Tag: St James Quarter

Sephora UK set to open two major stores in Scotland this summer

Twice the stripes, twice as bonnie!

  • Global beauty leader will open its first Scottish “temples of beauty” in St James Quarter in Edinburgh and Silverburn Glasgow later this year.
  • A host of brands like rhode and Haus Labs will be available to shop in person for the first time on Scottish soil.
  • Sarah Boyd, Managing Director for Sephora UK: “Opening in both Edinburgh and Glasgow this summer is about bringing double the energy, double the access, and double the magic to a country that has long been calling for it”.

GLOBAL leader in prestige beauty Sephora UK has revealed it’s set to open not one, but two stores in Scotland this summer, after years of passionate calls from fans north of the border.

The LVMH-owned beauty powerhouse is bringing its signature black and white stripes to Edinburgh and Glasgow later this year, following immense demand online. 

The investment into Scotland has been hailed by members of the beauty and business communities alike, as the brand is set to open the major stores in quick succession within the same home nation for the first time. 

The Edinburgh store will be located at St James Quarter and will boast 4,961 square feet of dedicated shopping space, while the Glasgow store will open at Silverburn Shopping Centre, spanning 5,048 square feet. 

Hoardings will appear in both store locations imminently, playfully displaying the iconic black and white stripes with a Scottish nod as Sephora says, “Twice the stripes, twice as bonnie!” in both Silverburn and St James Quarter.

Both stores will be will be fully stocked with Sephora UK exclusives and selective brands, giving fans the chance to shop the likes of rhode, Haus Labs, Makeup by Mario, Merit Beauty, INNBeauty Project, Tower 28 and recent newcomer Half Magic for the first time ever on Scottish soil. 

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Sephora UK, said: “”The Sephora UK team and I are thrilled to finally reveal that we’re bringing our ‘temples of beauty’ to not one, but two incredible Scottish cities this summer – with fans crying out for a Scottish beauty playground.

“It has been three years since we opened our first UK store; from the very beginning we’ve been searching for the perfect locations for us to open in the region – and we are so happy to have found them in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter and Silverburn Glasgow.

“Opening in both Edinburgh and Glasgow this summer is about bringing double the energy, double the access, and double the magic to a country that has long been calling for it.

“Scotland also steps into a landmark summer, so the timing couldn’t feel more meaningful, and Sephora UK is proud to play a part in a special season that is set to make its mark in the history books.

“We know how eagerly our Scottish customers have waited while we expanded across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and we truly want to say thank you for your patience and loyalty.

“Now, Scotland, let’s get even more bonnie together!”

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director at St James Quarter, said: “The opening of Sephora’s first store in Scotland is a major moment for both St James Quarter and Edinburgh’s shopping scene.

“As one of the most influential names in global beauty, its arrival brings a new retail experience to the city and an exciting addition to St James Quarter’s growing beauty line-up.

“Sephora’s immersive concept and curated brand offer will our give customers something truly new, whether they are long-time fans or discovering the brand for the first time.”

David Pierotti, General Manager of Silverburn, added: “Sephora coming to Glasgow marks such a big moment for the city and the west of Scotland and we are so pleased to be home to its largest store in the country. 

“Our commitment to delivering an award-winning, first-class retail experience for our guests is demonstrated through our diverse offering of leading names across fashion, lifestyle and beauty.  

“I know our community in Glasgow will be very excited to see another globally recognised brand join us and we look forward to welcoming them to Sephora’s ‘temple of beauty’ here at Silverburn.”

The openings mark a major milestone in the retailer’s ambitious expansion journey, bringing its “temples of beauty” even closer and more accessible than ever to communities nationwide. 

What’s more, following the launch of its Belfast store in February, the Scottish store openings will mark a defining moment as they signify a proud presence across all four nations of the United Kingdom. 

As well as some Scottish firsts, the stores will also feature TikTok-viral favourites featured as part of the retailer’s ‘Hot on Social’ edit, including Glossier, Glow Recipe, Rare Beauty, Sol de Janeiro, Tatcha, and Kosas.

Customers at the Edinburgh and Glasgow stores will be able to enjoy personalised redeemable beauty consultations, gift-wrapping and engraving services, as well as immersive in-store experiences designed to inspire confidence and creativity. 

