Category: Old Town

Scotch Whisky – Make it a Treble!

THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE SECURES THREE MAJOR AWARD WINS

The Scotch Whisky Experience, an internationally renowned whisky tourism destination by Edinburgh Castle, has achieved an exceptional series of wins at three major award ceremonies: The Scottish Thistle Awards, The Scottish Whisky Awards and The World Drinks Awards.

The national Scottish Thistle Awards named The Scotch Whisky Experience Scotland’s Best Visitor Attraction. The organisers, VisitScotland, describe the award as recognising “attractions which provide world class service with an authentic, memorable Scottish experience” and commended The Scotch Whisky Experience for “helping the world fall in love with Scotland and Scotch Whisky.” 

This distinction places The Scotch Whisky Experience among past honourees such as the Burrell Collection, underscoring its contribution to Scotland’s global cultural appeal.

The Scottish Whisky Awards also recognised The Scotch Whisky Experience as Tourism Destination of the Year. Completing the hat trick, on 5 December The Scotch Whisky Experience won the major category of Visitor Attraction of the year at the World Drinks Awards’ Icons of Whisky 2025.

Chief Executive Susan Morrison, said, “Each award reinforces our mission to provide an unforgettable experience for every visitor, connecting them with Scotland’s rich whisky heritage.

“I am especially grateful to the visitors, partners and our dedicated and passionate team for making all these achievements possible”.

In addition to the organisation’s recognition, Marketing Director Julie Trevisan-Hunter was named one of the Top 100 Women in Tourism, an accolade recognising leadership and influence in Scotland’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

Adding to the trophy cabinet, Annika Schneider, PA to the CEO, was named Rising Star at the regional Scottish Thistle Awards.

Chief Executive Susan Morrison also received The Scottish Whisky Awards’ Jim Swan Award, which honours lifetime contributions to the whisky industry.

James Robertson, Chair of the Scottish Whisky Awards, explained: “Susan represents a vital part of the success of Scotch whisky and that is our tourism economy. She leads a team which inspires newcomers to whisky and teaches ways to appreciate and learn about Scotch.”

Susan Morrison reflected on the evolution of whisky tourism over her career: “During my career I have seen the Scotch whisky and Scottish tourism industries come ever closer together, celebrating the best aspects of Scotland and, in my view, the best people.

“To have been part of this journey has been a true honour.  The absolute icing on the cake is seeing so many people – both visitors and team members – who established their love of Scotch with us at The Scotch Whisky Experience. 

“We look forward to helping visitors from around the world fall in love with Scotch whisky in 2025.”

Top UK attraction in Edinburgh with more reviews that Disneyland launches new Christmas tour

This December, Edinburgh’s top tourist attraction, The Real Mary King’s Close, invites visitors to enjoy a brand-new immersive experience and travel back in time to the 19th century, uncovering how fascinating Victorian traditions shaped the way we celebrate Christmas today.

Running four times daily each Sunday in December, the exclusive new experience invites small groups to journey back in time to meet the residents of The Close and learn about the history of Christmas, including the law that effectively banned Christmas celebrations in Scotland for nearly 400 years.

Amid a widespread crisis within the Catholic Church and the spread of the Protestant Reformation across Europe, the Kirk in Scotland grew increasingly wary of anything associated with Roman Catholic practices. This ultimately led the Scottish Parliament to enact a law in 1640 that outlawed the celebration of “Yule vacations.”

After embarking on the one-hour standard guided tour, guests will make their way to an atmospheric underground vaulted room for an exclusive 30-minute interactive experience where they’ll meet a special member of the Chesney family, one of the last residents of Mary King’s Close.

Visitors will enjoy listening to tales of the festive season, uncovering the rise of beloved customs that live on today, whilst enjoying a Victorian craft activity and indulging in warm tea and freshly baked scones.

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “Christmas as we know it today was once forbidden in Scotland, with celebrations banned for nearly 400 years and harsh punishments in place due to religious laws.

