Category: city centre

St James Quarter and Children First launch gifting tree to help make Christmas brighter for children across Scotland

St James Quarter, Edinburgh, Christmas Light Switch-on

St James Quarter has teamed up with Scottish children’s charity, Children First, to bring festive cheer to families who need it most this Christmas, with the launch of the Gifting Tree – a heartwarming initiative that gives guests the opportunity to donate gifts for children and young people across Scotland.

Located on Level 3 of the St James Quarter Galleria, the Gifting Tree invites visitors to help make Christmas a little brighter for children and families who may otherwise go without this festive season.

Shoppers can now donate a new, unwrapped gift at the Guest Services Desk within St James Quarter. In return, each donor will receive a blank tag, on which they can write a special message to hang on the Gifting Tree – a symbolic gesture of generosity and community spirit.

All gifts will be distributed by Children First to families across Scotland who are struggling to make ends meet this winter. For those who would prefer to make a monetary donation, they can do so online via the Gifting Tree Just Giving page.

With over 240,000 children living in poverty across Scotland, energy costs rising and families facing increasing financial pressure, Children First has seen more families than ever reaching out for help.

The charity offers vital emotional, practical, and financial support to ensure children can grow up safe, secure and happy – but it relies on the kindness of local communities to make this possible.

Donated gifts could include games, books, cosy clothing, toiletries, or vouchers for shops and experiences (a full list of suggested items can be found below). There is a particular need for gifts for teenagers and older children, who are often overlooked in festive giving campaigns.

Jennifer Laseen, Chair of the CSR Committee at St James Quarter, said: “Every child deserves to experience the joy and magic of Christmas. We’re proud to partner with Children First this year to bring the Gifting Tree to life at St James Quarter.

“The festive season is a time for giving, and this initiative allows our guests to make a real difference to children and young people who are finding things difficult right now. We’re constantly inspired by the generosity of our community here in Edinburgh and look forward to seeing the Gifting Tree filled with decorations that represent kindness and compassion.”

Michelle Supple, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Children First said: “For families already having a tough time, the added pressure and cost of Christmas can be overwhelming. By donating through the Gifting Tree, you can help bring joy to children in Edinburgh and across Scotland during the festive season.

“We’re incredibly grateful to St James Quarter for their generous support and we hope as many people as possible will get involved. This wonderful initiative has the power to brighten Christmas for countless children – and we can’t wait to see the difference it will make.”

To take part, visitors can simply bring their gift to the Guest Services Desk on level 1 of St James Quarter and then place their decoration on the Gifting Tree on Level 3 from now until 5 January 2026.

Suggested gifts for donation:

  • Vouchers for shops and experiences (cinemas, haircuts, Greggs, Starbucks, JD Sports, Primark, One4All vouchers)
  • Make-up sets, make-up brushes, jewellery, accessories, heatless curl set
  • Toiletries and personal hygiene items
  • Headphones
  • Games, puzzles and arts and crafts sets
  • Pyjamas, cosy socks, branded socks
  • Hats, gloves and scarves
  • Board games and arts and crafts activities
  • Journals, notebooks and stationery
  • Footballs

Guests can make the most of the festive season at St James Quarter with the extended opening hours outlined below:

  • Sunday 16th November – Sunday 14th December: 10am – 7pm
  • Friday 28th November (Black Friday): 9am – 9pm
  • Monday 15th December – Saturday 20th December: 9am – 9pm
  • Sunday 21st December: 9am – 7pm
  • Monday 22nd December – Tuesday 23rd December: 9am – 9pm
  • Wednesday 24th December (Christmas Eve): 9am – 5pm
  • Thursday 25th December (Christmas Day): CLOSED
  • Friday 26th December (Boxing Day): 9am – 6pm
  • Saturday 27th December: 9am – 8pm
  • Sunday 28th December: 10am – 6pm
  • Monday 29th December: – Tuesday 30th December: 9am – 8pm
  • Wednesday 31st December (Hogmanay): 9am – 5pm
  • Thursday 1st January (New Year’s Day): 12pm – 5pm
  • Friday 2nd January: 9am – 8pm

Find out more about the Gifting Tree and donate to Children First here: 

https://stjamesquarter.com/event/children-first-gifting-tree/

Police launch Operation Winter City 2025 campaign

POLICE in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City 2025 – the annual policing campaign to keep the public safe as they visit the city centre over the festive period.

