The Best Film and Theatre Venues in Edinburgh

From Intimate Spaces to Grand Auditoriums 

With the likes of the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Edinburgh International Film Festival taking place every year, Edinburgh needs to have plenty of venues, to suit both the large scale and smaller, more intimate, performances. Of the dozens of theatre and film venues in the Scottish capital, we’ve chosen our five favourites:

Festival Theatre

Edinburgh Festival Theatre by Dancewear Central

The Edinburgh Festival Theatre, as the name suggests, plays an important role during festival season. Despite numerous renovations and rebuilds, the site of the Festival Theatre has had a venue of one kind or another since 1830. The glass façade that makes it so recognisable was added in 1994, but its lavish interior harks back to an era gone by. The Festival Theatre always plays host to some of the biggest performances during the festivals and 2015 will surely be no different as thousands of festival goers flock to this iconic venue.

What’s on?

The pick of the early 2015 line-up is the Edinburgh leg of the hugely popular One Man, Two Guvnors production. The show is in the Scottish capital between the 17^th and 21^st Febraury.

Dominion Cinema

With its distinct modernist architecture, the 1930s Dominion Cinema is one of Edinburgh’s alternative landmarks. The interior, with its mix of modern and traditional décor is a world away from the multiplexes that are so common today. The cinema shows most of the big Hollywood blockbusters, and is one of the venues for the Edinburgh International Film Festival.

What’s on?

Having recently picked up a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking, Eddie Redmayne’s star turn in The Theory of Everything is an absolute must see. The film is in cinemas now.

Royal Lyceum Theatre

The Royal Lyceum Theatre, built in 1881, and altered only very slightly since, is Edinburgh’s most original and classical theatre venue. In addition to the range of festival performances that take place in the theatre ever year, the Royal Lyceum also has an in-house cast and crew who put on seven magnificent plays annually, often reworking established classics.

What’s on?

The Lyceum also regularly plays host to fascinating evenings with celebrated authors. April 2015 sees both Jo Nesbo and Edinburgh’s very own Irvine Welsh, where will both be discussing their life, work and current novels.

Bedlam Theatre

If you’re after an intimate performance, the Bedlam Theatre suits perfectly, as its auditorium holds a mere 92 people. Completely run by students of the city, Bedlam, as the name hints to, has a strong comedic repertoire. The Improverts, Edinburgh’s own improv group, are regulars here, and they are complemented by a range of poetry nights, musicals and plenty of side-splitting sketch shows.

What’s on?

The Improverts host their regular comedy night every Friday. Pop along to see what is guaranteed to be a completely unique performance.

Edinburgh Playhouse

With 3,059 seats, the Edinburgh Playhouse is the UK’s largest traditional theatre and musical venue. Due to its large capacity, it’s where a lot of the biggest names in music, comedy and performance art call home on the Edinburgh leg of their tour. For example, the famous musical Wicked, has recently visited the Playhouse during its UK tour.

What’s on?

Edinburgh Playhouse is the go to venue for the country’s biggest stand ups, and Jimmy Carr, Bill Bailey and Dara O Briain will be gracing the stage in 2015.

On your next visit to Edinburgh, there’s no excuse to not treat yourself to a captivating theatre show or blockbuster musical. To make your night out extra special, join us at the North Bridge Brasserie for our famous pre-theatre menu. Featuring three courses of delicious Scottish delicacies, meticulously prepared by our Executive Head Chef Paul Hart, it’s the perfect way to begin an unforgettable evening in the Scottish capital. 

Christmas Arrives in Edinburgh

Visit Edinburgh's Christmas for a Magical Family Outing

If you've found yourself in Edinburgh at any time during the last month, you can’t have failed to notice the ever-increasing array of Christmas decorations that have popped up around the city, especially those in Princes Street Gardens and St. Andrew’s Square. In fact, these are no ordinary Christmas decorations, these are the lights, rides and market stalls that make up Edinburgh's Christmas.

