Tag: Fort Kinnaird

Magical Winter Village to light up Fort Kinnaird this Christmas

This Christmas, Fort Kinnaird will be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.

Running from 21st November until 28th December, the Winter Village offers families, friends and couples the perfect festive day out.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s brilliant to bring the Winter Village to Fort Kinnaird for the first time, creating a space for our community to come together and celebrate the season.

“Whether you’re visiting to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, catch a festive classic at the cinema or simply soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a wonderful way for families and friends to get into the festive spirit and make special memories.”

Market magic

The Winter Village will be complete with over 20 artisan market stalls providing visitors with plenty of options when browsing for gifts for loved ones or even treating themselves to something special this Christmas.

Grab a bite as you wander, with plenty of sweet and savoury options to keep you fuelled – such as tasty dishes from Salt and Chilli Street Food, and classic pick ’n’ mix treats to take home.

Gift hunters can browse baubles and handmade luxury decorations that make ideal keepsakes. There will also be a range of personalised gifts on offer that are customisable while you wait, making the gift buying process as simple as can be.

Big‑top thrills:

Two dazzling circus shows will be brought to life under the big top, providing festive entertainment for all the family.

Santa’s Mystical Christmas:

Step into a festive circus pantomime packed with aerial acts, daring stunts, seasonal music and audience fun. When Santa arrives at the circus bearing gifts, a mischievous witch casts a spell that traps him inside the big top. With Christmas hanging in the balance, Santa and his trusty Elf must outsmart their foe, restore the magic and save the season.

Freestyle Circus

For something with more adrenaline, Freestyle Circus delivers high-energy acrobatics, precision choreography and jaw-dropping stunts. Expect the famous Globe motorcyclists, the nerve-testing Wheel of Death, and a soundtrack that mixes hip-hop beats with street-style swagger.

Fun for all ages

From family-friendly spinners and mini-coasters to faster attractions for older visitors, there will be something for everyone at Fort Kinnaird’s Christmas funfair – the perfect dose of seasonal adrenaline.

Glitter tattoos and face painting are also on offer to help visitors look the part this festive season.

Availability can vary throughout the season, and some rides carry height restrictions, so it’s worth checking boards on the day.

Make a full day of it

The Winter Village sits at the heart of Fort Kinnaird, Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure destination. With more than 70 shops and restaurants and a seven‑screen Odeon cinema, it’s easy to spend a full day out that blends festive fun with gift shopping and a bite to eat.

The Winter Village will run at Fort Kinnaird from Monday 21st November until Friday 28th December.

The market is free to explore, with a small fee for the funfair rides and other activities like face painting. The two circus shows are ticketed events.

Find out more and book for the shows at wintervillagefk.co.uk or visit fortkinnaird.com for general information.

Fort Kinnaird gives hundreds of primary school pupils chance to design labels for homegrown honey

Over 115 local primary school students aged between five and 11 years old are due to take part in a competition run by Fort Kinnaird to design a label for the jars of honey produced by its resident beehives. 

The centre has teamed up with Niddrie Mill Primary School to host the contest, with pupils tasked with creating a label for the 100 jars of honey created by the beehives located in the service area.   

Students are encouraged to put their creativity to the test, with the winner set to win a £100 voucher to spend at Fort Kinnaird and a £20 gift card for five runners up.  

The competition follows pupils from Niddrie Mill visiting the beehives at Fort Kinnaird back in June, during which they learned all about the world of bees – including how they are essential to the local environment, how hives function, and what it takes to care for bees first-hand.  

Fort Kinnaird runs the beehives in partnership with Colin Mackie, a local beekeeper who has tended to the beehives since they were established in May 2024.   

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “Since our beehives were installed back in May 2024, they’ve provided fun and educational opportunities for our community and nearby schools like Niddrie Mill, while the centre’s wildflower areas support biodiversity by creating habitat for pollinators. 

“We’re pleased to be continuing this with the competition and can’t wait to see all the designs the pupils of Niddrie Mill create – bringing to life the importance and impact of bees on our local environment.” 

For more details and to plan your day at Fort Kinnaird, please visit: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/  

Fort Kinnaird to welcome new line-up of popular brands in time for Christmas

Fort Kinnaird has announced a major transformation that will bring a host of much-loved retailers to the centre, with some set to open in time for Christmas.

The centre’s Eastern Terrace is getting a fresh new look, with premium beauty brand Rituals and popular card and gifting retailer Clintons confirmed to be joining the line-up – with a third high-profile brand set to be announced shortly.

