Detoxing Spa Break in Edinburgh

December is always a busy month, no matter how much time and preparation we think we’ve done. Weekends are spent battling to try to find the perfect gift, there's a non-stop rush from family member to friend… and that's not even taking into consideration the whirlwind that is party season. Calorie intake seems to more than double and relaxation comes too little, too late (if at all). The relatively quieter months of January and February are therefore perfect for finally finding a little time for yourself, and knowing this, we’ve created a detoxing spa break.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a single member of our team (or anyone for that matter) who wouldn’t want an escape away that’s entirely dedicated to their well-being. With a a healthy smoothie, the choice between a 30 minute Aveda massage or 30 minute Aveda facial, as well as complimentary access to the full spa and gym facilities at the Scotsman Spa & Health Club all included, you’ll be feeling rejuvenated in no time at all during a five-star stay with us.

We love nothing more than heading down to the Scotsman Spa during our lunch hour. The Aveda team really know how to sooth and beautify, ensuring we return to work with a renewed sense of serenity… and truly nourished skin. The products used always have a divine scent due to the mix of naturally derived ingredients, and each therapist has been trained to know exactly the right remedy for all of our ailments. The sense of relaxation alone can work wonders!

From just £225 per room per night including breakfast, you could find yourself leaving The Scotsman Hotel calm, collected and completely revitalised this January and February with our detox offer.

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.