West, where the Lord Provost and Air Officer Scotland Air Vice Marshal Ross Paterson CB OBE ADC DL will deliver speeches.

The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland will begin the programme of entertainment, followed by Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Maria Townsley, Stuart McLean, and Angus Munro.

Formerly known as “Veterans Day”, this annual event is observed across the UK as an opportunity to pay homage to the Armed Forces community.

Dr. Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, emphasised the significance of the occasion, stating that it is a time for unity and appreciation for all those who have served, both past and present, and their families.

It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces every day, highlighting their dedication and commitment.

Dr. Armstrong said “We hope this event will be a good opportunity for veterans and serving personnel to reunite acquaintances and comradeship and will also be a fitting tribute to everyone who serves in our Armed Forces and will also recognise the continued sacrifices that our servicemen and women make today.”

She encouraged residents of Edinburgh and beyond to attend the event, show their support, and enjoy a memorable day out.

ATTENTION! Veterans can celebrate Armed Forces Day with 50% off in Morrisons Cafes

Morrisons has announced that it is offering those in the armed forces and veterans 50% off in cafés nationwide for Armed Forces Day. 

On Saturday June 24th, anyone who comes into a Morrisons café dressed in their armed forces uniform or with a valid form of ID or a medal/badge can receive 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes. 

Available for one day only, this heroic deal is to thank the thousands of military personnel who have gone above and beyond for their country. 

Military personnel can enjoy hot menu favourites including a Roast Beef or Half Roast Chicken Dinner for just £3.74, Fish and Chips for £3.49 or Bangers and Mash for just £2.49.  

To make the deal even sweeter, those in the forces and veterans can choose from a selection of cakes such as Victoria sponge or Chocolate Fudge cake for just £1.44.

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager, says: “We’re honoured to be offering those currently serving in the armed forces and veterans 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes in our cafés as a thank you for all that they have done and continue to do for us all.”

Customers who scan their Morrisons More card at the till will also receive 600 points when spending £6 or more in a Morrisons café.

Morrisons Armed Forces Day deal will be available in all Morrisons cafés on Saturday June 24th and can’t be used with any other offer or promotion. 

Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize returns to the National Galleries of Scotland

Opening 17 June 2023  

Free 

National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait 

Capturing and sharing emotional, dramatic, or everyday moments in life is the magic of the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2022.

A truly global affair, the prize celebrates the very best in contemporary photography, drawing on over 4000 entries from 62 countries. Featuring work by celebrated professionals and enthusiastic amateurs alike, the images selected for the exhibition each tell their own story.  

Organised by the National Portrait Gallery (London) and now in its sixteenth year of Taylor Wessing sponsorship, the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize makes a welcome return to the National Galleries of Scotland this June for the first time in seven years.

Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2022 comes to Edinburgh in style Our wonderful model was Oskar Kirk Hansen AKA Mystika Glamoor. Neil Hanna www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk 07702 246823

With 51 portraits from 36 artists exhibited in the Portrait’s Robert Mapplethorpe Photography Gallery, this prestigious annual competition provides a vital platform for contemporary photographers; bringing the world as we know it, or perhaps don’t know it, to a multitude of audiences.

The Portrait is the only touring venue for the prize this year, offering Edinburgh locals and international visitors alike the only opportunity to see these remarkable works on display outside London.

This free exhibition, which has been generously supported thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, will also form a key part of the Edinburgh Art Festival; the UK’s largest festival dedicated to the visual arts.

This year’s prize-winning photographs examine a range of subjects – from queerness, transness and the concept of chosen family to socially distanced glimpses into daily lockdown life and identity and existence in former Soviet states.

The variety of themes explored throughout the exhibition is matched by the high-quality, contemporary portraiture that reflects the shifting world of today. Strength in diversity, pride in identity, wonder in the everyday, this exhibition highlights a shared human connection through the broad scope of humanity itself.

Visitors can expect a personal audience with well-known cultural figures, including renowned footballer and activist Marcus Rashford and popular star of Stranger Things Finn Wolfhard, along with discovering captivating moments in the more familiar of life’s pursuits. From the aspirational to the relatable, the finalists capture our rapidly changing world through their own individual lens.