“We’re delighted to bring this unique tour to life for our guests and highlight how Victorian traditions eventually revived Christmas here in Scotland, and within the city.

“After being named the UK’s best tourist attraction earlier in the year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, we’re delighted to continue offering experiences that shine a light on Edinburgh’s remarkable history with locals and visitors alike.”

The Real Mary King’s Close stands as an important part of Edinburgh’s history. It teaches future generations about the incredible struggles people faced during the plague, the extreme living conditions, and the punishing impact of social hierarchy.

The exclusive 1.5hr Victorian Christmas experience will be running every Sunday in December, with four tours running each day at 12.00, 13.30, 15.00 and 16.30. Prices are £32.50 per adult and £25 per child (5-15 years old).

For more information and bookings please visit: 

https://bookings.realmarykingsclose.com/book/a-victorian-christmas-experience/263

Palace of Holyroodhouse lit up for Christmas

From today, visitors to the Palace of Holyroodhouse will see the State Apartments decorated with magnificent Christmas displays.

A highlight this year is the wood-panelled Throne Room, which has been decorated with two 12-foot-high Christmas trees and a sparkling mantle garland.

A glistening 15-foot-high Nordmann Fir tree and two decorated mantelpieces create a festive atmosphere in the storied Great Gallery, while in the Royal Dining Room visitors will see a spectacular table display.

Old Edinburgh Club: Bringing the history of Edinburgh to life

Do you have some research you wish to do concerning the history of Edinburgh? Do you need funds to help you accomplish this goal? Why not apply for a grant from the Old Edinburgh Club?

https://oldedinburghclub.org.uk/projects/jean-guild-grants/

We have an introductory meeting at The Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace, EH1 2JL commencing at 7:30 on the 19th of this month (November) which you can attend by applying to membership@oldedinburghclub.org.uk.

Please come early so we can start on time.

Grassmarket assault: Do you know this man?

POLICE Scotland have released an image of a man they wish to speak to who may be able to assist their enquiries into an assault which took place on Thursday 26 September 2024 at the Grassmarket.

The man is described as being white, slim build, approximately 6ft in height, with short red hair. He was wearing a grey tracksuit and a black jacket.

Detective Constable Mark Richmond said “ I would urge the man 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 1768 of 27 September 2024. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Celebrate Hope: Book Week Scotland illuminates Edinburgh and the Lothians with inspiring literary events

Scotland’s national celebration of books, Book Week Scotland 2024, returns from 18-24 November to uplift Edinburgh and Lothians with its theme of Hope.

This year’s programme offers unique perspectives on resilience, community, and the landscapes that define the region. Over the years, Book Week Scotland has deepened its impact on Edinburgh and the Lothians, delivering literary events to even the remotest locations and fostering connections in towns and communities.

The 2024 programme spotlights regional authors and local libraries as community cornerstones. 65,000 copies of a new free book, Scotland’s Stories: Hope, will be distributed during the week.

It is made up of real-life stories from people across Scotland, including contributions from people in Edinburgh and Lothians.

Local voices in this year’s Hope book include:

·       “A Wee Pocket of Joy” by Rosemary Henderson, East Lothian

·       “Dancing for Hope” by Georgia Marlborough, Edinburgh

·       “Ribbons and New Socks” by Sheena Mason, Dalkeith

·       “Hope and Consolation” by David Pickering, Edinburgh

·       “It’s The Hope That Kills You” by Julie Drybrough, Edinburgh

·       “Thorin” by Sam Eastop, Edinburgh (also adapted as a comic strip by Mollie Ray)

Each piece reflects the theme of Hope in unique and personal ways, highlighting the power of local stories.

Book Week Scotland event highlights in Edinburgh and the Lothians:

·       Landscapes of Hope and Inspiration, Fruitmarket Gallery, Edinburgh, 18 November—This event will bring together visual artist Julie Brook, writer Linda Cracknell, and musician Duncan Chisholm to discuss how Scotland’s landscapes inspire and provide hope. 

