Author: Roseate Hotels & Resorts

February 3rd, 2023,

Edinburgh, Scotland: Roseate Hotels & Resorts, the growing hospitality brand well known for its collection of luxury hotels in the United Kingdom and India, today announced the opening of The Roseate Edinburgh, an iconic hideaway in the heart of the Scottish capital. The boutique hotel is a fascinating addition to the unique collection of Roseate Hotels & Resorts in the United Kingdom – London, Reading and Bath.

Spread across two newly refurbished, heritage Victorian townhouses, it is a relaxing sanctuary that seamlessly blends the story of the Scottish capital city, its history and lineage with contemporary, modern luxury and comfort. The luxury hotel situated in Edinburgh’s West End, just five minutes from the Haymarket railway station and less than 20 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh Airport, has stood at the gateway to old-town Edinburgh since the 1860s. The Roseate Edinburgh offers a luxurious and stylish city retreat with an authentic Scottish soul. Characterful, evocative interiors, inspired by the neoclassical design of old-town Edinburgh, the boutique hotel exudes timeless, understated charm and elegance.

The boutique hotel, earlier known as the Dunstane Houses, offers 35 luxurious rooms & suites, each uniquely styled to balance timeless tradition and modern comfort.

Intimate and luxurious rooms & suites proffer well-appointed en-suite shower rooms, handcrafted beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, fluffy bathrobes, Scottish woollen throws, a luxurious range of Noble Isle amenities and a host of other features that promise a distinctive experience. The unique and opulent suites offer exclusive features such as four-poster beds, freestanding copper roll-top baths in the room, with sweeping views over Edinburgh’s stunning cityscape, including the verdant Pentland Hills.

The dining philosophy at The Roseate Edinburgh, well aligned with the entire portfolio of Roseate Hotels & Resorts, is designed to offer an outstanding culinary experience. An eclectic menu has been especially curated for breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared from the finest seasonal Scottish produce paired with the best spirits from Highland breweries and distilleries. The Dunstane Restaurant & Bar offers the widest and the finest selections of rare and vintage whiskies in Edinburgh, native to the magical Highlands, offering over 80 fine Scottish single malts in addition to a fine selection of wines, craft and artisanal gins from the best distillers in Scotland and beyond. The name ‘Dunstane Restaurant & Bar’ is a humble ode to the erstwhile name and legacy of the Hotel.

A traditional Afternoon Tea experience has been curated in all its resplendent glory – dainty sandwiches, home baked cakes and fluffy scones slathered with jam and Scottish cream paired with a fresh brew of your choice.

The Roseate Edinburgh is also the perfect place that brings unlimited charm and warmth to corporate meetings and get togethers. The meeting room, Club Prive, is designed to make business a pleasure and can host upto 36 guests in a sit down setting and up to 50 guests, standing. The Hotel also has a charming conservatory garden, Club Prive Conservatory & Garden, where smaller meetings and events can be held. The Club Prive Conservatory & Garden can host up to 10 guests in a sit down setting and 12, standing. Owing to its bespoke offering of luxurious rooms & suites, eclectic spaces, landscaped gardens and exemplary dining options, it is also a charming destination for intimate weddings.

“The Roseate Edinburgh is a wonderful new gem in our flourishing portfolio of luxury boutique hotels in the United Kingdom. We are excited to bring the magic of Scotland, the land of moors, hills and highlands, it’s amazing hospitality, exemplary cuisine and a very bespoke experience to our guests.” said Mrs Radha Bhatia, Chairperson, Bird Group India. Roseate Hotels & Resorts known for their classic charm, immaculate hospitality, elegant interiors and a mindful restoration of heritage properties, promises its distinguished guests a fascinating experience at The Roseate Edinburgh.

About Roseate Hotels and Resorts
Roseate Hotels and Resorts is a collection of luxury hotels consisting of seven niche hotels across India and the United Kingdom with more under development. The name ‘Roseate’ comes from a bird with pink hued plumage. Avant-garde, imaginative and contemporary in design each Roseate hotel has a story to tell. Key focus is laid on the service, aesthetics and detailing of hotels that pave way to stylized accommodation with high business efficiencies at city hotels and exquisite leisure options at resort locations. Roseate Hotels & Resorts is a brand of Bird Hospitality, Bird Group, India.

www.roseatehotels.com

Just in time for the summer season, award-winning boutique hotel the Dunstane Houses has launched a new outdoor bar and dining venue, giving both guests and visitors a picturesque spot to savour lazy days in the sunshine and alfresco evenings under the stars.

