TARTANSPOON / WHERE TO EAT, STAY & EXPLORE IN EDINBURGH & SCOTLAND
Will travel for food! Food Destinations and Food Tourism
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Riva Boutique Hotel sits proudly on Helensburgh’s promenade, offering modern rooms, glorious sea views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. With spacious bathrooms, thoughtful touches like 1980s vinyl, and easy access to cafés, charity shops and sunset walks, it’s a brilliant base for exploring the NC500, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. A stylish, comfortable stopover on Scotland’s west coast.
Santé Bistro is the newest addition to Riva Boutique Hotel, bringing Mediterranean flavours, sunset dining and a relaxed coastal vibe to Helensburgh’s promenade. With a compact sun‑trap terrace, dog‑friendly seating and a menu full of standout small plates, it’s the perfect spot for warm evenings, chilled champagne and slow, sociable dining. A brilliant new chapter for Riva and a must‑visit on Scotland’s west coast.
Kelp in Glasgow is the restaurant that finally flipped my luck with the city’s dining scene. This seafood‑forward spot champions Scotland’s coastal produce with confident cooking, clever flavour pairings and a menu that proudly names the origin of every ingredient. From hand‑dived Barra scallops to Isle of Skye langoustines, each dish is treated with care and cooked to showcase the natural quality of Scotland’s waters. With a sun‑trap terrace, an open‑plan kitchen and plates that genuinely excite, Kelp sets a new benchmark for Glasgow dining.
Pera brings a burst of Turkish warmth to Hanover Street, pairing colourful, character-filled décor with generous plates of authentic comfort food. It’s the kind of restaurant where candlelight, hanging lanterns, and a rainbow of chairs set the tone for relaxed, homely dining — and where every dish feels rooted in tradition, hospitality, and flavour.
Thackray House in Callander blends centuries of history with timeless luxury, offering garden‑to‑plate dining, characterful rooms, a flourishing walled garden and food crafted from the landscape itself. It’s a stay that nourishes in every sense.
International students are getting to know Scotland one bite at a time. Weekend trips to Glasgow have become a delicious ritual — from iconic Scottish dishes to modern street‑food markets, they’re exploring the city’s flavours, culture, and warm hospitality through food.
Afternoon Tea at The Register Club is Edinburgh on a plate — three elegant stages of savoury bites, Highland cranachan and city‑inspired patisserie, all served in the luxurious calm of The Edinburgh Grand. From Edinburgh Gin‑laced rhubarb tart to a reimagined Edinburgh Rock cake, every flavour tells a story of the city. Thoughtful tea pairings, impeccable service and a setting made for slow Sundays make this one of Edinburgh’s most refined afternoon tea experiences.
Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to some of Scotland’s most charming independent cafés — places where craft baking, great coffee, and coastal or neighbourhood character come together beautifully. These ten favourites span the city and its nearby seaside towns, offering everything from perfect pastries to cliff‑top brunches, making them essential stops for anyone who loves thoughtful food and welcoming spaces.
Hawksmoor is turning back the clock for its 20th anniversary, offering a one‑day‑only Classics Menu at the original 2006 price of £45. From Old Spot Belly Ribs to the legendary Sticky Toffee Pudding, I went along to try the menu — and it’s a spectacular celebration of everything that made Hawksmoor iconic.
Scotland is made for food‑focused motorhome travel. From coastal seafood and farm shop finds to whisky tastings, bakeries, and peaceful overnight stops, this guide shows you how to plan an eat‑drink‑stay adventure that follows flavour, not miles. Build your route around local producers, scenic regions, and the joy of slow travel.
WhirlyBird is the newest all‑day modern tavern to land on Victoria Street — a bright, beautifully designed café‑bar‑restaurant led by operator Ash Bairstow and chef Lucia Gregusova. With Scottish ingredients at its core, a clever drinks list and a relaxed Old Town atmosphere, it’s a polished newcomer bringing fresh energy to one of Edinburgh’s busiest streets.
