Author: Roseate Hotels & Resorts

Are you 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 defenitely 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?

THE STROMA LOUNGE
With The Stroma Lounge in 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.
If you’d like to book your meeting space, please click here. If you’re looking for space for another event, we cater for all sorts;

CELEBRATIONS
From big birthday bashes and company parties to funeral teas and family get-togethers, the Dunstane Houses has a track record in providing the perfect venue, atmosphere and warm, professional service for special celebrations and important occasions. Our chef is a dab hand with canapés, can whip up a knockout buffet spread and prepare a three-course set dinner menu as you require. For more information please click here.

WEDDINGS
If you’re holding a wedding in Edinburgh, chances are you’re looking for somewhere spectacular to accommodate your wedding party. Step forward the Dunstane Houses. With a close-to-the-centre location, 16 bedrooms in Dunstane House and a further 19 over the road in Hampton House, we’re perfectly placed to accommodate wedding parties, host intimate events, and make sure you big day is worth remembering for all the right reasons. To see more about our wedding packages please click here.

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. To see more about our exclusive use

Situated only a five minute walk away from The Dunstane hotel, lays the famous bustling area of Haymarket, Edinburgh. Now jam-packed full of fantastic eateries, trams and boutiques, we take a look back at the history of Haymarket.

Known for its iconic train station, the development of the Haymarket area began in 1842. Connecting Glasgow to Edinburgh, the station functioned as the major hub of long-distance transport, until the line was extended through Princes Street Gardens to end at what is now known as Edinburgh Waverly station.

In recent times, the instalment of the Edinburgh tramline brought about the opportunity for archaeologists to explore the city’s history. During the renovation, archaeology teams discovered both prehistoric remains and a medieval depot. In the Haymarket area, a preserved underground wartime bunker was uncovered, dating from the Second World War.

Further investigation revealed that prior to the war; the 80 foot long shelter had been used as a pulley room to help power the city’s trams in the 19th century. It has been documented that upon the exploration, the team discovered preserved artefacts such as signage from the Second World War and has since been protected from any further damage for historical study.

In 2003, the locally adored Haymarket Station came under threat from proposals to demolish it and be repositioned elsewhere. However, due to public concern this proposal was thankfully withdrawn. The train station has since undergone a major refurbishment; nevertheless, the station has retained the major identifying features.

EXPERIENCE THE HISTORY OF HAYMARKET AT THE DUNSTANE
Seeking your own slice of Haymarket history? Book into our gorgeous Victorian townhouses at the Dunstane to experience the history of Haymarket first hand.

Scotland is known to have many mountains and hills, such as Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet) like Ben Nevis, Schiehallion and the Cairngorms. One of the most famous hills, is arguably Arthur’s Seat. An 822ft extinct volcano at the heart of Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park.

ANCIENT HISTORY
There is archaeological evidence of people being settled on Arthur’s Seat from the Stone Age, with the volcano itself being over 350 million years old. The evidence suggests life was tough for those on Arthur’s Seat, with evidence of tribal fighting and Roman invasion found in the area. During the 12th Century, the land around Arthur’s Seat was given to Holyrood Abbey, which had well established farms and brewery’s in the area and during the 13th Century St Anthony’s Chapel was built. The ruins of which can still be seen at the foot of Arthur’s Seat.

WHO IS ARTHUR?
Stories of how the name ‘Arthur’s Seat’ came about vary from family to family. Each child is told their own version that has been handed down through generations. Some say, King Arthur himself stopped on the ledge, sitting down to warm himself on the volcano, others have other tales linked to the famous Arthur Pendragon. However, the more realistic version comes from the gaelic name Ard-na-Said, which means height of arrows.

WHY VISIT ARTHUR’S SEAT?
Some of the most iconic images of Edinburgh have been taken from the top of Arthur’s Seat. It sits in the 640 acre Royal Park, next to the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and so many residents and visitors alike spend hours walking around the park and Duddingston Loch. A registered site of special scientific interest, there are hundreds of species of flora to be seen, as well as the breathtaking views (on a nice day!) across the whole of Edinburgh, the Forth Valley and even way across the Firth of Forth to the Kingdom of Fife. On a really good day, you can even see Ewan McGregor sprinting up…although that might just have been a scene in Trainspotting 2.

A visit to Edinburgh isn’t complete without a walk up Arthur’s Seat, or a Gin tasting at the Dunstane Houses now we think about it!

Edinburgh is a great city all year round, but if visited in the winter season you’ll know that most of the outdoor local attractions aren’t as enjoyable when it’s wet and cold. Thankfully, when summer finally arrives, Edinburgh blossoms into a true cultural beauty! These are ways you can take advantage of the burst of light and warmth in the famous Scottish capital.

