Bar Hütte, a brand new après ski themed alpine village, is now open for festivities at St James Quarter.
The pop-up experience, complete with cosy furnishings, exclusive private hüttes, walk-in bar, live music sessions, house DJs and Christmas karaoke, welcomes guests to enjoy seasonal cocktails, delicious hot serves, a broad selection of wines and Cold Town Beer brewed locally in Edinburgh.
Located at St James Square, the unmissable festive concept will be open until Sunday 2nd January.
Inspired by some of the coolest après ski bars in Europe, Bar Hütte St James Quarter combines super snug ski hüttes with a vibrant and fun atmosphere, whether you’re out with friends, hosting a Christmas party or looking to chill-out for an afternoon drink.
Bar Hütte has partnered with Scotland’s award-winning master brewers Cold Town Beer to offer locals some of their favourites. The range on the menu includes Cold Town Lager (recently awarded ‘best pilsner’) Cold Town New England IPA, and festive brews, including Christmas Pudding Ale, Chocolate Cake Stout, and their best-seller Queen of Puddings.
Guests to the alpine village can also enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizzas from Salerno Pizza, ordered via QR code and brought straight to your cosy karaoke hütte. The rustic Italian pizza specialists will be serving an array of incredible tasting pizzas, including gluten-free bases and non-dairy toppings.
As well as Cold Town Beer, there’s an array of season cocktails including Lemon Drizzle Spritz: Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle, mancino rosso, tonic & rosemaryand Winter Spiced Old Fashioned; Makers Mark, spiced syrup & orange bitters. Bar Hütte’s hot serves include Makers Biscoff Hot Chocolate; Makers Mark, hot chocolate & speculoos syrup and Hot Gin & Gingerbread; Sipsmith London Dry, gingerbread syrup, water, orange slice plus many more.
There’s also an extensive wine list curated and supplied by local wine merchants Good Brothers Wine.
To experience a ‘Cosy Karaoke Hütte’ for up to eight people, each hut requires a non-refundable booking fee of £60 and this secures your exclusive use for 1 hour, 45 minutes along with a complimentary welcome ‘Bombardino’ and Christmas karaoke.
Hosting a party? Bar Hütte’s VIP hütte can cater for a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 20 people. Pay £150 to hire the space, enjoy a welcome glass of prosecco and a Bombardino for all guests on arrival, then go crazy on karaoke and keep the drinks flowing for two hours.
Larger groups are encouraged to email edinburgh@barhutte.co.uk to find out which sections of the Après Bar would be a great fit for special festive events and parties.
If you’re wondering what a Bar Hütte Bombardino is, then you are in for a treat – An Italian Mountain classic, warm rum, cream and cinnamon shot served topped with whipped cream… essentially Christmas in a cup.
Bar Hütte is also known for their ‘Shot-Ski’s too – four shots of limoncello on an actual ski. Tip back together, then head to the dance floor.
Animal lovers can also expect a Doggy Grotto, complete with ‘paw-secco’, and complimentary dog treats. This un-fur-gettable experience has everything dog lovers need to get into the festive spirit, including photo props and Santa hats to make your four-legged friend look even cuter.
InterContinental Edinburgh The George has commissioned historians from the University of Edinburgh to explore the hidden stories behind the iconic building and local area.
The tour is part of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 75th anniversary celebrations, in which the world’s largest luxury hotel brand marks special moments that have taken place within the walls of its’ hotels across the world and looks forward to continuing its journey of innovation in the luxury travel space.
To share these stories, InterContinental Edinburgh The George has partnered with VoiceMap to develop an exclusive audio walking tour guide for guests and visitors to the city. Developed and narrated by Dr Esther Mijers and Professor Ewen Cameron, historians from the University of Edinburgh, the tour unlocks Edinburgh’s hidden history, showcasing the lesser-known stories of city.
Starting at InterContinental Edinburgh The George, the audio tour tells the lesser known stories behind the renowned hotel. During the 19th Century the hotel was a collection of five prestigious townhouses and home to the well-known Ferrier family, who boast a historical connection to Scotland’s literature scene.
Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns were frequent guests, while their daughter and novelist, Susan Ferrier – commonly referred to as ‘Scotland’s Jane Austen’ – was somewhat of an unsung hero in Scottish literature.