CC Image courtesy of Craig Murphy via Flickr

From Carousels to Christmas Tree Mazes

Visit any major city across the UK and there’s probably a Christmas market or two, but you’ll be very hard pushed to find another celebration of the festive season that even comes close to the magical atmosphere you’ll find in the Scottish capital. First of all, there’s the amazing choice of rides, both for the younger generation and for those who are simply young at heart. The Big Wheel is back, along with the exhilarating Star Flyer. There’s also a ‘Double’ Carousel, which sounds amazing, along with two (yes, two) ice rinks.

There’s a selection of seasonal markets, selling everything from authentic Scottish food and drink, to a plethora of European produce, found at the aptly named European Christmas Market. There’s even a children’s version of the classic Christmas market, with face painting, arts and crafts, and plenty of games and toys to be found.

Finally, if all of this wasn't enough, there are exciting shows taking place across the festive calendar. The most famous landlord in Britain, Al Murray, will be making an appearance, along with the comedy musical styling of Frisky and Manish. If you simply want to let your hair down, be sure to check out the Hot Dub Time Machine, the world’s first and best time-travelling dance party.

Unforgettable Experiences for the Whole Family

As you can see, there is so much to do at Edinburgh's Christmas this year, whether you’re taking the whole family or enjoying a romantic evening with your significant other. To find out more about Edinburgh's Christmas, be sure to visit their website.

Edinburgh's Christmas is taking place between the 21st November 2014 and 4th January 2015. 

Stay at the Five-Star Scotsman Hotel during Your Winter Getaway

If you’re thinking of visiting the Scottish capital for a seasonal city break, make sure you do it in style by staying with us at The Scotsman Hotel. With amazing service, an award-winning restaurant and tranquil spa, it’s the perfect place to rest your head after a busy day enjoying the Edinburgh festivities. We've even got a number of excellent value offers and packages available this Christmas.

Hard at Work…and Feeling Festive

The Christmas countdown has begun, and brings with it an exciting…and busy time of the year for many businesses. Despite a non-stop schedule, it’s hard not to start feeling festive with twinkling lights, beautiful decorations and a full calendar of activities going on around us...our team have ensured they've been making the most of their free time at the St Andrew Square ice rink! To ensure you can embrace the season even when you're hard at work in one of our eight event rooms, we've added a festive twist to our December Meetings Offer; with a serving of delicious mulled wine and mince pies to help you celebrate the successes of the day!

For £45 per person, we will ensure everything is taken care of behind-the-scenes, leaving you to focus entirely on that all-important pitch. Whether you're organising a large conference, or back-to-back meetings for a select few, our team are very well experienced in ensuring a great impression is made. From the delicious dishes Executive Head Chef Paul Hart creates, to free Wi-Fi, stationery and use of an LCD projector… as well as much-needed coffee and tea servings, you can have complete confidence in your corporate event at The Scotsman.

And after a whirlwind December day, what could be better than relaxing back in triumph with our warming festive treats? Yum!

To find out more about our December corporate offer or to make a booking contact us on+44 (0)131 556 5565or email scotsman-events@thescotsmanhotel.co.uk.

Win our Culinary Experience Competition

Over the last couple of months we've set our sights on exploring Edinburgh to find and share what’s truly unique about the capital, so whether you’re lucky enough to be a local like us or popping by for a visit, you’ll be able to enjoy an authentic experience. From discovering local design talent, which will definitely come in handy when we start our gift shopping this season, to putting together a guide for film fans who want to recreate their favourite scenes in the exact same place as the leading stars,we've been trying to cover every base when it comes to our favourite city. Naturally our last, and biggest month of celebration for #TasteofEdinburgh is dedicated to all things delicious, from home-cooked dishes to exquisite delicacies alongside a dram or two, and we’ll be bringing four weeks of informative articles, exclusive offers and exciting competitions. 