Set on the emerald-green lawns of Dunstane House in Edinburgh’s West End, the Champagne and Gin Garden allows up to 70 people at a time to enjoy a meticulously curated range of Scottish beers, and fine wines, and craft spirits – as well as Dunstane’s beloved Joseph Perrier Champagne (Queen Victoria’s favourite bubbly).

Covers and heaters are on hand to provide warmth and shelter should the weather take a turn to the chilly, with versatile seating arrangements for groups of different sizes – from intimate date nights to gang-back-together celebrations. Whether you’re idling over a G&T in a deckchair or sipping a single malt in a hammock, the Garden is Edinburgh’s idyllic summertime retreat.

Like all businesses in the hospitality sector, the Dunstane Houses has faced a challenging year, but the periods of enforced closure have given the Dunstane team opportunity to concentrate on enriching the five-star hotel’s guest offering and to plan for the future. The new Champagne and Gin Garden is a key part of the hotel’s renewed offering – and an exciting addition to the Edinburgh outdoor bar scene in its own right.

“We are delighted to re-open our doors, welcome our guests back to the hotel and launch our new Champagne and Gin Garden. It’s something we’ve been working very hard towards for a long time and we believe it will become one of Edinburgh’s most beloved outdoor venues. There are lots of exciting plans coming up for the Garden and the hotel over the next few months – we’ll be sharing these with everyone very soon.”

– Shirley Mowat, owner, The Dunstane Houses

The Garden’s drinks menu reflects the same attention to detail and passion for craft and small-batch spirits as the Ba’ Bar – the hotel’s much-loved indoor bar. Craft spirits including artisanal Orkney gins, Japanese vodka and Scottish whisky are teamed with premium mixers from Double Dutch. Carefully selected wines are available by the glass and bottle – as is a creative cocktail selection, including a rosemary-infused gin fizz and whisky-spiked strawberry lemonade.

As regular guests have come to expect from the Dunstane’s kitchens, the Garden’s dining menu is a showcase of seasonal Scottish produce, looking to the culinary heritage of highland and island to offer a contemporary spin on classic flavours. A range of ‘Wee bites’ including haggis fritters and sriracha-slaked tenderstem broccoli tempura are served alongside ‘Bigger bites’ including beer-battered fish and chips, beetroot risotto, and sharing platters taking guests on tasting tours of Scotland and Orkney. The Dunstane Houses’ signature afternoon teas (optionally enhanced with champagne or gin, naturally) are served every day from 12–5pm.

The Garden at the Dunstane Houses is now open from noon until late, seven days a week, for both bookings and walk-ins, and available for exclusive hire for events and celebrations.

It might not feel like the usual run up to Christmas but here at the Dunstane Houses, we’re determined to do everything we can to help you get into the Christmas spirit.

Our Christmas decorations are up, we have mulled wine in the bar and we’ve been busy over the last week or so catching up with our favourite festive attractions here in the city to share our up-to-date pick of how to celebrate given the ‘new norm’ we find ourselves in.

As ever, advance booking to the majority of our suggestions is highly recommended given ongoing restrictions.

1. AFTER-DARK FESTIVE FUN FOR THE FAMILY AT EDINBURGH’S BOTANIC GARDENS
Now in its fourth year, the Botanics’ after-dark Christmas trail provides families with a moment of festive escapism this Christmas season. From the 2 December – 3 January, wander beneath unique tree canopies illuminated in Christmas colour and immerse yourself in a world of giant baubles, dancing snowflakes and trees wrapped in ever-changing ribbons of colour. Afterwards, warm up with a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate. Book your tickets here.

2. THE PALACE OF HOLYROOD HOUSE
Mesmerized by the latest series of The Crown? Take a trip to The Queen’s official residence in Scotland’s capital, The Palace of Holyrood House, located at the end of the Royal Mile. Home to a number of festive activities this December, visitors can live Christmas-like-a-Royal thanks to a dedicated Christmas Trail through the Palace’s state apartments.

3. CASTLE STREET CHRISTMAS MARKET
Overlooking Edinburgh Castle, Castle Street Market returns once again this year from the 26 November – 23 December. Showcasing local Scottish produce and hand-crafted Christmas gifts, the alfresco festive market is the perfect spot for socially distanced Christmas shopping within walking distance from the hotel.