·       The Pleasures of Reading with Jackie Kay, Portobello Bookshop, 20 November – Jackie Kay shares the books that have inspired her, joined by Dr Sarah McGeown to explore the benefits of reading for pleasure. 

·       Various Author Events Across Edinburgh and East Lothian – Libraries and regional community centres will host readings, discussions, and family events celebrating the joy of reading. 

The variety of events this year reflects Edinburgh and Lothians’ longstanding engagement with Book Week Scotland, now in its 13th year and supported by Creative Scotland.

Scottish Book Trust invites everyone to join the #BookWeekScotland conversation and find further information and event listings at Book Week Scotland 2024 – Scottish Book Trust .

Extracts:

Rosemary Henderson, Tranent (East Lothian), ‘A Wee Pocket of Joy’

Sheena Mason, Dalkeith (Midlothian), ‘Ribbons and New Socks’

Georgia Marlborough, Edinburgh, ‘Dancing for Hope’

David Pickering, Edinburgh, ‘HOPE AND CONSOLATION’

Julie Drybrough, Edinburgh, ‘It’s The Hope That Kills You’

Sam Eastop, Edinburgh, ‘Thorin’ – story also adapted as a comic strip by Mollie Ray Jennie Tripp, Edinburgh

Tinderbox and Granton Youth head back to The Mash House

NORTH BY NORTHWEST 5

NORTH BY NORTH WEST 5!

We’re back at the Mash House with Granton Youth on 15th December for another edition of our emerging talent night!

Tickets are by donation (minimum recommended 50p) – head to the link below to grab yours – they’ll go fast!

https://shorturl.at/pA877

#YMI

Police: Cowgate incident victim named

A man who died after being struck by a bus in the Cowgate has been named as Michael Leneghen, 74, from Edinburgh.

His family has released a statement, which said: “We wish to thank all the members of the public and emergency services involved. We would now ask for privacy at this time.”

The incident happened around 7.25pm on Saturday, 2 November in the Cowgate area of Edinburgh.

Michael Leneghen was on foot and the incident also involved a single decker bus.

Sergeant Paul Ewing, of the Road Policing Unit in Edinburgh, said: “Our thoughts remain with Michael’s family and friends, as well as everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“Our enquiries remain ongoing. We have already spoken to a number of people who were in the area at the time and work is ongoing to check public and private CCTV footage.

“We are still keen to hear from anyone who has not yet spoken to police. If you have any information about what happened, then please get in touch.

“Anyone with information is asked to call the police via 101. Please quote incident number 3395 of Saturday, 2 November 2024.”

Community campaigners force rethink on People’s Story closure

People’s Story Museum set to reopen next month

The People’s Story Museum will reopen to the public on Monday 2 December after a temporary closure.

The Museum, which offers an insight into the lives of Edinburgh’s working-class people from the 18th to the late 20th century, has been temporarily closed due to staff shortages but will resume its regular seven-day schedule from Monday 2 December.

The Council is working on a new operating model for the Museums and Galleries service aimed at enhancing the experience for residents and visitors, increasing revenue, and focusing more on the city’s historic collections. The service has faced increased budget pressures this year, which initially led to a proposal to close the People’s Story Museum during the autumn and winter.

However, based on public feedback, officers have been working to identify funding and resource which will facilitate the reopening of the museum.

Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker, said: “After initially proposing a temporary winter closure for the museum, we listened closely to the community’s passionate feedback, and I’m delighted to announce that we will reopen the museum on Monday 2 December. 

“It’s a special museum where all exhibits are inspired by the voices of Edinburgh’s own people, drawn from oral histories and written accounts to share authentic stories. The collections showcase this with items such as Friendly Society regalia, banners, and materials representing Edinburgh’s diverse communities.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors back through the museum’s doors.”