The final major #TasteofEdinburgh competition is by far the most impressive, offering one lucky winner a range of prizes for themselves and a guest that have had us green with envy at Scotsman HQ! The prize package includes a two night stay at our hotel in a luxurious Director Suite, alongside an array of culinary experiences that excited even the most refined foodies amongst our team! On the first evening the winner and guest will be invited to sample Executive Head Chef Paul Hart’s five-course Taste of Scotland menu - we see Hart and his team source the fresh seasonal produce used to create each dish every morning and have thoroughly enjoyed taste testing so we can confirm that this is a truly delicious experience! After the first night’s relaxing stay, a full Scottish breakfast will await …and it is indeed hearty! Think smoked Ayrshire bacon, pork and sage sausages from Henderson’s Highland butchers as well as our team’s favourite, black pudding! The rest of the day is yours to explore the many sights and sounds of the city, however when you begin to feel in need of a pick-me-up, you can head back to your suite in which you will be served a miniature Afternoon Tea with a glass of Billecart-Salmon Champagne. The platter of sweet and savoury treats will ensure you can indulge, relax and unwind before getting ready for a dining experience at Tom Kitchin’s Scran and Scallie. We’re a big fan of Kitchin’s creations and can ensure you’ll enjoy his Michelin star twist of traditional home-cooked dishes. Returning to The Scotsman, your five-star suite will await and of course complimentary access to all spa facilities are included too. 

Entering our #TasteofEdinburgh competition couldn’t be easier – all you need to do is click here, enter your name and email address and confirm your interest in entering and you’re done! Good luck!

Retail Relaxation

Every winter, there is one thing that unites all in Edinburgh and that is shopping induced fatigue. Even the most seasoned and enthusiastic shoppers amongst the Scotsman team return flustered, frustrated and exhausted from what they had hoped would be a stroll down Princes Street. So we decided to create a soothing package for this November that would put an end to tiredness and provide an oasis of calm in the centre of the city for anyone and everyone to hobble into after having to barge through the hustle and bustle. For only £65 per person, you can drop your bags and enjoy a 45 minute Aveda manicure or pedicure, followed by a delicious Afternoon Tea.

Whether you’re gift buying or simply going for a browse, our city has a shop or boutique suited to every taste and need, however with such a great selection, the crowds follow and it doesn't take too long before it all gets a little too much. We sat down and listed every symptom …and every cure of a long day spent shopping and bundled them together into an indulgent offer that will relax even the most uptight after a day out. Sore, red hands from carrying too many bags? Unclench your fingers and enjoy a 45 minute Aveda manicure. Or perhaps your feet are feeling the effects more? Choose an Aveda pedicure instead and sit back for a soothing 45 minute treatment in our five-star surroundings. Ready to refuel? Our range of sweet and savoury Afternoon Tea treats provide the most delicious way to re-energise we've ever come across (we've tried and tested). And if that wasn't enough, complimentary access to the full spa and gym facilities at the Scotsman Spa is included, ideal for a dip in the pool or sit down in the sauna.

Come rain (more than likely) or shine, we’ll be waiting to take your coat off, store your bags and pamper to your every need at The Scotsman Hotel, so there’s no longer any need to fear the fury that is festive shopping in the capital!

Contact our spa reception team on +44 (0)131 622 3800 or email spa-reception@thescotsmanhotel.co.uk to book now.

Autumn Meeting Offer at The Scotsman Hotel

The new season has officially arrived with leaves turning from green to golden, and temperatures beginning to drop. At The Scotsman Hotel, our team agree that nothing is quite as satisfying as sitting inside and enjoying a soothing hot drink on a cold, blustering autumn day in Edinburgh. With that in mind, we have included a delicious hot chocolate drink, complete with marshmallows, in our new seasonal meeting offer.

Whether you’re looking to bring together colleagues or make an important presentation to new clients, our new £45 Day Delegate Rate includes the hire of one of our eight stylish meeting rooms, access to five-star facilities including free Wi-Fi, delegate stationary, use of an LCD projector as well as a delicious seasonal buffet lunch …and of course a cosy cup of hot chocolate. We think a hot drink is an ideal addition to any working day in autumn, especially when there’s soft marshmallows involved to add a little extra sweetness! As well as a tasty pick-me-up, on colder days it could also be an excellent ice breaker in more ways than one (excuse our pun), conjuring up memories of home comforts and rustic fire-lit evenings.

