Somewhere by Nico is calling for all detectives as it brings back its sell-out Murder on the Midnight Express cocktail experience, inspired by the classic game of suspense
Running for a limited time only, the menu will be available at Somewhere by Nico in Edinburgh at Charlotte Lane from 8th January – to 2nd February 2025
0% alcohol options are also available, providing new ways to enjoy the experience without compromise
Back by popular demand, Murder on the Midnight Express is making its highly anticipated return to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time only. From 8th January — 2nd February, this thrilling cocktail experience invites guests to step into a world of mystery, inspired by the classic game of suspense.
As the train pulls back into Somewhere by Nico, guests will be immersed into the exhilarating journey to solve the mystery of who shot Gustave Laroche. For £45 per person, the five-course cocktail menu takes participants on a flavourful and intriguing ride, with each sip revealing a new clue. For those seeking an extra twist, an optional bonus cocktail provides an additional hint to elevate the detective experience.
Perfect for a new year outing with friends or family, Murder on the Midnight Express is an experience like no other – combining captivating storytelling, exceptional cocktails, and an immersive mystery to solve. With 0% alcohol options available, there’s something for everyone at Somewhere by Nico – without compromising on taste.
This limited-time menu will be available at both Somewhere by Nico Edinburgh (39a Charlotte Lane) and Somewhere by Nico Glasgow (358 Byres Road).
Limited-Time Offer
Guests are encouraged to book early to secure their seat in January with a limited-time offer at just £30pp (saving £15pp).
Whether for a friend, loved one, or a treat for yourself, Murder on the Midnight Express is the perfect gift that provides an unforgettable experience to share.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of Six by Nico, commented: ““We’re thrilled to bring back Murder on the Midnight Express to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time. This unique cocktail journey blends mystery, adventure, and creative storytelling to offer our guests an experience that goes beyond just drinks.
“We can’t wait to welcome guests as they put their detective skills to the test and solve the mystery of Gustave Laroche’s murder.
“With a carefully crafted five-course cocktail journey, plus 0% alcohol options, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”
For more information about Somewhere by Nico and to secure your booking, please visit here
Gordon’s Trattoria, a cherished Italian gem situated on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, has been acquired by Merchant Leisure.
Gordon Scott, who opened the restaurant in 1982, recently announced his retirement and has sold the venue for an undisclosed fee to his close friend Jim Tullis, owner of Merchant Leisure.
Merchant Leisure have announced they wish to keep the restaurant as it is for the time being, and continue ‘serving up authentic Italian cuisine made with passion and the finest ingredients.’ Locals and tourists alike have long enjoyed the restaurant’s authentic cuisine and prominent location, offering customers ‘the heart of Italy in the heart of Edinburgh’.
Classic Italian dishes populate the menu including ‘Tagliatelle Reale’ – plump King Prawns paired with delicate asparagus and cherry tomatoes, simmered in olive oil, garlic, white wine and parsley. A range of pizzas such as the ‘Primavera’ – topped with parma ham and a balsamic glaze drizzle – are joined by much-loved sharing options like ‘Focaccia’ and a selection of chicken-based dishes such as ‘Pollo Dianne’ – cooked in mushrooms, onions, French mustard and a brandy cream sauce.
Merchant Leisure owns bars & restaurants across the city including The Newsroom, The Piper’s Rest, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse and The Railbridge. Their speakeasy venue Jackson the Tailor, located at the top of Leith Street and inspired by the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century, was recently shortlisted for a prestigious design award by the British Institute of Interior Design.
Commenting on the takeover, Arthur Mustard, Managing Director at Merchant Leisure Ltd, said: “We are very excited to announce our ownership of Gordon’s Trattoria.
“It’s such an honour to take over an Edinburgh establishment with such rich history and loyal customers. Our plan is to keep the venue as it is for now, serving authentic Italian food in the heart of Edinburgh.
“We look forward to welcoming new customers, as well as meeting the locals who make this restaurant so special.”
Gordon’s Trattoria is the sixth venue to be listed under the Merchant Leisure umbrella and will continue serving authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
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.”
Running for six weeks, this latest menu provides nostalgic feelings to transport you back to a simpler time.
The menu will run in both of the capital’s Six by Nico locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street from 16 December 2024 to 26 January 2025 – with bookings starting at £44 per person
Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has unveiled its latest six-course concept, transporting guests back to the good old days with déjà vu food that serves a taste of forgotten flavours with every bite.
