Tag: hospitality

MOËT & CHANDON JOINS THE EDINBURGH COCKTAIL WEEK LINEUP

Luxury French Champagne brand joins The Cocktail Village lineup for 2023 

  • Edinburgh Cocktail Week publishes official guide for 2023
  • 22 brands taking part across 10 days at the UK’s biggest cocktail festival 
  • The guide showcases all of the £5 cocktails on offer as well as cocktail maps for the 100 participating bars around the city

With just a month to go until Edinburgh Cocktail Week kicks off, organisers revealed today that Moët & Chandon is the final brand to join the stellar lineup at next month’s Cocktail Village. 

Moet & Chandon, in collaboration with the team from Eve at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, will offer a selection of three Champagne cocktails. Moët & Chandon celebrates life’s memorable moments, and the bespoke cocktail selection has been curated to celebrate the festival’s fifth anniversary, running from Friday, 6th – Sunday, 15th October from 12 noon-11pm daily.

The announcement coincides with the publication of this year’s Edinburgh Cocktail Week guide which includes a rundown of all the £5 cocktails on offer at 100 bars taking part throughout the city during the 10-day festival. The guide can be accessed here.

This year marks Edinburgh Cocktail Week’s fifth birthday. To celebrate, the event has partnered with 100 of Edinburgh’s best cocktail bars, speakeasies and neighbourhood pubs to offer delicious £5 Signature Cocktails.

To get exclusive access to these cocktails, customers simply need to buy one of the festival wristbands and show it at the bar when ordering.

Wristband holders can find all the cocktails within the official guide and maps to help plan their day out and navigate the best cocktail routes across the city. 

No matter which wristband type is purchased – weekday or weekend – wristbands are valid at all participating bars for the full ten-day duration of the festival so event goers can enjoy multiple days out tasting their way around the best bars in Edinburgh.

The celebrations also extend to the highly popular Cocktail Village at Festival Square, the social epicentre of the festival, which will be bigger than ever before. Entry to the Cocktail Village is free with a festival wristband and inside cocktail-lovers will find 22 pop-up bars serving amazing cocktails from £5.

Pop-up bars serving cocktails from £5 include Aperol Spritz, Grey Goose, Patron, Engine Gin, Tia Maria, Hoxton Spirits, Boe Gin and Malibu, as well as a luxurious selection of premium, full-priced cocktails from the Moët & Chandon bar.

There will also be a mouth-watering selection of street food from Duck & Waffle, Pizza Geeks and Taberu Japanese Kitchen, and a live music stage with a jam-packed programme of local musicians and special headline performances, including a Spice Girl Tribute band, to get the party going. 

For the discerning cocktail drinker, Edinburgh Cocktail Week has a collection of award-winning ‘Prestige Cocktail’ bars to visit, where you can enjoy elevated cocktail experiences curated by the city’s top mixologists at the likes of Panda & Sons, Hey Palu, The Waldorf Astoria, Commons Club and The Devil’s Advocate. 

Gary Anderson, Managing Director of Edinburgh Cocktail Week said: “What better way to toast our fifth birthday than with Moët & Chandon champagne?

“We are utterly delighted to announce that Moët & Chandon will be joining us in the Cocktail Village next month and we look forward to raising a celebratory glass with wristband holders.

“We’re incredibly proud to call Edinburgh the home of the UK’s biggest cocktail festival and would like to thank all our customers and partners for their continued support of the festival – it’s amazing to see so many familiar faces year after year.”

Roddy Smith, Chief Executive of Essential Edinburgh Business Improvement District said: “Essential Edinburgh is delighted to again be the primary partner to Edinburgh Cocktail Week.

“ECW is now eagerly anticipated and well established in the city’s event calendar, and does a fantastic job in promoting our superb hospitality sector in the city centre. 

“We look forward to another hugely successful event both in the Cocktail Village and around every one of the bars and restaurants taking part. I can’t think of a better way to spend an early October evening than sampling wonderful cocktails in and around our city centre.”

A full list of the brands and bars taking part can be found on the Edinburgh Cocktail Week website and in notes to editors below.

Wristbands are on sale now at www.edinburghcocktailweek.co.uk. 

Wristband options for 2023 are as below (inclusive of booking fees):

  • Weekend 1 – £10.00 (valid Friday 6th – Sunday 8th Oct)
  • Weekday – £8.00 (valid Monday 9th –  Thursday 12th Oct)
  • Weekend 2- £10.00 (valid Friday 13th – Sunday 15th Oct)
  • Ten Day – £14.00 (valid Friday 6th – Sunday 15th Oct)

All wristbands are valid at all 100 participating bars for the full 10-day duration of the festival. Wristbands are valid at the Cocktail Village for the dates detailed above. 