The new stores will also be among some of the first to introduce Sephora UK’s Beauty Scan technology, which allows Beauty Advisors to use an advanced lens to analyse a client’s skin for a more individualised consultation and personalised product recommendations, including oil and hydration levels and foundation shade matching. 

What’s more, in line with Sephora UK’s commitment to a seamless omnichannel offering, shoppers will also be able to continue the Sephora shopping experience via the Sephora UK app for exclusive product offers, as well as the MySephora loyalty programme, where clients can earn points on every purchase in-store and online, unlocking exclusive rewards, surprise gifts, early access to launches and invites to special events.

The opening of stores in Edinburgh and Glasgow respectively feed into Sephora UK’s expansion strategy to open their iconic “temples of beauty” alongside the retailer’s new, small format boutique stores, which were recently announced to debut this summer at Soho’s Carnaby Street and Shoreditch’s Old Spitalfields Market. 

This updated strategic approach to Sephora’s UK expansion is cemented in the aim to bring prestige beauty to all corners of the UK. Like the calls for stores opening in Scotland, the boutique formats were a direct response to Sephora’s highly passionate and engaged beauty community requesting for different kinds of shopping experiences with the high street shopper in mind – a testament to Sephora’s commitment to listening to its fans on how and where to best show up with their new stores as the retailer expands.

The blend of Sephora’s boutique formats and destination shops with a large sales floor aimed at discovery takes a modern approach to retail, delivering different kinds of shopping experiences for its wide-ranging clientele, reinforcing Sephora UK’s commitment to making premium beauty accessible to all.

To learn more, visit: www.sephora.co.uk

St James Quarter welcomes the Lunar New Year with Lion Dance performances and Red Envelope Giveaways

2026 is the year of the Fire Horse. St James Quarter will officially mark the arrival of the Lunar New Year with a vibrant programme of celebrations, inviting visitors to enjoy traditional performances, family-friendly entertainment and exclusive giveaways in the heart of Edinburgh.

Taking place on Saturday 21st February, the celebrations will centre around a spectacular Lion Dance, a much-loved Lunar New Year tradition symbolising prosperity, happiness and good fortune for the year ahead.

Back by popular demand, St James Quarter has partnered with Yee’s Hung Ga Kung Fu Edinburgh for the performances. The lion dancers will journey through the Galleria before arriving at Register Square, bringing colour, movement and energy to the Quarter as they perform to the rhythm of traditional drumming. Visitors can catch the performances at 12noon and 1pm, making it easy to plan a visit around the vibrant festivities.

Alongside the live performances, St James Quarter will be hosting red envelope giveaways throughout the day.

In keeping with Lunar New Year tradition, the envelopes will contain a range of prizes, discounts and special offers from St James Quarter brand partners, giving shoppers the chance to enjoy exclusive rewards while celebrating.

Potential prizes include: St James Quarter giftcards, a £50 Botanist voucher, Moleskine notebooks, bath and body treats from Molton Brown, as well as some beauty favourites including Sol de Janeiro minis.

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director at St James Quarter said: “Lunar New Year is an important cultural celebration for many of our visitors and communities across Edinburgh.

“We’re proud to mark the occasion once again with traditional performances and activities that bring people together and add to the sense of atmosphere across the Quarter. We look forward to welcoming guests to join us on 21st February to celebrate the Lunar New Year with friends and family.”

The Lunar New Year celebrations form part of St James Quarter’s ongoing commitment to reflecting and celebrating Edinburgh’s diverse cultural calendar, offering engaging events for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

For more information, please visit https://stjamesquarter.com/

The Botanist is Gifting Gig Tickets, Bar Tabs, Unlimited Kebabs, Champagne and even a Getaway

Move over Mariah, The Botanist has rewritten the soundtrack to Christmas with its own take on 12 Days of Christmas!

Think glasses clinking, ladies dancing, kebabs swinging, bands playing and cocktails shaking – it’s the ultimate Christmas packed with the gifts you actually want.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the music – to celebrate the season of giving, The Botanist is launching a huge social media giveaway in a countdown to Christmas, with prizes themed to each of the 12 days.  

