Day 1
9am Check into The Glasshouse Hotel in the heart of the city. This five-star property boasts a two-acre lavender-scented roof garden, complete with event space. The facilities can fit 40 in boardroom style or 110 for a sky-high cocktail reception, offering picturesque views. It can also become a unique event space to impress delegates with a dinner, suitable for 80. The hotel is adjacent to the Edinburgh Playhouse.
10am For a conference combined with an activity day and teambuilding head to Winton House, a castle half-an-hour from Edinburgh. The venue’s very own Winton Highland Games include tossing the caber, tug of wars and other events that can cater for groups of 30 to 300 people.
3pm After lunch, head back to the city, catch some highlights at The Edinburgh Festival Summer Frolics, organised by Maximillion, provides an opportunity for companies to become part of the festival by taking over one of the many marquees and theming it for your group.
7pm For those looking for a traditional Scottish pub experience complete with local produce and ales, the Ghillie Dhu will fit the bill, says Emma Kennard, manager of The Venuepot. The venue is based in a restored heritage building, originally a church. The main auditorium is ideal for a range of events, from a breakfast meeting for 30 delegates to a black tie dinner for 200.
Day 2
10am For those with a head for heights, the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena offers a unique convention at the world’s largest indoor climbing arena. Delegate capacity is for up to 1,800. There is an opportunity for teambuilding for those brave enough to climb the walls. Experienced staff provide tuition on rock climbing, bouldering or abseiling as well as facilitating problem solving team events.
1pm For lunch, head to Edinburgh’s Old Town and the Hotel du Vin & Bistro, a short walk from the Royal Mile. This boutique-style property features 47 bedrooms, a bistro, and two event rooms, the largest of which can cater for up to 36.
4pm Visit a unique venue: Bandeoke at The Caves, under the North Bridge. Guests at the live band version of a karaoke are treated to cocktails on arrival, a dinner, and can then take to the stage to sing with the band.
7pm The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, this annual festival takes place each August as part of the wider Edinburgh Festival. Performances include daredevil motorcycle displays, re-enactment of battles and Highland dancers. Corporate hospitality includes VIP seats in guest boxes, including dinner, for groups of up to 80. A canapé reception can be organised with members of the Tattoo cast for those buying VIP seats.
Directory
Marketing Edinburgh
Contact Lesley Parsons
Tel +44 131 473 3666
Email lesley.parsons@conventionedinburgh.com
Web www.marketingedinburgh.org