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!

The Dunstane girls go to the Scottish Hotel Awards!

The Dunstane Does The Scottish Hotel Awards!




The Dunstane team were out in force on Sunday night at the 2014 Scottish Hotel Awards which took place at The Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa. This was our first year at the awards and what a great start we had! Shirley Mowat, Director, Samantha Wright, Sales & Revenue Manager and Laura Taylor, Head Housekeeper went along to join in the celebrations - not at all expecting any awards in our first year attending!

What a great evening put on by the Sheraton with good food, champagne flowing and great entertainment - including the vocal talent of Scotland's own Jai McDowall, Britain's Got Talent winner 2011.

Partnered up with another hotel from up north we sat patiently to congratulate others on their awards and wait to see who had won hotel of the year. Little did we expect to be congratulating our very own team!





Skerries Restaurant and Head Chef Martin Collins picked up a Gold Medal and a Highly commended award and Samantha Wright, Sales & Revenue Manager was a awarded a Gold Medal for Business Management. Jamie Trousdale, our newest member of Management, was also awarded a Rising Star award.






Well done to all involved! Looking forward to more of the same next year!!

The Dunstane - Meet the Sales & Revenue Manager!

MEET THE…..SALES AND REVENUE MANAGER – SAMANTHA WRIGHT

Hi Samantha, so you were with The Dunstane for almost 7 years, and now you're back! Tell me,


1. What has been your favourite position at The Dunstane?

Although I love being front of house with the guests I think my new role as Sales & Revenue Manager is my favourite so far. Its great to be able to get stuck in to the business side of things and I am learning new things every day! It is challenging and I love being able to see the results of my work on a daily basis.

2. Do you ever miss the Operations side of the hotel?

I do really miss the guest interaction although I am front of house most mornings during breakfast and check out – I just cant help myself! It great to hear all the positive feedback and suggestions from our residents - and also plug a bit of Trip Advisor on check out! It is so important to hear, and act on, the feedback from our residents.

3. Do you think your short time away from the Dunstane has given you a different outlook?

Absolutely! I am more aware of how other hotels operate and I hope I have brought some of that knowledge back with me to The Dunstane. I think it is important to keep your outlook fresh as well and a short time away has given me a new perspective and fresh ideas. It has also made me realise just how great The Dunstane is! It is such a friendly, welcoming hotel and the customer service is honestly second to none! The guys at the front are so special and make every guest’s experience unique and one to remember.

4. Is there anything that you would like to bring to The Dunstane from Yorkshire?

Rhubarb! No seriously I think Yorkshire’s larder has as much offer as Scotlands sometimes but our chefs at Skerries have it covered with the new menu launched a couple of weeks ago! I am slowly working my way through the new dishes and cant pick a favourite as yet! They are all so good! I think our guests are definately benefiting from the larger choice

5. What is your favourite memory in the hotel?

Oooooo that’s a hard one! There are so many! I think our two launch nights have been so memorable for me. We had one in 2008 when we launched the Townhouse and also in 2012 when we did our extensive refurbishment to the main building. They were such amazing nights with support from our local competitors and our guests too! The staff Christmas parties are also great fun! Looking forward to planning this years!

6. What is your favourite room in the hotel?

That’s easy! The Red Room – room 121 – one of our Luxury Four Poster Rooms. I was really involved in the décor and planning of this room so it has a special place in my heart! Down to the fabulous high backed easy chairs that I saw across the furniture warehouse and just had to have!!!

7. Do you prefer the townhouse or the main building?

The main building will always have a special place in my heart because it was our first property of the two but I must say – the new Stroma Lounge at the Townhouse is certainly one of my new favourite spots in the hotel!

9. Describe your perfect day in Edinburgh.

I love the Shore area and Ocean Terminal….so I think a walk down – from The Dunstane and down the Water of Leith to reach the Shore - followed by a trip around the Royal Yacht Britannia and some relaxing drinks in one of the many fab bars down there. Ideal in the sunshine! Maybe an evening Salsa dancing to top it all off!

10. Is there anywhere else in the world you would rather be?​

Absolutely not – I tried that by moving to Yorkshire and realised that The Dunstane and Edinburgh was the place to be!

To book your room at Dunstane call us on 0131 3376169 or email our friendly team – reserve@thedunstane.co.uk

To contact Samantha directly email - sales@thedunstane.co.uk

We look forward to meeting you soon!

The Dunstane - New Skerries Menu Launch

The Dunstane - New Skerries Menu Launch

The Dunstane and Skerries has always been well known for it’s Seafood platters and home cooked, fresh delights. Following the massive 2012 refurbishment, we thought it would be a nice change of pace to try our hand at fine dining – which has worked excellently! We have sourced one of Edinburgh’s finest chefs and really become experts in our food and service.