Guests can expect everything from gig tickets and champagne to big bar tabs, date nights, a year’s worth of hanging kebabs (yes, really) and even a mini break up for grabs. The giveaways will start from Wednesday 19th November and happen every few days in the lead up to Christmas, with all 12 prizes being won by Christmas Eve.

Those feeling lucky should keep an eye on The Botanist’s Instagram page, where the remixed 12 Days of Christmas song and video will launch, each day to find out what’s up for grabs and how they can enter. 

And of course, it wouldn’t be winter at The Botanist without their Famous Hanging Kebabs and there’s a new festive addition to the line-up, the Christmas Dinner Hanging Kebab, stacked with roast turkey, pork and sage stuffing and pigs in blankets in a cranberry glaze, served with all the trimmings including maple roasted carrots, braised red cabbage, garlic & herb roast potatoes and Brussels sprouts, and finished with a jug of rich gravy to pour over. 

We all know Christmas is the time to treat ourselves, and The Botanist’s festive take on its signature sharing cookie dough is the ultimate indulgence. Those with a sweet tooth can savour a giant chocolate orange cookie dough served with honeycomb pieces, mini mince pies, ice cream coconut snowmen and Cointreau chocolate orange sauce (plus two spoons to dig in!) 

Behind the bar, the team has been busy working on this year’s limited-edition Christmas cocktails. Let nostalgia take over with the “It’s Mine” Old Fashioned – Maker’s Mark Bourbon infused with orange and stirred down with indulgent chocolate – it’s a boozy tribute to a festive favourite.

The Partridge in a Pear Tree, a nod to The Botanist’s 12 Days of Christmas campaign, featuring Absolut Vanilia Vodka shaken with pear, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice and topped with prosecco, is set to be your new favourite festive tipple! 

With imaginative and festive twists on The Botanist’s well-loved signature dishes, all created in house from scratch, this is the food and drink to celebrate over as party season gets underway! 

And that’s not all, the halls are being decked with larger-than-life Christmas trees, giant Christmas presents and golden pears for a photo backdrop worthy of a Christmas card!

The Botanist’s homegrown live musicians are ready to keep the festive cheer wild, playing live throughout the November and December as guests drinks and dine.  

The Botanist’s Christmas menu is available now. To find your nearest restaurant and book your table visit https://thebotanist.uk.com. 

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

St James Quarter, Edinburgh, Christmas Light Switch-on

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested gifts for donation:

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

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

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

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

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

St James Quarter set to sparkle once again this festive season

ST JAMES QUARTER UNVEILS A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS 2025 PROGRAMME 

From dazzling parades to hands-on festive fun, the Capital’s most stylish Christmas celebration returns bigger and brighter than ever.

St James Quarter, Edinburgh, is set to sparkle once again this festive season with a showstopping Christmas Programme for 2025 – from a spectacular light switch-on with starry performances, family-friendly experiences, and festive magic on every level.

The St James Quarter Christmas Parade returns again this year – bigger, brighter, and more spectacular than ever.

On Saturday, 8th November, from 4pm, the Galleria will come alive with a joyous celebration of colour, music, dance, and performance, featuring wandering musicians, graceful ballerinas, energetic street-style dancers and, of course, a very stylish Santa making his entrance in true St James Quarter STYLE.

Adding an extra touch of sparkle, Santa will be touring the City in a St James Quarter taxi, inviting Edinburgh locals to join him on his journey to the Quarter before leading the crowds to Register Square for a spectacular finale – a magical light switch-on and Christmas sing-along led by Community favourites, Tinderbox Orchestra, who will be joined by some surprise guests.

From traditional carols to contemporary hip-hop beats, the evening promises an unforgettable fusion of sound and celebration, creating a free, family-friendly night for residents and visitors alike.

The Tinderbox Orchestra, renowned for redefining what an orchestra can be, will fill the Quarter with the sound of Christmas. Combining rappers, singers, strings, brass, and drums, their performances bring together some of Scotland’s most dynamic musicians, delivering unexpected melodies and boundless festive energy.

