Marriott's Edinburgh Festival

Check out the interactive Marriott walking map to learn about some unique Edinburgh festival venues that combine the best of old & new, & plan your visit.

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Tour the Pickering's Gin Distillery

There are few tipples better suited to summer festival drinking than a cool, crisp gin and tonic – and the juniper-based spirit is undoubtedly having a moment, with an increasing number of handcrafted, artisanal varieties making their debut at bars across the country.

Edinburgh-based Pickering's Gin is based on an original family recipe, first written down in 1947 and kept secret for almost 70 years, before founders Marcus Pickering and Matthew Gammell tweaked the blend and reintroduced it to the world. Fresh and aromatic, with flavours of citrus, nuts and cinnamon, it's a distinctively moreish drink that works well on its own, with tonic or in a variety of mouth-watering cocktails.

The Pickering's distillery is located in Summerhall, one of Edinburgh's edgiest arts venues, which itself occupies a former veterinary school and small animal hospital. Summerhall hosts an eclectic range of Fringe shows, exhibitions and other events, which tend to be amongst the most talked-about of the season – well worth checking out.

While you're there, book in for a tour of Pickering's Summerhall Distillery to see the creative process in action – it's a fascinating glimpse into the alchemy behind producing small batches of handcrafted gin. You'll get insight into the nine botanicals that contribute to Pickering's distinctive taste and aroma, and can even sample the gin at various stages throughout the process. Finally, head to Summerhall's Royal Dick bar, where they have Pickering's Gin on tap – the perfect way to revive your senses for even more festival action. 

Summerhall Distillery

1 Summerhall, Edinburgh EH9 1PL

0131 290 2901

https://www.pickeringsgin.com/ 

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Explore contemporary Scottish arts and craft at Dovecot Studios

Edinburgh positively surges with talent and inventiveness during August, when artists and performers flock here from all over the world, but the city's own creative scene is refreshingly vibrant all year round, as well. A good example of this inspiring homegrown innovation is the work carried out at Dovecot Studios and Gallery, a well-established centre for contemporary arts, craft and design that revolves around a historic tapestry studio.

Like Edinburgh itself, Dovecot Studios combines the very best of old and new traditions. First established in the city's Corstorphine neighbourhood in 1912, the studio takes its name from the 16th-century stone dovecot that stood in its original grounds. For over a century, the studio has been producing exquisite hand-woven tapestries and gun-tufted rugs, ensuring that these ancient skills are passed on to new generations of weavers even as they take the art form into the modern age through collaborations with a variety of artists and designers and imaginative commissions.

The centre settled in its current location in the former Victorian swimming baths on Infirmary Street in 2008, where it now offers a bright and airy space for exhibitions, weaving and events. Running alongside the tapestry studio is Dovecot Gallery, which features an outstanding programme of exhibitions of local and international artists, designers and makers, all with the aim of promoting and showcasing a full range of creative arts. The space also includes a lovely shop and café, and with a handy location just off South Bridge – only a short walk from several centres of Fringe activity, including the Pleasance, the Cowgate and Bristo Square – it's the ideal place to escape the festival crowds for a spell and take some time out to appreciate Edinburgh's wealth of creative talent.

10 Infirmary Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LT

0131 550 3660

https://dovecotstudios.com/

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Get your caffeine fix at Cult Espresso

Taking in everything there is to see and do at Edinburgh's festivals takes stamina, and what better way to make sure you stay alert and ready for action than by finding a reliable source of good, strong coffee? Luckily, you don't have to go far. Situated on Buccleuch Street, just around the corner from all the festival action in Assembly George Square Gardens, Cult Espresso has gained a devoted following for its high-quality single origin coffees.

With its cool, pared-back interior with a touch of geek-chic style (including an impressive collection of Star Wars Lego), Cult Espresso is edgy yet welcoming, a friendly neighbourhood hangout that's perfect for resting your feet and relaxing for a while. What's more, its staff are genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about their coffee, making this the ideal destination for discerning connoisseurs, as well as those looking to expand their coffee horizons.

Sample flavoursome brews from small-scale, independent suppliers such as Round Hill Roastery and Horsham Coffee Roaster, as well as regularly changing guest espressos. There's also an extensive selection of teas and a tempting menu of simple but satisfying food, from hot soup and fresh sandwiches to delicious baked goods – perfect for staying fuelled for all your Fringe adventures.