The winner of the 2022 prize is Clémentine Schneidermann for the series Laundry Day.

The socially distanced portraits of the series were taken during times of quarantine, self-isolation, and national lockdowns. In the words of the artist, they ‘document micro events which deal with the passage of time through the small moments of our daily lives’.

Schneidermann’s portraits are close, but not too close, evoking the memory of socially distanced living, striving to seek pleasure in the mundane and monotonous and capturing small glimmers of light where possible; wholly relatable after enduring the collective experience of a global pandemic.

Interim Co-Director Collection & Research, National Galleries of Scotland, Anne Lyden said: “This is the first time since 2016 that the Portrait has hosted the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize.

“It forms a central part of our summer exhibition programme, showcasing world class photography and documenting impactful moments and individuals. The prize provides a crucial platform to celebrate, question, and highlight cultural identity in many forms.

“I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to this year’s finalists, we are delighted to bring their work to the people of Scotland.”

Shane Gleghorn, Managing Partner at Taylor Wessing said: “Works and artists featured in the 2022 Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize were exceptional. We are delighted to see the prize returning to the National Galleries of Scotland, enabling this impressive collection of photographs to be viewed by the people of Scotland and its visitors.

“The prize has enabled artists across the world to use their talent and creativity to raise awareness in respect of a number of key issues and that makes for a powerful exhibition.” 

Director of the National Portrait Gallery, London, Dr Nicholas Cullinan said: “The entries to 2022’s Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize demonstrate the outstanding level at which photographers around the world are approaching the art of portraiture.

“The selected submissions are a remarkable collection of images that reflect the competition’s international reach and demonstrate an extraordinary variety of themes and styles within the parameters of photographic portraiture.” 

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We’re pleased to be supporting the National Galleries of Scotland as they celebrate the finest examples of contemporary photography.

“Players across Britain have raised over £1.1 billion for thousands of charities and local good causes, and are one of the biggest supporters of arts, culture, and heritage initiatives. We hope visitors make new discoveries and find this experience inspiring.” 

The Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2022 opened to the public on Saturday 17 June until Sunday 10 September at the Portrait. 

Trees Please: George Street plans approved

A final operational plan for Edinburgh’s George Street and First New Town (GNT) project was approved yesterday (Thursday, 15 June), along with updates to the proposed design.

A key change is the introduction of trees on George Street, which has been agreed following discussions with Edinburgh World Heritage, Historic Environment Scotland and the Cockburn Association and other stakeholders.

This recognises trees’ contribution to the city’s Net Zero 2030 goals as well as their capacity to enhance the street’s biodiversity value, helping to combat urban heat island effects and supporting our One Million Tree City pledge. Following the approval of proposals, the Council will continue to work closely with partners to determine the appropriate position, number and type of trees to be added.

Transport and Environment Committee members approved updates to the principles of the proposed GNT Operational Plan which include plans for the creation of a pedestrian and cycling zone where loading, servicing and licensed taxi access on George Street will only be permitted during evening and morning hours.

At this stage, automated bollards will provide additional public safety measures and enforce the pedestrian cycling zone restrictions. Blue badge holders will still be able to park in disabled bays on George Street and the surrounding streets.

The George Street and First New Town project is being supported by funding from the Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Places for Everyone programme and delivered by City of Edinburgh Council.

Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “In updating designs and operational plans for the GNT project, the project team has worked closely with the community, key stakeholders and elected members to develop proposals which will both enhance the space for all those travelling through and spending time in the area but also retain the First New Town’s unique historic value.

“I know the potential inclusion of trees on George Street will be welcomed by many, now their inclusion has been approved more work will be done to ensure the position and type of trees is sympathetic to the street’s iconic character.

“We have also listened carefully to the Edinburgh Access Panel and have agreed blue badge holders should have full access to up to 27 blue badge spaces in the George Street and First New Town area.

“This latest update marks an exciting milestone in the GNT project and it will allow us to move forward with the final stages of development before construction begins.”

Minister for Active Travel, Patrick Harvie, said: “I welcome the latest approved designs for the George Street and First New Town project. With over £13 million being invested by the Scottish Government, the introduction of more trees alongside improved walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure will create a more pleasant environment for people to enjoy.