Guests are then guided to seven other locations across the city including:
17 Heriot Row, the home of one of Scotland’s most famous writers, Robert Louis Stevenson – author of Treasure Island.
Edinburgh Academy Senior School, a school that exemplified the very best of a structured education for the youth of the ever-growing New Town of Edinburgh and has since produced notable alumni.
St Andrew Square, where James Craig’s plans to build a church, dedicated to patron Saint Andrew were foiled by Lawrence Dundas. The church was instead built on George Street itself, right next door to InterContinental Edinburgh The George.
St James Quarter, to uncover the origins of the original site – St James Square.
Old College, University of Edinburgh, the site where the mysterious murder of Lord Darnley, the unpopular second husband of Mary Queen of Scots, took place in February 1567.
The Old Medical School, to reveal the story of The Edinburgh Seven – pioneers of women’s education in the UK whose trailblazing campaign prompted a change in the law that allowed women to study medicine in the UK.
George Square, to tell the tale of its’ notable residents including Sir Walter Scott who, whilst living there, was working furiously to pay off the debts acquired from the collapse of his publisher, Ballantynes, of which he was a partner.
Kieran Quinn, Hotel General Manager InterContinental Edinburgh, The George said:“It is hugely exciting to be launching our own unique Hidden Histories walking tour in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh.
“Forming part of our celebration of 75 years of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, it is a brilliant way to indulge in the nostalgia of the city and the perfect activity for our guests and likeminded explorers while staying here in Edinburgh.
“This walking tour is a celebration of the rich heritage within the city of Edinburgh, our iconic hotel and the exclusive experiences we can offer to our guests both from the UK and across the globe.”
Professor Ewen Cameron, the University of Edinburgh said: “It has been brilliant to have been involved in developing this audio walking tour for the guests of InterContinental Edinburgh The George.
“It is important that we continue to highlight and tell the stories that lie hidden within the walls of the city of Edinburgh, and this walking tour does just that.”
Guests of InterContinental Edinburgh The George will be able to enjoy the walking tour, by booking the Hidden Histories package, inclusive of a luxurious picnic hamper, or by obtaining a voucher code from the hotel concierge team.
As part of the celebration of its’ history and heritage and the brand’s 75th Anniversary InterContinental Edinburgh The George will also be serving up the limited-edition InterContinental75 cocktail.
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts have reimagined the well-loved classic, French 75 to celebrate this milestone year, with partners Piper-Heidsieck Champagne and the artisanal hand-crafted Botanist Islay Dry Gin, distilled on the Scottish Isle of Islay.
For more information about the InterContinental Edinburgh The George visit:
Scotland’s retail and hospitality industries are set to benefit from a significant job boost this Christmas, thanks to St James Quarter and its FUSE initiative.
As the retail and hospitality industries prepare for a busy festive season, more than 200 new temporary and permanent jobs will be recruited for at the development, ranging from style advisors, retail assistants, bar staff, waiting staff and chefs.
Launched by the team at St James Quarter and working in partnership with a number of organisations across the city, FUSE is a new initiative providing a high-quality recruitment service, specialising in retail and hospitality for employers both within St James Quarter and the wider Edinburgh area.
FUSE is recruiting for a variety of brands including Bershka, Calvin Klein, H Beauty, Maki & Ramen, GDK and many more.
Further to driving recruitment, FUSE will also continue to support those employed by providing further training, accredited qualifications, and ongoing networking opportunities.
Rochelle Weir at St James Quarter said:“Christmas is gearing up to be an extremely busy time for St James Quarter and all the brands within it, so we’re delighted to be working with FUSE to be providing new job opportunities for people in the city.
“The team at St James Quarter is passionate about doing our part to support and bolster the local community and we’re proud to be able to bring so many exciting career opportunities to Scotland during the festive season and beyond.”
Calum Nicol, FUSE Manager, added: “At FUSE, we’re committed to providing a leading service for both employers and employees – helping to match recruits with the needs of employers.
“Our diverse and experienced team allows us to stay at the forefront of recruitment needs, with our in-depth knowledge of all sectors placing the most suitable candidates in the most suitable positions.