There will be an enhanced presence of officers out on patrol to engage with people and offer reassurance and crime prevention advice, as well as to respond to any incidents that may arise.

Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson, Gold Commander for Operation Winter City, said yesterday: “Anyone who’s ever visited Edinburgh over the festive period knows just how amazing the city is at this time of year.

“That’s why it’s important that our policing response is appropriate and proportionate to meet the demand of the additional visitors to the Capital, but to also reflect the very special atmosphere that is generated during Christmas and New Year.

“Local officers will be supported by colleagues from neighbouring divisions during patrols throughout the city-centre and anyone requiring assistance is welcome to come and speak to them, whether it’s to report a crime, or request information.

“On behalf of everyone within Edinburgh Division, I wish you all a safe, secure, and Merry Christmas.”

Read more: https://orlo.uk/JKcqZ

City Centre robberies: Man and woman arrested and charged

Two people have been arrested and charged in connection with robberies and attempted robberies in Edinburgh city centre.

Between Wednesday, 12 November and Thursday, 13 November, 2025, three people were approached in the city centre and asked to hand over belongings.

A 53-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman are due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Friday, 14 November, in connection.

Detectives believe there was another attempted robbery on Nicolson Street 3.55am on Wednesday, 12 November, 2025, and this has not yet been reported. Officers are appealing for the couple, and the member of the public who intervened in this attempted robbery, to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 0320 of 12 November 2025.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Christmas Day | Festive Family Feast at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

This Christmas, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will host its Festive Family Feast at Greyfriars Hall, offering guests a relaxed, communal dining experience in one of the city’s most atmospheric venues.

The celebration will begin with a starter buffet featuring smoked salmon, scallops, charcuterie, cheeses, and artisan breads, followed by main course options such as roast turkey roulade, Mushroom Wellington, and Scottish salmon, served with traditional festive sides. Guests will finish with a chocolate crémeux dessert with raspberry gel, salted caramel, and pistachio crumb.

With doors open from 13:00 and final seating at 14:30, the event will provide a stress-free Christmas celebration for all the family with joiner tables of ten and drinks available to purchase on the day.

Tickets: Book HERE

Artist in Residence | Jennifer Court

We’re thrilled to announce the extension of our Artist in Residence programme – a celebration of Edinburgh’s vibrant art scene and creative community. 

Due to popular demand, local artist Jennifer Court will continue her residency at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh through December.

Guests can meet Jennifer in-house, discover her latest works, and even book a studio tour for an inside look at her creative process. Be amazed by her awe inspiring 360 view of Edinburgh, capturing her view from the top turret of the unicorn room. 

To arrange a visit, contact our Concierge team or reach out to Jenny directly on Instagram @jennifercourt_art

Venue: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Price: £N/A

More info: here

Edinburgh’s small businesses shine as part of small business roadshow 

Independent businesses in Edinburgh celebrated as part of Small Business Saturday’s Tour highlighting the nation’s favourite businesses 

Local businesses in Edinburgh were in the spotlight this week when Small Business Saturday’s UK-wide roadshow visited the city, celebrating the nation’s favourite small businesses and their vital role in local communities. 

‘The Tour’, designed to champion small businesses across the UK in the run up to Small Business Saturday on 6 December, featured ‘behind the scenes’ visits to a selection of Edinburgh’s businesses, highlighting their stories, successes, and ambitions for the future. 

Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign that celebrates small businesses and encourages consumers to support and spend with small firms. 

During the visit, the roadshow met Jen Byrne, owner of By Jen Byrne, who creates beautiful, sustainable pieces from vintage and repurposed fabrics.

Jen said: “It means so much to have been visited by the Small Business Saturday roadshow team, and recognised as an independent fashion designer creating sustainable garments.”

Once again supported by BT, the Small Business Saturday roadshow is visiting over 20 towns and cities across the UK throughout November, showcasing local businesses on social media alongside offering a range of free online support for small business owners. 

Local businesses featured during the Edinburgh stop included PekoeTea, run by Jon (above) and Esther Cooper, a specialist tea company that handcrafts all of its blends just minutes from their shop, and Transfer Magic, run by Pete Harper, who digitises everything from videotapes and cine film to camcorder footage, helping preserve cherished memories for future generations.