“This work, supported by Sustrans Scotland, is part of our record funding for active travel in 2023/24 and we remain committed to investing at least £320 million or 10% of the transport budget for active travel by 2024/25.”

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stage 3 developed design principles were approved in November 2022, though these were conditional upon further discussions around factors such as the potential inclusion of trees and taxi access.

Amongst the ‘core elements’ of the design are significantly widened pavements, the creation of a European style cycling street and the removal of parking bays (while retaining blue badge parking). The First New Town operation plan will support the area’s transformation and, in addition to setting out taxi access and enforcement, the plan maintains bus services in the wider First New Town (Hanover, Frederick and North/South St David Street) and criteria for exempt vehicles.

The next stage for the project will be to progress the promotion of all the necessary statutory processes for George Street, which provide the powers to enable the construction of the project, scheduled for 2025. Further engagement and analysis will be carried out on planned layouts for Hanover, Frederick and Castle Street during the next design stage in the process, RIBA Stage 4.

Earlier this year the George Street and First New Town project was shortlisted in the Pineapple Awards, celebrate excellence in place-based design and development, and is in the running as a finalist for the Scottish Design Awards in the Master Planning category.

The report was approved with a series of addendums and amendments from groups. These include agreements to consider of the project’s impact on the wider Active Travel Investment Programme, to continue dialogue on licensed taxi access for people with disabilities and to explore how the plan can deliver priority for pedestrians, wheelers and cyclists while also ensuring accessibility for disabled people.

Read the full report, George Street and First New Town – Operational Plan and Project Update.

Simon Strain, Head of Places for Everyone Programme at Sustrans, said: “We are pleased to see the final operational plan for George Street and First New Town approved by members of the Transport and Environment Committee, along with updates to the proposed design.

“The funding awarded for this project will help make everyday walking, wheeling, and cycling journeys a reality, as well as improving biodiversity and creating a new space for people to spend time and relax in Edinburgh city centre.”

Stuart Hay, Director, Living Streets Scotland said: “Edinburgh is currently one of the least pedestrianised historic cities in Northern Europe, so we are delighted to see progress in the plans for a place that prioritises people, not cars. George Street has the potential to become the heart of the city, creating a much-needed public space of high quality.

Hamilton & Inches to showcase the 2023 Rolex Collection


Hamilton & Inches, a Scottish luxury jeweller and jewellery designer, is hosting the highly anticipated 2023 Rolex collection at its prestigious showroom in the heart of Edinburgh. This exhibition promises to be a captivating celebration of craftsmanship, presenting the latest iconic creations from Rolex.

The showcase which takes place from June 12th to June 20th, will unveil the brand’s newest additions, including the exquisite Oyster Perpetual 1908. Drawing inspiration from one of Rolex’s first watches with a Perpetual rotor, this completely new timepiece opens the Perpetual collection in a modern and avant-garde fashion, redefining traditional watchmaking through their visionary lens.

Victoria Houghton, CEO of Hamilton & Inches, said: “Our Edinburgh showroom sets the perfect stage to showcase the remarkable 2023 Rolex Collection. This exhibition offers our valued clientele a rare opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the world of luxury watchmaking, granting an unparalleled opportunity to see the newest array of Rolex novelties in person.

“Each visitor’s experience will be tailored to their preferences, ensuring a bespoke exhibition that leaves a lasting impression. It serves as an exceptional opportunity to gain real insight and become knowledgeable about these new pieces.”

Joining the line up is the light and robust, new Yacht-Master 42, an ally of those seeking freedom of movement. Especially suited to the demands and pressures of competitive sailing, it puts watchmaking excellence at the pinnacle of sporting performance.

To mark the watch’s 60th anniversary, Rolex has rejuvenated the iconic Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, to produce a timepiece with enhanced visual harmony and a more modern demeanour.

The Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II joins the collection as the ultimate navigation companion whilst embodying Rolex’s dedication to excellence and precision.