ECW-Guide-2023Download

Flight Club is coming to Edinburgh

Stunning interiors, delicious cocktails and Social Darts … the perfect line-up for an unforgettable night out!

Flight Club, famous for making Social Darts a memorable night-out with friends, is opening a brand new and long-awaited venue in Edinburgh this November.

This will mark the 15th UK opening for Flight Club and the second in Scotland, closely following the opening of Flight Club Glasgow this October, and destined to be a highlight in everyone’s social calendar this autumn.  

Flight Club’s unique Social Darts concept promises to deliver a social experience like no other, loaded with unexpected, ridiculous, joy, and designed to bring people together through multiplayer games, show-stopping cocktails and tasty bites.

Flight Club will add a technology-charged twist to Edinburgh’s social scene and welcomes first-timers and fanatics alike. Automated scoring eliminates any need for counting and will seamlessly guide players through fast-paced, exciting games, whilst handy ‘push for service’ buttons will ensure not a moment of epic gameplay is missed when refreshments are required. 

Flight Club blends the nostalgia and warmth of a pub with the energy and excitement of a fairground in its atmosphere and decor; offering the ultimate escape from winter weather.

The new venue located in St James Quarter, the lifestyle district at the centre of Scotland’s capital, will give players the chance to discover an impressive 10 oche playing areas and will be neighbouring some of the biggest names in retail and hospitality.

The venue will celebrate the city’s heritage with a large mural featuring historical landmarks, and a model Victorian railway running throughout the height of the bar, calling at thoughtfully designed streets and stations.

If Prosecco and bottomless pizza sounds like more of a winning combination, Flight Club Edinburgh will be offering an incredible Brunch Social every Saturday & Sunday. Delivering on all those crispy base, ultra-cheesy cravings, the paddle board pizzas come with a variety of toppings and can be tailored to suit dietary requirements, whilst each guest will receive a bottle of Prosecco.

Located in the bustling St James Quarter, Flight Club Edinburgh is a one-stop destination for all group sizes, from groups of friends to corporate events, catering for up to 250 guests. Groups of 37 + can join Flight Club for an industry-leading Social Darts Tournament hosted by an expert Gamesmaster. Multiple oches are effortlessly connected for an immersive experience, perfect for team building, Christmas parties or company socials!

CEO, Steve Moore, said: “We love the atmosphere in Edinburgh and the existing hospitality and nightlife scene, so we are beyond excited to be opening a Flight Club in St James Quarter this autumn.

“It’s a busy and evolving city, and we will be bringing something a little different to the area, and can’t wait to see friends and colleagues celebrating every occasion with us.”

Booking enquiries HERE.

Open to book from 7th September. 

‘What a feeling!’ as Scotland’s bars scoop top awards

Edinburgh pub entrepreneur Billy Lowe got an extra birthday present when he scooped the Lifetime Achievement Award at Tuesday’s Scottish Bar and Pub Awards, formerly known as the DRAM Awards, on his actual birthday! The award recognised his 35 years at the top of the licensed trade.

Said DRAM publisher Susan Young, “Billy Lowe is arguably Scotland’s most successful licensed trade entrepreneur. Having created three very successful pub companies and operated more than 30 pubs over the decades, he remains at the helm of Caledonia Inns, which includes the award-winning Black Ivy.”

The latter also won the Drinks Express Best Outdoor Area award.

He received his award in front of more than 600 industry peers at a glittering 80s Film themed awards ceremony at the Doubletree Hilton in Glasgow.

Following his win, Billy said, “It was a complete surprise, and I was delighted that the whole family was there to see it! For me, to be recognised alongside the deserving people who have won this award before, people that I truly admire, was such an honour.”

The event saw 30 awards presented to both venues and individuals from all around Scotland spanning from Our Place in Annan which picked up the Media World Casual Dining Award, to Inverness-based Prime which grabbed the ARO Procurement Customer Service Award.

Organiser Susan Young said: “The Scottish licensed trade is full of successful entrepreneurs and as a result we have some of the best pubs and venues in the UK.  These awards recognise and celebrate the efforts of the owners and their employees that give Scotland a hospitality industry that is worth shouting about. I take my hat off to all of them.”

Now in their 28th year, the awards are a highlight in the hospitality industry calendar and this year over 100 finalists attended the ceremony at the Double Tree Hilton Glasgow Central – making it the biggest event yet!

There were celebrations in Aberdeen as Scott Anderson of Siberia Bar & Hotel won THE DRUM Digital Innovator of the Year, Adrian Gomes of The Tippling House won Campari Mixologist of the Year and Bryony Baxter of Meraki Bar and Restaurant was named as William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year.

In Edinburgh there was a double celebration for the Tipsy Midgie and owner Colin Hinds who took home both Benromach’s Whisky Bar of the Year and the Deanston Whisky Guru gongs!