“As a small business owner, it’s incredibly valuable to have Small Business Saturday championing our cause and shining a spotlight on how we make a living here at Transfer Magic”, Pete said.

“Participating in the tour will hopefully be really fruitful as we enter into the Christmas season. The webinars that run alongside the tour have given me great insight into how to better run my small business, and I’ll be using those lessons in the new year and beyond.”

Also featured was JustBe Botanicals, founded by Gail Bryden, which produces natural skincare and aromatherapy gifts. She said: “Being part of the Small Business Saturday roadshow is incredible because it puts the spotlight on businesses that otherwise wouldn’t get that sort of reach.

“Running up to Christmas is such an important time for small businesses and that’s why campaigns like Small Business Saturday are so important. When you shop local, that spend stays within your community, so go and support your small businesses.”

Following its stop in Edinburgh, Small Business Saturday’s roadshow will continue to Preston, Carlisle, and Manchester, ahead of the campaign on 6 December. 

“It’s incredible to have the opportunity to visit Edinburgh and hear directly from local entrepreneurs about their passion, innovation, and plans for growth,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK. 

“This year we’re highlighting the nation’s favourite businesses, which are the lifeblood of local communities, and it’s fantastic to see the support and enthusiasm they receive during the campaign.” 

Alongside the roadshow, Small Business Saturday is offering small businesses in Edinburgh and all over the UK a month of dedicated, free online business support, including webinars on a wide range of small business topics, as well as mentoring from business experts.

“Small businesses are vital to the UK economy, and giving entrepreneurs the right support and guidance is crucial to their success,” said Chris Sims, Chief Commercial Officer, UK Business, at BT.

“The Tour provides a valuable opportunity to connect directly with small businesses across the country, offering tailored guidance and practical resources to help them grow and adapt. It’s a powerful initiative that brings businesses together to drive innovation, strengthen local communities, and build a more resilient economy.”

Backed by principal supporter American Express, Small Business Saturday has been running for over a decade since 2013. Over this time it has engaged millions of people and seen billions of pounds spent with small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday, with an impact that lasts all year round. 

On Small Business Saturday, customers across the country are encouraged to support local businesses, whether online, in stores, or at events, many of which are offering special promotions to mark the day. 

The Small Business Saturday Tour team will travel across the UK in branded electric vehicles, reflecting the sustainable practices many small business owners are adopting in the race to net zero. 

To follow The Tour’s journey visit @SmallBizSatUK on Instagram.

Small businesses can head to the Small Business Saturday website to access free business support and get involved in the campaign – 

https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour#VirtualRoadshow  

New Scottish pie dinner at John’s Coffee House & Tavern

The historic Old Town venue has launched ‘John’s Pies’, a brand-new dinner menu dedicated entirely to one of the nation’s favourite comfort foods.

In partnership with Jarvis Pickle, based in the Scottish Borders and winners of 46 British Pie Awards and 21 Great Taste Awards, John’s Coffee House & Tavern now serves a menu of eight handcrafted pies, seven regulars and one rotating seasonal flavour, all made in Scotland using the finest ingredients.

Each pie is served with creamy mash, peas, and a rich gravy for £14.50, available daily from 5pm to 9pm. Diners can choose from a comforting and flavour-packed line-up, from rich venison to hearty beef, plus vegan and seasonal specials.

“Pies have always been part of Scottish heritage – simple, hearty and full of flavour,” says Corrina Croy, General Manager at John’s Coffee House & Tavern.

“Collaborating with Jarvis Pickle felt like the perfect fit for us. They share our values of quality, craftsmanship and celebrating the best of Scotland’s produce. John’s Pies brings a true taste of comfort to our dinner menu, just in time for the cold season.”

True to its ethos of supporting Scottish producers, John’s Coffee House & Tavern continues to champion local suppliers across its menu and bar. The bar serves only Bellfield Brewery beers and Edinburgh Cider Company ciders, both proudly brewed in Edinburgh, alongside a wide range of Scotch whiskies, offering the perfect pairing for a hearty pie supper.

Nestled behind St Giles’ Cathedral, John’s Coffee House & Tavern sits within CODE The Court, a boutique hotel and urban hostel housed in Edinburgh’s former police chambers and courthouse; a space steeped in character, stories, and tradition.

‘John’s Pies’ is now being served daily from 5pm to 9pm – walk-ins only.

