Meet the Duty Managers! - Miguel Franceschi

It's the turn of Miguel - another one of our new Duty Managers at The Dunstane and Skerries! Hello Miguel......

1. So far in your role you mainly cover the restaurant and bar. What do you like most about your role?

I enjoy the restaurant and working together with my team to ensure that guests have a memorable dining experience with us - whether they are residents or outside guests. I am enjoying the guest interaction more and more. I am especially excited about introducing new ideas into Skerries such as my cocktail menu which will be launching before Christmas.

2. What is your favourite dish on the menu at the moment?

I would have to say the Spelt Risotto - it is simple but full of flavour and a twist on the conventional Risotto dishes.


3. What is your favourite bedroom in the hotel?

In the main building I would have to choose room 120 our Luxury Blue room - I think it creates a very dramatic first impression for guests checking in to the hotel. In the Townhouse I love City 19 - our suite... it is so clean cut and contemporary - I wouldn't need to leave the room!

4. Do you prefer the Luxury Townhouse or the main building?

I personally prefer the main building for its character and that is where the Restaurant is! But the Townhouse has is benefits and I do like running functions over there - such as Christenings in the Stroma Lounge etc.

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

It certainly is a change!I have however worked in the UK before so I found it easier to adapt to that you might imagine! Going back to Zimbabwe for that 1.5 years was quite challenging as I felt very unsettled due to the economic situation. I didn't feel that staying in Zim was right for me.

6. If you could make one change to the hotel so far what would it be?

The hotel itself is beautifully finished and furnished and I don't think it needs to be changed in anyway really. however I would like to change the menus more often so our residents get a better selection of dishes if they are staying for a few nights and a few more veggie options would be great.

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

While working in Zim, Tapas and live music became a huge trend and it was a fantastic atmosphere - maybe in the future we could look at this!

8. Describe your perfect day in Edinburgh

It is rather difficult to describe the perfect day i have had since i moved here but if I had to narrow it down, I would star my morning with a coffee in one of the many coffee shops Edinburgh has to offer - Maybe the Elephant Cafe in town where JK Rowling started Harry Potter! The head out to the Pentlands for a walk and then a braai with friends to finish off the day - maybe lastly a movie at the Dominion Cinema.

Thanks Miguel! Nice to meet you!

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.

Five Things To Do When You Visit Edinburgh

At The Dunstane, we love to entertain our guests in the best ways possible, and that includes offering them all the best local advice about things to see when they are here. Edinburgh is renowned for its beauty as a city, and there are so many things to see and do during your visit. We have compiled our own list of favourites for you.

1 – Edinburgh Castle

The ultimate token of Edinburgh, most people who come to Edinburgh do so with the intention of seeing Edinburgh castle. The castle is placed in the centre of the city which means you can see it from many different parts of town. There are tours around the grounds of the castle daily and the views are iconic. There are also featured historic events and activities on throughout the castle, one of our favourites being the Mary Queen of Scot’s event – find out all about her life from 1566.

2 – Scottish Parliament

The Scottish Parliament is based in Holyrood, and the building is fast becoming one of the most visited in the country. Ever since the building was completed, people have come from miles to see and experience. Well worth a visit especially this year with all of the Homecoming activities throughout the summer and autumn.

3 – Edinburgh Zoo

From Panda’s to Meerkats, Edinburgh zoo is one of the best days out in Scotland. See a wide variety of animals in habitats that are as close to their own environments as possible and see daily shows and daily exhibitions which are a fun treat for the whole family. It is only 10 minutes from The Dunstane too, which means getting back to put your feet up is no ordeal!

4 – Trams

Edinburgh is one of an increasing number of British cities to have voted to reinstate her tram system. The Trams have been an ongoing build in Scotland and at the end of May this year they began! The trams run right through the city and are another exciting way to feel the Edinburgh buzz during the summer wherever you are going. With its easy hop on – hop off process you can relax without having to bring your car into the city centre!

5 – Arthur’s Seat

Arthur's Seat is the famous dormant volcano that adorns the Edinburgh skyline, sitting majestically on the outskirts of the city. The Seat is known as such because it resembles a sitting lion with its gently arched back. It is also the home of Salisbury Crags and worth the trip if you fancy escaping from the bustle of the city without having to go too far. On a clear day the views are incredible and you can see over the whole of Edinburgh – it is definitely worth the trek to visit it!