The Hoxton Edinburgh has launched its new Hedonistic Brunch Series — a monthly celebration of exceptional wines, indulgent brunch dishes and laid‑back Sunday vibes. With Bellavista sparkling wines, an abundant Italian feast and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s one of the city’s most exciting new weekend rituals.
Set within the greenery of Royal Terrace Gardens, The Cottage is a historic Edinburgh landmark transformed into an intimate dining experience. With a faultless seasonal tasting menu, elegant wine pairings and a serene communal dining space, this new restaurant delivers one of the city’s most memorable meals.
Whisky tastings have become a surprising staple of student life in Scotland — not for the nightlife, but for the culture. From Highland honeyed drams to Islay’s unapologetic smoke, students are discovering Scotland one sip, one story, and one shared moment at a time. Tastings offer calm, connection, and a deeper understanding of the country they now call home.
Sip Seekers is redefining Scottish drinks tourism with a fresh, modern approach that blends storytelling, discovery and unforgettable spirits‑led experiences. Founded by whisky expert Victoria Miller, the platform brings distillery tours, tastings, gin experiences and brewery visits into one seamless, bookable space. Their inaugural creator campaign, Sip Diaries: Perthshire Edition, showcased the future of drinks travel — a weekend of whisky, culture, luxury accommodation and community, all designed to inspire a new generation to explore Scotland’s spirit‑soaked landscapes.
Bolfracks House is a breathtaking Highland Perthshire escape — a grand yet welcoming country home just outside Aberfeldy, where heritage, luxury and warmth come together. With seven beautifully styled bedrooms, elegant reception rooms, expansive grounds and views that spill over rolling hills, it’s a place that feels both indulgent and deeply comforting. As part of the Sip Seekers’ inaugural Sip Diaries, it became the perfect backdrop for slow mornings, late‑night drams and unforgettable shared moments.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery had been one of the few Scottish whisky spots I’d never visited, which made this Sip Seekers Sip Diaries trip feel extra special. From the stunning whisky museum and immersive theatre to the warm café and beautifully guided distillery tour, it was the perfect first visit — full of discovery, storytelling and a tasting that showcased just how elegant Dewar’s whiskies can be.
Glenturret is one of those rare distilleries that feels both timeless and intimate — a place where copper stills glow softly, barley hangs sweet in the air, and tradition hums quietly in every corner. Visiting for the fourth time felt like coming home, but sharing it with the Sip Seekers girlies for their first ever Sip Diaries made the day feel brand new. From exploring the distillery’s historic production spaces to blending our own whiskies and finishing with cocktails in the Lalique Bar, it was a celebration of craft, flavour and pure whisky‑loving joy.
Protein isn’t just for gym‑goers — it’s essential for everyone. This guide explores simple, realistic ways to add more protein to everyday meals, from breakfast tweaks and smarter snacks to baking boosts and convenient collagen additions. Small changes can make a big difference, helping you feel fuller, energised, and nourished throughout the day.
Public squares are where cities reveal their values — sometimes loudly, sometimes through the quiet weight of history. From the revolutionary shadows of Place de la Concorde to the imperial staging of Trafalgar Square and the layered Dutch identity of Dam Square, these iconic European spaces show how power, memory, and civic life are written directly into the urban landscape.
Japan’s gardens and Switzerland’s mountains may sit worlds apart, but both demand the same kind of looking — slow, attentive, and willing to let the landscape reveal itself over time. From Kyoto’s contemplative karesansui to the vast alpine drama of the Bernese Oberland, this journey explores how two countries shaped by precision and perspective invite travellers to see differently.
Eden Mill’s Distillers Cask Release #1 is a rare 8‑year‑old lightly peated single malt matured in an ex‑Amarone red wine cask and bottled at batch strength. Hand‑selected by distiller Scott Ferguson and limited to only 311 bottles, this release layers peat smoke with rich red‑fruit depth, marking a standout moment in Eden Mill’s whisky story.