Tea and coffee are also included if hot chocolate is not suited to all tastes, ensuring everyone can feel the full warming effects much needed in our city when it’s a little cooler. If you’re planning a meeting in Edinburgh this October or November we look forward to welcoming you with our £45 offer. 

Indulge in Edinburgh

Although Edinburgh offers an abundance of historic landmarks, beautiful views and cultural attractions, sometimes we want to spend a little of our free time in pursuit of the more indulgent things in life. After all, everyone deserves a little ‘me’ time. As part of #TasteofEdinburgh, our team have spent the last month tirelessly exploring the luxury experiences Edinburgh has to offer –sampling delicious chocolate treats, relaxing with soothing spa treatments and shopping for stunning creations by the most sought-after designers in the city. It was a hard job, but someone had to do it. We’ve also been working with some of Edinburgh’s most respected fashion, beauty and lifestyle bloggers to offer first-hand insight and have been sharing our favourite finds in news articles on The Scotsman Hotel website as well as across our Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+ pages. Just incase you missed them we’ve put together a few of the highlights for you to use as inspiration next time you’re in need of a treat in the capital:

• Designer Shopping

The capital’s fashionistas head to Edinburgh’s New Town for the latest catwalk creations and luxe accessories. Thistle Street’s Independent boutiques Jane Davidson and Pam Jenkins both pride themselves on the high level of service they offer as well as their hand-picked collections, which feature dresses by Diane von Furstenberg and Roland Mouret, alongside Christian Louboutin heels, Liberty silk scarves and leather totes from Jimmy Choo. Designer flagship stores and Harvey Nichols can be found at Multrees Walk, while Dick’s Edinburgh provide every lifestyle product a stylish man might need. Find our guide to designer shopping in Edinburgh here.

• Sweet Treats

We partnered with the ladies at EdinburghEtiquette.co.uk to provide inspiration when it comes to all things temptingly sweet. Though haggis flavoured chocolate may not appeal to everyone, we’re sure their top five Edinburgh destinations will inspire even the more savoury-inclined to sample a slice or two of cake. The sheer choice has had us spending our weekends tasting every suggestion, whether it’s choosing between the dozens of macaron varieties at Patisserie Madeleine, or the hand-crafted chocolate creations at Zukr Boutique…yum! Click here for their recommendations, but be warned, we are not responsible for any over-indulgence …and although we’re a little biased, our Champagne Afternoon Tea at North Bridge Brasserie isn’t to be missed either – the EdinburghEtiquette.co.uk team reviewed it here while EverythingLooksRosie.com let us know what she enjoyed here.

• Soothing Spa Treatments 

The new season has arrived and though colder weather may be coming, it needn’t put a dampener on our spirits. Our knowledgeable ScotsmanSpa team know a thing or two about looking after health, fitness and well-being, and were kind enough to share their tips for a feel-good autumn, inside and out. Think soothing stress-relieving massages and vitamin infused smoothies. While, those wishing to rejuvenate winter skin to embrace the au naturel AW 14 catwalk trends can find further information about Aveda facials here.

• Hand-Crafted Creations

90% of businesses in the Greater Grassmarket are independent and the capital’s design scene is thriving – ideal for souvenirs during a stay or showcasing local talent if you’re lucky enough to be a resident like us. Bold and bright shoes designed by Helen Bateman, stylish hats created at RoseYoung Designs and Jenny Parker’s edgy jewellery featuring Ballachulish slate, are some of the many hidden gems to be found and you can discover more about them here. Meanwhile, Howie Nicholsby has been transforming the way men wear kilts since 1996 at his company 21^st Century Kilts and we’ve been finding out more about his ambitions and achievements here.

Whether you’re in need of a little pick-me-up or a full day of indulgence, we hope we’ve inspired you to have a relaxing and luxurious experience in Edinburgh.