All of the above activities are in the heart of the city – just like us! If you are coming to Edinburgh and are looking for accommodation, look no further than The Dunstane. Our beautifully decorated boutique rooms are perfect for relaxing after a tough day sightseeing! We are close enough to the excitement of the city but far enough away from the hustle and bustle. We have amazing offers on now for the best deals this summer – be sure to call our sales team on 0131 337 6169 and book direct for the best prices.

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.

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 Senior Receptionist!

MEET THE…..SENIOR RECEPTIONIST - Dayne Hart

So Dayne…..you have been at The Dunstane over a year now…..time for an up close and personal look at you and your role!


1. What part of your new role as senior receptionist do you enjoy the most?

The added responsibility! Each and every day I am faced with a new challenge and I feel working so in-depth within both Reservations and Reception enables me to really go the extra mile for our guests on all fronts of their visit. Right from their booking, throughout their stay, until (sadly) they eventually have to check-out. Being so involved on all fronts allows me to really get to know guests which is the most enjoyable part of my role.

2. What part of the City Supervisor role do you really miss?

The Dunstane City, now our luxury townhouse, felt like my own little project. I felt almost entirely responsible for all guests who arrived and I quite enjoyed that. I knew the building inside-out and it was my first real taste of real responsibility within a work environment so it will always hold a special significance for me. Although the bar area was a lot smaller than our new Stroma Lounge, so it has definitely improved a lot since our refurb!

3. What’s the most challenging part of your role?

I think balancing my time.  On any given day I could be taking bookings, processing reservations, checking reservations, answering phone calls, making orders, serving breakfast, replying to e-mails, checking guests in, checking guests out, serving drinks and often helping with dinner service, so it can be quite a challenge to find a good balance between departments, although I always find time for our wonderful guests!

4. If you could change one thing at The Dunstane what would it be?

Some would suggest swimming pools and spas etc. but personally the thing that would really complete The Dunstane for me would be a comfortable Library with an open fire where guests could relax with a drink, sit back and loose themselves in classic novel. We used to have a Library before our refurb a number of years ago, who knows, maybe one day we could see it return?

5. What’s the strangest thing that’s happened to you at Dunstane?

Well one night at around midnight I was closing up the bar and reception. The hotel was eerily quiet as we only had a few guests staying on this particular night. I locked up the front door and as I walked through reception I noticed that the door to the corridor at the top of the landing was wide open. I quickly looked to check if anyone was staying in that corridor on this night, when suddenly the door slammed closed with a loud bang which echoed throughout the hotel. Now I’m not a big believer in the Paranormal, but that made every hair on my body stand on end… 

6. What event are you looking forward to the most this year at The Dunstane?

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival! I have lived in Edinburgh for most of my life, now I am excited to experience a different dimension of it in a working capacity. Last year I was unable to work much during the month of august after sustaining a nasty injury playing football, which was such a let-down as I was really looking forward to the atmosphere within the hotel. All the guests are so excited during the festival and there is a real energy around Edinburgh which makes it an incredible place to be.

7. What’s your favourite dish on the menu?

The Haggis Bon-Bons with Home-made Chilli Jam is to die for, however I must say the Traditional Fish and Chips is my very favourite dish. The fish is cooked in a very light Tempura Batter which just melts in the mouth and the Home-made, Hand-cut Chips are like no other I have ever tasted! That question has really made me hungry!

8. Which is your favourite room at The Dunstane?

 It is very difficult to choose a favourite room. For a long time I would have answered room 205 at our Luxury Townhouse, largely because of the Super-king size bed and Jacuzzi bath! However I think the Blue Room, room 120 just wins it for me. The décor is so unique, and the bathroom is large and matches the blue of the bedroom. I had the pleasure of spending a night in the Blue Room one time and I was devastated to be leaving the room in the morning.

9. What is your favourite thing to do in Edinburgh in your spare time?

Golf! Scotland is just perfect for anyone who, like me, loves Golf. There are so many beautiful, picturesque courses in and around Edinburgh. If you are a keen golfer, I strongly urge you to bring your clubs with you the next time you visit Edinburgh… You will not regret it!