Brasas is the fiery new chapter from The Peruvian at Edinburgh Street Food — a menu built on glowing coals, open flames and bold Peruvian flavour. Expect smoky rotisserie chicken, tender lomo saltado, and sides kissed by the grill. Carlo has taken ESF’s favourite Peruvian stall and turned the heat all the way up.
Dishoom Edinburgh is shining a golden spotlight on the short‑lived Alphonso mango season, offering six weeks of limited‑edition dishes and drinks that celebrate India’s most prized summer fruit. From mango kulfi to bowls of glistening Alphonso cubes with melting vanilla ice cream, this is sunshine served tableside — and a seasonal moment you don’t want to miss.
Machina Coffee Roasters has opened Edinburgh’s first dedicated barista training hub — a fully immersive space designed for hands-on learning, equipment testing and industry collaboration. With world‑class machines, expert trainers and a focus on elevating Scottish hospitality, this new showroom is set to transform how businesses approach coffee.
Flùr has brought serious New York energy to Bonnie & Wild, serving super‑thin, crisp‑based pizzas and deeply comforting pasta dishes. From the moreish Ziti with ragu Genovese to perfectly blistered Margherita slices, this is one of the most exciting new arrivals in the St James Quarter.
Love to Cook in Crieff is the newest culinary gem from chef and pâtissier Sam Heeney‑Governo. From hand‑crafted sourdough and French pastries to hands‑on cookery workshops, this beautiful new space brings professional‑level teaching to the heart of Perthshire. I joined Sam for her Perfect Sponge masterclass — a deep dive into the art of the Genoise — and left inspired, well‑fed, and ready to take on the Bake Off tent.
Board Sundays at The Hoxton Edinburgh blends two of the city’s favourite things: a hearty Sunday roast and a slow, sociable afternoon. With sharing platters, bar bites, board games and a cosy, stylish lobby, it’s the perfect way to stretch a Sunday out.
The second Eating and Waiting to Eat supper club at Sabzi brought together great chat, bold flavours, and true family hospitality. With communal plates, warm introductions, and dishes that sparked conversation, this collaboration showed exactly why Carlos and Kevin’s events are set to grow — and why you should book the next one.
Mirin on Leith Walk is a compact, creative Asian‑fusion restaurant serving bold, flavour‑packed small plates. Portions are small and prices punchy, but the inventive dishes and unusual ingredients make it a memorable Monday‑night find in Edinburgh.
Welcome to TartanSpoon
Welcome to my award-winning blog, your ultimate guide to the finest places to eat, drink, and stay in Scotland, from Edinburgh to Inverness, Dumfries to the Outer Hebrides, and beyond. With over a decade of experience in judging and reviewing food, drink, and accommodations, I am deeply connected within the hospitality industry and possess a wealth of knowledge about culinary delights and exceptional stays. Journey with me as I uncover the best the world has to offer.
I am based in Edinburgh and provide much valued insight into visiting this gorgeous city. You’ll find reviews on restaurants, cafes, bars, distilleries, hotels, accommodation etc. I’m also a huge whisky fan and cover whisky, distilleries and whisky festivals.
Do follow me on my social media platforms - Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and TikTok.
If you find any of the information useful and you’d like to say thank you, you can purchase me a ‘£3 virtual coffee’ HERE. I also use affiliate links which are listed at the bottom of this page.
Thanks for reading and following.
Adele x
Santé Bistro is the newest addition to Riva Boutique Hotel, bringing Mediterranean flavours, sunset dining and a relaxed coastal vibe to Helensburgh’s promenade. With a compact sun‑trap terrace, dog‑friendly seating and a menu full of standout small plates, it’s the perfect spot for warm evenings, chilled champagne and slow, sociable dining. A brilliant new chapter for Riva and a must‑visit on Scotland’s west coast.