Taking inspiration from CEO and Founder Nico Simeone’s childhood favourites and his families festive traditions, the latest concept menu is full of creative twists on old school classic flavours that will never fade.
The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 16th December 2024 to 26th January 2025, using timeless tastes to help guests forget about being an adult for a while.
For £44, guests will be able to experience the old school flavours of Nostalgia, with a matching wine pairing from £30 per person or cocktail pairing from £40 per person. Start the experience with the snack selection for only £10 per person.
Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “Our final menu of 2024 and the first of 2025 pays homage to nostalgia, inviting guests on a journey through flavours that evoke personal memories.
“Inspired by reflections on my childhood, it draws on moments from an era spent watching films, playing games, or enjoying time outdoors with friends.
“While New Year often focuses on resolutions, this menu celebrates traditions and revisits the timeless magic of Christmas through familiar and comforting tastes.”
Award-winning bar & restaurant, The Botanist, is giving everyone the chance to snap up a Christmas gift on the house this week, in the form of a festive tipple from its brand-new Christmas specials menu … but they’ll have to be quick!
Holding a city-wide race to find the boozy prizes, The Botanist’s elves will hide 10 tinsel-filled Christmas baubles in secret locations near the venue in every town and city it has a site on Friday 22nd November.
Eagle-eyed customers should head to their local Botanist’s Facebook page from 12 o’clock for hints on when and where the prizes can be found.
The lucky winners will find a gift tag attached to the bauble to be exchanged at a Botanist venue for the bar’s showstopping new sharing drink – a Christmas tree holding six Blooming Bauble cocktails for groups of friends to get merry over.
A seasonal fruity cocktail of Beefeater pink gin, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, cranberry juice and lemon with cranberries and rosemary, served in a Christmas bauble, it’s perfect for party season.
Other festive drinks on the new menu include the S’mores Old Fashioned with Maker’s Mark bourbon, orange curaçao, cold brew coffee, orange bitters, and creamy foam over ice with a chocolate & Biscoff rim, topped with toasted marshmallows, and the Festive Sparkler of prosecco with seasonal spices.
Encouraging everyone to share the joy with loved ones this season, The Botanist’s highly Instagrammable Christmas, launching on 20th November includes turkey burgers topped with pigs in blankets, chocolate orange mince pie cookie dough for two and festive cocktail specials.
And that’s not all, the halls are being decked with beautiful decorations and The Botanist’s house bands are ready to let the good times roll until the early hours too, playing live every Friday and Saturday night as guests drinks and dine throughout the festive season.
Head to your local Botanist’s Facebook page for more information on the Bauble Hunt.
The Rose Street Brewery, just a short stroll from Edinburgh Castle, officially reopened this Autumn following an extensive 3-week refurbishment, giving the iconic pub an exciting new look.
The pub has been given a facelift while keeping its traditional look and feel inside. Changes include additional seating for guests including the installation of new booths for those that want a cozy and relaxed feel, an additional TV with high seating options for guests that want to watch the upcoming Autumn Tests at Murrayfield Stadium and some much needed awnings and heaters outside to keep guests dry and warm on those Dreich Scottish days.
Rose Street Brewery is renowned for brewing the famous beer, Auld Reekie, in the old Brewhouse upstairs (now the kitchen) from 1983-1994, with Rose Street itself being referred to as a drinking Oasis ever since.
The Rose Street Brewery is proud to be a part of these historical roots and continues to uphold this reputation today, welcoming guests from near and far to come and enjoy a drink in this historical landmark
Guests can tuck into all the pub classics, a chicken and ham pie, classic fish and chips and prime steak burgers, as well as a delectable range of Sunday roasts to delight discerning guests.
Along with the new food menu, guests will also be greeted with an extensive drinks’ menu, boasting a wide selection of craft beers, ciders and new to the menu – cocktails.
Speaking about the refurbishment, General Manager Derek Meechan at Rose Street Brewery said: “Rose Street Brewery is an historic part of Rose Street, and it is fantastic that we are having a major refresh of the premises before a very busy time of the year.
“The works that are being completed will make it more efficient and also more appealing to our guests than it is now, which is a major achievement. Myself and my team can’t wait to open, and welcome back our guests into the new and improved Rose Street Brewery.”