4. AN EDINBURGH ESCAPE HUNT
With Christmas parties on hold and festive frolics on the backburner, Edinburgh’s Escape Hunt provides families and social bubbles with an afternoon of excitement and ground-breaking missions. Work together as a team to find clues, solve puzzles and beat the clock – a welcome break from Netflix reruns and moth-eaten board games.

5. A WINTER’S WALK ALONG THE WATER OF LEITH
Moments from the hotel, the water of Leith walkway will take you right along to Edinburgh’s New Town and down to the docks of Leith. Perfect on a crisp winter’s day, why not stop by the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art for a warming hot chocolate en route. Bliss!

6. FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA OR CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH HERE AT THE DUNSTANE HOUSES?
Featuring a selection of festive sandwiches (that’s right, we’ve got turkey and cranberry on the menu especially), savoury bites and sweet treats (cue the mini mince pies, carrot & walnut cake and a festive Dunstane doughnut – yum!) plus our vast selection of St. Andrew’s teas, join us by the fire for a Festive afternoon tea like no other this festive season. Fancy a change of scene on Christmas Day, too? We’re also now pleased to be open for Christmas Day lunch (that’s right, no washing up!). Find out more about our afternoon tea here and our Christmas lunch, here.

7. EDINBURGH ZOO’S CHRISTMAS NIGHTS
From 20 November – 3 January, Edinburgh Zoo will be illuminated by a spectacular light trail taking you on a magical journey to the North Pole and back. Meander your way through Penguins Rock by moonlight and explore an enchanted ice forest on your way to Santa’s workshop. Oh, and for something extra special, be sure to book story time with Mrs. Claus!

8. DRIVE THROUGH CINEMA WITH THE PARKING LOT SOCIAL
Arriving at Edinburgh’s Dalkeith Country Park from the 16 – 24 December, the newly launched Parking Lot Social experience features a drive-in cinema (screening a number of Christmas classics including Elf, Home Alone, The Santa Claus and the Nightmare before Christmas), pre-show live DJs and a Christmas food market with local foodie favourites.

9. OCEAN TERMINAL CHRISTMAS MARKET
Taking place on the ground floor of the Ocean Terminal shopping centre, this year’s Christmas Market will take place from the 26 November – 23 December. Full to the brim with all things Scottish (we’re talking cakes, fudge, honey, jams, chutneys, calligraphy, woodwork, soaps and candles) the shopping centre is a short drive from the hotel and a must-visit this festive season.

10. GUIDED TOURS OF PICKERING’S GIN DISTILLERY
Eager to see how handcrafted gin is made? One of our favourite Edinburgh-based gins, Pickering’s, is offering a special, socially-distanced hour-and-a-half long tour this festive season. You’ll be shown Pickering’s unique distilling process and learn more about how best to determine your gin preference of choice with three tasting samples of take-away.

The leaves are turning golden and there is a slight chill in the air. The days are crisp, the fire is roaring and it’s time to dig out the jumpers.

We shouldn’t say it but Autumn is one of our favourite seasons to explore Edinburgh and this year is no exception.
That’s why, we’ve caught up with some of our favourite attractions in the city to compile our top 10 suggestions of what to do and where to go over the next few months.

Go on… our beautiful city is waiting for you.
Advance booking to the majority of our suggestions is highly recommended given current number restrictions.

1. EDINBURGH CASTLE
Atop a hill overlooking the city below, Edinburgh’s 12th-century castle dominates the skyline. One of the oldest fortified places in Europe, the castle has a storied history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress. A gentle stroll from the hotel, the castle is the perfect starting point to learn about Edinburgh’s beginnings. Tickets can be purchased here.

2. FIRE FOLKLORE AT SAMHUINN FIRE FESTIVAL
Signifying the transition from summer to winter, the Samhuinn Fire Festival is Edinburgh’s annual Halloween celebration hosted by the Beltane Fire Society. This immersive festival – which typically takes place on Carlton Hill – allows you to wander through other-wordly creatures and witness a spectacular display of storytelling and firey folklore. Given the current situation, we’d recommend keeping an eye on the Beltane website here for updates on tickets for this year’s festival.

