We’re looking forward to attending this free #FamilyHistory Fair hosted by our friends at @natlibscot on Monday 28 October.
Join us and representatives from many other archives to learn how our collections and services can help your research https://nls.uk/whats-on/family-history-fair/
The Right Honourable Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, led a special group of wreath-layers at the annual Opening Ceremony of the Edinburgh Garden of Remembrance, at the Scott Monument, Princes Street Gardens, yesterday.
Members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, attended the poignant event, organised by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, to remember those who have fallen in conflicts, with more than 40 wreaths laid at a service which was also well attended by members of the public.
Among those that joined Edinburgh’s Lord Provost was Reverend Dr Karen Campbell, National Padre of the Royal British Legion Scotland, who led the service, along with attendees from Scottish Government, Police Scotland and other dignitaries.
Music was provided by The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, as well as piper Rory Cairns, who led the wreath-layers into the garden.
Commenting on the service, Legion Scotland Events Manager, Brian Ward, said: “Despite a weather warning in place and a few gusts of wind, this was a wonderful occasion which was very well attended by representatives of the Armed Forces and other dignitaries from across our capital city and of course Scotland.
“It was truly lovely to see so many people turn out, as well as the many passers-by who stopped to reflect and pay their respects to our fallen.”
The Garden features thousands of poppy crosses and other remembrance symbols with personal dedications from across Scotland. It will remain open until the Armistice Day service on Monday, November 11 for residents and visitors to pay their own tributes.
The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country. All funds raised will go to support Poppyscotland’s work, providing life-changing support and advice to veterans, servicemen and women, and their families.
Johnnie Walker Princes Street, the World’s Leading Spirit Tourism Experience, is celebrating a massive milestone this week, having now welcomed over 1 million visitors from 141 countries just three years since opening its doors.
Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray was on site today congratulating the team as they celebrated the milestone.
The venue leverages AI powered personalisation technology to help guests discover their personal flavour profile, which is then used to tailor their experience on Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s signature “Journey of Flavour”.
To date, the experience has collected the flavour profiles of over 100,000 guests, an invaluable resource for product development. The experience seeks to inspire visitors to explore the wider world of Scotch Whisky as it relates to their own personal tastes, breaking down barriers including those around how the drink should be enjoyed by focusing on cocktail culture, serving almost 700K highballs and cocktails alone since opening.
Johnnie Walker Princes Street serves as a key destination within Scotland’s vibrant food and drink landscape, attracting visitors eager to immerse themselves in local culture. According to the Scotland Visitor Survey 2023, nearly half (46%) of visitors to the country engage in food and drink activities during their stay, with 26% visiting a whisky, gin distillery or brewery, and 21% visiting a whisky distillery.
The venue’s formula has proved a successful one, with Johnnie Walker Princes Street garnering an impressive “Net Promoter Score”, a trusted metric for measuring customer experience, of 85, and 91% of visitors’ perception of Johnnie Walker improving post visit using “brand conversion” tracking.
The nearly 50/50 male and female gender split is a particular point of pride.
The Rt Hon Ian Murray MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, said: “It was incredibly exciting to visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street today to celebrate this hugely important milestone.
“It’s a fantastic attraction, making a huge contribution to Edinburgh’s tourism and the local economy. And of course, it’s a huge promotion for Scotch whisky, one of Scotland’s biggest success stories, and a key part of Brand Scotland.”
Guests from Australia to Zimbabwe and everywhere in between have passed through the venue’s doors since September 2021. With 24% of guests visiting from countries with high spend per head like the US 7 and 80% of visitors noting Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s place in supporting the growth of Scottish Tourism 2.
Vicki Miller, Chief Executive at VisitScotland, said: “This is an amazing achievement by Johnnie Walker Princes Street. It is a testament to the investment and confidence of Diageo in creating a luxury visitor experience in the centre of the city, and the staff, whose work has maintained its popularity.
“Scotch whisky is a unique part of our cultural heritage and as such is hugely important to what makes Scotland a must-visit destination. Our own research shows that a quarter of all visitors to Scotland take in a whisky, gin or brewery experience.
“Since opening in 2021, Johnnie Walker Princes Street has become an essential attraction while complementing the burgeoning food and drink experiences across the city. Its popularity will no doubt have helped support the successful post-pandemic recovery of international tourism.”
Dafydd Pugh Williams, Managing Director of Diageo’s Scotland Brand Homes added: “Johnnie Walker Princes Street was launched to recruit consumers from around the World to Johnnie Walker and indeed the entire Scotch Whisky category.