A number of much-loved stores already based at the centre will also be getting a design refresh. Specsavers has already reopened in its newly refurbished space, with a revamped Costa Coffee set to launch inside Next in the coming months, providing the opportunity to take a pause while shopping with family or friends.

It’s all part of a wider refurbishment of the centre which will deliver more than 20,000 sq ft of upgraded space – allowing even more great stores for shoppers to explore.

Liam Smith, centre direct at Fort Kinnaird, said: “This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Fort Kinnaird. We’re continuing to invest in the centre to bring even more of the brands our visitors love, alongside giving some of our most popular retailers a fantastic new look.

“Whether you’re coming to the centre for everyday essentials or planning a full day out, these changes are all about creating the best possible experience – with more choice, more style, and more reasons to visit time and time again. We can’t wait for shoppers to enjoy what’s coming next.”

This announcement follows a successful year at Fort Kinnaird, during which the park unveiled nine new retailers, totaling 36,200 sq ft, with an additional 37,000 sq ft currently under offer.

Recent additions include European fashion powerhouse Mango, global sportswear leader Adidas, and family-focused crafts and stationery brand The Works. The line-up will also soon be joined by popular chicken chain Popeyes, which was recently announced.

A phased reopening of the redeveloped Eastern Terrace will commence in October 2025 with the works due to fully complete in Spring 2026. 

Conveniently located off the A1, Fort Kinnaird offers 2,600 free car parking spaces, Shopmobility and over 70 shops and restaurants, ensuring an enjoyable and varied shopping experience for all visitors.

Jewellery retailer Beaverbrooks celebrates companywide milestone of £25million raised for charities

A Fort Kinnaird jewellery retailer celebrated International Charity Day with a landmark achievement for charitable giving, after donating £25 million from company profits to charities and communities since 2000. 

Beaverbrooks Fort Kinnaird located in Fort Kinnaird Shopping Park has contributed to the total by supporting a variety of fundraising activities – including Payroll Giving, with every donation matched by the business to amplify the impact. 

The store team has also taken part in volunteering for local charity, Edinburgh Cat & Dog Home. Alongside this, each colleague receives £100 each year to donate to a cause close to their heart.  

As part of Beaverbrooks’ core purpose of enriching lives and making a difference, the business donates 20% of its retained profits each year and has supported more than 500 charities over the past 25 years.

It also leads the way in Payroll Giving, with 45% of colleagues regularly donating through their pay – far above the national average of 6% – which has earned Beaverbrooks a Diamond Quality Award for the past seven years. 

Fiona House, Store Manager at Beaverbrooks Fort Kinnaird, said: “We’re so proud to be part of this £25 million milestone. Giving back is what Beaverbrooks is all about – and our Fort Kinnaird team love supporting causes that really matter in our community. 

“Whether it’s fundraising, volunteering, or simply lending a hand, it’s amazing to see the difference we can make together.” 

To mark the occasion, Beaverbrooks stores will be offering fizz and sweet treats from Friday to Monday, with a special thank you for customers who join the Beaverbrooks Club – including £25 off when spending £100 or more. 

To find out more about Beaverbrooks’ charity and community work, visit:

 https://www.beaverbrooks.co.uk/100/enriching-lives  

Oasis fans ‘Roll With It’ at Fort Kinnaird with free Oasis tribute

Oasis fans flocked to Fort Kinnaird last weekend to enjoy a free live performance by popular tribute band ‘Oasus’.

The event allowed fans who missed out on tickets to the Murrayfield shows to still join in the fun and the gig saw the group perform classics such as Wonderwall, Live Forever, and Don’t Look Back in Anger

Oasis fans of all ages turned up for the tribute, including families and little ones proudly sporting iconic bucket hats

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “There’s so much excitement around the Oasis reunion gigs at Murrayfield, so it was only right that we brought a bit of that buzz to Fort Kinnaird too.

“Oasus are a brilliant tribute act, and their free show was the perfect chance for Oasis fans of all ages to get involved in the action. It was a great way to spend a Sunday – with attendees grabbing a bite, enjoying the music, and making a proper day of it with friends and family.”  

The event was just one of the free events that took place at Fort Kinnaird this summer, designed to offer visitors of all ages memorable, free experiences. The centre also hosted character visits inspired by popular blockbuster films including Wicked and Lilo & Stich.

Six-year-old reveals ultimate back to school shopping list

Back-to-school season is here, and Fort Kinnaird has teamed up with its very own Chief Fun Officer, six-year-old Ruari, to reveal what children really want in their school bags this August and help make back-to-school shopping trips that much easier. 