“Our Job Recruitment Fair is an opportunity for those seeking employment to come down and see what’s available. There are a number of exciting brands within St James Quarter hiring and our aim is to find the right people for the right role.”
For more information of the FUSE Job Recruitment Fair visit:
Edinburgh Castle has launched a search to find a deserving person to become part of this year’s Castle of Light show.
Celebrating Scotland’s ‘hidden treasures’, Castle of Light will put a spotlight on the lesser-known stories from Scotland’s past using stunning visuals, state-of-the-art projections and captivating storytelling. Ensuring it doesn’t miss out on the unique stories on its own doorstep, Edinburgh Castle has also launched a search to find Scotland’s ‘wee treasure’.
Highlighting those who go above and beyond, Edinburgh Castle is asking the public to nominate the people around them that they consider to be a ‘wee treasure’ – giving one lucky person the opportunity to switch on the 2021 event.
Stephen Duncan, Director of Commercial and Tourism at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which operates Edinburgh Castle, said: “Scotland is known for the friendly and welcoming nature of its residents, and so people stories are a key part of our history. That’s why we want to shine a spotlight on the deserving people in our communities – someone you consider admirable, young or old. We want to find Scotland’s own ‘wee treasure’, anyone with a story to be told.
“After a tough 18 months, the people around us have never been more important and so we’re excited to be able to give recognition to some of Scotland’s special people. Extending the celebration, we’ll be offering one ‘wee treasure’ the opportunity to switch on the 2021 event – a truly unique experience. So whether it’s a pillar of the community or just a great pal, we want to hear your stories.”
Visitors can expect wonder, enchantment and a spectacle of colour as Castle of Light returns to the capital this winter. Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures is set to come to life, transforming the historic attraction into an interactive wonderland, for eight weeks throughout the festive season, from Friday 19 November 2021 to Sunday 9 January 2022 (on select dates, Thursday – Sunday).
Nominate yourself or someone else as a ‘wee treasure’ online at CastleofLight.scot/competition and follow the ‘wee treasure’ search on Edinburgh Castle’s social channels @EdinburghCastle.
The nominated individual from all valid entries will gain free access for them and a plus one to the Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures preview event on Thursday 18 November.
One ‘wee treasure’ who has shone brightly within their community will be picked to switch on the show at the preview event on Thursday 18 November.
Nominations close on Thursday 11 November.
For more information and to get your tickets, visit CastleofLight.scot.
Hamilton & Inches is hosting the 2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition at its newly renovated showroom in Edinburgh. Brought to life by its unique watchmaking expertise, the exhibition will showcase latest timeless pieces from Rolex.
The 2021 exhibition is taking place from the 1st to the 7th of November and will give customers a chance to view the 2021 Rolex novelties. The collection will be available to view without an appointment during the showroom opening hours.
The exhibition will display the newest pieces in the Rolex portfolio, including the new-generation Explorer and Explorer II. The Explorer collection has long been developed in collaboration with legendary explorers to ensure expert performance. The new additions are emblematic of the brand’s perpetual drive to improve and its never-ending quest for excellence.
The exhibition will also give Hamilton & Inches customers the chance to view the unique Rolex dials, including new versions of the Datejust 36 and the Cosmograph Daytona which showcase refined and original dials – from palm dials to meteorite!
The 2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition reinforces Hamilton & Inches’ position as Edinburgh’s premiere destination for fine jewellery, luxury watches and hand-crafted silver.
Having recently undergone an extensive renovation, the Rolex showroom offers a serene and luxurious escape from the bustling city of Edinburgh. Hamilton & Inches is also proud to offer its customers first-class watch servicing from its in-house Rolex-accredited watchmaker.
Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “Our newly renovated showroom in Edinburgh is the perfect place to host the 2021 Rolex Novelties Exhibition.
“This exhibition will allow our customers to fully immerse themselves in the world of luxury watchmaking and will provide visitors with the perfect opportunity to see the latest set of Rolex novelties in person.”
On behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, Underbelly announces that tickets for Edinburgh’s Christmas 2021 are now on sale.
– Tickets on sale for selected rides and attractions.
– The much-loved ice rink returns, sponsored by Lidl GB and partnered by Essential Edinburgh.