Following the extensive refurbishment and significant investment made at the pub, a number of new jobs have been created for the local area, with the team now ready to pour pints and serve delicious food to guests.
For more information about Rose Street Brewery please visit Nicholson’s Pub in Edinburgh | Rose Street Brewery (nicholsonspubs.co.uk)
Scottish business, community and political representatives join Lumo to celebrate Edinburgh Cocktail Week 2024
Chris Murray, MP for Edinburgh East & Musselburgh and Dr Scott Arthur, MP for Edinburgh South West joined Scottish business leaders and members of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce on Friday at Lumo’s sustainable cocktail event to stir-up support for Edinburgh Cocktail Week.
In addition to supporting Edinburgh Cocktail Week, the event sought to mix mocktails and connect key decision makers within the city and beyond, to serve-up cocktails and conversations around driving environmental and economic growth within local communities.
The event, held at Juniper Bar within Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street was hosted by open access train operator, Lumo, which provides popular rail services connecting Edinburgh with Newcastle and London along the East Coast Main Line.
The event was in collaboration with Flawsome! Drinks, a company committed to sustainability by repurposing surplus ‘wonky’ fruit for soft drinks and sold onboard Lumo’s fleet of fully electric trains.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said: “We’re proud to support Edinburgh Cocktail Week, an event that not only showcases the city’s renowned arts and dynamic culture scene but also promotes sustainable choices.
“We are also deeply committed to supporting the local communities we serve and are excited to have submitted plans to expand our services to Glasgow. This expansion will strengthen ties between two of Scotland’s key cities, fostering even greater opportunities for collaboration and a greener future.”
Attracting more than 25,000 visitors across 10 days, Edinburgh Cocktail Week showcases the city’s vibrant hospitality scene while significantly contributing to the local economy, something that Lumo aims to support through connecting customers along the East Coast route with the Scottish capital.
Dr Scott Arthur, MP for Edinburgh South West, said: “I am absolutely committed to the UK hitting its net zero targets whilst also growing the economy in a way which helps create a fairer society. Sustainable public transport links connecting Edinburgh to key economic centres, like those offered by Lumo, are a key part of that.
“Whether people are drinking cocktails or mocktails, Edinburgh Cocktail Week is also a great opportunity to help boost our tourist economy.
“I am proud that Edinburgh attracts people from far and wide, and after a route of beautiful views, arriving in the city’s heart by train will always mean that visitors are emotionally stirred, not shaken.”
Lumo’s partnership with Flawsome! Drinks began earlier this year, introducing a refreshing twist to Lumo’s onboard refreshments with juice’s made from ‘wonky’ and surplus fruit, offering passengers a guilt-free, eco-friendly choice.
The cocktails at the event all included juices supplied by the sustainable drinks company with a range of spirits.
The event was supported by a range of organisations from across Edinburgh and Scotland, including the Holyrood Distillery which distils the whisky served on Lumo’s services to and from Edinburgh.
Lumo is celebrating three years of running services this month and has an approach to customer service that’s far from old-fashioned, recently serving-up a 96% customer satisfaction score.
With over 100 venues participating in Edinburgh Cocktail Week this year, including bars, restaurants, and hotels, the event not only boosted footfall but also provided a platform for venues to increase staffing and manage the surge in demand.
In addition to the bars and restaurants benefitting through direct involvement with Edinburgh Cocktail Week, local hotels and short-term lets also see increased bookings, as the influx of visitors drives demand for accommodation, providing a boost to the hospitality sector and supporting the wider local economy during the 10-day event.
The partnership between Lumo and Flawsome! reflects both companies’ commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing food waste and encouraging responsible consumption. The collaboration exemplifies how businesses can work together to address environmental challenges in practical and creative ways.
Lumo was the first long-distance train operator to replace plastic bottles onboard with sustainable alternatives and was named ‘Green Innovation Business of the Year’ at the recent North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
And they’re celebrating with a free drink for all who come to try it between 14th – 18th October!
Flight Club, the lively and fairground-inspired bar known for its craft cocktails, sharing plates, and Social Darts combo, is launching a reimagined menu: delectable new dishes, upgrades to the favourites and a fresh selection of gorgeous drinks.
Launching on 14th October, the revamped food menu is geared towards dishes that can be enjoyed by groups of friends (and can be eaten with a dart in hand!). The drinks list has had a makeover too, featuring some stunning newcomers and an expansion of its low-and-no-alcohol offering, culminating in an impressive selection of delicious booze-free options to choose from.
