Tag: Taylor Swift

‘Sparks Fly’ as Edinburgh welcomes Taylor Swift with civic gift

Taylor Swift is set to receive a civic gift on behalf of the Capital as she takes to the stage at Scottish Gas Murrayfield this weekend.

Edinburgh has heralded the arrival of the global pop sensation by creating a gift hamper celebrating the best of the city and of Scotland.

Contents will include a bespoke Edinburgh 900 Tartan Guitar Strap made by master tailors Kinloch Anderson, whisky courtesy of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society and a personalised city itinerary from the Council’s in house destination marketing service, Forever Edinburgh.

It is hoped that the artist will use one of the guitar straps during her performances and sign a second, which would then be auctioned with the proceeds going towards the One City Trust, which combats inequality and social exclusion in Edinburgh.

The exclusive guitar straps, of which only two exist, are inscribed with the text ‘Fàilte chridheil gu Dùn Èideann’ – A heartfelt welcome to Edinburgh.  

 The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge said: “On behalf of the city and people of Edinburgh, I’m delighted to welcome Taylor Swift to Scotland and to Edinburgh.

“These performances are set to be some of the biggest and most spectacular the country has ever seen, with hundreds of thousands of fans attending and tens of millions of pounds set to benefit the local economy.

“Whilst Edinburgh is no stranger to high calibre international events and culture, the fact that the world’s foremost pop superstar has chosen our city to begin the UK leg of her world tour is testament to the global reputation our city commands.

“I’d like to thank Kinloch Anderson for their generous and expert work in designing the Edinburgh 900 tartan, of which several items were fashioned as part of this civic gift. I’d also like to thank all the other local and national companies which contributed to the hamper.

“I’m quite sure this will give Taylor a lasting memory of her time in the country of her ancestors and our beautiful capital city.”

CEO of Kinloch Anderson, John Kinloch Anderson said: “We have always been proud to call Edinburgh our home, and as the city experiences a “Swift” lift, we are happy to have contributed to the celebrations with the Edinburgh 900 Tartan.

“As we all get ready to welcome Taylor, we are thrilled to have collaborated with local businesses to build an all-Scottish hamper, crafting products using this brand-new pattern.”

Full list of items included in Taylor Swift’s civic gift hamper:

  • Exclusive Edinburgh 900 Tartan Guitar Strap by Kinloch Anderson
  • Edinburgh 900 Tartan Cat Bed by Kinloch Anderson
  • Edinburgh 900 Tartan Blanket by Kinloch Anderson
  • Taylor Swift’s personalised 4-day itinerary for Edinburgh by Forever Edinburgh
  • Bottle of Malt Whisky from The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
  • A book titled ‘Edinburgh’s Greatest Hits: A Celebration of the Capital’s Music History’
  • Miniature of Edinburgh’s Lind and Lime Gin
  • Taylors Crisps
  • A selection of chocolate by Coco Chocolatier
  • A selection of Tea by Eteaket

For all the latest advice and information on Taylor Swift’s performances please check our dedicated webpage.

Edinburgh attraction gets Taylor Swift make-over to celebrate Eras Tour

THE DUNGEONS LAUNCHES £13 TICKETS TO CELEBRATE TAYLOR SWIFT’S EDINBURGH CONCERTS

  • Swifties can claim £13 tickets to celebrate the Eras Tour ‘shaking’ off in Scotland
  • The Edinburgh Dungeon ‘Jailer’ will be donning their best sequined outfit as they transform into “Jailer Swift” for the weekend, complete with Dungeon-inspired ‘fiendship’ bracelets to swap with guests

Is meeting Taylor Swift one of your Wildest Dreams? Whether you’ve missed out on The Eras Tour tickets or you’re about to shake it off with the pop princess herself, hold tight as Edinburgh Dungeon’s ‘Jailer Swift’ is donning their sequins to welcome Swifties to the City.

For one weekend only, Swifties can visit The Edinburgh Dungeon with Jailer Swift’s £13 tickets! The number 13 has been a firm favourite with the enchanted songstress with 13 being Taylor’s lucky number, her birthdate, her first album went gold in 13 weeks and she even celebrated turning 13 on Friday the 13th, a date that’s also a firm favourite in the depths of the dungeon!

In the words of Taylor herself: “Darling she’s a nightmare dressed like a daydream!”

The Edinburgh Dungeon is renowned for giving guests an immersive journey through Edinburgh’s darker eras (way further than 1989), so guests will need to brace themselves for the infamous tales inside. Taylor might’ve said “you wouldn’t last an hour in the asylum where they raised me” but are you brave enough to survive The Dungeons?