– East Princes Street will see the return of festive food & drink and the Christmas Market.
– West Princes Street will include Santa Land, featuring the magical Santa’s Grotto and family friendly attractions.
– EH postcodes receive 20% discount.
Edinburgh’s Christmas is back and set tobring festive cheer to the heart of the city.
This year we see the return of the city’s much-loved Christmas ice rink, sponsored by Lidl GB and partnered by Essential Edinburgh, in its new home on George Street. The firm favourite will include a first for Edinburgh’s Christmas, skate up festive food and drink offerings alongside family sessions. Lidl on Ice will open on 19 November.
Once again East Princes Street Gardens hosts one the UK’s favourite Christmas Markets. The fantastic festive market will offer a wide range of European and local food, drink and craftswhich are bound to get you into the Christmas spirit.
The Forth 1 Big Wheel will return, alongside the Star Flyer, all against the backdrop of the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh’s Christmas at East Princes Street Gardens will open on 20 November.
In a first for Edinburgh’s Christmas, those looking to get to the top of the nice list will find the city’s magical Santa’s Grotto in West Princes Street Gardens.
The lower gardens will be transformed into Santa Land featuring family friendly attractions including the Christmas Tree Maze and market stalls, full of festive treats and gifts.
Santa Land will open on 19 November.
Tickets for Ice Skating, Santa’s Grotto, The Forth 1 Big Wheel and Star Flyer are now available to purchase through the Edinburgh’s Christmas website. Those with an EH postcode receive 20% off their tickets.
This year, Edinburgh’s Christmas is going contactless and introducing a new ‘tap and ride’ scheme, rather than purchasing tickets from the traditional box office you will be able to purchase your ticket at each ride.
Further additions to the programme include:
Winter Windowswill return throughout the city, and this year’s theme is “Connections and Kindness”.
This special creative project encourages Edinburgh’s young and budding artists to showcase their talents to residents and visitors outside of the classroom. School pupils are invited to design their own stained-glass window to be displayed in our streets and community hubs.
This year’s theme allows Edinburgh’s school children to reflect on the connections made and kindness that they received and gave during the global pandemic.
The Nativity Scene, which this year moves to St Andrew Square.
The Nativity Carol Concert, organised in conjunction with Edinburgh Churches Together, takes place on 28 November in St Andrew Square.
Following on from the success of the Light Night rainbow installation on the Mound in 2020, Edinburgh’s Christmas is working with Edinburgh based artist Hannah Ayre who will produce a beautiful contemporary art installation, illuminating the Mound with cascading geometric snowflakes.
This installation will sit alongside Edinburgh’s Christmas tree donated by the Hordaland County Council in Norway and will replace the Light Night event.
The Mound installation will be illuminated from 20 November.
The Neighbourhood Market will return in 2021 and offer free listings for local Edinburgh businesses and attractions to showcase their products. In 2020, 207 local Edinburgh businesses showcased their products on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website.
To make sure Edinburgh’s Christmas is an experience as enjoyable as possible to all, Underbelly is pleased to be offering sensory packs to children and adult visitors with additional needs.
These will be available to hire, free of charge, and will contain a fidget toy, earplugs, water bottle, stress reliever and ear defenders. These items are designed to help users relax in situations they might find stressful.
The sensory packs are designed and kindly provided by the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.
Underbelly is meticulously planning Edinburgh’s Christmas with Covid-19 in mind and is dedicated to creating a safe and fun environment for the 2021 Christmas celebrations.
Working closely with the City of Edinburgh Council and Essential Edinburgh, Underbelly has created an unmissable festive programme, helping to boost domestic tourism and reinvigorating Princes Street and the surrounding areas.
Edinburgh’s Christmas is designed to support economic recovery across the capital, driving footfall to the wider city centre area, bringing some much-needed cheer and happiness to both residents and visitors to Edinburgh.
This year’s festivities will also support Edinburgh’s Social Inclusion charity, the OneCity Trust with donations being taken at point of sale on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website and collection points at bars.
Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “The Underbelly team has been working tirelessly to create a bespoke Edinburgh’s Christmas programme that not only provides unforgettable memories and experiences, but also makes visitors feel safe and at ease at all times.