Kelp in Glasgow is the restaurant that finally flipped my luck with the city’s dining scene. This seafood‑forward spot champions Scotland’s coastal produce with confident cooking, clever flavour pairings and a menu that proudly names the origin of every ingredient. From hand‑dived Barra scallops to Isle of Skye langoustines, each dish is treated with care and cooked to showcase the natural quality of Scotland’s waters. With a sun‑trap terrace, an open‑plan kitchen and plates that genuinely excite, Kelp sets a new benchmark for Glasgow dining.
Pera brings a burst of Turkish warmth to Hanover Street, pairing colourful, character-filled décor with generous plates of authentic comfort food. It’s the kind of restaurant where candlelight, hanging lanterns, and a rainbow of chairs set the tone for relaxed, homely dining — and where every dish feels rooted in tradition, hospitality, and flavour.
Thackray House in Callander blends centuries of history with timeless luxury, offering garden‑to‑plate dining, characterful rooms, a flourishing walled garden and food crafted from the landscape itself. It’s a stay that nourishes in every sense.
Afternoon Tea at The Register Club is Edinburgh on a plate — three elegant stages of savoury bites, Highland cranachan and city‑inspired patisserie, all served in the luxurious calm of The Edinburgh Grand. From Edinburgh Gin‑laced rhubarb tart to a reimagined Edinburgh Rock cake, every flavour tells a story of the city. Thoughtful tea pairings, impeccable service and a setting made for slow Sundays make this one of Edinburgh’s most refined afternoon tea experiences.
Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to some of Scotland’s most charming independent cafés — places where craft baking, great coffee, and coastal or neighbourhood character come together beautifully. These ten favourites span the city and its nearby seaside towns, offering everything from perfect pastries to cliff‑top brunches, making them essential stops for anyone who loves thoughtful food and welcoming spaces.
Hawksmoor is turning back the clock for its 20th anniversary, offering a one‑day‑only Classics Menu at the original 2006 price of £45. From Old Spot Belly Ribs to the legendary Sticky Toffee Pudding, I went along to try the menu — and it’s a spectacular celebration of everything that made Hawksmoor iconic.
WhirlyBird is the newest all‑day modern tavern to land on Victoria Street — a bright, beautifully designed café‑bar‑restaurant led by operator Ash Bairstow and chef Lucia Gregusova. With Scottish ingredients at its core, a clever drinks list and a relaxed Old Town atmosphere, it’s a polished newcomer bringing fresh energy to one of Edinburgh’s busiest streets.
The Hoxton Edinburgh has launched its new Hedonistic Brunch Series — a monthly celebration of exceptional wines, indulgent brunch dishes and laid‑back Sunday vibes. With Bellavista sparkling wines, an abundant Italian feast and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s one of the city’s most exciting new weekend rituals.
Set within the greenery of Royal Terrace Gardens, The Cottage is a historic Edinburgh landmark transformed into an intimate dining experience. With a faultless seasonal tasting menu, elegant wine pairings and a serene communal dining space, this new restaurant delivers one of the city’s most memorable meals.
Protein isn’t just for gym‑goers — it’s essential for everyone. This guide explores simple, realistic ways to add more protein to everyday meals, from breakfast tweaks and smarter snacks to baking boosts and convenient collagen additions. Small changes can make a big difference, helping you feel fuller, energised, and nourished throughout the day.
Brasas is the fiery new chapter from The Peruvian at Edinburgh Street Food — a menu built on glowing coals, open flames and bold Peruvian flavour. Expect smoky rotisserie chicken, tender lomo saltado, and sides kissed by the grill. Carlo has taken ESF’s favourite Peruvian stall and turned the heat all the way up.
Dishoom Edinburgh is shining a golden spotlight on the short‑lived Alphonso mango season, offering six weeks of limited‑edition dishes and drinks that celebrate India’s most prized summer fruit. From mango kulfi to bowls of glistening Alphonso cubes with melting vanilla ice cream, this is sunshine served tableside — and a seasonal moment you don’t want to miss.
Machina Coffee Roasters has opened Edinburgh’s first dedicated barista training hub — a fully immersive space designed for hands-on learning, equipment testing and industry collaboration. With world‑class machines, expert trainers and a focus on elevating Scottish hospitality, this new showroom is set to transform how businesses approach coffee.
