The Dunstane - #TeamDunstane Tour of Brodies 1867

Brodies1867 was established in 1867 by Mr Brodie, Mr Melrose and Mr Drysdale, three enterprising Scottish tea traders and has been producing the finest teas and coffees for almost 150 years now. They say practise makes perfect and #TeamDunstane took a trip to the factory to find out how this perfection is achieved! To start the tour they were given a brief history of the company, which has an amazing history. For starters, in 1892 Mr Drysdale was credited with being the first UK tea manufacturer to produce a breakfast tea...I know many people who would not be functioning at 100% Monday to Friday if it wasn't for Mr Drysdale's creation! This blend is stocked in all our rooms so make sure you try it when you're here! Their next big achievement was the creation of the most popular Brodie's blend, 'Famous Edinburgh' which hasn't changed from the original (and closely guarded) blend since 1928 when it was created.


Over the years Brodie's have been at the forefront of development, experimentation and fashion in the tea and coffee industry, it's easy to see why. During a tour of the factory by the Managing Director, the team saw something familiar in the employees they met - a strong sense of pride, passion and dedication to the work they were doing, Something that we're also very proud of here at The Dunstane too. The tour of the factory was hugely insightful, explaining the roasting process, getting the team involved in feeling the texture of the beans at each stage and helping them to understand what goes into making that cup of coffee they serve guests every day in Skerries.

A treat was in store for them as not only were they learning about coffee, they also go to taste some of Brodie's incredible whisky chaser chocolates - even if you don't like whisky you need to try these, they are divine! I think you'll agree the team look pretty fetching in their hairnets!

But it wasn't all serious, there was a lot of fun to be had too. A coffee making race started between Front of House Manager, Dayne and Food and Beverage Manager, Miguel. The competitive spirit of The Dunstane was out in force and after a hard fought race the winner was....#TeamMiguel! Though I think #TeamDayne will be asking for a rematch in the future, perhaps it'll even become an annual event!! Either way the whole day was well worth it and the team at The Dunstane now have a much better appreciation for the tea and coffee they are serving and its opened up a new topic for guest interaction too.

If you can't wait until your next visit to The Dunstane to try Brodie1867's blends have a look at their mail order catalogue here - http://bit.ly/1OYyRqO. Also we recommend liking their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/brodies1867) as there are often great competitions running! Otherwise we look forward to welcoming you to Skerries or for an overnight stay in one of our gorgeous rooms!

Meet the.....Duty Manager - Caroline Lowe

Another installment of meet our team! It's the turn of Caroline Lowe - one of The Dunstane's new Duty Managers.

1. In your role Caroline you cover most areas of the Hotel - What do you like the most?

I enjoy being at the front of house, dealing with guests and the general operations of the hotel. Now that I am more confident within my role and reservations I am really enjoying it and I am exciting to keep progressing and hopefully get even more involved with The Dunstane!

2. Do you like the guest interaction in your role at reception?

Do you even have to ask! I love talking to our guests and getting to know about them and what they are expecting from us as a Hotel. It is very rewarding knowing that you are fulfilling their expectations and adding to their experiences.

3. What is your favourite room in the Dunstane?

It is so difficult to choose but I would probably have to say room 120! Although I do like 121 and 108 also! they are beautiful!



4. You are over here from Zimbabwe - that must be quite a change for you! How does working in the UK differ from your hotel in Zim?

It is another world here! Working in the UK is very different to working in Zim. The daily operations are differed as you are faced with different challenges in Zim such as power failures - it is so great not having to worry about generators! 

My role at my previous job did have many similarities to my current one. I have always been front of house and I was reservations manager a the lodge in Zimbabwe - that is why I am enjoying learning more and more with the reservations for the Dunstane. 

I managed more staff in Zimbabwe as it was not as departmentalized as here, I oversaw the housekeepers, restaurant and the gardeners. 

Both business are family owned hotels and customer orientated and I much prefer the person touch of the smaller establishments to larger chain hotels.

6. If you could make one change to The Dunstane - what would it be?

This is a tough one! From the moment we came into the Dunstane to ask for contact details to send CVs to I had a good feeling about it. It is a warm and welcoming environment. I honestly don't feel there are any major changes to be made. A good hotel needs to keep progressing and evolving and I think this is done through the little things - such as specials, events and room amenities....

7. If you could bring something over from your experiences in Zim what would it be?

My family and friends and more sunshine! I think that moving to a new country and new job means new experiences and it is an exciting chapter!

8. Describe your perfect day in Edinburgh?

Definitely starting off the day with coffee from Costa or Starbucks. Then either going to Livingston for retail therapy or to the Forth Road Bridges and having a drink overlooking the water! there are so many places I still have left to visit. 