Families can also look forward to the return of Elf Adventures on Sunday, 16th November and Sunday, 7th December, from 11am to 3pm at the Santa Express on Level 3. Little ones can learn how to be Santa’s little helpers through playful drop-in sessions, including Elf School (age 3+), where they’ll tackle an elf agility course, ; Reindeer Food Making (age 3+), where they can craft their own magical oats to sprinkle outside their homes on Christmas Eve; and Storytime sessions (age 0+), where little ones can settle in for cosy, interactive storytelling with Santa’s elves. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and there’s no need to book in advance.

For those feeling inspired by the sounds of the season, the Tinderbox Orchestra will host a day of interactive music workshops on Sunday, 30th November, from 10:30am to 6pm.

Ticketed via the St James Quarter App, these sessions offer the chance to try an instrument, play alongside the 20-piece orchestra, and even write and perform your own Christmas song.

Open to all ages and abilities, the workshops are a unique opportunity to join one of Scotland’s most exciting musical collectives for a day of festive creativity and collaboration.

Throughout the season, visitors can continue to enjoy the festive spirit across the Quarter. The Santa Express will offer a magical interactive photo opportunity on Level 3, while the Present Tree, in partnership with St James Quarter charity partner Children’s First, will encourage guests to donate gifts and spread goodwill to those in need.

Pop-up choir and dance performances will fill the Galleria with music and movement, and with bars and restaurants open until late and extended retail hours from 16th November, guests can shop, dine, and celebrate long into the evening.

Susan Hewlett, Brand Director at St James Quarter, said: “Christmas at St James Quarter is always something special, and this year we’re pulling out all the stops to make it our most magical celebration yet.

“From the dazzling parade and spectacular light switch-on to the creative energy of the Tinderbox Orchestra and the joyful return of Elf Adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“We can’t wait to welcome Edinburgh’s residents and visitors to experience the wonder, warmth and togetherness that makes this time of year so special in the heart of the city.”

Whether singing under the lights, dancing to the beat of the Tinderbox Orchestra, or watching little ones graduate from Elf School, St James Quarter is set to be Edinburgh’s ultimate destination for Christmas magic in 2025.

For more information, please visit:

https://stjamesquarter.com/event/st-james-quarter-sessions/

Pop-Up Vinyl Lounge brings soulful sounds to the heart of Edinburgh

ST JAMES QUARTER SESSIONS

Picture – Chris Watt Photography

This August, St James Quarter is turning up the volume for music fans with the launch of its first-ever pop-up Vinyl Lounge during the opening and closing weekends of the St James Quarter Sessions – the city’s only FREE music festival.

From 15th August, the Everyman Cinema will host the first evening of the Vinyl Lounge before the music moves to Level 1 Guest Services from 16th-17th and 21st-24th August.

Visitors can browse an eclectic selection of second-hand and new vinyl covering everything from Jazz, Blues, Funk, Soul, and Latin, to Ska, Reggae, Dub, World, Experimental, Soundtracks, Bollywood, and Library Music.

The experience will be soundtracked by live DJ sets on old-school vinyl decks throughout opening hours.

The opening weekend (15th–17th August) will be curated by La Beat Soul Club, one of Edinburgh’s most-loved soul nights. For over seven years, the La Beat trio – Brian, Gavin and Ross – have been bringing high-energy soul sessions to venues across the city. Now, they’re bringing their deepest crates and infectious energy to their biggest venue yet at St James Quarter.

The closing weekend (21st-24th August) sees Umbrella Vinyl take over. Since opening their Tollcross store in 2022, founders Laura, Josh and Nick have built a community hub for vinyl lovers, known for its inclusive atmosphere and environmentally conscious ethos. Their carefully curated range spans genres from Afrobeat to Soundtracks, reflecting the founders’ Hong Kong roots and broad musical tastes.

The pop-up Vinyl Lounge is the latest addition to the St James Quarter Sessions line-up. Happening during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe at the city’s leading retail and lifestyle destination, this year’s St James Quarter Sessions programme sees over 60 acts including The BrandNew Heavies, Bemz, Tamzene, and Cortney Dixon performing across the impressive, canopied development, including the Level 6 rooftop, with panoramic views of Scotland’s capital and castle – providing one of the most unique festival stages in the UK. 

Susan Hewlett, Festival Creator at St James Quarter, said: “St James Quarter Sessions is about celebrating music during the Festival, and our Pop-Up Vinyl Lounge is the perfect way to do that.