“It’s been a very challenging couple of years for everyone but our proposed plans for Christmas are designed to support economic recovery throughout the capital, and to help Edinburgh be together again.”
Roddy Smith, Chief Executive and Director of Essential Edinburgh said: “We’re delighted to be able to partner with Underbelly to restore Edinburgh’s world-renowned festive celebrations for 2021.
“This year’s event has been designed to provide a much-needed boost to local business by supporting footfall throughout the wider city centre, providing more businesses with the chance to reconnect with residents and visitors to our spectacular capital city.
“We are especially pleased to support the fantastic ice rink on George Street which I am sure will be a great hit with everyone.”
Edinburgh’s Lord Provost and President of the OneCity Trust Frank Ross, said: “The festive season is a very special time for our city and our communities and I’m sure this year’s programme will be warmly welcomed by residents and visitors.
“Whilst the safety of everyone remains a priority it will be fantastic to see people coming together again and enjoying Edinburgh’s Christmas this year where there really is something for everyone.
“Festive favourites like the big wheel and the Christmas market will be back and it’s great that the fun is spread out a bit further this year, with Santa Land in West Princes Street Gardens and a magical festive ice rink at the west end of George Street. It promises to be a cracking Christmas party for everyone to enjoy.”
“Partnerships such as this with Underbelly and Edinburgh’s Christmas are crucial to our work. Not only will the return of Edinburgh’s Christmas help bring people back together and promote social inclusion, but the money raised will be a vital lifeline for so many community projects across Edinburgh through our main grant funding programme.”
LISTING INFORMATION
Edinburgh’s Christmas 2021 19 November – 4 January
Facebook: EdinburghsChristmas Instagram: EdinburghsChrsitmas Twitter: EdXmas Website (and to subscribe to the Edinburgh’s Christmas newsletter): www.edinburghschristmas.com
Prices start from £6. EH postcodes receive 20% off
Edinburgh’s Christmas, East Princes Street Gardens 20 November – 4 January
Santa Land, West Princes Street Gardens 19 November – 4 January
Lidl on Ice, George Street 19 November – 4 January
Winter Windows around the city centre 19 November – 4 January
Edinburgh’s Christmas Neighbourhood Market Place 20 November – 4 January
A final proposed Low Emission Zone (LEZ) for Edinburgh has been published for approval ahead of its planned introduction next Spring.
Proposals for a city centre LEZ applying to all motor vehicles, except motorcycles and mopeds, and with a two-year grace period, were first reported to Transport and Environment Committee in June. These have been reviewed following a major, 12-week consultation involving both statutory and non-statutory consultees.
Participants were asked for their views on key elements of the LEZ, such as the boundary, grace period and whether local exemptions should be allowed. More than 5000 responses were received, with around 100 on behalf of organisations. After careful analysis of feedback, it has been recommended to proceed with the city centre zone approved for consultation in June.
While there was support for the LEZ in principle, some issues were raised by respondents, amongst which are the potential for the restrictions to displace traffic around the zone’s boundary and the two-year grace period being too short.
The report published yesterday, to be considered by Transport and Environment Committee on Tuesday 26 October, responds to the main areas of concern, providing reassurance around the effectiveness of the scheme, support for people to adjust and mitigating measures, in particular a Network Management Strategy. This is being developed to reduce any traffic and air quality impacts.
Councillor Lesley Macinnes, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “The publication of the final LEZ for approval is the culmination of a power of work analysing monitoring data, assessing consultation feedback and scenario-modelling, so it’s fantastic to have reached this point at last.
“Being able to breathe clean air is a basic right that everyone in the city deserves and this scheme, along with the many other projects to encourage sustainable transport, is key to achieving this. We urgently need to address air pollution and the damage it’s doing to our health.
“I’m confident that the LEZ being put forward for approval will have a really positive effect, while taking into account any impact on local businesses, residents and traffic patterns.”
Councillor Karen Doran, Transport and Environment Vice Convener, said: “This report outlines the many measures that will be taken as we continue to develop the LEZ ahead of its introduction next spring to ensure it works for everyone, while doing the essential job of limiting air pollution in the city.
“This is central to our plans to deliver a more sustainable, environmentally friendly transport future in Edinburgh.”