Forget The Tortured Poets Department… fans can experience the attraction’s spine-chilling Torture Chamber, as well as nine further immersive shows throughout the attraction. Plus, you’ll get the chance to be greeted by The Dungeon’s very own “Jailer Swift” and trade a selection of Dungeon-inspired ‘fiendship’ bracelets.

Visitors who want to enter their Edinburgh Dungeon era with £13 tickets can visit on 8th and 9th June. Tickets are available for a limited time only. So be sure to leave a Blank Space in your diary and book your visit in advance.

Lee Phillips, General Manager at The Edinburgh Dungeon, said: “Whether you missed out on Eras Tour tickets, or you’ll be seeing the real thing live in person, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to enter your Edinburgh Dungeon era and have the chance to greet our very own Jailer Swift – who will be welcoming visitors whilst donned in sparkles and Dungeon-inspired ‘fiendship’ bracelets.

“We knew you were trouble Taylor, but our Jailer is even worse!

“Jailor Swift’s £13 tickets are available for a limited time only, plus with fiendship bracelets that guests can swap there’s something for every Swiftie to love or loathe!”

For further information and to book a visit to The Edinburgh Dungeon, please visit the website here: 

https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/whats-inside/events/jailor-swift/

Edinburgh gets ready to welcome Taylor Swift and fans for The Very First Night

Forever Edinburgh partners with businesses to capitalise on the ‘Swift lift’

Scotland’s capital is gearing up to welcome US superstar Taylor Swift for the first time, with Forever Edinburgh announcing a programme of activity to help visitors, residents and businesses enjoy the benefits of the concert. 

Over 200,000 Swifties will descend on the city next month for the three Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour shows at the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium on 7th, 8th and 9th June.

The pop icon is set to bring entertainment and economic value, coined the ‘Swift lift’, with shows in the UK expected to gross a combined £1 billion according to Barclays. This includes an average of £121 on accommodation, £111 on travel and £56 on a pre-concert meal.

That impact is already being seen in Edinburgh, with hotels reporting increased demand. 

Forever Edinburgh, the city’s destination marketing and promotions brand, which is run by The City of Edinburgh Council is looking to capitalise on this by announcing a series of experiences for those living, visiting and working in the city.

Launching on Thursday, 6th June, almost 50 local hospitality and tourism businesses have come together to create the ‘Edinburgh Taylored Taste Trail’, which was established by Forever Edinburgh.

Across the city, fans can enjoy Taylor themed sweet treats from Babyfaced Baker and MILK. Bonnie and Wild, Cold Town House, Hard Rock Café, Brewhemia, Mackays on the Mile, Mimi’s Bakehouse, and Edinburgh Street Food are offering dedicated menus including themed dishes, Taylor-themed brunches and afternoon teas. 

Themed cocktails and mocktails will be available at many of the city’s best bars including Elio’s, Copper Still, Angel’s Share, Revolve Bar, Holyrood Distillery, and the Alchemist.

Elsewhere, Camera Obscura will be hosting a Giant Kaleidosphere dedicated to the Eras musician and in Gorgie, Tynecastle Park is hosting an interactive Swiftie Bingo, open to all ages.

This unique Taylored experience will showcase the best of Edinburgh’s retail, hospitality, and food & drink scenes, encouraging fans and their friends to explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods by foot, tram, bus, or other modes of transport.

Featured prominently on Forever Edinburgh’s dedicated Swift Fan Hub, the Taylored Taste Trail will be accompanied with a Taste Trail map, a list of top tips to help fans plan ahead and make responsible choices, plus a guide to Edinburgh for Swifties.

Through The Swift Fan Hub, fans can seamlessly create the ultimate Edinburgh experience and fully immerse themselves in all the city has to offer, with a Taylor twist. City leaders have also organised a welcome gift for Swift, collaborating with a selection of Edinburgh businesses to build a hamper full of Scottish goodies. Participants include Eateaket, Edinburgh Gin and kiltmakers Kinloch Anderson, who have made three unique gifts for Taylor from a newly created Edinburgh 900 Tartan.

A personalised itinerary is also enclosed with the must-dos for Swift to visit during her stay, which was personally crafted and gifted to the star as part of the wider city gesture. This is based on her favourite things such as a visit to cat café Maison de Moggy and experiencing Edinburgh’s music scene.

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker Culture said: “We’re enchanted to be welcoming Taylor to the city and to be able to bring all these businesses together to provide a fun weekend for residents and visitors alike. We aim to ignite curiosity among fans to venture across the city, spreading foot traffic and benefits throughout.

“Our goal is to cultivate a positive fan experience, fostering lasting advocacy for Edinburgh among our visitors while ensuring a positive impact on residents. It’s a great opportunity to support Edinburgh businesses and the local economy, so her visit will give a ‘Swift lift’ to the city.”