Flùr has brought serious New York energy to Bonnie & Wild, serving super‑thin, crisp‑based pizzas and deeply comforting pasta dishes. From the moreish Ziti with ragu Genovese to perfectly blistered Margherita slices, this is one of the most exciting new arrivals in the St James Quarter.
Riva Boutique Hotel sits proudly on Helensburgh’s promenade, offering modern rooms, glorious sea views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. With spacious bathrooms, thoughtful touches like 1980s vinyl, and easy access to cafés, charity shops and sunset walks, it’s a brilliant base for exploring the NC500, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. A stylish, comfortable stopover on Scotland’s west coast.
Santé Bistro is the newest addition to Riva Boutique Hotel, bringing Mediterranean flavours, sunset dining and a relaxed coastal vibe to Helensburgh’s promenade. With a compact sun‑trap terrace, dog‑friendly seating and a menu full of standout small plates, it’s the perfect spot for warm evenings, chilled champagne and slow, sociable dining. A brilliant new chapter for Riva and a must‑visit on Scotland’s west coast.
Thackray House in Callander blends centuries of history with timeless luxury, offering garden‑to‑plate dining, characterful rooms, a flourishing walled garden and food crafted from the landscape itself. It’s a stay that nourishes in every sense.
International students are getting to know Scotland one bite at a time. Weekend trips to Glasgow have become a delicious ritual — from iconic Scottish dishes to modern street‑food markets, they’re exploring the city’s flavours, culture, and warm hospitality through food.
Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to some of Scotland’s most charming independent cafés — places where craft baking, great coffee, and coastal or neighbourhood character come together beautifully. These ten favourites span the city and its nearby seaside towns, offering everything from perfect pastries to cliff‑top brunches, making them essential stops for anyone who loves thoughtful food and welcoming spaces.
Scotland is made for food‑focused motorhome travel. From coastal seafood and farm shop finds to whisky tastings, bakeries, and peaceful overnight stops, this guide shows you how to plan an eat‑drink‑stay adventure that follows flavour, not miles. Build your route around local producers, scenic regions, and the joy of slow travel.
Whisky tastings have become a surprising staple of student life in Scotland — not for the nightlife, but for the culture. From Highland honeyed drams to Islay’s unapologetic smoke, students are discovering Scotland one sip, one story, and one shared moment at a time. Tastings offer calm, connection, and a deeper understanding of the country they now call home.
Sip Seekers is redefining Scottish drinks tourism with a fresh, modern approach that blends storytelling, discovery and unforgettable spirits‑led experiences. Founded by whisky expert Victoria Miller, the platform brings distillery tours, tastings, gin experiences and brewery visits into one seamless, bookable space. Their inaugural creator campaign, Sip Diaries: Perthshire Edition, showcased the future of drinks travel — a weekend of whisky, culture, luxury accommodation and community, all designed to inspire a new generation to explore Scotland’s spirit‑soaked landscapes.
Bolfracks House is a breathtaking Highland Perthshire escape — a grand yet welcoming country home just outside Aberfeldy, where heritage, luxury and warmth come together. With seven beautifully styled bedrooms, elegant reception rooms, expansive grounds and views that spill over rolling hills, it’s a place that feels both indulgent and deeply comforting. As part of the Sip Seekers’ inaugural Sip Diaries, it became the perfect backdrop for slow mornings, late‑night drams and unforgettable shared moments.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery had been one of the few Scottish whisky spots I’d never visited, which made this Sip Seekers Sip Diaries trip feel extra special. From the stunning whisky museum and immersive theatre to the warm café and beautifully guided distillery tour, it was the perfect first visit — full of discovery, storytelling and a tasting that showcased just how elegant Dewar’s whiskies can be.