Dr Mark Miller, Senior Research Fellow at The University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Cardiovascular Science, added: “The research we have carried out with the support of the British Heart Foundation has unequivocally shown that the particles in vehicle exhaust have harmful effects in the heart and circulation.
“These effects would make a person more likely to develop heart disease over time and could even increase the chances of a heart attack or stroke. It is vital that we adopt measures to reduce the levels of these harmful pollutants from our environment.”
An evidence-led approach was taken when developing the LEZ, adhering to the National Low Emission Framework and based on detailed traffic and air quality modelling and data.
The city centre boundary was selected based on various factors, including the expected limited impact of a larger zone and predictions that an alternative city centre zone would have longer lasting negative impacts on air quality at its boundary.
While it is not expected that air pollution will get worse across the city due to diversions around the boundary, and with cleaner vehicles expected to use the surrounding area, the Network Management Strategy aims to mitigate any short-term impacts near the boundary. This is likely to include junction reconfigurations, improvements to signage and optimised signalling.
Other measures to mitigate the impact of the LEZ are the two-year grace period, which is considered sufficient to allow people to prepare, and several support funds currently available for lower income households and small businesses.
Once the LEZ is in place, vehicles must meet a minimum emissions standard to enter the zone freely, and those that don’t will be considered non-compliant and subject to penalties.
Penalty charges are set nationally at £60 for non-compliant vehicles (though halved if paid within 30 days), with the penalty rate roughly doubling for subsequent contraventions to a maximum level depending on the vehicle.
Following the two-year grace period for Edinburgh’s LEZ, enforcement will begin in spring 2024.
St James Quarter has added British fashion brand REISS to its line-up. The new 1,978 sq ft store will open on level three of the shopping district joining the likes of Kooples, Aesop, Russell & Bromley, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, and H Beauty.
REISS is a modern, global fashion brand offering stylish women’s and men’s wear and will complement St James Quarter’s luxury fashion line up, bringing even more jobs to the Scottish capital. Founded in 1971 by David Reiss, the brand has 185 locations across 8 countries.
St James Quarter has gone from strength to strength since opening in June, and REISS joins the impressive and growing list of names at the retail led destination, which includes & Other Stories, Mango, Zara, Bershka, Pull & Bear, Stradivarius, Miele, Next, H&M, JD Sports, John Lewis and many more.
This latest letting also follows on from the recent announcement of two new lettings to international restaurants WingStop and Thai Express Kitchen at the quick service pitstop dining area, Leith Street Eats.
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said:“REISS has been a fixture of the British shopping scene for half a century and will be a welcome addition to St James Quarter’s growing list of luxury brands.
“At St James Quarter, there really is something for everyone and we’re continuing to grow our diverse offering by blending international retailers with household names and popular local brands.”
Spokesperson at REISS, added:“In our 50th year, we’re proud to be opening another REISS store in a great location. St James Quarter is an exciting development with everything the modern customer is looking for.”
This latest signing at St James Quarter, which recently opened the first phase of its retail, dining, and leisure elements in June this year, underscores the Scottish capital’s global appeal and further bolsters the St James Quarter leisure offer.
A game-changing mixed-use development being delivered by Nuveen Real Estate, St James Quarter completes the distinctive offer of Edinburgh with over 80 new brands, an enticing mix of restaurants and bars, W Edinburgh, a boutique Everyman Cinema, a Roomzzz Aparthotel, and an unrivalled guest experience providing customers with an enviable events programme in a range of new and attractive public spaces.
Complementing an unrivalled shopping offer, St James Quarter will be a premier food and drink destination. It will provide a truly diverse offer – from fast, fresh food, to family and restaurant dining, including Bonnie & Wild as the anchor for the development’s new concept food hall alongside Five Guys, and The Alchemist. The offer will be available over a number of locations throughout St James Quarter, each with its own unique look and feel.
Edinburgh’s Christmas is back with a bang as St James Quarter announces the arrival of Bar Hütte’s festive experience that is set to take shape from Monday 8th November, offering a unique take on ‘Alpine Après Ski’.
Proving popular in other cities across the UK, the pop-up concept provides private holiday style chalets for shoppers to get cosy with friends and indulge in festive speciality cocktails, whilst taking part in Christmas karaoke.