Hey Palu was named the Makers Mark Cocktail Bar of the Year, Stramash as Pernod Ricard Best Late-Night Venue and Brewhemia as Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year!

A special mention went to The Original Rosslyn Inn who were honoured with the Golden Jubilee Award for Hospitality to celebrate their 50th year of business.

Meanwhile, in Glasgow winners included local favourites St Lukes & The Winged Ox for Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue, the WORQ Group for Premier Card Services Independent Operator of the Year and Graham Chalmers of Radisson RED who won the inaugural Edrington UK Giving More Award for his amazing charitable contributions.

Gillian Kirkland of The Piper Whisky Bar was deservedly crowned Inspirational Woman of the Year, Rory McGinley of Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery was named HOSPO Manager of the Year and Sportsterz Pete Harvey was stunned to receive his Bar Personality of the Year award!

A special ‘Heart of Hospitality’ award was also given to Bucks Bar owner Michael Bergson for being such a great voice for the licensed trade industry.

The Lisini Pub Company were recognized for their amazing sustainability work, winning the Flor de Cana Rum Sustainability Award and Baillieston’s The East End Fox snapped up the trophy for Kopparbergs New Bar of the Year.

In Ayrshire, industry giants Buzzworks took home the Hospitality Employer of the Year gong, the Fox and Willow won Inverarity Morton Scotland’s Best Drinks Offeringand Brandon Van Rensburg, owner of the Tempura chain, walked away as Buzzworks & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year.

Other winners from the west included Great Scots Bar in the Cameron House that were awarded Molinari’s Hotel Bar of the Year, The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha that won Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year, and Aberfoyle’s The Forth Inn that scooped the prize for Sheep Dog Whisky Dog Friendly Pub of the Year.

Falkirk’s Brian Flynn, owner of Behind The Wall, was named Licensee of the Year and The Scottish Hospitality Group awarded its Special Recognition Award to Caroline Louden of TLT LLP.

The full list of winners is below:

Lifetime Achievement Award

Billy Lowe – Caledonia Inns

Heart of Hospitality Award

Michael Bergson – Bucks Bar

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award

Prime Steak & Seafood – Inverness

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

Tipsie Midgie – Edinburgh

Buzzworks & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year

Brandon Van Rensburg – Tempura, Ayr

Campari Mixologist of the Year

Adrian Gomes – The Tippling House, Aberdeen

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year

Colin Hinds – Tipsy Midgie, Edinburgh

Hospitality Employer of the Year

Buzzworks – Ayrshire

Drinks Express Best Outdoor Area

Black Ivy – Edinburgh

THE DRUM Digital Innovator of the Year

Siberia Bar & Hotel – Aberdeen

‘Giving More’ Award in partnership with Edrington UK

Graham Chalmers – Radisson RED, Glasgow

Flor de Cana Rum Sustainability Award

Lisini Pub Company – Uddingston

Golden Jubilee Award for Hospitality Excellence

The Original Rosslyn Inn – Roslin

HI-SPIRITS Best Live Music Venue

St Lukes & The Winged Ox  – Glasgow

HOSPO Manager of the Year

Rory McGinley – Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery, Glasgow

Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year

The Oak Tree Inn – Balmaha

Inspirational Woman of the Year

Gillian Kirkland – The Piper Whisky Bar,Glasgow

Inverarity Morton Scotland’s Best Drinks Offering

The Fox and Willow – Ayr

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year

The East End Fox – Baillieston

Makers Mark Cocktail Bar of the Year

Hey Palu – Edinburgh

Mediaworld Casual Dining Award

Our Place – Annan

Molinari Hotel Bar of the Year

Great Scots’ Bar – Cameron House

Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year

Brewhemia – Edinburgh

Pernod Ricard Best Late-Night Venue

Stramash – Edinburgh

Premier Card Services Independent Operator of the Year

WORQ Group – Glasgow

Bar Personality of the Year

Pete Harvey – Sportsterz

Sheep Dog Whisky Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

The Forth Inn – Aberfoyle

Scottish Hospitality Group Contribution to the Industry Award

Caroline Loudon – TLT LLP

DRAM Licensee of the Year 2023

Brian Flynn – Behind the Wall, Falkirk

William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentices

Bryony Baxter – Meraki Bar & Restaurant, Bridge of Don

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Aspiring chefs invited to apply to 2023 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship

Eddie Brown winner of the 2022 Andrew Fairlie scholarship. Picture Robert Perry 17th November 2022

Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland has announced that the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is once again open for applications from aspiring chefs working in Scotland.  

An invaluable opportunity for chefs looking to gain first-hand experience within some of the world’s most renowned establishments, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship provides the ultimate education for up-and-coming chefs. 

Launched in 2019 with the late Andrew Fairlie fronting the initiative, the scholarship is provided in partnership with HIT Scotland, an industry charity Andrew was closely associated with. Now in its fourth year, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is supported by HIT Scotland, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Perth College UHI and The Gleneagles Hotel. 