“We wanted to disrupt consumer perceptions of Whisky through offering a pioneering experience which demonstrated the huge breath of flavours with the category, the incredible history of Johnie Walker and champion the people and communities which have helped make the brand a global icon.
“We could not be prouder of the venue’s hugely dedicated team who have made such an impact on so many guests in just three short years. We’d like to thank our colleagues in the Scotch Whisky Association and Visit Scotland for their continued support as we work together to showcase Scotch, and Scotland, to the world.
“Most excitingly we feel like we’re just getting started and there is plenty more growth to come as we Keep Walking.”
Follow Johnnie Walker Princes Street:
The Edinburgh Dungeon, renowned for bringing scare-seeking guests the most terrifying tales from the past, has revealed how the attraction prepares for its busiest time of the year.
Lyndsay Hebert, Performance Manager at The Edinburgh Dungeon, has been perfecting the art of fear for over two decades. With 23 years of experience at the attraction, Halloween is her favourite time of year.
For her, it’s not just about costumes and decorations—it’s about blending history, creativity, and horror to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Lyndsay reveals that preparations for Halloween begin as early as January. Edinburgh, known as one of Europe’s most haunted cities, provides the perfect backdrop, with its ghost stories and local legends offering endless inspiration. Lyndsay takes pride in the city’s dark history, saying, “There’s always a new chilling tale to tell.
“The concept might evolve, but starting early ensures we deliver the best experience,” she explains. With over 50 performances on peak days and more than 1,000 over the Halloween season, the entire team works tirelessly to create a terrifying experience every time.
The actors are key to The Dungeon’s success, with quick costume and makeup changes happening throughout the day. Each performer begins with a base of scars, cuts, and bruises, adding more layers as they switch roles.
“The messier the hair, the better,” Lyndsay says. Hair and makeup touch-ups are ongoing to maintain authenticity, and it’s the actors’ relentless energy that brings The Dungeon to life.
“There’s nothing a Dungeon actor loves more than hearing the screams of the audience—you know you’ve done your job well!” Lyndsay enthuses.
Behind the scenes, the work is just as intense as what happens onstage. “There’s never a dull day in The Dungeon!” she exclaims. “The actors move quickly, switching costumes, makeup, and characters every hour.”
This year’s Halloween event, Halloween: The Monster of Glamis, runs from 12th October to 3rd November. Guests will explore the eerie passageways of Glamis Castle, where a monstrous presence awaits.
What starts as an innocent birthday celebration for the Laird’s youngest family member quickly turns into a nightmare as guests confront the terrifying Monster of Glamis and the chilling Room of Skulls, filled with ominous whispers from the past.
For those brave enough to enter, The Edinburgh Dungeon promises a Halloween experience like no other. With fresh stories, immersive settings, and a dedicated team ready to create the ultimate fright, visitors are in for a hauntingly good time!
Will you survive the Monster of Glamis and escape the Room of Skulls?
Pre-book now, or for more information, visit the Edinburgh Dungeon’s website:
https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/whats-inside/events/monster-of-glamis/.
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is excited to announce a special Thanksgiving Supper Club, offering a heartwarming gathering for guests to celebrate the season of gratitude with delicious food, festive ambiance, and meaningful social connection.
Available exclusively on Thanksgiving Day, 28th November, this event will feature a traditional Thanksgiving feast served family-style, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of home for US ex-pats, and offer locals the chance to enjoy the classic American holiday.
After a welcome glass of prosecco, guests will enjoy a variety of classic Thanksgiving sides, including creamy sweet potatoes, savoury stuffing, rich gravy, green bean casserole, mac & cheese, fresh-baked cornbread, and the star of the evening – a succulent roast turkey carved table-side. In the spirit of celebration, guests can enjoy two glasses of wine or bottles of lager to accompany their meal.
The meal will conclude with a decadent pumpkin pie for dessert, adding the perfect sweet note to a cosy evening.
The Supper Club experience will take place in a warm and inviting atmosphere, in a seasonally decorated private dining space. Guests can relax and enjoy a leisurely dining experience at table specially arranged to foster conversation and a sense of community. This incredible deal will be available for £75.55 a person, with three seatings throughout the day at 13:30, 16:30, and 19:30.
For solo guests looking for a special way to enjoy Thanksgiving, seating will be reserved in a semi-private dining room, offering a unique opportunity to meet new people and share stories while enjoying a festive, family-style meal together.