“Whether you’re a seasoned record collector or simply curious to explore the shelves, you’ll find an incredible mix of music, atmosphere, and community. Partnering with local legends La Beat Soul Club and Umbrella Vinyl means we’re bringing together some of the city’s most passionate champions of vinyl culture – all under one roof.

“We can’t wait for visitors to dig through the crates, discover new sounds, and enjoy the magic of music on vinyl in the heart of the city.”

The Vinyl Lounge is open from 5pm – 10pm in the Everyman Cinema on 15th August and from 12pm to 8pm on the 16th-17th and 21-23rd August before its final day on Sunday August 24th from 12pm – 6pm in the Level 1 Guest Services.

Don’t miss your chance to dig through crates of incredible records, discover hidden gems, and experience the soulful soundtrack of St James Quarter Sessions.

For more information, please visit: https://stjamesquarter.com/event/st-james-quarter-sessions/

Stories of Belief at St James Quarter

EDINBURGH INTERFAITH ASSOCIATION EXHIBITION

Visit Edinburgh Interfaith Association’s #Edinburgh900 exhibition “Stories of Belief: Celebrating 900 Years of Faith Communities in Edinburgh” at the St James Quarter from 16 – 23 July.

For more information visit tinyurl/storiesofbelief

Experience Edinburgh’s Sporting Heritage at Pop Up Exhibition at St James Quarter

As part of the city-wide Edinburgh 900 celebrations, a new exhibition celebrating Edinburgh’s rich sporting legacy opens tomorrow (Wednesday) at St James Quarter.

Free and open to all, the exhibition invites visitors to explore Edinburgh Leisure’s proud history of leisure and sport through engaging displays and stories.

Located in a dedicated Edinburgh 900 pop-up on Leith Street, next to Mor Bakery, the exhibition showcases the “City of Leisure” theme and features highlights from three captivating Edinburgh Leisure displays.

Great Lengths & Your Health is for Life

Discover Edinburgh Leisure’s 27-year commitment to promoting active lifestyles and delve into the fascinating history of the city’s Victorian swimming pools, including the iconic Royal Commonwealth Pool.

Teeing Off Through Time

Celebrate Edinburgh’s prestigious golfing heritage designed to be displayed at the 125th Edinburgh Evening News Dispatch Trophy, held at Braid Hills Golf Course in May.

Learn about the city’s pivotal role in golf’s origins, explore Edinburgh Leisure’s six scenic golf courses, and uncover the stories behind historic tournaments like the Dispatch Trophy and Gibson Cup, which have shaped local golfing traditions for over 130 years.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, history buff, leisure enthusiast or simply curious, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience Edinburgh’s sporting spirit – all under one roof.

Admission is free, and no booking is required. If you missed the exhibition at the Royal Commonwealth Pool last autumn, now’s your chance to catch it in the heart of the city.

You can learn about Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes, which support over 12,500 people affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty to get active; membership options including their 4-week summer pass, available now; fundraising initiatives, and volunteering opportunities too.

Betty the Shark, swimming from St James Quarter to this year’s Edinburgh Climate Festival

Betty the Shark, an e-waste sculpture created by artist Johnathan Elders, has made another surprise appearance – this time at Edinburgh’s St James Quarter.

The spectacular basking shark, created using electronic waste, is promoting its future attendance at this year’s Edinburgh Climate Festival.

The free event is taking place at the Edinburgh Meadows on June 28th from 12 – 7pm and, much like Betty, aims to ignite community conversation on climate related issues.

The shark was sculpted as a metaphor for the appetite we hold for the latest tech, shining a light on overconsumption and the consequences of the waste we produce. 

You can join Betty’s next journey in celebrating and inspiring climate action at the Edinburgh Climate Festival this June.

During the day you can also enjoy a variety of family-friendly performances, stalls, talks,  free activities as well as other art installations alongside the sculpture.

The festival serves as a platform for locals to engage with & discover remarkable climate initiatives, just like Betty the Shark, that are taking place in Edinburgh whilst also enjoying an exciting day out with their families. 

Franciele Sobierai, ECF’s Event Coordinator, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Betty the Shark to this year’s Edinburgh Climate Festival.