Glenturret is one of those rare distilleries that feels both timeless and intimate — a place where copper stills glow softly, barley hangs sweet in the air, and tradition hums quietly in every corner. Visiting for the fourth time felt like coming home, but sharing it with the Sip Seekers girlies for their first ever Sip Diaries made the day feel brand new. From exploring the distillery’s historic production spaces to blending our own whiskies and finishing with cocktails in the Lalique Bar, it was a celebration of craft, flavour and pure whisky‑loving joy.
Public squares are where cities reveal their values — sometimes loudly, sometimes through the quiet weight of history. From the revolutionary shadows of Place de la Concorde to the imperial staging of Trafalgar Square and the layered Dutch identity of Dam Square, these iconic European spaces show how power, memory, and civic life are written directly into the urban landscape.
Japan’s gardens and Switzerland’s mountains may sit worlds apart, but both demand the same kind of looking — slow, attentive, and willing to let the landscape reveal itself over time. From Kyoto’s contemplative karesansui to the vast alpine drama of the Bernese Oberland, this journey explores how two countries shaped by precision and perspective invite travellers to see differently.
Love to Cook in Crieff is the newest culinary gem from chef and pâtissier Sam Heeney‑Governo. From hand‑crafted sourdough and French pastries to hands‑on cookery workshops, this beautiful new space brings professional‑level teaching to the heart of Perthshire. I joined Sam for her Perfect Sponge masterclass — a deep dive into the art of the Genoise — and left inspired, well‑fed, and ready to take on the Bake Off tent.
Hotel Colessio is a stylish boutique hotel in Stirling’s Old Town, offering spacious rooms, dog‑friendly stays, and incredible views of the Wallace Monument. With its calm vibe, rich history, and a standout Sunday lunch at 1825 Restaurant, it’s a brilliant base for exploring the city.
Sitting at the entrance to Gullane, The Main Course has been feeding locals and visitors for years with its unfussy, family‑friendly Italian cooking. Some starters miss the handmade touch, but the mains shine with generous portions, bold flavours and genuinely warm service. A neighbourhood spot with heart, even if the décor could use a little polish.
Seaton House Hotel delivers a rare blend of unhurried luxury, heartfelt service, and breathtaking sea views. From storm‑day champagne in the Bow Butt Bar to slow mornings overlooking West Sands, this is St Andrews at its most indulgent.
Central Europe carries its history in layers rather than replacements. In Vienna and Budapest, grandeur settles into routine, architecture remains lived‑in, and daily life moves through spaces shaped by centuries of continuity. Timeless Europe explores how these cities reveal themselves slowly — through repetition, rhythm, and the quiet confidence of places that have learned to live alongside their own past.
At the northern edge of Europe, life slows into a rhythm shaped by light, distance, and quiet repetition. Reindeer drift through the landscape as naturally as weather, villages gather close against the cold, and movement becomes something you do only when the land allows it. Reindeer Lands explores a region where nothing demands urgency, nothing asks to be summarised, and understanding arrives gradually — through exposure, stillness, and the kind of silence that feels full rather than empty.
Ondine at Seaton House Hotel delivers the kind of dining experience that stays with you - calm, coastal elegance, beautifully sourced Scottish seafood, and dishes cooked with absolute confidence. From XL Orkney scallops to perfectly roasted monkfish and one of the best steaks I’ve had in years, this is St Andrews dining at its finest.
Japanese cities are often framed as opposites, yet moving through them reveals something quieter and more continuous. In Kyoto, repetition narrows attention until each step feels deliberate. In Tokyo, density widens awareness, guiding movement through rhythm rather than rules. From the torii-lined ascent of Fushimi Inari to the coordinated flow of Shibuya Crossing, meaning emerges not through contrast but through the subtle ways space shapes behaviour.
A rare behind‑the‑scenes look at Jackton Distillery as I join a VIP tasting of their first RAER Single Malt from cask samples to distillery tours and their brand‑new luxury cottages.