104 Buccleuch Street, Edinburgh EH8 9NQ

http://www.cult-espresso.com/ 

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Savour fresh local produce at Blackfriars

After a frenetic day of festival touring, there's nothing better than finding a cosy nook where you can relax and dine on richly flavoured yet unfussy cuisine. Tucked away on the eponymous Blackfriars Street, a steep, cobbled lane running off the Royal Mile, Blackfriars is just such a place – an independent restaurant and bar that serves up the best of Scottish produce with an innovative twist, with a prime location not too far from the festival action, but sheltered from the teeming crowds.

With a carefully chosen menu of well-executed dishes and a stripped-back interior full of rustic charm (think warm brick walls, painted wood, seashells and other natural touches), Blackfriars offers casual bistro dining at its cosy best. Choose from delicious, seasonal set menus in the restaurant at lunch or dinner, or opt for small plates of hearty, tapas-style snacks in the bar throughout the day. There's also a number of interesting craft beers on tap and by the bottle, and a great selection of wines and spirits that's sure to satisfy even the thirstiest of Fringe-goers.

If you just fancy a quiet place to unwind with a pint before your next show, there's also no better haven on a mild afternoon than Blackfriars' shady courtyard beer garden, shielded from the outside world by sturdy stone walls. It's the perfect hideaway to sit back and get your second wind (and maybe peruse some of those show fliers you've picked up along the way).

57-61 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh EH1 1NB

0131 558 8684

http://blackfriarsedinburgh.co.uk/

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Shop for gorgeous Scottish creations at ANTA

If you're craving a souvenir of your stay in Edinburgh that authentically captures the area's stunning scenery and vibrant cultural traditions, a visit to ANTA may well be in order. For over 25 years, ANTA's distinctive tartan and Scottish-inspired designs have been a favourite with locals and visitors alike, capturing perfectly the timeless elegance and rustic charm of classic Scottish interior design.

All of ANTA's products are made in the UK, with the collection spanning everything from luxe textiles for the home (think cushions, rugs, throws, curtains and even carpets and rugs in wool, tweed and linen) to hand-painted stoneware, furniture and fashion accessories. Owners/designers Annie and Lachlan Stewart have cultivated a strong working partnership with the craftspeople who make each item, resulting in a collection that perfectly balances traditional workmanship with contemporary style.

For example, the wool used in ANTA's textiles is sourced from the Western Isles and then woven into yarn in the Scottish Borders, while the oak furniture and ceramics are all made in workshops in the Highlands. The result is a carefully chosen assortment of inspiring designs that are as practical and durable as they are attractive, and that make ideal gifts or souvenirs that reflect Scotland's artistry and customs.

The brand's flagship store is on George Street, at the heart of one of Edinburgh's chief shopping areas and just a short walk from the Edinburgh Book Festival site in Charlotte Square and popular Fringe venues such as the Assembly Rooms and the Spiegeltent in St Andrew Square. It's a wonderful space to browse between shows, and pick up a beautiful memento of your Edinburgh experience.

119 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JN

01862832477

http://anta.co.uk/

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Visit Edinburgh festival venues with a story

Edinburgh is a cultural hotspot that excels at blending the best of the old and the new, especially during August, when many of its characterful old buildings gain new life as venues for cutting-edge festival productions.

Click on the interactive map above to learn more about some of these fascinating Edinburgh festival venues – each with its own tale to tell - then follow our walking route through the city to visit each one in person.

PROPOSED WALKING ROUTE

Start at the Acoustic Music Centre at St. Bride's(1) on Orwell Terrace in the city's West End, then head east along Dalry Road. Just past Haymarket Station, take a left onto Palmerston Place to visit The Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre(2).

From here, head south to connect with Morrison Street, where you'll find Henry's Cellar Bar(3). Continuing east, cross Lothian Road and continue through the Grassmarket before turning left onto Victoria Street to visit the Filament Coffee pop-up café(4) in the India Buildings.

Then head south along George IV Bridge until you reach Bedlam Theatre(5), before backtracking along Candlemaker Row to descend into the Cowgate and wind up in The Rowantree Bar in The Caves(6).

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Bedlam Theatre

You might not know… Located in an historic Neo-gothic church, Bedlam Theatre is Britain's oldest student-run theatre, having played host to the Edinburgh University Theatre Company for more than 30 years.

One of the theatre's many charms is its unique setting within an old Neo-gothic church which has stood at the foot of George IV Bridge since 1849. The church fell into the ownership of Edinburgh University in the 1970s and was briefly used as the university's Chaplaincy before being converted into a theatre in 1980.