Eddie Brown was awarded the scholarship last year, earning him industry-wide recognition as an Andrew Fairlie scholar and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build on his culinary education.  

An all-star panel of the country’s finest chefs will judge the 2023 competition. 

Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, will be joined by fellow 2 Michelin starred Chef Sat Bains, 1 star Head Chef at Cail Bruich and winner of Great British Menu, Lorna McNee, and Masterchef winner and National Chef of Scotland, Gary Maclean.  

The winner of this year’s Scholarship will be taken on a 2-day educational trip to France with Grand Cuisine, and gain hands-on experience at the 2-star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, the 3-star Core by Clare Smyth in London, and the 2-star Mélisse in Los Angeles, as well as a bespoke chef’s jacket.

These highly informative experiences will be taken over two years, allowing the scholar to develop their learnings over a period of time. 

Eddie Brown winner of the 2022 Andrew Fairlie scholarship. Picture Robert Perry 17th November 2022

Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Stephen McLaughlin, commented: “The search for the 2023 Andrew Fairlie scholar has now started! I am very much looking forward to seeing what Scotland’s aspiring chefs will create and serve up to us this year.   

“The judges will be looking to see a clear demonstration of the applicants’ skills and knowledge but also want to see and feel their creativity, flair, and personality.   

“At the end of the day, we are not necessarily looking for a Michelin starred chef. What we are searching for is someone with a sharp eye for details and really clean set of skills. Someone who is driven to learn and improve their craft and to elevate themselves and others toward a higher level.” 

Eddie Brown winner of the 2022 Andrew Fairlie scholarship. Picture Robert Perry 17th November 2022

David Cochrane MBE, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, added: “We are delighted to once again open up applications for the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship.

“The scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for chefs that are looking to advance their career and to continue their professional development in this remarkable industry.” 

To apply, potential candidates should complete an application which can be found on the HIT Scotland website. They will be asked what inspires them to be the best chef they can be, and about their proudest career moment to date. They will also have to design a dish to create on finals day. 

This year candidates will need to display their innovation and expertise by creating a potato dish which will be cooked and served to the judges at the final, along with some other culinary challenges which will be revealed on the day!  

The finalists will take part in the final skills test on Wednesday 22nd November at Perth College UHI, followed by a presentation at The Gleneagles Hotel. 

The test will focus on the candidates’ skills, knowledge, and creativity, with the recipient of the scholarship striking a fine balance between personality and professionalism throughout. 

Applications are open now and close midnight 24 September 2023. 

Eligible candidates can find out more information about the application process on the HIT Scotland website here. 

Edinburgh celebrates success as finalists announced for Scottish Bar and Pub Awards

Hospitality venues across Edinburgh are celebrating as they are named as finalists in the 2023 Scottish Bar and Pub awards, formerly the DRAM Awards.

Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar is a finalist for Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year with owner Colin Hinds joining The Balmoral’s Cameron Ewen for the Deanston Whisky Guru title.

Stramash and Dropkick Murphys are both named in the Pernod Ricard Late Night Venue category, Panda and Sons and Hey Palu for Makers Mark Cocktail Bar of the Year, and Indigo Yard and Brewhemia for the Molson Coors Bar of the Year gong!

Black Ivy Bar and Hotel have a double nomination for Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year & Drinks Express Best Outside Area. Melanie Cranston, owner of Scotts of Rose Street, makes the top 4 for Buzzworks/Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur and the Boozy Cow lands a spot for Drum Digital Innovator of the Year!

Outside the city centre, Edinburgh is also represented by The Torfin for the Media World Casual Dining Award and by Thirty Knots in South Queensferry for Kopparberg New Bar of the Year.

A special mention also goes to The Original Rosslyn Inn and the Harris family who celebrate their 50th year of ownership with nominations for the Edrington ‘Giving More’ Award & Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year!

The awards are celebrating their 28th year, making them Scotland’s longest-established hospitality awards. They were established to recognise excellence in the Scottish licensed trade by industry magazine DRAM.

Over the last three decades the event has garnered a reputation as being one of the most prestigious events in Scotland’s licensed trade calendar and have been referred to, year in and year out, as the “Oscars of the industry.” The winners will be revealed at a glitzy awards dinner on Tuesday 29th August at The Doubletree Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.

Organiser Susan Young said: “This year, a record number of votes were received from the public across a multitude of categories.

“The best of the best have now been named ranging from pubs that are Dog Friendly to cocktail bars that serve up fabulous drinks, from community pubs with stars behind the bars, to late night venues.

“Customers voted and then mystery shoppers visited, with the last word going to the awards judges. It was certainly not an easy task due to the quality of all the finalists and many miles have been travelled.”

More than 600 people will gather at the event to find out what pubs are taking the top accolade.

