Destination Spotlight: Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital since the 1400s, Edinburgh is a majestic and stately place. Walk The Royal Mile through Old Town - a village-like area dominated by Edinburgh Castle, perched ominously at the top of an extinct volcano - and you may have to remind yourself this is indeed a real place and not a mediaeval vision and you are really there. Sounds fanciful, but Edinburgh Old Town really is that wondrous. Old Town is one of two areas that make up the city centre - the other is New Town, a stunning 18th century development of Georgian refinery and elegance. These two opposing historic areas, both with many beautiful buildings, give Edinburgh its unique character. Perhaps it should be no surprise that this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In a city so rich with culture, there is, of course, an almost endless choice of pass times, attractions and entertainment.  A programme of arts and festivals runs throughout the year with concerts, theatre, and dance. Visit art collections and museums, beautifully adorned parks and gardens. And in New Town, walk Princes Street - because you can walk to anywhere in this city - and discover it swathed in shops, boutiques and a mix of restaurants. Leave Edinburgh for the nearby rural bliss of the Lothians for outdoor pursuits and inspiring coasts.

Edinburgh quite simply offers the conference and meetings organiser all they need for success. There are the essentials - a huge variety of hotels and venues of all kinds, an international airport, good road and rail links. And there are the nice-to-haves - compact layout so most places can be reached on foot, a long history of finance, law, commerce and academia, meaning hosting large numbers is second nature, and a thriving activity and cultural scene. After London, Edinburgh is the world's favourite UK conference city - it’s easy to see why.

The city’s large venues include the world renowned, award-winning Edinburgh International Conference Centre, the historic Assembly Rooms Edinburgh in heart of the city and the grand McEwan Hall. But don’t stop there, as well as large events, Edinburgh is perfect for hosting corporate occasions of all sizes and budgets. You’ll find many unusual, historic and famous places offering event and meeting space - Edinburgh Castle, a choice of elegant stately homes, The Royal Yacht Britannia, the Royal Museum and the creepy Edinburgh Vaults.

Edinburgh Airport is located just less than five miles from the main city. A truly international airport, it sees nine million passengers a year pass through its gateways to destinations all over the world. Edinburgh Waverly Place railway station is located in the centre of the city, close to both the Old Town and New Town areas.