2014 has been our big year of change (even our name!) and with that we have decided to bring in some of our old Dunstane style. We are going to continue our fine dining appearance and service, keep the option of the fine dining dishes on the menu, and add some of our oldest favourites too on our new menu!

We have brought back Dunstane legends like our Dark Island Steak and Ale Pie, Orkney Sirloin Baguette, and Haddock in Tempura Batter! We announced our big change on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest – and our restaurant has been fully booked ever since!

Our Head Chef, Martin Collins, really does take great pride in his food and sources every single ingredient from only the very best local suppliers.

Take a look at our new menu!

Remember, we always have promotions running and do cater for special events and private functions too! If you require any information, just let us know on 0131 3376169 or email reserve@thedunstane.co.uk.

We also have more information at www.thedunstane.co.uk on our special offers and upcoming events.

The Dunstane - Edinburgh City Break

The Dunstane - Edinburgh City Break

Escape to the stunning Dunstane for an amazing Edinburgh City Break

Renowned for their exciting hustle and bustle, array of attractions and immersing culture, city breaks offer a truly enticing escape. Certainly, Edinburgh’s enchanting beauty will make for an exciting escape where you will be able to discover the city’s rich history and tradition. Choose to stay at one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy a truly fantastic stay at The Dunstane.

Explore dramatic Edinburgh and immerse yourself in a city escape which guests of all ages will enjoy. Indeed, with such an array of sights and exciting destinations awaiting in eager anticipation, choose to discover Edinburgh’s array of thrilling attractions and enjoy a city break in true style. Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s fantastic shopping or explore the dramatic Edinburgh Castle and discover its array of enticing delights. Indeed, Edinburgh’s array of thrilling sights will ensure a truly excellent city break, catering to your every desire. Edinburgh’s fantastic array of attractions will ensure a truly unforgettable escape!

Following the day’s forays, choose to escape to one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy a stay of sheer exclusivity. Indeed, The Dunstane will facilitate in ensuring you enjoy a city break in true style. Choose to indulge yourself at our excellent Skerries Restaurant where you will be able to enjoy the finest local ingredients. Escape to our truly relaxing rooms and enjoy a stay of sheer exclusivity, ensuring a retreat to Edinburgh in truly unforgettable style.

With that being said, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to an escape to Edinburgh and discover an array of thrilling attractions for all to enjoy. Stay at one the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and indulge yourself at The Dunstane. Indeed, you will be treated to an array of enticing delights as you discover Edinburgh’s scenic beauty and immersing sights in sheer style! 

For more information contact The Dunstane on 0131 337 6169 and someone from our lovely team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Romantic Breaks at The Dunstane Hotel in Edinburgh

Sometimes we could all do with a little romantic break away with our other half, what with the hustle and bustle of the festive period it is nice to remember what is truly important to us so why not celebrate your love with a romantic break away to the capital. Here at the luxury 4 star Dunstane Hotel in Edinburgh, you’ll find a warm and romantic bedroom to make an intimate evening with the person you love. The Dunstane hotel is different other 4 star hotels, it combines luxury and a friendly environment through 38 opulent bedrooms, with a mix of Victorian splendour and professional cheery staff.

The Dunstane Hotel is located in the heart of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, which offers a romantic landscape thanks to famous landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyrood, many fantastic museums, galleries, and theatres. With a castle, a cobbled medieval Old Town, parks and hills, Edinburgh is designed for romance. Scotland's capital has produced some of the world's best known Scottish poets and writers, each inspired by the city's beauty.
You can't have a truly romantic escape, without a delicious dinner, and The Dunstane has the fantastic Skerries Restaurant & Bar which will set the scene for the rest of your evening. Inspired by the owner's Orcadian heritage you will find Blue Shell Shetland Mussels, a trio of Isle of Aaron Salmon and selected prime cuts of Orkney beef. Our home made desserts are a treat not to be missed.
Dive in and discover the beauty of the Scottish Capital and treat that special someone for an unforgettable and romantic break. Book a Romantic Escape at Dunstane Hotels – the price starting from £168.00 per person.

Romantic Break includes:

• Two nights' accommodation in The Dunstane Hotel
• Continental breakfast each in bed each morning
• A complimentary chilled bottle of champagne in your room for your arrival, box of luxury hand crafted chocolates and rose petals sprinkled on your bed
• Three course dinner one evening in our Skerries Restaurant

These prices are based on two people sharing a double/twin in Dunstane Hotel. Superior and four poster rooms are available; please speak to reservations for pricing. This break is not valid during the Valentines period 2013- see our Valentines break over this period.
Why not treat yourselves and add on some extras to your booking?
Speak to reservations to upgrade to a Superior or Four Poster room add some wine with dinner, flowers for your loved one or a late check out to make the most of your Romantic Break at Dunstane. Add a Sunday night on to your stay for 25% off our normal B&B rate…..the choices are endless!