You can see the full list of the award categories and finalists below:-

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award

The Boudingait – Cupar

Coia’s Café – Glasgow

Mini Grill – Glasgow

Prime Steak & Seafood – Inverness

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

Ardshiel Hotel – Campbeltown

The Piper Whisky Bar – Glasgow

The Pot Still – Glasgow

Tipsie Midgie – Edinburgh

Buzzworks & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year

Brandon Van Rensburg – Tempura, Ayr

Craig Scott – Bartenders Lounge, Aberdeen

Melanie Cranston – Scotts of Rose Street, Edinburgh

Sandy McGregor – The Foresters Arms, Cambusbarron

Campari Mixologist of the Year

Adrian Gomes – The Tippling House, Aberdeen

Scott Keith – Siberia, Aberdeen

John Mcintosh – Chop Grill & Bar, Aberdeen

David Howie – Buzzworks

Vlad Valentin – Banca di Roma, Glasgow

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year

Adam Norquoy – Dundonald Links,

Cameron Ewen – The Balmoral, Edinburgh

Colin Hinds – Tipsy Midgie, Edinburgh

Thomas McDonagh – The Bon Accord, Glasgow

Drinks Express Best Outdoor Area

Black Ivy – Edinburgh

The Fox and Willow – Ayr

Hugos Bar & Pavilion – Dalgety Bay

The Ivy Lodge – Aberdeen

THE DRUM Digital Innovator of the Year

Boozy Cow – Edinburgh

Bucks Bar – Glasgow/Edinburgh

Radisson RED Sky Bar – Glasgow

Siberia Bar & Hotel – Aberdeen

Flor de Cana Rum Sustainability Award

Lisini Pub Company

SWG3 – Glasgow

The Old Workshop – Aberdeen

Buzzworks Holdings

‘Giving More’ Award in partnership with Edrington UK

Bartenders Lounge – Aberdeen

Graham Chalmers – Radisson RED, Glasgow

The Original Rosslyn Inn – Roslin

Zach Sapato – Mikaku, Glasgow

HI-SPIRITS Best Live Music Venue

King Cons – Stirling

King Tuts Wah Wah Hut – Glasgow

St Lukes – Glasgow

The Keg – Paisley

Venue 38 – Ayr

Hospitality Employer of the Year

Auchrannie Hotel

Buzzworks

Cru Holdings

Manorview

Hospo Manager of the Year

Stephen Adams – Vienna’s, Paisley

Carys McGhee – The Tree House/T-Bar, Ayr

Rory McGinley – Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery, Glasgow

Olivia Wong – Stravaigin, Glasgow 

Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year

Black Ivy – Edinburgh

The Oak Tree Inn – Balmaha

The Original Rosslyn Inn – Roslin

The Woodside Hotel – Doune

Inverarity Morton Scotland’s Best Drinks Offering

Malo – Glasgow

Scotch and Rye – Inverness

The Criterion – St Andrews

The Fox and Willow – Ayr

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year

Bartenders Lounge – Aberdeen

King Cons – Stirling

The East End Fox – Baillieston

Thirty Knots – South Queensferry

Makers Mark Cocktail Bar of the Year

The Absent Ear – Glasgow

Hey Palu – Edinburgh

Panda and Sons – Edinburgh

T-Bar – Ayr

Mediaworld Casual Dining Award

The Balerno Inn – Edinburgh

Crown & Anchor – Findhorn

The Greenside – Maybole

Our Place – Annan

The Torfin – Edinburgh

Molinari Hotel Bar of the Year

Cromlix House Bar – By Dunblane

Great Scots’ Bar – Cameron House

Smiths at Gretna Green

Titan Sky Bar – Meldrum House, Inverurie

Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year

Behind The Wall – Falkirk

Brewhemia – Edinburgh

Indigo Yard – Edinburgh

The Record Factory – Glasgow

Pernod Ricard Best Late-Night Venue

Cathouse Rock Club – Glasgow

Dropkick Murphys – Edinburgh

Radisson RED Sky Bar – Glasgow

Stramash – Edinburgh

Premier Card Services Independent Operator of the Year

Behind The Wall

Boteco Group

R4 Group

The Rocks Leisure Group

WORQ Group

Sheep Dog Whisky Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

The Forth Inn – Aberfoyle

Hillend Tavern – Hillend

The Mercat Bar & Grill – Nr Musselburgh

The Old Smiddy – Glasgow

William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentices

Helina Adams – Bonnie & Wild, Edinburgh

Bex Allan – Bonnie & Wild, Edinburgh

Paton Allan – The Smokin’ Fox, Glasgow

Bryony Baxter – Meraki Bar & Restaurant, Bridge of Don

Christina Davidson – The Smokin’ Fox, Glasgow

Emily Eason – King Cons, Stirling

Logan Eason – Oscar’s Wine Bar, Stirling

Marcus Gordon – Orchid Cocktails, Aberdeen

Jamie Hadden – The Fox, Troon

Alex McQueen – Bartenders Lounge, Aberdeen

James Piper – Gleneagles Townhouse House, Edinburgh

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year

Camphill Vaults – Bothwell

The Four Marys – Linlithgow

Malones – Aberdeen

The Old Smiddy – Glasgow

Sportsterz – Glasgow

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Two months to go before short-term lets licensing deadline

Hosts must sign up to scheme before 1st October

Owners of short-term let properties are being urged to apply for a licence under Scotland’s short-term licensing scheme before the 1 October 2023 deadline.