3. MEET THE RESIDENTS OF MARY KING’S CLOSE
Delve deep into Edinburgh’s neoclassical old town and experience over 400 years of history. From myths and legends to the deadly plague, there are a myriad of tales to be told during your hour-long tour. Mary King’s Close is open seven days a week & tickets can be booked here.

4. AUTUMNAL WALKS IN THE BOTANIC GARDENS
Loved by visitors and locals alike, the Royal Botanic Garden is over 350 years old and a world-leading plant science, conservation and education centre. Comprising over 70 acres, the gardens are within walking distance of the Dunstane Houses and offer an unrivalled view of the city’s skyline. Tickets can be purchased here.

5. HALLOWEEN-INSPIRED WALKING TOURS
Fancy stretching your legs and exploring Edinburgh on foot? Our friends at Mercat Tours have just the ticket. Their history walks unveil treasures of the old town and secrets of the city’s Royal Mile whilst their ghost tours are a short, sharp shock into the city’s unsavoury past. Find out which tour takes your fancy via this link.

6. FROM BEAN TO BAR – EDINBURGH’S CHOCOLATARIUM
It’s Edinburgh’s version of Willy Wonka’s iconic chocolate factory. Find out where cocoa beans are grown and transformed from the bitter seed of a jungle tree to the smooth, velvety treat we all love. Make your own chocolate, try your hand at different flavours and taste up to 30 chocolates from more than 15 Scottish and international chocolate makers. Yum! Tickets can be purchased here.

7. A WHISKY-STOP TOUR OF SCOTLAND
After a day exploring, return to our very own Ba’ Bar to learn more about Scotland’s varying whisky regions, their styles and variances. Guided by our resident whisky expert, we offer a number of different experiences including pairing Single Malts with Cheese and our Highland Park Premium Select Whisky Tasting experience, exclusive to the Dunstane Houses. You can book your whisky experience here.

8. #EDINBURGH101
The interactive #Edinburgh101 Objects tour brings you the opportunity to learn more about our fair capital and its fascinating history, exactly where it happened. The do-it-yourself walking tour features a downloadable map and a checklist of over 100 monuments which can be sourced here.

9. SCOTTISH NATIONAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART
From the Dunstane Houses, it’s a scenic walk along the Water of Leith to The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, home to the country’s foremost collection of modern and contemporary art. Comprising two buildings, Modern One is housed in a neoclassical building designed by William Burn which has now reopened after lockdown. Modern Two will reopen on the 24 October. Tickets for both can be purchased here.

10. THE SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL
Taking place from the 17 – 31 October, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival takes you on a voyage exploring Scotland’s coasts and waters through music and storytelling. This year’s festival – which is one of the largest of its kind – will take place in small-scale live settings.

Edinburgh’s Dunstane Houses is delighted to announce that the hotel has, once again, been recognised by TripAdvisor in their annual Travellers’ Choice Awards.

Based on traveller reviews, ratings and saves from around the world, Trip Advisor’s annual Best of the Best awards celebrate venues of outstanding merit and customer service and now place The Dunstane Houses amongst the top 10% of hotels worldwide.
Upon receipt of the award, owner of the Dunstane Houses, Shirley Mowat, commented: “We are delighted to receive this award as recognition of our team’s hard work and dedication over the course of the last year. Whilst these last months have been challenging, we are so grateful to have been able to reopen our doors and welcome back friends of the Dunstane Houses once again”.

The awards come just a month after the Dunstane Houses reopened on the 15 July. Spread between two recently restored Victorian townhouses, the hotel’s 35 rooms and suites celebrate the owners’ Orcadian heritage and the hotel’s location in neoclassical Edinburgh.

YOUR EDINBURGH HOME-FROM-HOME
Refined and relaxed; our 35 rooms and suites, inviting Orcadian spirit, all-day lounge & honesty bar mean you’ll immediately feel at home.

AN URBAN SANCTUARY
Named after places in our owners’ homeland, Orkney, our suites are amongst the biggest in Edinburgh. All with sweeping views, four have roll-top baths overlooking the Pentland Hills and Edinburgh’s iconic cityscape – the perfect sanctuary to retreat to after a day out.

TAILORED STAYS
Our newly introduced pre-arrival questionnaire means we can completely tailor your stay from the get-go. From scheduling housekeeping to your in-room drinks preferences and dining options; we’ll do our very best to make sure your stay is everything you want it to be.