Located at St James Square, customers can also enjoy live music sessions whilst sipping on a hot gin or spiced mulled wine and tucking into mince pies until Sunday 2nd January.
Inspired by previous trips to Courchevel, Zermatt and Tignes, Bar Hütte have created the look and atmosphere of traditional Alpine ski resorts. Furnished with a warm, festive décor, the super-snug ski hüttes are the perfect place to accommodate wintertime get-togethers, a post-Christmas shopping ‘pick-me-up’ or date nights with a difference.
Each private, bookable hütte includes a karaoke set-up so you and the blast out Mariah, Wham or Kylie to your hearts content.
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Bar Hütte to St James Quarter as part of our Christmas offering. With it being our first Christmas, we’re excited to join our customers in getting into the festive spirit and what better than mulled wine and karaoke to help us do that.
“These Alpine Après Ski’ inspired huts are the perfect way to create our very own winter wonderland here at The Quarter and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy them.”
To experience a ‘Cosy Karaoke Hütte’ for up to eight people for 1 hour 45 minutes, each hut requires a non-refundable booking fee of £60. This includes Christmas karaoke as well as a complimentary welcome ‘Bombardino’ – a warm drink made up of hot rum and eggnog topped with whipped cream & cinnamon.
Bar Hütte also has a VIP area that can cater for up to 20 people for two hours for £150. This includes hire of the space, Christmas karaoke, a welcome glass of prosecco and a Bombardino for all guests on arrival.
From a six layered cake to a premium gin cocktail, Hilton has expanded its menu with new unique dishes
Calling all food and drink lovers – Hilton is adding four new mouth-watering, unique creations to its menu, available in 31 UK Hilton hotels from London to Edinburgh, and 145 hotels across Europe, Middle East and Africa.
The brand-new creations have been developed as part of Hilton’s annual Flavour and Flair competition, where Hilton’s talented food and beverage team members from across Europe, Middle East and Africa go head-to-head with their creations, competing to have their drink or dish featured on Hilton menus across the region.
A long-standing pioneer on the flavour-front, Hilton kitchens and bars across the world are responsible for the birth of world-famous F&B firsts, from the Pina Colada, Waldorf Salad and even the Red Velvet cake.
Continuing with the trail-blazing, the four newest taste sensations are:
Pastry perfection … The Belle Provence
A delicious six layered sponge cake, tiered with a surprising combination of fresh rosemary, sweet almond and juicy apricot compote.
Creator, Chef Ankit from Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villasin Qatar, took inspiration from the region of Provence in France, which produces the largest amount of apricots, to bring this baking creation to life.
Cocktail’s finest … The Simia Sour
Be transported to the tropics with this perfectly balanced cocktail by mixologist Andrea Volajova from Hilton Prague, Czech Republic.
Featuring a range of fresh botanicals of gin, zesty lemon juice and punchy cranberry juice, topped off with a foam of egg white.
Mouth-watering mocktail … The Zinggreen Frost
A health fuelled mocktail, bursting with luscious cold green tea, aromatic ginger water, lemon juice and sweet honey, with a touch of mint to finish. Bartender Mohammed Hassan from Hilton Hurghada Plaza in Egypt, wanted the drink to provide a refreshing hit of zesty goodness with every sip and move away from calorie laden, sweet concoctions.
Punchy power bowl … The Rainbowl
A stunning power bowl like no other. Chef de Partie Pedro Caetano from Conrad Algarve in Portugal took inspiration from the colours of the rainbow.
His creation features bright blueberry salmon, delectable quinoa and black chia, salty granola and a whole range of exotic vegetables and fruits which creates the stunning rainbow effect.
Emma Banks, Vice President of F&B Strategy & Development EMEA, said: “For over a century we have been serving up industry firsts, from the Pina Colada to the Red Velvet cake.
“Our culinary and cocktail teams are more determined than ever to be innovating and creating world famous F&B. By galvanising our talented team members with the Flavour and Flair competitions, it inspires them to create the next big dishes, that will help us lead trends for the next century.
“Now available in the UK, make sure you visit your nearest Hilton to sample them all for yourself!”
To find out more and join the conversation visit @tasteofhilton