Short-term let hosts must apply for a licence with their relevant local authority before the deadline. Anyone who operated a short-term let before 1 October 2022 can still accept bookings and guests until an application is determined, but must apply before the 1 October 2023 deadline. Owners who started operations after 1 October 2022 cannot begin trading until they receive their licence.

Hosts must apply for a licence with the local authority their property is located and are being urged to check local criteria before making an application.

Local councils’ licensing schemes are in operation across Scotland and many short-term let hosts have already obtained licences.

Housing Minister Paul McLennan said: “Short-term let accommodation plays an important role in Scotland’s economy, supporting our tourism and hospitality sector and allowing tourists and holiday goers somewhere to take them closer to the best that Scotland can offer.

“However, it is also important that there is appropriate regulation in place to ensure the safety of guests, and so that local authorities can make decisions that are right for their local areas. That is why the Scottish Government has introduced the short-term lets licensing scheme.

“I would like to thank those who have already signed up to the scheme, bringing assurances to tourists that their safety is paramount and that they have met local guidelines.

“Visitors coming to Scotland can already expect to see the benefits of properties being licensed and meeting specific standards. Meanwhile, the thousands of short-term let operators who provide a quality service can have the assurance that would-be competitors have to meet licensing standards as well.

“There is only two months to go until the 1 October deadline and so I would urge anyone who owns short-term let accommodation and has yet to apply to do so as soon as possible to ensure you can still take bookings and welcome guests from far and wide.”

Short Stay St Andrews Director Jordan Mitchell said: “As the largest holiday letting agency in St Andrews and the East Neuk, the initial thought of an application process for short-term letting our 130+ managed properties was a daunting one.

“However, the application process has been plain sailing once we had all the required safety certification in place.

“Fife Council has been extremely supportive in its quest to process the applications despite the extra pressure on its systems.

“I can only recommend applying as soon as possible to give your business plenty of time to adjust to the new Scottish Government requirements.”

Owners have until 1 October 2023 to apply for a short-term lets licence, with local authorities required to process applications by 1 October 2024.

Apply for a short-term let licence: gov.scot/shorttermlets

Regional shortlist unveiled for Scottish Thistle Awards  

THE regional shortlist for Scotland’s premier tourism and events industry awards has been announced. 

The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsor Johnstons of Elgin, celebrate the very best of the tourism and events industry, which is worth £11.5 billion to the Scottish economy. 

42 tourism businesses, events and individuals are in the running to receive the prestigious award, as the shortlist for the regional finals is revealed. 

Camera Obscura & the World of Illusions is among the businesses shortlisted in the Central and East Scotland Thistle Awards. It is shortlisted in the Best Visitor Attraction category, sponsored by The Scottish Sun, alongside Edinburgh Zoo.  

The attraction is also in the running for the Inclusive Tourism category sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland, celebrating a business that has a developed an outstanding welcome for all customers and provides accessible facilities which can enjoyed by all customers. 

Camera Obscura & the World of Illusions is also shortlisted in the Innovation in Tourism category, which celebrates those driving forward positive chance and creatively adapting to consumer behaviour, alongside Glenkinchie Distillery in East Lothian.  

East Lothian Cottages in Haddington and Edinburgh Science are both in the running for the Climate Action Award category, sponsored by the Times, which celebrates businesses, events and destinations that have demonstrable progress on their journey to Net Zero.  

And Foxlake Adventures in Dunbar, A Wee Pedal in Edinburgh and Ocean Vertical in Dunbar are shortlisted in the Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience category.  

The Original Rossyln Inn in Midlothian is shortlisted in the Best Bar or Pub category, alongside Cocktail Mafia in Edinburgh. Drift in North Berwick is shortlisted in the Best Eating Experience category and Whitekirk Hill, also in North Berwick, in the Best Self Catering Experience category. 

Fraser MacDonald from Preston Mill, National Trust for Scotland, East Linton,  Katie Scott, Real Mary King’s Close, Edinburgh and Andy Cuthbertson, New Lanark Trust, Lanark are shortlisted in the Tourism Individual of the Year  category. 

The Scottish Thistle Awards are delivered by VisitScotland in partnership with regional awards programmes.