To celebrate the arrival of this exciting new menu, from 14th – 18th October 2024, Flight Club is offering a free drink from its new Signature Spritz menu (or beer if a spritz isn’t your thing) for those who come in to eat (T&C’s apply)*.
All-new dishes
Lovingly designed by Arnaud Kaziewicz, Flight Club’s Head of Food Development and Masterchef: The Professionals finalist, the new menu consists of tapas-style small plates, pizza paddles, and a crowd-pleasing selection of grills and salads.
Mix-and-share dishes include South Korean pork belly bites with chilli and honey glaze, Yakitori beef skewers made from prime British beef marinated in soy and ginger, and Middle Eastern sliders with plant-based lamb, smoked Applewood cheese, gherkins, and slaw.
New sourdough pizza flavour combinations include the gorgeous Gorgonzola portobello: tomato sauce, mozzarella and grilled portobello mushrooms, finished with white truffle oil and Italian pork and fennel sausage: plant-based sausage, caramelised onions and salsa verde.
Other newcomers include a poké bowl with coconut lemon rice, crunchy slaw, cauliflower, lettuce, and red pepper sauce and a chicken tikka wrap with coconut raita, tomato, lettuce, and cucumber.
Freshly crafted beverages
The redesigned drinks line-up includes four new cocktails, a new selection of signature spritzes, and a significant increase in low- and no-alcohol options.
New cocktails include ‘Highland Blush’, a combination of raspberry gin, whisky, raspberry, lemon, almond, and vegan foaming bitters and ‘Take a Trip’ – Hendrick’s gin, St. Germain elderflower liqueur and lime, topped with Trip Cucumber & Mint. Another new entry on the cocktail list is ‘Nunya Beeswax’.
This tequila number was created at Flight Club Bristol as a one-off for Bristol Cocktail Weekend 2023. The drink was such a hit it was named Cocktail of the Year. Naturally, it had to feature in the new line-up.
Arnaud Kaziewicz, Flight Club’s Head of Food Development said, “This menu refresh has been months in the making, involving countless taste tests and iterations to get every dish and cocktail completely right.
“We’re hugely passionate about delivering a truly memorable experience at Flight Club and our food and drinks is a big part of that. We always want to give our customers something new to sink their teeth into and we’re excited to finally share this with them.”
Brazilian entertainment, spin-to-win prizes, and a year’s worth of premium steak up for grabs
Edinburgh residents and visitors alike can get ready to experience the flavours of Brazil right in the heart of the capital as Rio Brazilian Steakhouse launches an exciting pop-up in partnership with Edinburgh Trams.
On Friday 4 October, the St Andrews Square tram stop will transform into the ultimate party destination, as Rio takes over the platform.
The team will be offering spin-to-win prizes including free dinners for two, complimentary cocktails, and 50% off for diners who visit on the same day, ensuring the party doesn’t stop on the platform.
Commuters and tram goers can also enjoy live performances from samba dancers and vibrant Brazilian music, transporting them straight to the streets of Rio de Janeiro.
The fun continues as the restaurant is running an exciting city-wide competition for a chance to win the ultimate prize – the Rio Black Card. This exclusive card offers one lucky winner free dining at Rio Brazilian Steakhouse for a year.
To enter, participants are asked to snap a photo of the Rio-branded tram making its way through the city, share the image on social media using the hashtag #TramToRio and tag both @rioedinburgh and @edinburghtrams to be entered into the prize draw. The winner will be announced on 31st October.
The popular steak restaurant located in the city’s iconic Assembly Rooms opened in the capital earlier this year, serving unlimited cuts of exquisite meats and a salad bar of authentic Brazilian food in a traditional Rodizio style.
Rodrigo Grassi Duarte, Co-founder and Managing Director of Rio Brazilian Steakhouse said:“Since opening our doors in February, the city of Edinburgh has given us such a warm and enthusiastic welcome, and we wanted to find a way to give back to this incredible community.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Edinburgh Trams for this special pop-up event to bring the vibrant spirit of Brazil to the heart of the city with entertainment and the chance to win amazing prizes.
“This event is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to Edinburgh for embracing us and making Rio Brazilian Steakhouse a part of their dining experience.”
Two iconic tourist attractions, one unforgettable event, and two inspirational individuals from Edinburgh have received recognition at Scotland’s premier tourism and events awards.