My favourite restaurant so far is Chaophraya - Thai restaurant on Castle Street (apart from Skerries of course!) so probably finishing off my day there!

Come and See a Show!

There is no better view than Edinburgh in Autumn. There is so much to see and do here, and at The Dunstane, we are looking forward tremendously to welcoming you for an autumn or winter visit. Think about how wonderful it would be to spend a cooling autumn evening inside the Edinburgh Playhouse, watching an incredible performance of Jersey Boys, then heading back to your comfy room in our hotel for a lovely nightcap and a great night sleep. Jersey Boys is playing at the Edinburgh Playhouse from 8^th October and is a must see if you are going into town for something exciting. 

The Dunstane is only a few minutes from the centre and therefore an ideally placed hub for after all your activities and sightseeing during the day. Once you have experienced Edinburgh you will want to come back time and again. If your stay extends to November, you would be here in time to see Wicked opening on 19^th November and running all throughout the Christmas period to the middle of January.

Jersey Boys and Wicked and Great Theatre

Jersey Boys is set around the story of the creation of Frankie Valley and the Four Seasons, taking the audience on a wild adventure of singing and fame. Wicked is based on the story of Oz and tells the tale of how the green witch is considered evil, when in fact she is anything but, initially. The story delves into the backdrop of how she and Glinda the Good Witch fulfill their destinies.

Theatre is a paramount part of Edinburgh culture, and when you stay here with us at The Dunstane, you will get a good feel of just how important. As part of the theatre tradition, the city also hosts the Edinburgh fringe festival throughout August, keeping theatre in the forefront of people’s minds. Come and join us for a performance to remember. Contact our sales team now on 0131 337 6169 to book your stay with us for your theatre break this Autumn.

Fashionable Shopping Breaks in Edinburgh

Discover our Fabulous Shopping Break Offers at The Dunstane

Edinburgh although often understated, has some of the most incredible shopping, from Jenner’s to Harvey Nichols and all of the high street shops in between, you are bound to be heading home with heavy shopping bags after a trip to the Scottish capital.  Here at The Dunstane we offer the Boutique Hotel experience alongside special shopping breaks that allow you to come and have a weekend’s shopping with an inclusive Scottish breakfast in with your accommodation prices.

Image Courtesy of Wikipedia

How about a Shopping Break?

Without doing too much bragging, we like to treat our guests to the fine things in life. Our luxury boutique breaks feature homemade chocolates delivered to your room, a treat bag full of goodies and a luxury gift set from us, here at The Dunstane complimentary. As if that is not enough, how about a glass of Prosecco upon your arrival, full Scottish Breakfast every morning of your stay and a trip to Molton Brown in George Street for the Mini Pamper Package, all for the amazing price of £179.00 per person. This is all based on two people sharing a ‘City' double room for two nights. It sounds like the perfect getaway weekend with a friend, doesn't it?

Shop the rest of Edinburgh

Don’t forget that Edinburgh has plenty more shopping experiences to add to your amazing time with us. There is Princes Street, George Street and of course, for the customary tartan there is the Royal Mile and other areas of the city.

We can also add other options to complete your shopping experience. For example, what about a colours session, or a ‘friends’ day’, or your own private ‘personal shopper’ to help you pick something exquisite? The offer of this exclusive package will remain open only until September 30^th, 2014, so book now to avoid being disappointed and come and have a great time with us at The Dunstane in the Scottish Capital. Contact our Sales team now on 0131 337 6169

Amazing Deals for spending your October Break in Edinburgh!

Edinburgh is a city that—similar to New York—never seems to sleep.  It does not matter what time of year you come to stay with us at The Dunstane, there is bound to be something to keep you entertained. Whilst it is the summer holidays now, it won’t be long until the October Break and where better to spend the week than Edinburgh. There is something for the whole family, not to mention our amazing special offers for Autumn Breaks but in case you are struggling with what to see and do check out our top picks below. 

Edinburgh is a city that—similar to New York—never seems to sleep.  It does not matter what time of year you come to stay with us at The Dunstane, there is bound to be something to keep you entertained. Whilst it is the summer holidays now, it won’t be long until the October Break and where better to spend the week than Edinburgh. There is something for the whole family, but in case you are struggling with what to see and do check out our top picks below. 

Stockbridge Market

This is one of the best Scottish Farmer's markets around for miles, and you should check out the fresh produce you can get from locally based farmers. Not only will you find tasty treats to tantalise your tongue, but you can also buy artisan created items and crafts to take home and display.