HOP UP ON ARTHUR’S SEAT
Arthur’s Seat is great all year round, but wouldn’t it be better to see it when the sun is shining over everything below? During the summer, the height of Arthur’s Seat the sun shines on everything below it and casts stunning shadows over the city below making it one of the most beautiful sights in Scotland.

ASCEND THE SCOTT MONUMENT
Have you ever known a writer to have a monument built for them? This is the world’s largest monument ever built for an author, marking Edinburgh on the world map with its respect for literature. Achieving completion in 1945, the monument took almost four years to build. The building tower is a massive 200 ft and 6 inches tall, with a hefty 287 steps. That’s quite a climb but makes for a great family day out during the Edinburgh summer.

THE STAND
So the day has run away with you and you’re looking for a bit of light entertainment! Why not grab a bite of the comedy performances at The Stand, Edinburgh’s most famous comedy club! With up and coming comedians coming out of every crevice in Edinburgh, The Stand produces a quality of humour that is unbeatable. The entertainment factor from The Stand is undeniably great! It’s the experience of a lifetime.

TAKE A TRAM
One of the newest (and still growing) features to Edinburgh is the tram system. The cost so far has been £521 million pounds and by the end of development the expected cost of the development is expected to top £1 billion. This expensive scheme has added to Edinburgh’s tourist attractiveness with the ease of travel. Edinburgh has since been nicknamed by many of the locals as the “San-Francisco of Scotland.” The incredible trademark is definitely worth checking out during Edinburgh’s sunny season to soak up the atmosphere of the city.

SUNBATHE ON THE BEACH
Fancy soaking up some rays and relaxing by the water? Head on down to Edinburgh’s very own sandy expanse, Portobello Beach. A firm favourite with both locals and tourists in the summer months, a trip to Portobello beach promises plenty of delicious local ice cream and of course, a seaside serving of fish and chips too.

VISIT CRAMOND ISLAND
If you’re looking to spend a little bit more time by the sea, then Cramond Island makes the perfect day trip from the city of Edinburgh in Scotland…

Tucked away in a little-known area of Edinburgh, the village of Cramond lies sleepily by the sea. Complete with a tidal island and once inhabited by the Romans, you can’t go wrong by taking the number 41 bus from the city centre and spending a couple of hours exploring the area.

After all, the place is packed with history and few tourists. In fact, one of the most important Roman statues ever found in the UK was discovered, quite by accident, by a fisherman in the local harbour. The so-called ‘Cramond Lioness’ was discovered in 1997 and depicts a prisoner being killed by a lioness. It is thought to have been used for a Roman tomb and is associated with the nearby Cramond Roman Fort.

Just make sure you allow enough time to get back to shore before the tide comes in!

SUMMER BREAKS IN EDINBURGH WITH THE DUNSTANE
Your day in Edinburgh is done but you’re not quite ready to leave, so what do you do? You could always indulge in our luxury accommodation at the Dunstane. Complete with an outstanding Orcadian restaurant and state of the art facilities, why wouldn’t you want to stay with us?

The Festival City is warming up again – for once both literally and metaphorically. The weather has been amazing. About time too! As we all know, the weather is unpredictable in Scotland though, but one thing that is always predictable is the return of the Edinburgh Festivals!

EDINBURGH ART FESTIVAL
We’ve already enjoyed this years Film festival and the Jazz and Blues festival too, so the Art Festival is next. We have so many galleries to visit in Edinburgh, but the festival is something else. Founded in 2004, it is a platform for visual arts and brings together all the galleries, museums and artist-run spaces around the city. The UK’s leading artists exhibit alongside emerging talent and massive exhibitions, with most events being free to attend.

FRINGE FESTIVAL
It’s probably the most well known of the festivals and arguably the most variety too. From big names to unknown, free shows to the big seat-fillers, there is something for everyone. Acts come from around the world, and there are almost 3,500 shows to choose from across 300 venues around the city. There are musicals, operas, children’s shows, drama, comedy and magic, just to name a few. The fringe becomes a way of life and the city has an incredible vibe, grab tickets while you can or stop by one of the many box offices each day to see what awaits! Visit edfringe.com.

EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO
Alongside the fringe is the spectacular Military Tattoo. People come from all over the world to witness this unique performance, held on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. There are performers from over 48 countries, performing to sell-out crowds of 220,000 across the season. Add that to the 100 million who then watch the televised performance, you can tell why tickets are so high on people’s wish lists. It’s an international favourite and is not to be missed!

BOOK FESTIVAL
Never under estimate the power of a good book! Launched in 1983, it has become one of the key events of the August calendar. There are over 900 events for people of all ages, from debates and discussion to the Baillie Gifford Children’s Programme, which can all be found in the heart of Edinburgh’s world heritage listed Georgian New Town. Take a look at the website for the full programme and make sure to book for some of the big headline events.

