Indulge your Artistic Sensibilities at the Edinburgh Art Festival

We’re getting excited about this year’s Edinburgh Arts Festival, which takes place throughout August.  It is the perfect opportunity to visit Edinburgh and to indulge your artistic sensibilities! Established in 2004, the Art Festival was conceived in order to pay homage to the visual arts and showcase new and upcoming Scottish artists as well as established ones.

A new festival emerges

So, how did the Art Festival emerge as a distinct cultural event? Essentially it continued the established pattern of the building of relationships between Arts councils, galleries and universities that took place during the larger Edinburgh International Festival taking place at the same time.  From 2005 to 2007 a festival guide was produced, which also included collaborative projects and commissions. This gave way to promotions and a marketing platform whereby artists could showcase their own artistic work. Visitors will find that the Art Festival has grown so comprehensively that there are now over thirty venues and forty-five exhibitions available to see at the Festival.

Image Courtesy of Edinburgh Art Festival

Highlights of this year’s Festival

When you visit Edinburgh during the Festival you will have the opportunity to see the fine exhibitions that they will be holding. This year, there are an estimated 45 exhibitions ranging from the modern and contemporary back to the historical art periods. The Ming: The Golden Empire is an exhibition covering the opulence of the imperial Ming court and illustrates the unique Chinese style.  There is also an exhibition called Alt-W, which gives a voice to new work Chris Helson and Sarah Jackets, among others. Aside from those, you will also experience the American Impressionists exhibitions, the Leon Morrocco exhibition and the Katie Paterson: Ideas exhibition.

What is your favourite style of visual art?  Let us know your opinion on the exhibits from this year’s festival

Book your early bird room offer

At the Dunstane we like to offer our accommodation and our boutique rooms to visitors attending the festival, but you must book early. Have a look at our website and check for our early bird offers and find out how to book your room for the entire festival to make sure you don’t miss out! We can guarantee that you will have the time of your life when you visit us here!

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 - Top 5 Edinburgh Attractions

The Dunstane - Top 5 Edinburgh Attractions

The Dunstane - Top 5 Edinburgh Attractions

Edinburgh boasts a fantastic array of exciting attractions which will make for an immersing and truly enjoyable visit. Indeed, the city’s variety of tantalising sights and culture soaked delights will ensure an excellent escape which guests of all ages will enjoy. Choose to explore these exciting attractions and stay at one the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh with The Dunstane!

Indeed, the National Museum of Scotland offers a fantastic display of the natural world, cultures, science and technology as well as art and design and Scottish history. Additionally, with a number of activities for younger and older guests, the National Museum of Scotland will truly make for an excellent attraction.

Choose to visit the dramatic Edinburgh Castle and enjoy breathtaking views over the city as well as an array of military and historical attractions. Dominating the city’s skyline, the Edinburgh Castle is a truly iconic sight and one that will ensure guests enjoy a range of exciting sights.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions offers guests truly unique panoramic views over the city from the camera obscura as well as from a rooftop terrace. The attraction also boasts an array of thrilling optical illusions, tricks and mazes across five floors with guests being treated to a truly exciting extravaganza of activities.

The Scottish National Gallery offers a national collection of fine art and is free to enter. Although some exhibitions may charge, the Scottish National Gallery boasts a fantastic display of art from a range of styles and artists. Indeed, guests will be able to discover an array of truly excellent art in a fantastic setting.

The Edinburgh Zoo is a fantastic attraction and offers a diverse range of animals as well as a programme of educational workshops and activities which guests of all ages will enjoy. Additionally, with a number of play areas and an excellent gift shop, Edinburgh Zoo will ensure an immersing attraction for all the family to enjoy.

Choose to explore Edinburgh’s excellent array of exciting attractions before retreating to one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh. Certainly, The Dunstane will ensure a relaxing and truly exclusive stay as you discover Edinburgh’s fantastic sights!

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.

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! 

The Dunstane - Six Nations Rugby

The Dunstane - Six Nations Rugby

The Dunstane - Six Nations Rugby

Come the 8^th of February, Edinburgh will become engulfed in crowds of rapturous rugby fans as Scotland kick-start their RBS Six Nations tournament with what will undoubtedly be a fierce clash against England at Murrayfield. The oldest fixture in international rugby, a spectacle of brute force, fierce encounters and electric energy will be sure to astound. Indeed, Scotland will be looking to make an impact following their narrow loss when England last visited Murrayfield to win the much sought-after Calcutta Cup.