The five different regional award ceremonies will take place in September, October and November before the regional winners go through to battle it out for a national accolade at the National Final in December.  

The awards champion innovation, collaboration and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, 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.   

Every entry was required to provide clear evidence on how their business addresses responsible tourism, with new categories such as the Celebrating Thriving Communities Award, Inclusive Tourism Award and Climate Action Award introduced this year.  

There are 14 regional categories and 3 national-only categories. 

2023 saw more than 600 entries submitted, including almost 1200 nominations from members of the public keen to give hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals the opportunity to earn the recognition they deserve in the part they play in making Scotland such a fantastic place to visit.   

Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards industry panel, said: “The Scottish Thistle Awards mark an important celebration of the best in our industry.

“They showcase the vest best of Scotland’s tourism and events sector, helping to ensure that tourism, and the individuals who work in the industry, are recognised for the positive impact they bring to the country and our communities.  

“Every one of the shortlisted regional finalists is supporting our ambition to make Scotland a better place for people to live and visit. On behalf of the panel, I would like to congratulate all regional finalists and wish each and every one of them the very best of luck at the regional finals and beyond.”  

VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “It is fantastic to see such a strong representation from Edinburgh and the Lothians in the regional finals of the Scottish Thistle Awards.  

“These entries show the strength and depth of the tourism offer in the city and surrounding area, from quality visitor attractions and experiences to examples of collaboration and innovation, and much more! I wish all those shortlisted the very best of luck at the West of Scotland Thistle Awards.” 

For almost 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards have helped shine a spotlight on individual businesses, people and partnerships working.  

After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they returned with a bang last year, culminating in the crowning of 17 winners at the National Final in February 2023.    

This year, they also include a media partnership with News Scotland.  

In addition to the Central and East 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, for the first time this year, the South of Scotland Thistle Awards. This year’s sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards include headline sponsor, Johnstons of Elgin, and Fishers, The Macallan Estate, STV and Abbey UK.  

Regional finals will take place in different locations around Scotland. 

  • The Central & East Thistle Awards will take place at the Sheraton Grand in Edinburgh on 21 September 2023. 
  • The Aberdeen City and Shire Regional Final, organised by Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards, will take place at the Chester Hotel, Aberdeen, on 22 September.   
  • The West of Scotland Thistle Awards will take place at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow on 28 September 2023. 
  • The South of Scotland Thistle Awards, organised by the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise, will take place at The Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries on 5 October 2023.  
  • The Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards, organised by the Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards, will take place at the The Drumossie Hotel in Inverness on 10 November 2023.  

The full 14 regional categories are:  

  • Best B&B or Guest House Experience, sponsored by Abbey UK  
  • Best Bar or Pub 
  • Best Eating Experience 
  • Best Hotel Experience, sponsored by Fishers 
  • Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience 
  • Best Self-Catering Accommodation Experience 
  • Best Visitor Attraction, sponsored by The Scottish Sun  
  • Celebrating Thriving Communities Award  
  • Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival 
  • Inclusive Tourism Award sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland 
  • Climate Action Award, sponsored by The Times Scotland 
  • Innovation in Tourism 
  • Tourism & Hospitality Employer of the Year 
  • Tourism Individual of the Year  

The three national only categories are Outstanding Sporting Event, Best Business Event and Best Luxury Experience. 

Glenfiddich & hospitality industry partners raise money for ‘Protect Our Winters’ charity

On the 31st July, Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador to Scotland, Mark Thomson, will lead a group of 11 hospitality industry names on a 90k+ journey through Scotland.

The poignant trail is inspired by a journey taken by William Grant in 1885, as he searched Scotland for inspiration and opportunity before building Glenfiddich, in an expedition that took him from Dufftown to Balmoral. 

In a bid to recreate William Grant’s epic journey, Thomson and his group of runners will run across some of Scotland’s most remote land over the course of two days.

Beginning in Braemar, crossing two Munros, and finishing with a luxurious stay at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, the journey hopes to bring to life Glenfiddich’s inspiring brand heritage.

As part of the challenge Thomson has partnered with Protect Our Winters, an environmental charity dedicated to helping passionate outdoor people become effective climate advocates, protecting our world today and for future generations.  

Once runners have crossed the finish line at the Glenfiddich distillery, they will be greeted with a well-deserved dram before being taken on a guided tour of the historic distillery which includes a coopering demonstration.

They will stay at distillery properties Malt Kiln, Torrin and Castle Croft, enjoy a sumptuous dinner and stunning line up of whiskies including private vintages, rare and exclusive to the brand’s home, and be joined by Lauren MacCallum, MD of Protect Our Winters UK to discuss the project and fundraising. 

Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador to Scotland Mark Thomson says: “This adventure will create a lasting impression on the entrants, bringing together all the values Glenfiddich and Protect Our Winters share, as well as promoting health and wellbeing within the industry.