Thanks Dayne! Enjoy the rest of your shift!

The Dunstane - Mother's Day Lunch

The Dunstane - Mothering Sunday Lunch 30th March 2014

What do you have planned for your Mum this weekend? Here at Dunstane we love spoiling your Mums! Bring her along to The Skerries for lunch this Sunday and treat her to a scrumptious three course meal - HALF PRICE! We think our Mums are so special that we will give you a 50% discount on her meal. Choose from our Roast Topside of Orkney Beef, Isle of Aaran Smoked Salmon, Haggis Bon Bons or Pan - Fried Orkney Sea Bass. Book your table now and your Mum will eat with us half price!

MENU

Cream of Parsnip Soup

Isle of Arran Cold Smoked Salmon, Horseradish Cream and Homemade Walnut Bread

Haggis Bon Bons, Pickled Turnip and Sauce Soubise 

Homemade Gnocchi, Watercress Cream 

***

Roast Topside of Orkney Beef, Roast Potatoes, Spring Vegetables and Rosemary Gravy 

Pan-Fried Sea Bass with Creamed Leeks, Shallots and Wild Mushrooms

Corn Fed Chicken Breast, Crushed Peas, Tapenade and Tomato and Herb Dressing

Celeriac and Loch Arthur Cheddar Pithivier with Rocket Salad

***

Dark Chocolate Parfait, White Chocolate Cream and Raspberry Jus

Rhubarb, Ginger and Pear Cheesecake

Selection of Homemade Ice-creams

3 Course £21.95

Book now! Call 0131 3376169

reserve@thedunstane.co.uk

Quote Mother's Day Offer!

*One Mum per table of 4.

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 Meet the Operations Manager!

The Dunstane – Edinburgh’s Boutique Hotel



Our ‘Behind the Scenes with the Staff’ series kicks off with Meet the Operations Manager – Jamie Trousdale.

So Jamie…..you have been at The Dunstane Hotel for a little over 6 months now…..time for an up close and personal look at you and your role at Edinburgh’s Boutique Hotel!

What is the most challenging part of your week?

I absolutely love getting to know our guests during their stay. I like to find out all about their plans and experiences of Edinburgh’s Tourist attractions! Whether they enjoyed their trip to Edinburgh Castle, whether they bought fudge on the Royal Yacht Britannia and whether they saw the Panda’s at Edinburgh Zoo! Without a doubt, the hardest part is saying goodbye when it is time for them to leave!

What part of your new role as operations manager do you enjoy the most?

I love being able to welcome our guests personally to the hotel, and being back on the frontline helping every individual person. We are strongly guest focused at The Dunstane and it is really important to me to make sure that all of our guests are looked after in the best possible way by our dedicated staff.

What part of Sales & Revenue do you really miss?

There’s just so much to learn about it is a constantly changing and developing market. Edinburgh Hotels especially are really exciting to be involved with. I really miss the Social Media side of the job – I love interacting with our guests on Facebook, Twitter and Google + and I just love keeping them up to date with our daily shenanigans on Pintrest so they can see life at the Dunstane Hotel behind the scenes.

If you could change one thing at the Dunstane what would it be?

A swimming pool would be absolutely fantastic – but I don't think the boss will go for it!! We do have some great links with local spa facilities though so our guests can take advantage of great discounts and special packages.

What is your favourite thing to do in Edinburgh in your spare time?

I have lived in Edinburgh for almost 5 years and still don't get bored of walking along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town. The old buildings completely fascinate me and I could do it for hours! There’s so much to see up there – not just Edinburgh Castle (which obviously dominates) but there’s some real hidden gems. Whisky shops, amazing restaurants, The Scotch Whisky Experience, Camera Obscura……too many to name!

What's the strangest thing that's happened to you at Dunstane?

The Dunstane is almost 200 years old. Being alone in this amazing Victorian mansion house at Christmas is one the most terrifying experiences of my life! Many staff believe there are ghosts, I'm not so sure but I was shaking anyway!

What event are you looking forward to the most this year at Dunstane?

Our Easter Family Fun day is going to be amazing! We have organised bouncy castles, face painters, wine tastings – something for everyone really! There’s also a fab Easter Sunday Lunch in Skerries that shouldn’t be missed!

What's your favourite dish on the menu?

