Manager of Hospitality and Events at Historic Scotland, Bethany Lawrie, tells us about Edinburgh Castle’s events space renovations, and why the castle should be the destination for your next event.
Perched on a volcanic plug in the heart of Scotland’s bustling capital city, Edinburgh Castle has dominated the city’s skyline for centuries. Not only is the castle an extremely popular tourist attraction to visitors from across the globe, but it boasts multiple unique and exciting event spaces that are rich with history and practicality, leaving a lasting impression on guests. Bethany Lawrie tells us more…
“We have so many clients hosting dinners and receptions here because it’s such a unique and special venue, it brings out a lovely collaborative and vibrant energy to events. From the castle, you’re within walking distance of the heart of the city. Edinburgh is a small city so you can be in the centre of the old town and the new town within five minutes. Also, the castle sits on top of a volcano, you really don’t get that anywhere else – it’s breath taking,” says Bethany.
Recent renovations at Edinburgh Castle in the Queen Anne and Jacobite buildings have elevated the spaces to the next level by preserving tradition with a contemporary edge: “In the Queen Anne building, we’ve done a lot to keep the history and authenticity of the castle but also bring some modernity into the spaces and really open it up to let more natural light in. This can host a dinner of up to 120 and is a popular place for corporate events, weddings, and drinks receptions, it can be completely transformed for whatever is needed. There’s a beautiful breakout space and brand-new refurbished bar where we showcase exceptional cocktails.”
“Our Jacobite building can host up to 100, and has captivating views across the skyline of Edinburgh over Princes Street Gardens. And in both you’ll get an exclusive private viewing of the Scottish Crown Jewels to further impress guests.”
There are other spaces also available too as Bethany explains: “The Gatehouse Suite is a more intimate space with a capacity of up to 30 delegates, where we cater to a lot of exclusive dinners and meetings. It has a beautiful private outdoor balcony, which again has an incredible panoramic view of Edinburgh.
“For exclusive-use experience, we offer private hire of the whole of Edinburgh Castle in the evening for up to 500 guests, which is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a ‘beat-the- retreat” at the end of your event. You’ll listen to the Massed Pipes and Drums as well as have our experienced guides and theatrical performers tell you the fascinating history of Edinburgh Castle. We are also delighted to offer early morning, private hire events, which allows your guests the run of the castle before we open to the public.”
And as a part of the country that’s constantly growing in popularity, Bethany believes that Scotland offers more than your average event destination: “Scotland has always been at the heart of innovation, of creating change, and making things happen, so our properties are great places to be. I’m passionate about events in Scotland and showcasing our country, as I believe it’s the perfect place for hosting. As well as our unbeatable Scottish hospitality, there’s no better desination to showcase events here than in our historic properties with such vibrant histories – especially Edinburgh Castle, it’s such a diverse venue.”
“What’s so fantastic about Edinburgh is that guests can really immerse themselves in the history of the city, dating back thousands of years. It’s a place where we’ve got such a fantastic blend of tradition and modernity. We’ve got amazing luxury hotels and experiences in Edinburgh, and excellent transport links. Historic Environmental Scotland works closely with all these businesses to ensure that clients have a full Scottish experience.”