Hotel Gotham Newcastle delivers a stay with real cinematic swagger — luxurious rooms, impeccable service, and design details that nod to its fire‑station past. With Siren restaurant and Fire bar on the ground floor, plus some of the most comfortable beds you’ll ever sink into, it’s a five‑star escape that makes exploring Newcastle feel effortless.
Southeast Asia is a dream destination for food lovers, offering bold spices, fresh herbs, and unforgettable dishes in every corner. From Thailand’s fiery curries to Vietnam’s fragrant pho, Malaysia’s hawker classics, and the Philippines’ comforting favourites, this guide takes travellers through the region’s most iconic flavours and culinary traditions. Whether wandering bustling markets or sampling street food with locals, every meal tells a story.
Travelling is one of the most beautiful experiences you can imagine. You get to see new countries, cities and cultures and it's on the top of most people's lists. It's great fun, that's for sure; however, it does take a fair amount of preparation. Most of all, when it comes to what you're packing. Yes, you have to book your flights and hotel in advance but once those are booked, they are ticked and off your list. However, what you take with you will impact you either negatively or positively every single day, depending on how well you pack.
Casa Mia in Dunfermline is a family‑run Italian restaurant serving authentic Neapolitan dishes, signature sourdough pizzas, and indulgent desserts. My review explores the food, atmosphere, and why it’s worth the drive from Edinburgh.
NewcastleGateshead shines in winter with festive sparkle, foodie markets, and unforgettable dining. From quirky gifts at the BALTIC Winter Makers Market to marshmallow‑toasting at Newcastle’s Christmas Market, glowing trails at Northern Lights, and Sunday roasts at Dobson & Parnell, this 24‑hour adventure proves the North East is the perfect winter escape.
An intimate evening at Murrayshall Country Estate in Perthshire brought together Scottish seasonal dining and the sparkle of Pommery Champagne. With four exquisite courses, expert hosting, and the comfort of a countryside stay, this Supper Club was a night to remember.
Japan reveals itself in contrasts — incense drifting through Kyoto’s temple gardens, neon lights blazing across Tokyo’s streets, and quiet alleys where centuries-old traditions still thrive. From the bamboo groves of Arashiyama to the lantern-lit lanes of Gion, every step uncovers a story of stillness, spirit, and cultural depth. This journey celebrates Japan’s timeless beauty, where food, rituals, and architecture intertwine to create unforgettable travel moments.
France enchants at every turn — from the buttery pastries of Parisian cafés to the lavender fields of Provence and the sparkling coastline of the Riviera. Whether wandering through Lyon’s bouchons, sipping cider in Normandy, or strolling Bordeaux’s riverside promenades, each region reveals its own rhythm, flavour, and charm. This journey celebrates the everyday magic of French life, where food, landscapes, and culture intertwine to create unforgettable moments.
Sip Seekers is redefining Scottish drinks tourism with a fresh, modern approach that blends storytelling, discovery and unforgettable spirits‑led experiences. Founded by whisky expert Victoria Miller, the platform brings distillery tours, tastings, gin experiences and brewery visits into one seamless, bookable space. Their inaugural creator campaign, Sip Diaries: Perthshire Edition, showcased the future of drinks travel — a weekend of whisky, culture, luxury accommodation and community, all designed to inspire a new generation to explore Scotland’s spirit‑soaked landscapes.
Bolfracks House is a breathtaking Highland Perthshire escape — a grand yet welcoming country home just outside Aberfeldy, where heritage, luxury and warmth come together. With seven beautifully styled bedrooms, elegant reception rooms, expansive grounds and views that spill over rolling hills, it’s a place that feels both indulgent and deeply comforting. As part of the Sip Seekers’ inaugural Sip Diaries, it became the perfect backdrop for slow mornings, late‑night drams and unforgettable shared moments.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery had been one of the few Scottish whisky spots I’d never visited, which made this Sip Seekers Sip Diaries trip feel extra special. From the stunning whisky museum and immersive theatre to the warm café and beautifully guided distillery tour, it was the perfect first visit — full of discovery, storytelling and a tasting that showcased just how elegant Dewar’s whiskies can be.