Over the years, Bedlam (or Venue 49 as it's known as during the festival) has become synonymous with the world famous Fringe Festival, and this year's programme promises to be as entertaining as ever, with theatre, dance and comedy shows from around the globe taking centre stage. 

Bedlam's resident student comedy group, meanwhile, will return with their much-loved improvised comedy spectacle 'The Improverts' for the 25th year running.

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Acoustic Music Centre @ St Bride’s

You might not know… This former church and community centre is the place to be during the festival for fans of folk and international music, with over 140 performances of 60 different shows over the three weeks of the festival.

If you want a break from the Fringe's delightful chaos and noise, take a trip to Venue 123 – the Acoustic Music Centre @ St Bride’s, housed within the St. Bride's community centre just off Dalry Road and a short step from Haymarket rail station. With two performance spaces to choose from and a diverse events calendar throughout the festival, this is the place to be for many international styles, including folk/acoustic/blues/Celtic, as well as Chinese drama and music from Beijing, Taekwondo from South Korea, and Bolshoi Theatre dancers from Russia.

In this year’s Festival Fringe, the former church of St. Bride's will play host to 140 performances from 60 different shows in 21 days, from the award-winning off-Broadway show, Mata Hari In 8 Bullets which premiered at New York Musical Theatre Festival in 2013 to standing ovations and tremendous critical response, to the award-winning sounds of Danish-Scottish fusion trio IntsøRing – not to mention acts from all over the UK, Australia, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Ireland, South Korea, Sweden, and the USA that will provoke emotion, leave you breathless and, of course, get your toes tapping.

The Acoustic Music Centre @ St Bride’s is just one season of events at the St Bride's Centre, which hosts a year-long schedule of educational classes, fitness events, drama clubs and children's activities. If you're just passing by, you can also treat yourself to a range of snacks and hot drinks in the café, while your little ones busy themselves in the toddler's play area.

The official St. Bride's site has more information on events and how to get there. You can make a phone enquiry by calling 0131 346 1405.

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Try before you buy Edinburgh Fringe acts at The Caves

You might not know… This atmospheric bar and festival venue is set in series of 18th-century stone vaults that form the base of Edinburgh's South Bridge.

Just the Tonic's 'Afternoon Delight' sampler takes a try-before-you-buy approach to comedy, theatre and everything in between to help inform your ticket choices. It kicks off at 1pm every day from July 31 to August 24 at Venue 88 – The Caves, a series of 18th century vaults that make up the nineteen arches of Edinburgh's South Bridge.

Rediscovered in 1980 by former Scottish rugby internationalist Norrie Rowan, The Caves features several rooms that have been hired for countless weddings and other functions. It also placed in DJMAG's list of top 100 club venues of the world for the past two years.

During the 'Afternoon Delight' showcase, these historic chambers will be crammed with between five and eight festival acts, including a mystery guest. It's worth noting that this secretive headline slot has previously been filled by many blockbuster acts, much to the surprise of revellers in the crowd.

You never know – you might just get to see your favourite comedian live for a fraction of the full asking price; and if you're nice to them, they may even give you discount tickets to their full show.

Few Edinburgh Fringe venues boast such unique character and historical significance as The Caves. In fact, you can almost pass off your time there as educational…

The Caves are open year round and play host to regular gigs, club nights and more. Contact 0131 557 8989 for more details.

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Get up close and personal with live bands at Henry's Cellar Bar

You might not know… Henry's Cellar Bar hosts a weekly open stage competition that features all kinds of performers, from musicians and dancers to magicians and more, who compete for cash prizes at this intimate festival venue every Monday.

The answer is Venue 218 – Henry's Cellar Bar, one of Edinburgh's busiest and most established music venues. Tucked beneath some of the city's most vibrant bars and coffee houses, this raw, underground haven of local sounds and worldwide talent promises a memorable gig like no other.

As you walk down the bar's old stone steps, you're greeted by a modest stage designed to offer an intimate live music experience that tears down the barriers between performer and punter. In any given week, that stage will be occupied by acts from a range of genres including metal, reggae, folk, indie and prog. Make no mistake – you are spoiled for choice.

During the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Henry's will play home to Beefheart 'n' Cheese – a tribute to avant-rock hero Captain Beefheart, as performed by the eclectic Orange Claw Hammer, along with an energetic journey into blues and electric rock, courtesy of Main Street Blues.