FAMILY-RUN
Our welcoming, neighbourhood spirit and family-run approach creates a unique hotel experience in the heart of Scotland’s capital. For years, the heart and soul of the Dunstane has thrived thanks to our dedicated team of long-standing employees who help make the hotel what it is today and look forward to welcoming you to their home.

THE SPIRIT OF ORKNEY IN THE HEART OF EDINBURGH
Subtly mixing the old and the new, our evocative interiors combine the neoclassical design of old-town Edinburgh and the rugged, neutral tones of Orkney. Throughout the hotel, artworks curated by local artist, Nicky Brooks, of the iconic Red Door Gallery on Edinburgh’s Victoria Street, depict scenes of Edinburgh and Orkney, with a special Orkney collection curated by students of Edinburgh College of Art on show in the lounge.

YOUR GATEWAY TO SCOTLAND
Our unique location means you are both a moments’ walk from the city centre and a short drive to some of Scotland’s most sought-after beauty spots with complimentary parking included in all stays meaning we’re perfect for road trips or small car rallies. Indulge in afternoons exploring our magnificent surrounds; from the fabled peaks of the nearby Pentland Hills to the mystical shores of Cramond Beach, Gullane or Elie, all within an hour’s drive of the hotel. Plus, our owner Derek has one of the biggest collections of prestige and classic cars in Edinburgh which means you can even explore the city James Bond style. Check out our Dunstane Drive experience for more details.

SCOTTISH PRODUCE, WHENEVER YOU WANT
Our celebration of Orkney goes beyond our interiors and here at The Dunstane Houses our guests can have a taste of our homeland throughout their stay. Try our Orkney kippers for breakfast or our ‘Taste of Orkney Platter’ for dinner which comes with a choice of over 100 whiskies. Plus, our Ba’ Bar is home to over 30 Scottish gins, an impressive selection of craft Scottish beer and we’re the only hotel in Scotland to off the 40-year old Highland Par whisky. Yum!

FLEXIBLE BOOKING
We want to welcome back as many old and new friends as soon as possible. That’s why, for the rest of this year, we’ll be offering fully flexible rates, a 24-hour cancellation policy and no prepayment required, plus 30% off stays in July and August. We are ready when you are…

THE DUNSTANE EXPERIENCES
Over the course of your stay, our team are on-hand to organise a number of exclusive Dunstane experiences just for you. From personal shopping to insider-led city tours and bespoke dining experiences at some of the city’s best restaurants, we’re here to help you experience the best of our city and our surrounds. Just let us know what you need.

EXCLUSIVELY-YOURS
Both our houses are available for private hire – either individually or as a pair. Perfect for that much-anticipated reunion with loved ones, private parties, a celebratory dinner or an intimate wedding; you’ll have up to 35 bedrooms, private bar lounges and a team of dedicated staff. Go on…

Part of successfully running a luxury boutique hotel in Edinburgh is being consistent, from the service you provide to the food, and of course, the design of each room in the hotel. With this in mind, we’re delighted to be coming to an end of refurbishments at The Hampton House and we are very pleased with the result.

The Dunstane Houses have stood at the gateway to old-town Edinburgh since the 1860s. Variously occupied by merchants, musicians, doctors, distillers, bankers and newspapermen over the last 150 years. With such a rich history it is important that the design of our buildings reflects everything The Dunstane Houses are about.

We’re delighted with the design of both The Hampton House and of course The Dunstane; characterful and evocative, inspired by the neoclassical design of old-town Edinburgh, the Dunstane Houses’ rich history, and our own Orcadian roots. Uniquely styled to balance timeless tradition and modern comfort.

These Hampton House rooms are great for a short stay in the city with each room being very newly refurbished, there’s free WiFi, a smart TV, bottled water and Noble Isle toiletries, plus a kettle and Nespresso machine – all the necessities for a well-earned break.

The Stroma Lounge in The Hampton House truly reflects our style and gives our guests a warm and inviting place to relax with their meal or with their dram of an evening. Using a combination of rich blues, various shades of cream, a hint of yellow in places, beautiful artwork and stained wood.

The addition to that, our honesty bar in the shape of a Vintage Fridge Company piece is a stunning focal point of the room – unique and made just for us by this wonderful company who take traditional ice boxes (ours is Brazilian!) and make them into working fridges.