HOME FROM HOME
With so much to do each day, a great hotel room to collapse into is essential. The Ba’ Bar is available for late-night planning of what shows to see the next day, and you can wake up to a good cup of coffee and a full Scottish breakfast to send you out for the day.

We’re fully aware of the fact it’s only July, however, we’ve got some fabulous festive packages on offer for our keen beans.
It’s true. You could spend Christmas at home, stressing over turkey-cooking times and cowering at the foot of Mount Washing-Up, or, you could do it the Dunstane way and experience the magic of Edinburgh in full festive swing.

Stay at the Dunstane Houses over Christmas and not only will you never need to lift a finger, but you’ll also be treated to all the indulgent luxuries that come with a truly memorable Christmas break.

As well as two nights’ bed and breakfast and a special luxury welcome gift, you’ll also enjoy a festive afternoon tea and welcome supper on Christmas Eve; champagne breakfast on Christmas day followed by a 5 course Christmas Day Lunch; and a special Boxing Day breakfast. How does that sound?

If you choose to add on extra nights with us to relax and unwind for longer we’d be delighted to offer all Christmas Package guests 20% off extra nights – however many that may be!

HOGMANAY IN EDINBURGH
If you already have big plans for Christmas, then not to worry! You can still benefit from our special Hogmanay offer.
No offence to any other city, but there really is no better city in Scotland to be in when the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party is the biggest, boldest and most exuberant celebration in the north, with three full days of events and activities. It’s an outstanding experience.

SO WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
Book a three-night Hogmanay stay at the Dunstane Houses and start your Hogmanay off with tickets to the Torchlight Procession on 30th December. Party in style with a Hogmanay dinner to remember on 31st December and we will organise some entertainment for afterwards in our Ba’ Bar to see in the bells if you don’t have your own plans and we’ll make sure there’s a Champers there to toast the New Year!

On 1st January join us for another Scottish New Year tradition – steak pie! We will provide a hangover brunch to start the day and a steak pie supper to finish it.

Book any of these two special offers before the 31st of August and we will give you a free room upgrade, now that’s something.
If you’d like to book your Christmas stay then please click here, if you’d prefer a Hogmanay visit then you can arrange that by clicking here. In the meantime, enjoy the summer sunshine!

The Edinburgh Festival season is coming fast! It is perhaps, the highlight of the Edinburgh social calendar, and the very definition of having “something for everyone”.

Perfectly located close to the very best Fringe Festival venues, but far enough to get a peaceful nights sleep, the Dunstane Houses is your ideal ‘home from home’ this Festival season. Take advantage of our latest offer and do the Festival in style. Book three nights or more in a luxury room on our bed and breakfast rate, and we’ll make sure there is a cold bottle of Joseph Perrier Champagne waiting in your room.

Full Scottish breakfasts will set you up perfectly for a day exploring the city, pausing to watch street performers, going to one of many free shows and grabbing an amazing lunch from one of the many pop-up street food vendors and restaurants in the city. Head back ‘home’ to the Dunstane and make the most of our all-day dining menu, or relax in the Ba’ Bar with a dram before bed. Get a great nights sleep in our luxurious rooms, then you’re up and ready to do it all again!

Our team are also on hand, to give the very best avidce on what to do, where to go and what shows to see. We love hearing what you’ve discovered too, so let us know of any great shows that we should recommend or hidden gems you have found.

Edinburgh really is the most beautiful city. Edinburgh during the Fringe however, is something else entirely! We look forward to welcoming you.

Why is St Andrew Scotland’s patron saint? When did we start celebrating St Andrew’s Day? And where else is the day celebrated?
ST ANDREW There is no consensus on how St Andrew came to be Scotland’s patron saint, but there are several theories. One states that relics belonging to St Andrew were brought to Scotland in the fourth century. These relics, kept at St Andrew’s cathedral in Kinrymount, Fife, then became a major destination for medieval pilgrims. Another possible explanation is that in the 800s, Pictish king Angus MacFergus saw a saltire cross in the sky immediately before a battle and took Saint Andrew as his patron from then on. 30th November Saint Andrew was first made the official patron saint of Scotland at the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320. By 1390 Saint Andrew appeared on coinage for the first time, although the relics which initially led to his saintly status were destroyed during the Scottish Reformation in the 1500s.

St Andrew was crucified by the Romans on a diagonal cross, with the event apparently taking place on 30 November, hence the choice of day to mark his life.