Scottish Poppy Appeal 2025 ends on a high during final fundraising weekend

Thousands of volunteers took to streets, shopping centres and supermarkets for the final weekend of fundraising for the 2025 Scottish Poppy Appeal.  

Affectionately known across the country as Poppy Saturday, the day saw an army of volunteer collectors – including veterans, young cadets and members of the public – from Glasgow to Galashiels, Edinburgh to East Kilbride and beyond, all make another outstanding effort to raise vital funds to support the Armed Forces community in Scotland. 

Today, at 11am, the nation will pause for two minutes of silent reflection on Remembrance Sunday, knowing that Poppy Saturday has once again been a great success, with strong support and generous donations.

Richard Todd, National Poppy Appeal Manager – Scotland, was delighted with the response to this year’s appeal, and said: “The support we have had, not just on Poppy Saturday but throughout the past three weeks, across the length and breadth of our country has once again been outstanding.

“Every donation makes a difference and helps provide vital, often life-changing support for current or former members of the Armed Forces and their families whether that is overcoming challenges related to financial difficulties, employment, housing, mental health, or any other number of areas.

“Quite literally, when a veteran’s life starts to unravel, Poppyscotland helps them piece it back together.

“So, on behalf of Poppyscotland and the Armed Forces community that we support, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated so generously, or gave up their time to volunteer, allowing us to continue to offer help every step of the way.” 

The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with millions of poppies being distributed around the country during October and in the run up to Remembrance Sunday.

People can find out more at www.poppyscotland.org.uk.

Multrees Walk expands luxury retail offering with the arrival of OMEGA

Swiss watchmaker OMEGA has announced the opening of its first standalone boutique in Edinburgh, located at the prestigious Multrees Walk.

Spanning 2,000 square feet across two stylish floors, the new boutique will offer an elevated customer experience, complete with a dedicated lounge and bar area, creating a welcoming environment for customers to discover the world of OMEGA.

The new boutique will showcase OMEGA’s renowned watch collections, including the Constellation, Seamaster, Speedmaster, and De Ville families. 

Visitors will also be able to explore OMEGA’s range of matching accessories and fine jewellery, making the store the perfect destination for watch enthusiasts.

 Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of OMEGA said: “OMEGA’s new location in the heart of Edinburgh aligns perfectly with the Scottish spirit, balancing forward-thinking innovation with a deep respect for heritage and traditions”.

Adam Stone, Head of Retail Asset Management UK at Nuveen said: “We are delighted to welcome OMEGA to Multrees Walk.

“Their arrival further strengthens our reputation as Scotland’s leading luxury shopping destination.

“As we continue to grow and expand the retail offering in Edinburgh, we are excited to be welcoming world-class brands and luxury retailers on board.”

The arrival of OMEGA marks another milestone for Multrees Walk, which continues to attract leading global brands, with further retailer announcements expected later this year.

Free digital support sessions at Central Library!

Tuesday 18th & 25th November, 2:30 – 4:30pm

Get help with email, internet, apps, staying safe online & more from @LloydsBank volunteers

Book: getonline@edinburgh.gov.uk / 07716 702180

Drop-ins also welcome on the day

#digitalinclusion

Edinburgh Castle ignites excitement for Castle of Light: Fire and Ice with special St Andrew’s Day ticket offer

10-year-old Brooke enjoyed an exclusive tour from Castle of Light’s enchanting Ice Queen this week, catching a first glimpse at the dazzling displays set to transform Edinburgh Castle after dark as the UK’s largest annual projection show prepares to open later this month.

Illuminating the capital’s skyline for a sixth year, Castle of Light: Fire and Ice promises to captivate audiences with extraordinary installations, interactive moments and atmospheric storytelling, with an all-new show inspired by the elemental forces of fire and ice.

Running for seven weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates from Friday 21 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026, guests will journey through a fortress of light and encounter mythical creatures, from a mighty dragon soaring across the night sky to the Ice Queen herself in the Great Hall.

In celebration of St Andrew’s Day, a special £10 ticket offer will be available to all visitors attending on Sunday 30 November making it the perfect opportunity to experience the after-dark spectacular.

Brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, Castle of Light continues to be a must-see for locals and visitors alike in the city’s packed festive schedule, blending cutting-edge creativity with centuries of Scottish heritage.

For more information and to get your tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.scot