Tasked with testing trends and giving his official stamp of approval, Ruari has rounded up the coolest must-haves for the new term.

From school shoes with football charms to fun pencil cases, his edit of back-to-school buys is packed with personality – and available now at Fort Kinnaird from stores including The Works, M&S, Clarks, Next and Primark.  

Here are Ruari’s favourite picks:

  • Pencil cases featuring Nintendo favourites and bold designs – fun, functional and guaranteed to stand out on the school table.
  • Cool stationery sets – from gaming-themed rulers to funky pens.
  • School shoes with a football theme – built for comfort and perfect for playtime goals.
  • Fresh uniform staples and comfy shoes – perfect for all-day comfort and classroom confidence.
  • Personalised keyrings and backpack tags – the little extras that make school bags harder to loose.

Ruari said: “I had so much fun getting ready for back to school at Fort Kinnaird. There were loads of new school shoes with footballs on them – they were my favourite!

“There was also lots of cool stationery to choose from, like colourful pens and fun pencil cases. I loved choosing it all, and we had such a great day – now I can’t wait for the new term to start so I can use it all!”

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know back-to-school shopping can feel like a big task, so we’ve made it easy, enjoyable and all in one place. With Ruari’s help, we’ve captured the trends kids are genuinely excited about – turning the trip into something families can enjoy together.” 

Families can make a full day of back-to-school shopping this weekend, with a whole host of entertainment, dining and exclusive discounts on offer at Fort Kinnaird.

Kids eat for less at family-friendly favourites including Pizza Express and Frankie & Bennys. And when it’s time to wind down, head to Odeon for a bit of movie magic to finish the day in style.

To find out more about Ruari’s back-to-school essentials, visit here.

For more details and to plan your day at Fort Kinnaird, please visit:

 https://www.fortkinnaird.com/event/lights-camera-summer

Oasis fans who missed out on tickets can ‘Roll With It’ to Fort Kinnaird

Fans who missed out on tickets to see Oasis at Murrayfield this summer can still enjoy the iconic anthems at Fort Kinnaird on Sunday 10th August, thanks to a free live performance by popular tribute band ‘Oasus’.

Oasus is set to bring the classic Wonderwall, Live Forever and Don’t Look Back in Anger anthems to the centre for the many fans who tried and failed to get tickets to the Scottish leg of the tour, coming to Murrayfield on Friday 8th August, Saturday 9th August and Tuesday 12th August.

This two-hour live gig will take over Fort Kinnaird’s Summer Stage near Pizza Hut, promising all the swagger, sound and 90s nostalgia of the real deal – minus the ticket fees and stadium crowds. Whether you’re a die-hard Gallagher fan or just fancy a fun Sunday with the family, it’s a brilliant way to soak up the buzz set to sweep the city. 

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “There’s so much excitement around the Oasis reunion gigs at Murrayfield, so it’s only right that we bring a bit of that buzz to Fort Kinnaird too.

“Oasus are a brilliant tribute act and their free show is the perfect chance for Oasis fans of all ages to get involved in the action. It’s a great way to spend a Sunday – grab a bite, enjoy the music and make a proper day of it with friends or family. Definitely Maybe also pick up an iconic bucket hat while you’re here too!”

The event is just one of the free events running at Fort Kinnaird this summer, designed to offer visitors of all ages memorable, free experiences.

This includes character visits between 11am – 4pm from Aloha Alien on Sunday 27th July, and a Wicked Duo on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd of August.

With more than 70 shops, a seven-screen ODEON cinema, and dining favourites including Wagamama, TGI Fridays and Nando’s, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re after a day of retail therapy, tasty food, or dancing to your favourite 90s bangers.

The centre is easy to reach too, just off the A1 with 2,600 free parking spaces and good public transport links.

For more details and to plan your day at Fort Kinnaird, please visit: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/event/lights-camera-summer

Mother and daughter duo crowned Edinburgh’s ultimate Stitch fans

A Disney-loving mum and her one-year-old daughter have been crowned Edinburgh’s biggest Stitch fans after winning a competition hosted by Fort Kinnaird to celebrate the release of the new Lilo & Stitch live-action film.

Yasmin and baby Rosie enjoyed a visit to the centre where they were treated to a VIP screening of the movie at ODEON. Their prize also included a Stitch-themed gift bundle worth over £150, featuring items from retailers including Primark, Smyths Toys, and The Works.

Fort Kinnaird received more than 60 entries for the competition, but Yasmin and Rosie’s heartfelt story stood out. Yasmin shared how the original film brought her joy as a child and now plays a special role in her life again as she watches it with her daughter.