Glenturret is one of those rare distilleries that feels both timeless and intimate — a place where copper stills glow softly, barley hangs sweet in the air, and tradition hums quietly in every corner. Visiting for the fourth time felt like coming home, but sharing it with the Sip Seekers girlies for their first ever Sip Diaries made the day feel brand new. From exploring the distillery’s historic production spaces to blending our own whiskies and finishing with cocktails in the Lalique Bar, it was a celebration of craft, flavour and pure whisky‑loving joy.
A rare behind‑the‑scenes look at Jackton Distillery as I join a VIP tasting of their first RAER Single Malt from cask samples to distillery tours and their brand‑new luxury cottages.
Celebrate Burns Night 2026 with a hand‑picked selection of whiskies from all five Scottish regions. From smoky Islay drams to elegant Lowland malts, these bottles pair beautifully with haggis, neeps and tatties and bring the spirit of Rabbie Burns to your table.
Tabrifics Scottish Tablet isn’t just crafting Scotland’s favourite sweetie—they’re redefining how we enjoy it. Pair their buttery, vanilla-led Scottish Tablet with bold single malts and discover a flavour journey that’s pure Scottish magic
A cheeky, dram-fuelled wander through Edinburgh’s finest whisky spots—perfect for Whisky Week 2025. Expect tasting notes, hidden gems, and a route that’s as scenic as it is spirited.
Scotch & Sketch is a relaxed, whisky-themed art session led by Edinburgh artist Liana Moran at The Glasshouse Rooftop Garden. Guests sip drams, sketch still lifes, and explore creative exercises that challenge conventional thinking—all in a beautifully Scottish setting.
A whisky tasting in a truly magical setting with Mythical Beasts at Lindores in Fife, Scotland
ULTIMATE BESPOKE EDINBURGH EXPERIENCES GUIDE
The Hide at Lindores - A Luxury Private Dining Experience in Fife
REVIEW OF CHOCOLATE AND WHISKY PAIRING EVENING AT THE GLASSHOUSE, EDINBURGH
5 BEST Whisky Experiences in Edinburgh
Tasting Notes: How to Properly Taste Aged Single Malt Scotch Whiskies
The Cabrach Distillery prepares for launch in heartland of malt whisky
Label 5 launches Bourbon Barrel – its first Single Grain Whisky - into UK market
CAOL ILA & LAGAVULIN REVEAL A SHOW-STOPPING LINE UP OF MUSIC AND FOOD AT FÈIS ÌLE FESTIVAL 2024
TOMINTOUL DISTILLERY AND FIRESIDE SESSIONS WITH MASTER BLENDER IAIN FORTEATH
Explore Edinburgh’s whisky scene with visits to Glenkinchie, Holyrood, and Port of Leith distilleries, plus insider tips on tastings, tours, and the city’s best whisky bar, Tipsy Midgie.
REVIEW OF BORODALE HOUSE, ISLE OF RAASAY DISTILLERY
HOW TO SPEND AN AFTERNOON EATING AND DRINKING IN INVERNESS
SCOTLAND’S BARS SCOOP TOP AWARDS
GLENGLASSAUGH WHISKY TASTING AT THE PORTSOY BOAT FESTIVAL
DRINK : MEET THE BRUDAR BEES FOR WORLD BEE DAY
Boutique Perthshire Distillery releases first ever Scottish cocktail bitters made only with wild botanicals in bid to reach Net Zero
A REVIEW OF STRALOCH ESTATE WILD PICNIC AND WHISKY TASTING IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
MY TOP SCOTTISH BOOZY BEVERAGES THIS CHRISTMAS
ARBIKIE HIGHLAND ESTATE WHISKY, GIN & VODKA DISTILLERY, MONTROSE, ANGUS
SWEETDRAM, A SCOTTISH SPIRITS PRODUCER
AWARDS
JUDGING
MEMBERSHIPS AND QUALIFICATIONS
AFFILIATE LINKS