“Her powerful message about overconsumption and e-waste really captures the spirit of what our festival is all about: inspiring change through creativity, education, and community action.

“We invite everyone to come along, see Betty up close, and be part of a day that celebrates climate action in fun, engaging, and meaningful ways.”

You can find Betty the Shark at Edinburgh’s St James Centre until June 23rd, when she will be getting ready to swim over to the Edinburgh Meadows for her spot at the Edinburgh Climate Festival on the 28th. 

You can learn more about the festival & get involved by visiting the links available here

Betty the Shark was created using discarded waste collected by CCL North and is supported by Cognition Art, Edinburgh Remakery, Edinburgh Science, Outer Spaces & Creative Edinburgh.

The Edinburgh Climate Festival is brought to you by Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council (ELREC) & Networking Key Services (NKS), through the Communities’ Reduce Reuse & Recycle (C3R) Project.

The festival is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund and is supported by The University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Napier University.

Edinburgh STYLE is back bigger than ever for 2025

From 28th – 30th March, St James Quarter will play host to an enviable line-up of style talks, fashion shows, beauty masterclasses and more

Edinburgh STYLE will return to St James Quarter this March; bigger, bolder, and more stylish than ever before. Edinburgh STYLE 2025 will bring exciting new partners, including Pat McGrath Labs and W Edinburgh.

Set to be a vibrant celebration of fashion, design and creativity, guests can expect unmissable masterclasses, expert speakers, fashion shows and live entertainment.

Edinburgh STYLE weekend with W Edinburgh

For the first time, Edinburgh STYLE will offer a weekend package, with a two-night stay at W Edinburgh. The weekend tickets, with prices starting at £918, include exclusive access to STYLE workshops with industry luminaries, front row seats at two fashion shows, pop-up gigs, and a very special drinks reception with the Grazia team, plus VIP speakers and so much more. It’s the perfect gift for fashion-forward mums this Mother’s Day.

Book your experience here: https://www.marriott.com/offers/edinburgh-style-weekend-experience-off-154179/ediwh-w-edinburgh

Edinburgh STYLE Line-up

W Edinburgh guests and weekend ticket holders will be able to attend an incredible line-up of events across the three days, including talks from some of the UK’s fashion industry leaders and commentators.

Ex-American and UK Vogue contributing editor and novelist, Plum Sykes, will divulge some of her industry-leading knowledge; and Navaz Batiwalla – aka Disneyrollergirl – will discuss how style has influenced her career, from fashion editor to one of the first internationally recognised bloggers, to writing two ult-a stylish tomes.

Scotland’s own Iain R Webb, writer, curator and Professor of Fashion & Design at the renowned Kingston School of Art, will share his unrivalled insights into the evolution of fashion, trends and style. 

CEO of Harris Tweed, Margaret Ann, will provide a unique insight into the Brand’s recent Dior partnership, and share how Harris Tweed Hebrides takes a design-led approach to collaboration and partnership.  Timorous Beasties, Pam Hogg and more are also confirmed to share their stylish secrets across the weekend.

Alongside the activity at W Edinburgh, the Quarter’s Level 3 the Essential Edinburgh STYLE Lounge will play host to FREE workshops and masterclasses led by top industry insiders from some of the City’s most-loved fashion and beauty brands.

Because this year Edinburgh STYLE is being embraced by our neighbours at Multrees Walk and George Street, shoppers will be able to enjoy a wide range of in-store experiences at over 50 brands.

Susan Hewlett, Brand and Marketing Director at St James Quarter, said: “Edinburgh STYLE has been a key event for St James Quarter for the past four years, continuing to evolve with additional experiences and new collaborators. We are delighted to be joined by a new line-up of partners in 2025, who will add exciting new elements, as well as having our friends from Grazia return for a third year.

“From the ultimate fashion weekend at the W Edinburgh, to amazing shopping experiences around the Quarter, through Multrees Walk and down George Street; along with fashion talks, beauty masterclasses, runway glamour and more, – what a way to welcome spring and spoil mum! STYLE is always around the Quarter.”

Download the St James Quarter app or follow on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and more information on how to get involved in Edinburgh STYLE 2025.