These highlights represent just a glimpse into the stunning array of timepieces that will be on display during the exhibition. With its full collection of latest creations, Rolex proudly showcases its perpetual pursuit of excellence. The watches unveiled illustrate the brand’s commitment to reinvention and cutting-edge technology while honouring tradition and timeless artistry.

The 2023 Rolex collection exhibition reinforces Hamilton & Inches’ position as the capital’s premier destination for fine jewellery, luxurious watches, and handcrafted silver. From June 12th to June 20th, the 2023 exhibition will offer customers and watch enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the innovations that Rolex has crafted for this year. Visitors can view the collection without an appointment during the showroom opening hours.

As well as attending the exhibition, customers can also take advantage of Hamilton & Inches high-quality watch service and repairs. As the first accredited Rolex Service Centre in Edinburgh, Hamilton & Inches has a heightened after-sales customer service, offering the ultimate immersive and luxurious experience.

To find out more, visit www.hamiltonandinches.com

Scotland to mark Coronation of The King and Queen

One lavish Coronation ceremony just isn’t quite enough …

Scotland will mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla during Royal Week in Edinburgh on Wednesday 5 July. 

The King will be presented with the Honours of Scotland at a National Service of Thanksgiving at St Giles’ Cathedral following processions on the Royal Mile. Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay will also attend events.

The Honours will be collected from Edinburgh Castle by a ‘People’s Procession’, involving around 100 people representing aspects of Scottish life. 

It will be escorted by The Royal Regiment of Scotland , Shetland pony mascot Corporal Cruachan IV and supported by  cadet musicians from the Combined Cadet Force Pipes and Drums, 51 Brigade Cadet Military Band.

The Royal Procession will travel from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Cathedral. There will be opportunities for the public to view the People’s Procession and the Royal Procession along the Royal Mile.

A 21-Gun Salute will fire from Edinburgh Castle at the end of the St Giles’ Service, before the Royal Procession travels back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

King Charles III receives the First Minister of Scotland Humza Yousaf during an audience at Buckingham Palace, London. Picture date: Wednesday May 17, 2023.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Scotland will welcome the new King and Queen in July with a series of events to mark the Coronation. A People’s Procession, a Royal Procession, a National Service of Thanksgiving and a Gun Salute will take place in Edinburgh. 

“Representatives from many different communities and organisations in Scotland will take part in these historic events.

“People who wish to mark this historic occasion can get involved by watching broadcast coverage or viewing events in person. We will issue more information confirming how members of the public can access events in the coming weeks.”

Background Information

The Stone of Destiny will be in St Giles’ Cathedral for the service. There will also be a fly past by the Red Arrows following the event.

The People’s Procession will include representatives from a wide range of organisations in Scotland including:

  • Corporal Cruachan IV (a Shetland pony) the mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland
  • The Robert Gordon’s College Combined Cadet Force (CCF) Pipes and Drums and the Army Cadet Force Military Band
  • The High Constables (Edinburgh & Leith)
  • Scottish Youth Parliament
  • Guide Dogs
  • Enable Scotland
  • Scottish Wildlife Trust
  • The College of Master Kilt Makers
  • Duke of Edinburgh Awards
  • Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh
  • Royal Zoological Society of Edinburgh
  • Robert Burns Federation
  • Royal and Ancient Golf Course in St Andrews
  • The Scottish Tartans Authority
  • The Royal Scottish Highland Games Association
  • The Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dance
  • The Princes Foundation 
  • The Princes Trust
  • CHAS
  • RNLI
  • Samaritans
  • Girl Guides
  • Scouts
  • Boys and Girls Brigade

The Royal Procession will include musical accompaniment from the Royal Marine Band (Scotland) and the Pipes, Drums and Bugles of the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS).

The Honours of Scotland will be escorted from Edinburgh Castle by The King’s Body Guard for Scotland, the Royal Company of Archers (known as the Royal Company) and a Guard of Honour formed by contingents of the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force. The 21 Gun Saluting troop will be 12 Regiment Royal Artillery.

There will be public viewing opportunities along the pavements of the Royal Mile and outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Details of the Order of Service and further information of exact locations and timings will be issued in the coming weeks.