The pair’s impressive collection of Stitch memorabilia – including items Yasmin has treasured for over two decades and baby clothes Rosie has worn since birth – helped cement their status as true superfans.

Yasmin said: “It’s been such a lovely experience to share the new Lilo & Stitch film with Rosie, who might just be the youngest Stitch fan yet!

I’ve loved Stitch since 2002, and now getting to enjoy it with my daughter is so much fun. Huge thanks to Fort Kinnaird for making it such a memorable day.”

Liam Smith, Centre Director at Fort Kinnaird, added: “It’s fantastic to see so many people get involved in our competition – and shows just how loved Stitch is.

“Yasmin’s entry really stood out for its creativity and heartfelt passion. We’re so pleased to crown her and baby Rosie our biggest Stitch fan and hope she enjoys her well-deserved prize!”

To plan your visit to Fort Kinnaird, please visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/

Edinburgh pupils discover the world of Beekeeping with educational day at Fort Kinnaird

Pupils from Edinburgh primary schools swapped the classroom for beekeeping as they had the chance to visit Fort Kinnaird’s thriving beehives for a day buzzing with educational fun.

During the session, 12 pupils from Niddrie Mill Primary and Castleview Primary learned about the world of bees – including how they are essential to the local environment, how hives function, and what it takes to care for bees first-hand.

The visit was delivered in partnership with Colin Mackie of Fine Scottish Honey Ltd – a local beekeeper who has maintained the centre’s two on-site hives since they were installed in May 2024.

The experience follows a series of in-school sessions delivered by Colin in partnership with Fort Kinnaird as part of the Young Readers Programme, an award-winning initiative between its co-owner British Land and the National Literacy Trust, which aims to encourage children to read and learn outside of the classroom.

More than 230 pupils at Niddrie Mill Primary, Castleview Primary and Brunstane Primary took part in the sessions, which included honey tasting, candle rolling, creative craft activities and an interactive storytelling session. As part of the project, pupils also decorated bird boxes which are due to be installed at Fort Kinnaird.

Liam Smith, Centre Director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We’re proud to work closely with local schools and community partners to offer educational experiences that are fun, hands-on and genuinely inspiring.

“Opportunities like this give children the chance to learn in a different way – not just by reading about nature, but by seeing it and asking questions in real time.

“It’s been brilliant to see our beehives come to life and thrive over the year to support both the centre and local community biodiversity – this is all part of our sustainability plan which includes zero waste and 98% renewable energy use.”

To plan your visit to Fort Kinnaird, please visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/

Teachers warn new school uniforms are too costly for too many families

The Leith Collective launches free school uniform exchange to help pupils in need

Many families in Edinburgh are finding the cost of purchasing a new school uniform completely unaffordable.

For some children, this means going to school in an ill-fitting or worn-out uniform. For others, it means resorting to wearing non-school uniform items. Standing out from their peers in this way has the potential to result in a negative school experience and can impact a pupil’s ability to learn and thrive. 

That’s according to The Leith Collective, who have been approached by a growing number of teachers and parents calling for help.

And so, as the current school term draws to a close, this Community Interest Company is launching a free school uniform exchange, so every pupil can start the new term in August with everything they need to see them through a successful school year.

Taking place at The Leith Collective stores in Edinburgh’s Ocean Terminal and Fort Kinnaird as well as the Livingston Designer Outlet and Dundee’s Overgate, the team behind this initiative are asking locals to donate good quality uniforms, coats, gym kits, shoes, schoolbags, pencil cases and any other school essentials so they can distribute them to those in need. 

But that’s not all. The Leith Collection is calling on local businesses to donate surplus stock where possible, with those taking part in the exchange receiving a community support certificate in recognition of their contribution.

Speaking ahead of the launch, The Leith Collective founder, Sara Thomson said; “From an environmental point of view, it is so important to keep good quality uniforms out of landfill and in use for as long as possible.

“And from a personal point of view, I’ve heard first-hand accounts from teachers and parents about what a negative effect it can have on families when they simply can’t afford school essentials, and it’s heartbreaking. 

“This is the third year we’re running our free school uniform exchange and people need it more than ever. That’s why we’re widening our call this year and asking for businesses to get on board too to help those in need.”

People can donate and collect items, no questions asked, at The Leith Collective in Ocean Terminal, Fort Kinnaird, Livingston Designer Outlet and Overgate during opening hours. The hope is to help as many pupils as possible get off to the best possible start when the new academic year begins in August.