Scotland’s second encounter at Murrayfield against France on the 8^th of March, will also be a formidable one. Indeed, with Scotland only narrowly losing to France on their previous two matches, Scotland will be looking to stand their ground and lock horns in fierce battle.

Choose to enjoy a rugby weekend away and enjoy the RBS Six Nations whilst staying at the exclusive Dunstane, one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh. Indeed, our fantastic Edinburgh rugby breaks package includes two nights’ accommodation for £195 per person and is based on two people sharing a classic double or twin room. Located near to Murrafield, you will be treated to a full Scottish breakfast each morning as well as a 3 course dinner in our A La Carte restaurant the night before the game.

Undoubtedly one the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh, enjoy watching some of the rugby world’s elite do battle before retreating to the Dunstane to relax in true style. Indeed, our exclusive rooms will facilitate in ensuring a truly bespoke and unforgettable stay which will serve as a fantastic treat.

With that being said, don’t hesitate to indulge yourself with the Dunstane’s excellent Edinburgh rugby breaks package and stay at one the finest boutique hotels in Edinburgh. Enjoy a weekend of thrilling rugby whilst staying at one of the most exclusive and luxury hotels in Edinburgh! 

Celebrate Hogmanay at The Dunstane Hotel Edinburgh

Are you ready to welcome in a New Year? At The Dunstane Hotel in Edinburgh, we have a fantastic Hogmanay package. We like to think that our hotel is different to other hotels thanks to our beautiful traditional Christmas tree, festive decorations, cosy atmosphere and cheery staff. You can enjoy your time relaxing at our Stane Bar, the perfect place to sample some of Scotland's fine Malt Whisky or if you are feeling active you can take a leisurely stroll along Princes Street and through the Winter Wonderland. For more Hogmanay celebration, our guests will all enjoy a fabulous Five Course Meal in Skerries Restaurant. Champagne and canapés will be served beforehand in the Stane Bar. Afterwards you may wish to reserve a ticket to the famous Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party, the fireworks are a must see and the entertainment at the street party will keep you buzzing through the bells and on into 2014! Book your Superior room at the Dunstane City Hotel and get your superior room for only £420.00 per person for our Hogmanay package!!

We spoil you for 3 days with the following:

• Luxury Accommodation 
• 3 Course meal on the 30th 
• 5 Course meal on 31st 
• Breakfast each morning 

Three day stay - from £350 per person. Should you wish to upgrade to a deluxe room, it is £475.00 per person. This includes all meals as stated above within the time frame you are staying with us, with accommodation in a standard double/twin room (based on two people sharing).

If you would like to book this amazing offer please click here  or call our reservations team on 0131 337 6169.

Super Saver Shopping Break at The Dunstane Edinburgh

To be surrounded by luxury, a gorgeous environment and world class shops, choose Edinburgh for a great shopping experience and an amazing day out. Visit this elegant City and stay at The Dunstane Hotel, for stunning accommodation in the heart of the Edinburgh.

Take a walk along Edinburgh’s Princess Street and George Street - these two famous streets offer designer stores and all the main high street brands we all love. During your shopping time, you can enjoy Afternoon Tea at one of the cafés above Princes Street. If caffeine doesn't revive you, the view of Edinburgh Castle certainly will. While George Street offers shops mostly comprising of high-end designer brands. Other shops are concentrated in the Old Town such as Deadhead Comics, rated as one of the top five comic shops in the UK, Howie Nichols, where you’ll find traditional Scottish kilts that range from kitsch to cutting-edge since launching his designs at London Fashion Week in 1999, and make sure to drop into Antiqueas, where you’ll have a genuinely luxurious and authentic high-tea experience. Forget about the time… Indulge yourself in a relaxing and enjoyable shopping experience. Here at The Dunstane we have put together an amazing shopping package for you to enjoy a relaxing shopping break to the capital with lots of added perks, in the packages you will receive the following:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Full Scottish Breakfast each morning
• Glass of Prosecco on arrival
• A luxury Molton Brown gift set from us at The Dunstane
• A Trip to the Molton Brown store on George Street for a mini pampering package and an amazing treat bag as you leave the store.
• Homemade Chocolates in your room.

For more information on this amazing offer click here or call 0131 337 6169.