Johnnie Walker Princes Street launch collab with two Michelin-starred team

Johnnie Walker Princes Street is set to serve up a new culinary sensation for Scotland with STIR – a ground-breaking cocktail and cuisine concept in partnership with two Michelin-starred team Chef James Close and his wife, Head of Pastry, Maria Close, owners of the renowned global experience restaurant, Raby Hunt.

James and Maria’s unique menu of stunningly innovative small-bite plates are served alongside meticulously curated cocktails from Johnnie Walker Princes Street Head Bartender, Miran Chauhan, in a collaboration that aims to completely redefine the concept of whisky and food pairing.

A group of people sitting at a table Description automatically generated

Each cocktail offers a unique story with a focus on flavour, that will be shared with the guests during their experience.

From a Hedgerow Aquavit, created from foraging for berries nearby the Glenkinchie distillery, to a Cliff Edge Vermouth, using botanicals from the Four Corners of Scotland distilleries, Miran has embraced new techniques to capture each guest’s attention by bringing the whiskies into a new light.

Known for their new age approach to fine dining and storytelling through micro dishes, Chefs James and Maria Close have created six small bites, to match the cocktails, with layers of luminous flavour and textures to delight.

Guests can expect a culinary showcase of unexplored food combinations, from rich, umami intensity within the Aguachile Oyster bite, to soft, sweet indulgence within the Green Apple.

STIR features three flights:

  • The Four Corners Cocktail Flight takes guests on a beautiful journey exploring the Four Corners of Scotland distilleries, Glenkinchie (Lowlands), Cardhu (Speyside), Clynelish (Highlands) and Caol Ila (Islands), with each one integral to blending Johnnie Walker whisky. The combination is a complete experience carefully curated to highlight the landscape of the distillery, with locally grown and foraged ingredients from the naturally occurring flora and fauna.
  • The Seasonal Cocktail Flight allows guests to take a short trip, experiencing a rotation of exclusive whiskies and seasonal ingredients, selected by the Johnnie Walker Princes Street team. The Spring Season highlights the unique Johnnie Walker Princes Street Spring blend.
  • The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Cocktail Flight is an opportunity to savour this iconic whisky in an unexpected way. The cocktail is paired with the most exquisite small bite, a luxurious moment of indulgence for Johnnie Walker Blue Label connoisseurs.

Miran Chauhan, Head Bartender at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, said: ‘We see STIR as the portal to a new world of whisky and food combinations, in the heart of Edinburgh at Johnnie Walker Princes Street.

“James and I have a shared obsession for flavours and techniques and together we’ve created an enticing and highly original taste experience for everyone to enjoy.”

James Close, two Michelin-starred-Chef of Raby Hunt Restaurant, said: “We approached this challenge with the same energy and enthusiasm as we always do, creating a set of signature dishes that derive from a single ingredient, inspired by a global adventure.

“And then just like Miran does with his cocktails, we bring layers and textures together to tell a unique story through taste.”

Back in Edinburgh for the collaboration, James is returning to the capital after living in Scotland as a young man, when he worked in the menswear department of House of Fraser, in the very building that is now Johnnie Walker Princes Street Edinburgh.

Reservations for STIR are available now and can be made online at johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com from 17:30PM, Wednesday – Saturday.

Multi-award winning, Johnnie Walker Princes Street, is the centrepiece of Diageo’s £185million pound investment in Scotch whisky tourism in Scotland – the largest single investment programme of its kind ever seen in Scotch whisky tourism.

Offering more than 800 flavour combinations, unique immersive tours and breath-taking views of the Edinburgh skyline, one person could visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street every day for more than two years still and not have the same experience twice.

Committed to delivering new experiences for guests, every season STIR will evolve the menu to suit the season, with a twist on the Seasonal Cocktail Flight, as the cocktail and small bite influenced by the limited-edition Johnnie Walker Princes Street blend of whisky, changes with the time of year.

Jurica Gojevic, Food and Beverage Manager at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, says: “What makes James’ success so remarkable is that he is completely self-taught and has a curiosity for international ingredients.

“I knew his innovative approach would perfectly match Miran’s unorthodox methods to mixology and give us an opportunity to truly push the boundaries of flavour and fun with a one-of-a-kind menu.