Guests looking for a more traditional restaurant experience for the holiday are encouraged to book in advance to enjoy a 2-Course Thanksgiving Menu, including a traditional roast turkey dinner and a slice of classic pumpkin pie, available for £33.50 per person.
General Manager Nick Chiverton, said, “We are thrilled to bring the warmth and tradition of Thanksgiving to our Edinburgh Cafe. This event is all about sharing great food and even better memories with family, friends, and fellow guests, and we look forward to welcoming everyone for this special celebration.”
To reserve your spot at the Thanksgiving Supper Club, visit https://www.eventim-light.com/uk/a/6638a3d36621c76169bd3f57/s/66fe67e45b2e3e38df2aee59
Book directly by emailing Edinburgh_social@hardrock.com for a reduced price of £69.95 when paid in advance.
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh’s 2-course Thanksgiving meal is available to book at https://www.opentable.com/booking/experiences-availability?rid=112095&restref=112095&experienceId=340078&utm_source=external&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=shared
Police have released an image of a male they wish to speak to who may be able to assist with their enquiries into an assault which took place on Saturday, 14 September, 2024 on George IV Bridge. The incident took place at around 8pm.
The male (pictured above) is described as a white male, medium build, mid-30s, approximately 5ft 9” tall with short dark hair. He was seen to be wearing a red short sleeved polo shirt, dark skinny jeans and white trainers.
Detective Constable Adam Campbell said “I would urge the male pictured or anyone who may recognise him or has information about this incident to contact us as soon as possible.
“Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3442 of 14 September 2024. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.”
Scotland’s only dedicated first aid charity, St Andrew’s First Aid, is providing Edinburgh locals and tourists with a chance to learn lifesaving CPR skills at open demonstrations held in the heart of the city this month.
To mark ‘Restart a Heart Day’ (16th October), an initiative led by Resuscitation Council UK to increase the number of people who survive out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, St Andrew’s First Aid will be delivering free public demonstrations across three city centre locations.
Passers-by will be invited to get involved with CPR demonstrations, as well as learning how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
They will also be encouraged to practice what they have learned, gaining insightful feedback from St Andrew’s First Aid Community Engagement Trainers and Volunteers, to ensure they are prepared to step in and help, if they witness someone having a cardiac arrest.
Jim Dorman, Director of Operations and Community Engagement at St Andrew’s First Aid said: “We usually mark Restart a Heart with one day – but this year we decided it needs to be noticed – so we’re carrying out a roadshow across the full month of October, with free demonstrations taking place up and down the country.
“The importance of knowing how to administer CPR correctly can really be the difference between life and death for those receiving it. It’s our ambition to have as many people as possible learning these vital skills that could ultimately save a life.”
St Andrew’s First Aid Community Engagement Trainers and Volunteers will be in attendance at the following locations:
Between April 2022 and May 2023, there were 3,161 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Scotland*. Charities such as St Andrew’s First Aid are making it their mission to create a nation of lifesavers, by providing easy to access and free training to the public.
To find out more about St Andrew’s First Aid please visit: www.firstaid.org.uk
* https://www.scottishambulance.com/media/10dn0df0/ohca-report-2022-23.pdf
This October the National Galleries of Scotland is partying like it’s 1984 with Celebrating 40 Years of Scotland’s Photography Collection, at the Portrait gallery from 26 October 2024 – 16 March 2025.
Step back in time to the 1980s when the National Galleries of Scotland officially began its world-class photography collection. Explore over 100 art works from Scotland’s national photography collection, dating from the 1840’s to the present day in this free-to-visit exhibition.
Marvel at historic photographs, visit some famous faces and discover an exciting range of what makes a photograph in this eclectic celebration of the nation’s photography collection.
Celebrating 40 Years of Scotland’s Photography Collection marks this magnificent milestone, reflecting on all that has been accomplished in the last four decades and looking to the future. In the 1980s recognition of photography as an artform was growing rapidly as museums and galleries around the world were looking to establish and grow their collections.
National Galleries of Scotland were no different. Having begun collecting photography in the late 19th century, it was in 1984 that the National Galleries of Scotland collection was formally established.
A world-renowned photography collection it is regarded as one of the best in the UK, its breadth and quality matches those of London institutions such as the V&A and National Portrait Gallery, London. Due to its original remit to collect the very best of Scottish and international photography, the collection has developed over the last 40 years to have global reach.
Now over 55,000 artworks strong the ever-growing collection is showcased in this lively exhibition which explores the major themes, subjects and processes from throughout the history of photography. Including works by major photographers such as Julia Margaret Cameron, Robert Mapplethorpe and Annie Leibovitz.