“The love of the outdoors, challenge of the landscape and the luxury destination of the distillery creates a memorable occasion for all”.

Donations can be made via Mark’s Just Giving page to support the runners and this worthwhile cause. A target of £2.5k has been set by the brand and for every donation made William Grant & Sons will match it. 

Those interested can follow Thomson and the athletes on their challenge via his Instagram page @singlemaltmark where he will be documenting the full journey. 

Three New Tour Areas revealed at The Scotch Whisky Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience has revealed three new immersive tour areas which will open to the public in mid-July.

Visitors will be transported to a peaceful Highland glen, leaving the bustle of Edinburgh’s vibrant Royal Mile behind them. Beautiful immersive technology creates a tranquil introduction to the elements and ingredients that shape the spirit.

This is “Origins”. Famous for our “four seasons in one day” visitors can discover the secret of how the landscape enriches the soft Scottish water and undulating barley fields turn from green to gold before the grains are harvested.

From the Origins we move to “The Art of Whisky Making”, where visitors will discover how single malt Scotch whisky is made.  Mixing an enchanting kinetic sculpture with fascinating media, the distilling process can be seen from inside and out. The process is visualised in a way never seen before, embodying the art of whisky making.

The pure new spirit moves to “Maturation”.  Seated inside the cask visitors will witness the charring, firing and filling, allowing for a unique and magical view of how the cask changes the character of the whisky as the years tick past.

The three new immersive areas form part of the full tour experience. Setting the scene for how single malt Scotch is produced, before discovering the whisky producing regions, the art of blending, and tasting a dram in one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections.

Susan Morrison, Chief Executive of The Scotch Whisky Experience, said “We are so excited to share the new experience with our visitors. This is the culmination of three year’s hard work by our passionate team.

“The immersive storytelling and brilliant technology within the tour will offer visitors a real insight into Scotch whisky.”

Following three years of careful planning, the new experiences have replaced the “barrel ride”. The Scotch Whisky Experience has combined technologies in an exciting new way, not yet seen at a visitor attraction in the UK.

The story of whisky production has been brought to life. It will entertain and enchant new generations of whisky lovers discovering whisky for the first time. 

The July launch of the new tour at The Scotch Whisky Experience will ensure even more visitors learn about the extraordinary world of Scotland’s whisky heritage.

“The maturation process is highly complex but this portrays it perfectly.” – Richard Paterson, Master Blender, Whyte and Mackay

“There is nowhere you can see how whisky matures like this.” – Sandy Hyslop, Master Blender, Pernod Ricard

“This newest addition to Edinburgh’s tourist attractions continues our mission of showcasing Scotland’s national drink in a very contemporary, modern way.” – Malcolm Leask, Managing Director, International Beverage and Chairman of The Scotch Whisky Experience

Union Canal Afternoon Chai cruises extended after ‘amazing’ maiden voyages

Corstorphine restaurant Prahna Indian Grill has announced it will run a series of summer Union Canal Sunday afternoon tea cruises in Edinburgh and West Lothian following the success of two trial events.

The award-winning restaurant, which specialises in a range of Scottish-infused Indian dishes, piloted two canal outings on 28 May and 11 June when customers boarded a specially commissioned dining barge at the Leamington Liftbridge in Fountainbridge.

For the next two hours the guests were treated to a classic ‘Afternoon Chai’ which included barbecue chicken sliders, chocolate fudge cake and a glass of prosecco while travelling along the Union Canal to the Slateford Aqueduct and back.

The events, organised in partnership with the Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust, proved so popular that Prahna has today announced a series of further afternoon tea cruises throughout the summer.

Further outings departing from Edinburgh will now be held on 23 July and 13 August.

The restaurant has also announced it will also trial its first Sunday afternoon tea cruise sailing from Linlithgow on 16 July with further departures from the West Lothian town expected to follow.

Prahna co-founder Arun Ramanan said: “We had an amazing response to our first Union Canal Afternoon Chai cruises. We’re now delighted to announce we’ll be running further sailings from Edinburgh and also Linlithgow throughout the summer in partnership with the Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust.

“As well as showcasing our unique and incredible Asian food, these events offer local residents and tourists a unique experience which connects them with the beauty and heritage of the Union Canal, an amazing but often overlooked part of Scotland’s history.”

Prahna opened its doors for trading in 2020, just as the global pandemic hit the UK.  Rather than pulling down the shutters, co-founder Arun Ramanan and his team reached out to the local community and delivered hundreds of free meals to mainly elderly people who were shut in their homes at the time.

He has kept his focus on the local community and is involved in a number of events and activities to support people in the west of Edinburgh area.

Earlier this year Prahna was named as Scotland’s leading establishment at the Scottish Asian Restaurant Awards.