I am a simple country boy – so love the new Stane Menu! The steak baguette is to die for with Chef’s home made mayo and the best Orkney beef cuts to set it off – perfection!

Which is your favourite room at The Dunstane Hotel?

All of our luxury rooms are gorgeous. My favourite is actually one of the deluxe doubles. Room 108 sits at the top of the hotel and makes me feel a little like a king! I like that. All the rooms are personally and individually designed so you can never get bored! A whole new experience every time you come and stay with us. If you have a particular favourite room we will always try and make sure you get it!

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

We look forward to meeting you soon!

The Dunstane - Easter Break In Edinburgh

The Dunstane - Easter Break In Edinburgh

Easter Breaks at The Dunstane - you'll have a cracking time!

Choose to enjoy an Easter escape to beautiful Edinburgh and immerse yourself in a fantastic array of attractions for all to enjoy. A city steeped in rich culture, history and tradition, Edinburgh will facilitate in ensuring an array of enticing delights this Easter. Choose to stay at one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy an Easter break in sheer exclusivity at The Dunstane.

Treat yourself to an Easter break in Edinburgh and immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s array of excellent attractions. Enjoy a shopping extravaganza of enticing delights before discovering the dramatic Edinburgh Castle and its array of exciting sights. Explore the surrounding Edinburgh countryside for a truly tranquil escape and discover an array of scenic delights or immerse yourself with a range of fantastic shows at Edinburgh's abundance of theatres. Perfect for guests of all ages, choose to enjoy a fantastic Easter break in true style. Indulge yourself with Edinburgh's array of truly excellent restaurants and enjoy fantastic food and drink before visiting Edinburgh Zoo which will provide a fantastic array of thrilling sights and exciting discoveries for all to enjoy. Renowned for its immersing street markets, choose to explore a range of unique gifts, tantalising treasures and bespoke items in Edinburgh this Easter for a truly fantastic retreat. Enjoy delicious hot street food and the hustle and bustle of rapturous crowds for an exciting Easter escape. Visit Murrayfield and immerse yourself in a fantastic display of rugby where fierce encounters, brute force and electric energy will ensure a thrilling spectacle.

Following the day’s forays, choose to escape to one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy an Easter break of sheer exclusivity at The Dunstane. Indeed, you will be able to enjoy scrumptious food and drink at our excellent Skerries Restaurant before retreating to our truly relaxing rooms.

With that being said, don’t hesitate to enjoy an exclusive Easter escape at one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy a range of enticing delights at The Dunstane. Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s array of fantastic array of attractions for an Easter retreat in truly unforgettable 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.

The Dunstane - Valentine's Day

The Dunstane - Valentine's Day

The Dunstane - Valentine's Day

A time for indulging treats and enticing delights, Valentine’s Day will see besotted couples the world over immersing themselves in an array of tantalising pleasures. Indeed, with the 14^th of February fast approaching, choose to stay at The Dunstane and enjoy Valentine’s Day at one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh.

Certainly, The Dunstane’s exclusive Romantic Breaks Valentine’s Day package will ensure a truly unforgettable escape in beautiful Edinburgh. For only £168 per person, you will be treated to two night’s accommodation as well a scrumptious full Scottish breakfast in bed or in our excellent restaurant each morning. Additionally, an indulgent chilled bottle of champagne, box of luxury chocolates as well as rose petals will wait in eager anticipation in your room. You will also be treated to a fantastic three course dinner one evening in our A la Carte Skerries Restaurant. Using the finest fresh Scottish produce, you will enjoy a truly indulgent dinner in true style. Indeed, The Dunestane will facilitate in ensuring you enjoy an exclusive and relaxing retreat at one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh.

Certainly, with an array of enticing attractions to explore in Edinburgh, you will be able to enjoy an excellent retreat this Valentine’s Day. Soaked in rich history, culture and tradition, Edinburgh’s beauty and dramatic setting will facilitate in providing a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day retreat for besotted coupled to indulge themselves. Explore Edinburgh’s array of enticing delights before retreating to one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh where you can blissfully relax.

With that being said, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to The Dunstane’s excellent Romantic Breaks offer and enjoy a retreat of sheer exclusivity in Edinburgh this Valentine’s Day. One of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh, The Dunstane will ensure a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day!