“Through STIR we’re creating something totally unexpected and delivering an unforgettable experience for our guests at Johnnie Walker Princes Street.”

One Year to Go: Capital counts down to LEZ introduction

As Glasgow introduces Scotland’s first LEZ today, Edinburgh is counting down to the introduction of our own Low Emission Zone, which will restrict the most polluting vehicles from driving in the city centre, benefiting everyone’s health.

The City of Edinburgh Council and NHS Lothian have joined together to highlight the positive impact clean air can have on health and wellbeing.

Restricting the most polluting vehicles will significantly reduce harmful emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from vehicles by up to 50% within the LEZ. Further air quality improvements are expected beyond the boundary, improving public health around the city.

While Edinburgh is moving closer to consistently meeting the minimum air quality standard set by the Scottish Government, it has some way to go before it meets the World Health Organisation’s targets.

Reducing air pollution is especially important for those most vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution, including children, older people and those with underlying health conditions.

Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “As Glasgow begins to enforce its LEZ, and with one year to go until our own LEZ comes into force, it’s a chance to reflect on the reasons for introducing an LEZ in Edinburgh.

“Research has shown that air pollution negatively affects everyone’s health and we have a responsibility to address this. In two weeks, we’ll mark Clean Air Day, which this year focuses on the fact that poor air quality not only affects our physical health, but our mental health too.

“By restricting the most polluting vehicles in the city centre the LEZ will create a healthier, more welcoming place to be – and we’re expecting benefits to spread across the wider city. I’m encouraged by the fact that compliance with our emissions standards continues to increase, and I’d like to thank people making the switch to cleaner modes of transport.

“However, there’s still work to be done, and over the next year we’ll be supporting even more people to consider greener, more sustainable ways to travel. I want to use the extra year Edinburgh has to get ready for this change, and ensure residents and businesses are fully prepared.”

Dona Milne, Director of Public Health, NHS Lothian, said: “The links between transport and health are clear and the LEZ will help to improve health and wellbeing and reduce inequalities for the people of Edinburgh.

“Tackling air quality, alongside commitments in the City Mobility Plan and associated draft Action Plans, will have multiple benefits. Health and wellbeing will be improved as a result of reduced levels of air and noise pollution; improved road safety; more inclusive opportunities for people to travel by walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport; and the increased vibrancy of local communities and economies.”

Earlier this year, data analysed by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) revealed that overall compliance with Edinburgh’s LEZ emissions standards had increased from 48% to 78% over the last six years. Compliance is particularly high amongst buses (97% – Lothian Buses is 100% compliant), petrol cars (95%) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (86%).

However, more than half of diesel cars and a third of light goods vehicles (including vans) travelling on the main routes into Edinburgh don’t comply with the requirements of the LEZ.

A city centre LEZ was introduced in Edinburgh on 31 May 2022, along with LEZs in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee. In Edinburgh, a two-year grace period is in place, meaning no penalty charges will be issued during this time. 

LEZ restrictions will apply to motor vehicles, except motorcycles and mopeds. Vehicles must meet the minimum emissions standards to drive within the zone, though national exemptions apply including for blue badge holders and emergency vehicles.

A consultation is currently underway on suite of action plans designed to support the delivery of the City Mobility Plan to 2030, addressing everything from air quality to road safety, public transport to active travel. 

Environmental campaigners have welcomed the start of Glasgow’s low emission zone.

Gracie Bradley, director at Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: “The beginning of Glasgow’s low emission zone is a moment to celebrate real progress in the city. Glasgow has persistent air pollution problems caused by transport, and people who live and work here have been breathing toxic air for many years. Finally, after years of promises, the council is taking action.

“We know that low emission zones work because they’ve been successful in hundreds of places across Europe. Glasgow’s zone has already had a positive impact since it began restricting the most polluting buses, but there is no safe level of air pollution.

“Changing the way we get around the city needs to remain a priority – we want to see better public transport, the end of developments that require cars, and safer cycling routes to tackle toxic air, reduce our impact on the planet and make Glasgow a better place to live.”

Find out more about the LEZ. 

Clean Air Day takes place on 15 June.