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
Want the hotel to yourself? Both Dunstane House and Hampton House are available for private hire – either individually or as a pair. Book exclusive use of one or both houses and you’ll have up to 35 bedrooms to spread yourselves around, along with private bar lounges and dedicated staff, and bespoke dining menus at your fingertips.

LUXURIOUS MEETING SPACE IN EDINBURGH
Looking for a luxurious meeting space in Edinburgh? If so The Dunstane Houses brings boutique hotel character and family-run warmth to corporate functions and business meetings and should definitely be your first port of call. Our hotel is conveniently located being only a 5-minute walk from Haymarket station, 10 minutes from the city centre, the bus stop is right outside our front door, we have onsite parking, our Ba’Bar has a fantastic selection of food and drinks and the coffee is excellent- what more could you possibly ask for?

With The Hampton House having just been refurbished, our meeting rooms and private-dining space make for an ideal venue for corporate events with character – whether that’s a conference, a workshop, boardroom-style gatherings, seminars or presentations, and we can supply reliable projection equipment, WiFi, flip charts, stationery and – critical to the success of any meeting or conference – delicious artisan biscuits.

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is nearly upon us and guests at the Dunstane Houses can look forward to an action-packed August in Edinburgh. The hotel is only a 10-minute walk away from the heart of the city centre, where artists from around the globe gather on this occasion and create “the world’s greatest platform for creative freedom”. It is indeed the largest festival in the world, featuring more than 55,000 performances throughout the month.

August also sees the return of another sell-out event in the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo which takes place on the Esplanade at Edinburgh Castle. It is one of the most iconic events in the Edinburgh calendar. Performers from 48 countries are going to touch your heart and soul during this annual celebration of music, entertainment, and fireworks – a truly unforgettable experience. Taking place every evening between August 5th and August 27th, tickets are on sale and selling fast with prices ranging from £25 to £90, with premier seats and hospitality packages from £130.

To set you up right during your festival break, enjoy a great night’s sleep in one of our luxury rooms, followed by our famous full Scottish breakfast. Our team at the Dunstane Houses will ensure you have everything you need to make the most out of your stay, and your Fringe adventure.

Want to push the boat out? Why not treat yourself to our exclusive Jubilee package which includes a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia? It is the perfect addition to make your Edinburgh Fringe experience one to remember. Our package includes a two-night stay in one of our luxury King rooms or Orkney suites, full Scottish breakfast, glass of champagne prior to dinner, a private chauffeur tour of Edinburgh, as well as a trip to the Queen’s former yacht, to enjoy scones and tea.

The team at the Dunstane Houses love sharing their top tips and hidden Fringe gems with you to make your stay in Edinburgh that extra special. Here are some of the theatre, comedy, and dance acts you shouldn’t miss:

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Edinburgh. The leaves are changing colour, the air is crisp and clean, and the city seems to take on an even more magical quality than it does in summer. Here at The Dunstane Houses we love the longer nights, colder mornings and the carpet of leaves covering the pavements. To celebrate one of our favourite seasons, we have put together our must-see list of the seven best things to do in Edinburgh this autumn.

DOWN IN THE DUNGEON
The Edinburgh Dungeon is a great day out for families or groups of friends, who can explore the city’s dark history. The tour takes you through an underground maze where you will come face to face with gruesome characters and hear spine-tingling stories about their lives in medieval Scotland.

TAKE A WALK
Autumnal walks are one of our favourite things to do when the paths are covered in cold, crisp leaves. Hop on the Number 26 bus to Edinburgh’s hidden gem, Corstorphine Hill. The walk will take you through beautiful woodland, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and listen to curlews calling their haunting song over the wind-swept hills. Just behind the hotel, take a walk down the stunning Water of Leith all the way to one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods at the Shore.

SEE THE EDINBURGH OF OLD
The Real Mary King’s Close is a fascinating part of Scottish history and offers you a unique opportunity to see the Edinburgh of the 17th century. Meet the residents and walk the streets of Edinburgh as it was during the great plague epidemic of the Black Death. The one-hour guided tour of Mary King’s Close is a great way to celebrate spooky season.

COSY UP IN A PUB
Edinburgh is world-renowned for its hundreds of pubs and bars which boast centuries of history. Many of these have open fires providing you with the perfect place to cosy up on the cooler days with a pint of something local. Teuchters and Whighams in the West End are just a short walk from the hotel and a couple of our favourites.