Henry's Cellar Bar isn't just about live bands however, as it also holds regular club nights such as the ska-themed Dr. No's, and the weekly Antihoot Open Stage competition that invites musicians, magicians, dancers and everyone in-between to compete for cash prizes every Monday.

Once a well-kept secret beneath Edinburgh's streets, Henry's has since become a champion of the floor show. Contact 0131 629 4101 for more details.

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The Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre: an elegant townhouse with historic connections

You might not know… The building that is now the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre once housed the St Mary's Cathedral Music School, which was opened by the great violinist Sir Yehudi Menuhin in 1985.

The Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre at 25 Palmerston Place is just a stone's throw from Haymarket Station and next door to St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral.

The property is a magnificent example of a Victorian townhouse.  Built in 1881, this large mansion house has curved bay windows on the front elevation, integrated with a Roman Doric porch. The tall French roof was added in 1886, but by far the most outstanding feature of this property is its interior, half-filled by a massive stair-hall with large baroque doorcases and an elaborate engraved glass dome ceiling.

A notable philanthropist, McEwan made gifts both to the nation and to the city of Edinburgh. He presented paintings to the National Gallery of Scotland and gifted the splendid McEwan Hall to the University of Edinburgh. 

Almost 100 years after William McEwan owned the building, it was purchased by St Mary’s Cathedral for their music school.  There is a marble plaque just beyond the vestibule which indicates that St Mary’s Music School was opened by Sir Yehudi Menuhin (the famous violinist) on 13th August, 1985.

 So, what’s the connection to Arthur Conan Doyle?  Well, it is now a spiritual centre, and is also home to a spiritualist church.  Whilst Arthur Conan Doyle is well-known as the famous author of Sherlock Holmes, it is less well-known that he was a spiritualist, devoting the later years of his life to promoting spiritualism throughout the world.  It was thought fitting that such a grand building should bear his name, and that he should be commemorated in Edinburgh, his home town, by having a spiritual centre named after him.

There is a saying in spiritualism, that ‘there is no such thing as coincidence’, or, to use an old Scottish saying, ‘what’s for you will not go past you’.  When William McEwan retired as an MP in 1900, Arthur Conan Doyle ran for the same vacated seat in the Central Edinburgh Constituency.   So, this is not the first time that Arthur Conan Doyle has followed in the footsteps of William McEwan!  Coincidence – or what?  We’ll leave you to make up your mind!

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Filament Coffee transforms into pop-up bar Blank Canvas for the Fringe Festival

You might not know…The Blank Canvas pop-up bar is only in place for the duration of the festival, serving bottled cocktails by top Edinburgh mixologists and craft beers from the likes of Beaverton Brewery, Fourpure Brewing Company and BrewDog.

Enter Filament Coffee – Victoria Street's specialist brew shop for caffeine fiends who want clean décor, a friendly vibe and something to perk them up while running between venues. 

From 8pm to 5am during festival hours, the café will transform into Blank Canvas, a pop-up bar serving inspired, refreshing craft beer from the edgiest micro-breweries around, as well as bottled cocktails handcrafted by Joseph Radford of Edinburgh restaurant Timberyard and Joe Dick of hip bar The Hanging Bat.

The bar will serve a range of diverse beers crafted by London's Beavertown Brewery (http://www.beavertownbrewery.co.uk), such as its iconic Gamma Ray American Pale Ale, or the wickedly flavourful Smog Rocket Smoked Porter, all served in the brewery's colourful can designs that put the 'art' in 'artisan beer.'

Joining Beavertown are the tipples of fellow Londoners Fourpure Brewing Company, including its flavourful Amber Ale and the hoppy delights of Pils, the brewery's take on the classic German Pilsner. For those looking to keep things strictly Scottish, there are also beers from local cult favourite BrewDog on offer.

If beer isn't your bag then then Blank Canvas has you covered with a range of pre-mixed cocktail bottles, topped off with live DJs, club nights and other music acts from Edinburgh and beyond.

Day or night, coffee or beer, be sure to show Filament Coffee and Blank Canvas some love on the bar's pop-up Twitter feed and stop by for a drink during your festival adventure. 

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#marriottedfest The Fringe by night!

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The weird and wonderful is what makes the @edfringe what it is #marriottedfest

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So many different emotions #marriottedfest

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Seafood cafe au #marriottedfest de Manila top