Five businesses and individuals from the city received awards at the Central and East of Scotland Thistle Awards regional final at Sheraton Grand Hotel, Edinburgh last week (Thursday 26 September).
The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsors Johnstons of Elgin, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry. They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors.
2024 saw more than 700 entries submitted by individuals, businesses, events, and community organisations in the bid to be recognised for the role they play in making Scotland a must-visit, must-return destination.
Winners from across the city include:
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions which took home two awards. Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction was named Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year and winner of the Climate Action Award, which celebrates businesses making significant progress towards net zero.
Judges praised the Edinburgh attraction for its environmental sustainability practices and supportive work environment.
Andrew Johnson, General Manager at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions said: “We are very grateful to the judges for these prestigious awards and to our dedicated team for their tireless efforts.
“Their commitment to enhancing our facilities and visitor experience has been invaluable. Thank you to our visitors for continuing to enjoy our unique offer of interactive fun.”
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 30th Anniversary Celebration won the award for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival.
The category recognises the outstanding cultural events and festivals that are part of Scotland’s tourism offering.
In 2023, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay once again welcomed the world to party in Scotland’s capital, celebrating a milestone 30th anniversary with a spectacular programme of world-class events. Produced by Edinburgh creatives Unique Assembly, over 100,000 revellers partied their way into 2024 at a 4-day carnival of fire, light, music, and dance.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival Directors Penny Dougherty, Dani Rae, Nik Whybrew and Al Thomson said:“We are immensely proud that Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has been recognised at the Thistle Awards.
“Reaching a milestone 30th anniversary in 2023, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay goes from strength-to-strength, and we can’t wait to welcome the world to party at the Home of Hogmanay again this year.
“A huge thank you to the incredible Unique Assembly team and all our event partners who make the festival happen.”
The Best Visitor Attraction award was presented to The Scotch Whisky Experience with judges impressed by the attraction’s clear culture for innovation including several examples such as tasting and story-telling experiences.
Susan Morrison, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Experience said: “We are thrilled and honoured to receive the award for Best Visitor Attraction. A huge thanks to our amazing customer-facing and support teams.
“This award is truly the culmination of everyone working together to welcome the world and help them on their journey to fall in love with Scotch whisky.”
Meanwhile, Annika Schneider, PA to the Chief Executive at The Scotch Whisky Experience, received the Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland. This new award recognises the achievements of passionate and enthusiastic individuals at the start of their careers in tourism and hospitality.
Susan Morrison added: “We are incredibly proud of Annika and delighted that with the Rising Star award, she has the recognition that she deserves.
“From day one, she has been a joy to work with, an amazing colleague and addition to The Scotch Whisky Experience team. Inquisitive and creative, Annika epitomises our values and is a worthy Rising Star award winner!”
Amanda Wrathall from the EICC, won the Tourism Individual of the Year award. This award celebrates individuals who act as ambassadors for change within the industry, showcasing a commitment to tourism as a force for good.
The judges highlighted Amanda’s genuine love for her job and her industry and has a significant record of achievement.
Amanda is an Edinburgh local with over 30 years of experience in the hospitality and events industry, starting her career as a banqueting waitress to her current role as Sales and Marketing Director at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.
On receiving the award, Amanda said: “To be recognised in this particular category is incredibly humbling. Tourism in Scotland thrives because of the multitude of talented and passionate people who choose to work in this brilliant sector.
“Whilst individual recognition is gratifying, for me, this award is shaped and shared with the inspirational colleagues I have been fortunate enough to work with over the last 35 years.”
VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said:“Huge congratulations to all our regional winners for this incredible achievement.
“It is fantastic to see such recognition for the region’s vibrant tourism offering, as well as the passionate and dedicated individuals who work within it.
“I wish everyone the best of luck for the national final in November where they will be representing Edinburgh.”
The Scottish Thistle Awards champion innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030.
Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.
In addition to the Central and East Scotland Thistle Awards, VisitScotland delivers the West of Scotland Thistle Awards. The regional awards programme also includes the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards.
This year’s national sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards include headline sponsor, Johnstons of Elgin, as well as Abbey UK, LNER, The Macallan Estate, STV, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises, Historic Scotland, and Fishers. The Scottish Thistle Awards also includes a media partnership with News Scotland including The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.