JIM Slaven, who initiated the campaign to keep the museum open, said: “@SaveTPSM welcome this Council decision & thank everyone who has supported the campaign.

“The city now needs to work together to create a sustainable future for the museum. #Edinburgh needs change. This is a first step.”

“It is only a first step. For the museum to have a successful future it must be in the Tolbooth & it must be curated properly, cared for & invested in. That is going to involve a lot of work. Not just from Council staff, but from everyone who wants it to succeed. It can be done.

“On personal note. To all the real ones who trusted my judgment that this fight was worth it & was winnable, who stayed disciplined & stuck to the plan, I am constantly surprised and inspired by people’s energy and enthusiasm for the battle(s).”

Jim Slaven had criticised the Labour-led council’s proposals as a betrayal of the city’s working class. “Labour with 11 out of 63 #Edinburgh councillors have no mandate for their dodgy “buildings strategy”, which closes museums & community centres.

“Turning public spaces into private spaces. In whose interests?”

A report on the new operating model for Museums and Galleries will be brought to December’s meeting of the Culture and Communities Committee.

Dynamic Earth to host Relaxed Opening Hours Day 

Enjoy a Relaxed Opening Hours Day at Dynamic Earth – Accessible Fun for the Whole Family!

Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, is excited to announce its upcoming Relaxed Opening Hours Day on 6th November, offering visitors an extraordinary opportunity to explore the wonders of our planet in a calm, sensory-friendly setting.

Dynamic Earth’s Relaxed Opening Hours Day provides an inclusive environment for all visitors. Designed for those who would benefit from a more relaxed visit such as those with Additional Support Needs (ASN), but open to everyone.

These sessions prioritise sensory comfort through sensory adjustments without compromising on the overall Dynamic Earth experience. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or solo, Relaxed Opening Hours Day creates a welcoming space for everyone to experience the wonder of Dynamic Earth.

Dynamic Earth’s approach encourages visitors to learn and explore at their own pace, giving everyone the chance to fully enjoy everything this world-class science centre and planetarium has to offer. This is why Dynamic Earth offers sensory adjustments throughout the entire day.

Sensory Adjustments on Relaxed Opening Hours Day:

  • Reduced Visitor Numbers Throughout the Day: Allowing for a quieter, more comfortable experience across all exhibitions.
  • Altered Lighting and Audio Features: Adjusted lighting and sound create a softer environment throughout the attraction, from our entrance to exhibitions.
  • Trained Staff in Disability and Neurodiversity Awareness: Dynamic Earth’s team is equipped to support and assist all visitors, ensuring a respectful and supportive experience.
  • Subtitles on All Videos & BSL Interpretation: All videos include subtitles, and the 3 pm planetarium show will feature British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation for enhanced accessibility.
  • A Wide Range of Sensory Aids: Sensory bags, social stories, and sensory maps are available to guide and enhance each visitor’s experience.
  • Flexible Admission: Enjoy the freedom to visit Dynamic Earth’s tour and planetarium at a relaxed pace, allowing visitors to choose their best experience.
  • Designated Quiet Space: A dedicated area is available for visitors to recharge during their visit. 

Dynamic Earth’s Relaxed Opening Hours Days reflect the centre’s core mission to make science accessible and engaging for everyone.

This initiative aligns with Dynamic Earth’s commitment to “Deliver Outstanding Science Engagement”, reaching people from all backgrounds, particularly those who benefit from an inclusive and adaptive environment.

In addition to the November date, Dynamic Earth will host another Relaxed Opening Hours Day on 24th January, reaffirming its dedication to providing accessible learning experiences for all visitors.

Guided by a purpose to foster understanding and empathy for the planet, Dynamic Earth is committed to expanding access to science in ways that make a positive impact on individuals and communities alike.

Dynamic Earth warmly invites visitors to join them on November 6th and enjoy a day where everyone is welcomed and supported – tickets available to purchase here:

 RELAXED OPENING HOURS: NOVEMBER | Dynamic Earth.