Neil Christison, VisitScotland’s Regional Director said: “Taylor Swift is a phenomenon, and her shows have created a real buzz in the city.

“We know gig tourism is a growing global trend, with fans seeking to turn their live music experience into a bigger exploration of the destination. The Edinburgh Taylored Taste Trail is an excellent way to engage with the fanbase and encourage them to explore businesses across the city.”

The fan hub can be accessed here: https://edinburgh.org/taylor-swift/

Edinburgh set to be ‘enchanted’ by Taylor Swift

With just over a week to go until global pop superstar Taylor Swift arrives in Edinburgh, the city council has released advice for residents, businesses and visitors.

The three sold out shows taking place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Friday 7, Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June will go down as some of the most significant performances ever seen here in Scotland’s capital city.

To ensure our city maintains its vibrancy we will be ensuring the key areas surrounding Murrayfield will be tidied up all three nights after each show. We will also be dedicating extra litter collectors at Roseburn Park from 4pm – 1am daily.

We request that you only travel to Murrayfield and the surrounding area if you have a ticket.

There will be a number of Council Marshalls on hand to assist Swifities navigate the area.

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said: “As we get ready to welcome hundreds of thousands of Swifties to our vibrant city, we are eager for everyone to have an enjoyable experience, not only at the show, but on their way before and after.

“Whilst we relish hosting the biggest and best events and want everyone attending to truly enjoy themselves, it’s important that we’re conscious of our residents.

“We ask that visitors are considerate and respectful of them whilst enjoying our fantastic capital city. These concerts are just the start of an amazing summer of events and culture here in Edinburgh.”

To find out more, and for helpful information in the lead-up to the concerts visit our dedicated Taylor Swift webpage.

Please also check the dedicated webpage of the Scottish Rugby Union with detailed advice for attendees.

Shake It Off with Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

EVE transforms into Taylor’s Playground with Drag-themed Brunches and Iconic Tribute Performances

Get ready to shake it off and sing along as this June, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will be turning up the Taylor Swift tunes for a weekend celebration across the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th.

For those that missed out on landing tickets to see Taylor live, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is offering tribute performances and drag themed brunches to ensure it’s a party like 1989.

Eve, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s all day dining concept situated on Cowgate is preparing for a Taylor Swift themed weekend. The hotel will play host to themed brunches, accompanied by drag performances as well as tribute acts and Taylor Swift inspired friendship bracelets, making it the perfect Swiftie experience.

TAYLOR SWIFT THEMED BRUNCHES – 7th, 8th, 9th June (12:00 – 16:00)

  • On the 7th of June, Krystal Kleer will be kicking off the weekend with a brunch fit for a Swiftie, filled with Taylor’s greatest hits and DJ performances that will keep the party going.
  • On the 9th June, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will be extending its existing brunch menu to include some of Taylor’s favourites, including burgers, chicken tenders, and a healthy sandwich option all created in true Eve style, by Executive Head Chef Giulio Morroni. This re-styled menu will also be available on 7th of June.
  • Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has revamped its cocktail menu for the occasion, ensuring it has all of Taylor’s favourites renamed to match her Eras album. Cocktails include Bad Blood, Mad Woman, Cruel Summer, and Champagne Problems
  • Custom Taylor themed bracelets will be created for guests during the weekend brunches, adding a personal touch to the fan experience with custom charms and colourful beads inspired by her iconic albums and lyrics.
  • Venue: Eve
  • Drinks package available including four Taylor Swift themed cocktails for £30pp.
  • Bookings here.

TAYLOR SWIFT BIG BOOZY BRUNCH WITH ALICIA TRYDE – 8th June (12:00 – 16:00)

  • On the 8th of June, Alice Tryde will be host for the Big Boozy Brunch, an interactive experience for guests, with performances of songs from all Taylor’s albums, lip sync battles, and finish the lyrics challenges with exciting prizes up for grabs.
  • Venue: Eve
  • Priced at £35pp which includes buffet starters, desserts and a la carte for the mains which includes a vast selection of seafood, charcuterie, cheese, and salads.
  • Bookings here.

TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE HOSTED BY SHY BAIRNS ENTERTAINENT – 9th June (12:15 -16:00)

  • For the ultimate Taylor Swift experience, Shy Bairns Entertainment will perform a homage to Taylor, performing all of her hit classics making it impossible not to sing along.
  • To those that weren’t able to grab tickets to The Eras Tour, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is on hand to offer a star performance that will ensure it is a party like 1989.
  • Eve will be transformed into an immersive experience, with performers singing and dancing to medleys spanning Taylor’s successful career.
  • Between performances, guests will have the opportunity to embark on a Taylor-themed scavenger hunt with each winner rewarded with a complimentary Eve cocktail.
  • Venue: Eve
  • Free of charge

THE SWIFTIE LOUNGE – 7th, 8th, 9th June (All day)

  • Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will transform its iconic Scarlet Lounge into ‘The Swiftie Lounge’ for the Taylor Swift weekend
  • The Swiftie Lounge will host screenings of The Eras Tour all weekend, where guests are free to drop in throughout the 7th – 9th
  • Taylor themed cocktails will be available to order as well as complimentary popcorn
  • Venue: Scarlet Lounge
  • Price: Free of charge

WINE DOWN THURSDAY WITH A TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE – 6th June (18:30 – 20:30)

  • Kick off the Taylor Swift celebrations on Thursday 6th June as the talented Maryjane performs a special Taylor Swift set at Wine Down Thursdays.
  • Maryjane is set to get crowds singing along, with performances from all of Taylors iconic Eras.
  • Eve’s all day dining menu of delicious share plates will also be available.
  • Venue: Eve Courtyard
  • Price: Free of charge

Taylor Swift’s UK tour drives 186% surge in Edinburgh hotel prices

As anticipation mounts for Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated summer concerts, Swifties looking for a last-minute bargain for her BT Murrayfield shows are grappling with steep increases in costs. 

New data compiled by UK Debt Expert has revealed a huge increase in resale ticket prices, hotel and Airbnb rates, and car parking fees – with hotel prices in Edinburgh rising by as much as 186%.

The UK leg of the Eras tour kicks off at BT Murrayfield in Edinburgh on June 7, followed by performances at Liverpool’s Anfield Stadium and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, culminating in eight nights at Wembley Stadium in London.

Recent reports indicate that some American fans are travelling to Europe to find cheaper ticket prices, but anyone seeking a last-minute ticket in the UK could face significant expenses.

Hotel and Airbnb prices have skyrocketed to eye watering levels, shattering previous records. Edinburgh’s hotel costs have surged from an average of £209.30 to £600.18 marking an alarming 186% increase during Taylor’s concert dates. 

Similarly, Airbnb rates have surged by 69% climbing from an average of £166.60 to £281.93.

As for ticket resale costs, Edinburgh sees an average of £1,274.

When factoring in parking, hotel, and ticket expenses, the cumulative burden for those attending Edinburgh shows averages at a staggering £1,918.06

However, fans in Scotland may find the best deals on tickets, with resale prices for the Edinburgh show on June 8 averaging £1,230.

Commenting on the data, Maxine McCreadie, a personal finance expert at UK Debt Expert, said: “We know how eager some fans are to see Taylor in the UK, so it’s clear that some will incur significant expenses to do so; hotels for the Edinburgh shows are the most expensive in the UK, with an average price of £600.”

“I’d strongly advise anyone thinking about making a last-minute decision to buy tickets or book accommodation to be cautious. Consider your overall financial situation before making such a significant investment, and explore all reasonable options to reduce costs where possible.”

Le Petit Beefbar to launch ‘Taylor’s Version’ cocktail menu

Are you ready for it? In honour of global pop sensation Taylor Swift’s Eras tour hitting Edinburgh this summer, Le Petit Beefbar is launching ‘Taylor’s Version’ of its renowned cocktail menu.

The Taylor’s Version menu will be available from the 13th May, when fans and cocktail enthusiasts alike will be able to enjoy a carefully curated selection of drinks inspired by the chart-topper’s iconic discography.

From the nostalgia of Fearless and Speak Now, to the delicate storytelling of The Tortured Poets Department, the menu has something for everyone and every era.

Lovers of a sweet spritz can try Champagne Problems, made with Edinburgh Gin, fresh lemon and topped with Moët Rosé and a cloud of candy floss, and for a quick pick me up, the Bad Bloody Mary customised with your choice of spirit, is sure to hit the spot.

The Lavender Haze is the vision of summer with flower syrup, gin and homemade Lillet Rosé soda, and for those partial to a mocktail, the Anti-Hero combines delicious Amarena Juice and sparkling Nosecco.

To celebrate Taylor’s most recent album drop, the team have transformed their Beefbar Espresso Martini into a cocktail strong enough to spark the genius of any tortured poet.

While enjoying a pre-concert cocktail, Swiftie’s can also take advantage of the delicious bar snacks on offer, from the 45-day cured croque sando, to the baby quesadillas with Kobe karasumi and coveted tempura insane rock corn accompanied by sriracha mayo. All will be sure to set up concert goers for an evening of dancing until midnight.

To celebrate in style, bookings can be made at: 

https://beefbar.com/le-petit-beefbar-edinburgh/#reservations 

or by calling +44 131 240 7177.