St Andrew’s Day has been celebrated for generations, with St Andrews University students traditionally given the day off. The Scottish Parliament made St Andrew’s Day an official bank holiday in Scotland in 2007, but banks are not obliged to close and there is no mandatory day off for employees. Around the world St Andrew is not just the patron saint of Scotland, and 30 November is a holiday in other parts of the world as well as Scotland. In Barbados, St Andrews Day is also Independence Day, with a saltire on the Caribbean island’s coat of arms. In Poland, Andrzejki is marked overnight between 29 and 30 November, with fortune-telling one of the main events. Hot wax is poured into water, and the shape of the wax once cooled can apparently predict who the pourer will eventually marry.

St Andrews Day is an important event here in Scotland and here at The Dunstane Houses, we like to celebrate this special day in style, if you’d like to join us for our next St. Andrews Day, please keep an eye on our offers page on the website.

The Water of Leith Walkway is a lovely route for walking and cycling in Edinburgh. The 12 mile long path follows the river which runs through the heart of the city. It begins in Balerno to the west, leading through many places of interest, all the way to Leith in the north east.

It runs past the Dunstane Houses with many of our guests taking a walk down there during their visit. From the hotel, you can stroll along to the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Village, Murrayfield Stadium and Roseburn Park. All just a short walk away.

The whole walk, from Balerno to Leith, takes approximately 5 hours to complete. Below we have split it into three sections of around 4 miles each and we are located in the middle section, about a 3.5 hour walk from Balerno and 1.5 hours from the Leith. Of course you don’t have to go that far. You can plan your own route, entering and exiting the walkway at any point along the way, to see what you discover off the beaten track.

WATER OF LEITH ROUTE
PART 1: Balerno > Currie > Juniper Green > Colinton.
Distance: approx 4 miles.
Points of interest: Colinton Village and Dell.
PART 2: Colinton > Slateford > Roseburn > Dean Village.
Distance: approx 4 miles.
Points of interest: Visitor Centre, Saughton Winter Gardens, Murrayfield Stadium, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art (and The Dunstane, of course!).
PART 3: Dean Village > Stockbridge > Canonmills > Bonnington > Leith.
Distance: approx 4 miles.
Points of interest: Dean Village, Royal Botanic Gardens, Leith attractions.
This map provided by the Water of Leith Conservation Trust is an excellent guide to the full route. The walkway is well sign posted and links up with other footpaths and cycle routes.

TIME TO RELAX
You will have earned a drink in the Ba’ Bar after all that walking. Recover wit the ‘medicinal’ proporties of an Orkney Gin, or take a long soak in the bath with a glass of Champagne in hand! If your legs are too tired to bring you to us, we will bring it all to you. Just ask at reception for details of our room service.

Sweet or savoury, healthy or hearty – however you like to start your day, the Dunstane Houses delivers. The Ba’ Bar’s generous morning spread offers a help-yourself array of cereals, fresh fruit, juices and freshly baked breads and pastries. Scotland, of course, knows how to do breakfast and our Full Scottish is the talk of the town, with generous helpings of haggis, Ayrshire bacon, farm-sourced sausages and black pudding, and the best tattie scones this side of the Tay.

ENJOY BREAKFAST IN EDINBURGH
Breakfast in Edinburgh just got a little sweeter. The newly refurbished Dunstane Houses have partnered with Heather Hills Farm, who produced some of the best honey and preserves in the world. Granted, we could be a little biased and exaggerating a wee bit here.

HEATHER HILLS FARM
In 1945, a man called Athole Kirkwood built his very first beehive after having been evacuated to Strathardie during World War II. He was forced to stay with relatives, however he knew he would always return eventually.

Not long after, Athole began to build up his own business, however a harsh winter led to all 100 beehives perishing in the cold weather. Athole overcame this adversity and persevered, continuing to build the business into a honey making empire.

The unreliable Scottish weather makes this is a continual challenge for modern beekeepers, as for all the technological advances we’ve made, we sadly still can’t control the weather. However around 1300 beehives are moved seasonally around the Perthshire and Deeside countryside, by owners and brothers Mark and Bernard Noonan and their team.

BREAKFAST IS THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE DAY
We have just relaunched our menus, which is now an all-day dining experience. Take a seat in the comfy Ba’ Bar and start with our breakfast menu. For those looking for a healthy option, try traditional Scott’s porridge with stewed caramelised apple and cinnamon or get your sugar fix with a selection of breakfast pastries.

Of course, all the old favourites are still here from the traditional Scottish breakfast to eggs cooked almost any way you can think of, Orkney smoked salmon with scrambled eggs or possibly a whole oak smoked kipper. The choice is yours.

ALL DAY DINING IN EDINBURGH
Our all-day dining menu is served after breakfast, from 12pm – 9:30pm. It is made up of wee bites, such as artisan breads with balsamic olive oil and marinated olives or haggis bonbons through to the Dunstane burger, King prawn linguini and delicious pan seared beef fillet. All our dishes, breakfast and all-day dining, use the freshest ingredients sourced locally and from around the Scottish Isles.