VISIT YOUR FAVOURITE FILM LOCATIONS
From cult favourites like Trainspotting and Restless Natives to international blockbusters such as the Harry Potter series, many of your favourite films have been shot in Edinburgh. Visit some of these locations or take a tour with Movie Tours Scotland who offer regular trips around several popular film spots. Just ten minutes from The Dunstane Houses on the tram you will find some of the locations used in The Avengers: Infinity War – a must see for any Marvel fan! A walk around Edinburgh’s Old Town is truly like walking around a film set!

HIT THE SHOPS
Edinburgh is a shoppers’ paradise, and with the new St James Quarter you will find a huge number of global brands and independent boutiques all within a short walk of each other. Whether you are looking to start your Christmas shopping early or splurge on yourself, Edinburgh is the perfect place for a spot of retail therapy. While visiting the new shopping centre, make sure to pop up to Bonnie & Wild to sample some delicious Scottish fayre and warm up with a cocktail or two.

SAMHUINN FIRE PARADE
This annual parade marks the transition into winter and is a spectacular procession of fire and light through the city streets. The event celebrates the ancient Celtic festival of Samhuinn, which takes place on 31st October each year and is a dramatic celebration of light over darkness. The route and timings are typically released 48 hours ahead of the event to those who have registered.

There’s truly no better time to visit Edinburgh than in Autumn. Stay at The Dunstane Houses and enjoy free parking, 5-star luxurious rooms, delicious food and drink as well as our renowned Scottish hospitality. If that’s not enough to entice you, those staying before the end of November and booking our Ultimate Dunstane Experience will get a complimentary bottle of gin as well as a complimentary Orkney gin tasting. We look forward to welcoming you this autumn to our The Dunstane Houses.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city to visit at any time of year, but especially so during the Christmas season. There are lots of festive activities and events taking place in the city over the coming weeks, so if you’re looking for some ideas on what to do in Edinburgh this Christmas then look no further.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS
There are several Christmas markets taking place in Edinburgh over the next few weeks, all of which offer a delightful festive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre. With over 200 stalls selling a huge range of unique gifts and decorations, you are bound to find that unique present for that special someone. Edinburgh’s Christmas runs from late November to 4th January.

CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS
Warm the cockles with a hot cocktail. The Winter Garden at The Dunstane Houses offers a range of festive cocktails, including Mulled Wine which is the perfect accompaniment to a range of sweet treats including Orkney marshmallows and liquid hazelnut chocolate. Cosy up under the heaters with a blanket and hot water bottle and soak up the relaxed, festive atmosphere with friends and family.

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by enjoying some of the best festive entertainment? The Usher Hall, Edinburgh Playhouse and Festival Theatre are all hosting a range of concerts throughout December. Entertain all the family with the spectacular, toe-tapping production of Irving Berlin’s classic musical, White Christmas while fans of the panto can enjoy Sleeping Beauty at the King’s Theatre.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world at Christmas time, thanks to its amazing Christmas lighting displays. Book yourself a ticket to the spectacular lighting trail which winds its way through the Royal Botanic Gardens or just take a wander and visit some of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful lights at places like The Dome and, Edinburgh’s own Castle of Light.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
Peruse the boutiques of Edinburgh’s West End or meander through the St James Quarter with its selection of global fashion houses and well-known brands. Scotland’s capital is the perfect place for some festive retail therapy. Some of our favourite independents include Iolla for Scottish-made eyewear, Frontiersman and Frontierswoman for high-end clothing and Rosie Brown for beautiful handmade jewellery.

CHRISTMAS SKATING
Get your skates on and head to George Street to take advantage of this year’s Christmas ice rink. With a uniquely shaped rink and a spectacular light show, this is one of Edinburgh’s most popular festive attractions. Skate right up to the bar to enjoy festive drinks and nibbles before heading out on the town.

CHRISTMAS STAYCATION
Want to get away from it all and give yourself a well-earned rest before the madness of Christmas? Why not book our Romantic Night In package for you and your other half? Spend the night in one of our incredible Orkney suites and soak up the luxury with a bottle of Joseph Perrier Champagne, an intimate dinner and a host of decadent perks to make this the perfect pre-Christmas staycation.

Whatever the weather, there is something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas. If you are looking to visit our wonderful city from further afield, why not stay at The Dunstane Houses?