Curious about Edinburgh

Whether you have been here before or not, you have the perfect opportunity to get to know the city better. There are two optional self-guided tours available, and you can also have a treasure hunt if you fancy that too. Ask us for more information.

Wine Unearthed

Can't beat a good glass of vino, right?  Take advantage of the wine tasting opportunities in Edinburgh between April and November. If you are here in October, you can check our local tastings and ask us for details.

PBFA Book Fair

Now, if you love the smell of old books, you have to visit the book fair. You can see it down at 80 High Street, the Royal Mile, just about a five minute walk from The Dunstane on 18^th October. Here you can buy and look at old and antiquated books and old maps for sale by merchants from all around the United Kingdom. It is a definite must for any bibliophile.

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Nothing beats a good story and from 24^th October to 2^nd November you can visit a universe of folklore, dreams, fantasy and fun by coming and listening to storytellers weave their tales of intrigue and imagination as you are whisked away to places and parts afar and unknown. That is at 43-45 High Street.

The Real Mary King’s Close

This is a must-do, for those who have been here before and those who have not. The Real Mary King's Close is an underground adventure of murder, horror plagues and sickness that you simply cannot miss. Staying at The Dunstane we have some amazing special offers which will give you access to all of the above events.

Fun at the 2014 Edinburgh Festivals

Edinburgh Festivals 2014

At The Dunstane Hotel we are proud to be ideally placed to accommodate so many of the guests arriving for the 2014 Edinburgh Festivals.  We always like to show our guests the perfect time and when they have travelled from all parts of the globe especially to visit Scotland we want to make their trip a trip of a lifetime and give them plenty happy memories to take home!

Edinburgh International Film Festival

We all enjoyed this year's Film Festival, and hope that next year will be just as excellent and successful as it was this year. The EIFF has been around since 1947 and now a world-renowned event, drawing crowds from every part of the world. Some of the most famous and successful movies from recent years have premiered at the EIFF and no doubt we will see many more. If you were here for this year's festival, we hope you had the best time. If you are planning to come for next year's then give us a call and book your tickets early.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

The Edinburgh Festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, and the Fringe is one of the biggest draws. We at The Dunstane love the festivals that are available around Edinburgh throughout the year, and we are planning ahead for this year’s fringe, taking place between 1^st and the 25^th August 2014.

At the end of a busy day in Edinburgh you won’t have far to go to reach The Dunstane. We are in the heart of Edinburgh, but also far enough away from the bustle of the town for a great night’s rest before returning to the action the next day! Our luxury boutique hotel is within two minutes of thirty or so venues and there are plenty of others just a few more steps away.  If you are planning to come and stay with us at The Dunstane in August, for the Fringe, or just a weekend break, get in touch today and we will ensure a relaxing and comfortable stay.

The Royal Highland Show

Edinburgh; the city of history and romance, of excitement and year-round entertainment.  If you are considering coming for a weekend break, Edinburgh has a range of festivals and events to suit every taste.  Throughout the year Edinburgh is a source of romance, entertainment and joy and visiting us at any time of year is a treat that no one will ever look back on with anything other than wonderful memories.

Image Credit: Creative Commons

A touch of Royalty

With summer well and truly arrived the City is filled with anticipation and excitement about the upcoming start of the Royal Highland Show, this year taking part on the long weekend of 19^th- 22^nd June. The Royal Highland Show—as it is known now—began in 1822 and was, in those days, a nomadic show which travelled between various cities in each year. Only in 1959 did it finally become static in Edinburgh, putting down roots as the Royal Highland Show, after it was bestowed the title in 1948 by King George VI.  Some of the main attractions of the Royal Highland Show are the Livestock shows, where people exhibit their cattle, sheep, ponies, horses, goats and many other breeds, hoping to win prizes.  There is also the Rural and Agricultural part of the show where visitors can view the huge variety of machines used in the farming world. There are equine supplies, sporting goods for outdoor sports, apparel and so much more. The weekend—Thursday through Sunday—is a plethora of exhibitions, food, music, children’s events, entertainment and so much more to entice all visitors.

An Event for all Seasons

If you intend to visit for the entire Royal Highland Show you will probably want to book a weekend break in Edinburgh, starting from the Wednesday night, through to the Sunday night or Monday morning.  One of the best places to stay is the Dunstane Hotel; right at the centre of all the action! Our boutique hotel is stylish, classy and offers spring breaks from as little as £75 per night. Even if you are not staying just for the Royal Highland Show, but want to extend your stay for shopping, golfing or rugby breaks, you can arrange your stay there. How about a romantic weekend in Edinburgh to celebrate a milestone anniversary? You can spend the night in a period four-poster with room service and breakfast in bed. Give us a call today and book your room for a weekend to remember.