Highlighting the enticing and universal nature of photography, the exhibition will include six themes; portraiture, landscape, documentary photography, archives, inclusion and experimentation.
Find portraits of famous Scots such as, Andy Murray, The Proclaimers, Jackie Kay and David Tennant as well as fun and vibrant portraits such as Viviane Sassen’s In Bloom.
A newly acquired work consisting of photographs, film and performance by Glasgow-based artists Beagles & Ramsay will be on display for the first time.
The Sanguis Gratia Artis (Black Pudding Self-Portrait), is a performance piece alongside photographs where the artists make black pudding out of their own blood to explore the boundaries of the self-portrait.
Celebrating the connectivity and nostalgia that photographs bring to people worldwide, the exhibition looks at how this incredible artform can be traced through generations of Scottish photographers and schools of photography.
Embracing the eclectic nature of photography, vibrant displays will create interesting contrasts and connections between historic and contemporary images. Discover how the ideas and subject matters that started with David Octavius Hill and Robert Adamson in the 1840s continues to be photographed centuries apart with different and modern cameras.
Take pride in the influential alumni of Scottish photography schools whose connections extend around the world, making Scotland a significant home to photography.
Explore the idea of what makes a photograph, reflecting on changing technology and taking a look at artists who are pushing the boundaries of what we might have traditionally thought of as a photograph.
About the exhibition
National Galleries Scotland: Portrait
26 October 2024 – 16 March 2025
Celebrating 40 Years of Scotland’s Photography Collection | National Galleries of Scotland
Free
Nationwide and Dementia UK are bringing free face-to-face specialist dementia care to Scotland.
The clinics will be hosted by Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurses in Nationwide’s Edinburgh and Inverness branches to support anyone impacted by dementia, offering life-changing support to families and individuals living with dementia in the area.
Support includes practical and emotional advice on all aspects of dementia – from worries about memory problems and understanding a diagnosis and how the condition can progress to help with financial and legal issues.
Appointments can be booked via Dementia UK’s website here.
Nationwide branches offer a safe, comfortable and private space for families to discuss any aspect of dementia, which aims to help 100,000 people affected by dementia.
As part of the partnership, Nationwide will host 200 pop-up clinics in branches around the UK, and the building society and fund 30 dementia specialist Admiral Nurse posts through Dementia UK.
The clinics form part of Nationwide’s new social impact programme, Fairer Futures, which addresses three of the UK’s biggest social issues through charity partnerships – dementia (Dementia UK), youth homelessness (Centrepoint) and family poverty (Action for Children).
Latest research from Nationwide found that:
Sarah Priestley, Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, said: “We’re looking forward to bringing specialist face-to-face support for people affected by dementia to Edinburgh and Inverness. By partnering with Nationwide, we are able to provide a safe space in towns across the county to ensure our Admiral Nurses are able to reach as many people affected by the condition as possible.
“Dementia is a huge and growing health crisis – someone in the UK develops dementia every three minutes and the condition is the leading cause of death in England and Wales.
“It’s more important than ever that we reach families and individuals affected by dementia and offer one-on-one support from our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses.”
Debbie Crosbie, Chief Executive Officer of Nationwide, said: “Nationwide wants to help people live their best life possible, for as long as possible.
“By working with Dementia UK to fund more Admiral Nurses and turning our branches into dementia clinics, we’re helping to tackle the country’s leading cause of death.
“As a mutual, we work for the good of society as well as our members. We believe this and Nationwide Fairer Futures will change hundreds of thousands of lives for the better.”
To book a confidential and in-person appointment with an Admiral Nurse, visit www.dementiauk.org/nationwide.
The pop-up clinics will visit:
POLICE are appealing for information following disorder after the football match between Hibernian and Motherwell at the weekend.
On Saturday, 5 October 2024, incidents of violence and disorder were directed towards officers in the St Andrew Square area after the conclusion of the game.
Four officers suffered minor injuries as a result and four men aged 16, 17, 18 and 22 were charged in connection with incidents of violence and disorder. They were released on an undertaking to appear in court at a later date.
Two other people were also arrested and later released without charge.
Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson said: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to violence of any kind and are working to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
“A proportionate policing plan was in place and officers being targeted with violence while carrying out their duties is wholly unacceptable.
“Officers acted swiftly in challenging circumstances to deal with what amounted to totally unacceptable behaviour.
“A dedicated team of officers are carrying out enquiries to identify those involved and appropriate action will be taken.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 1311 of 5 October 2024.
