Edinburgh's Christmas

Now I may be a Jack Russell but I like Crimble as much as the next dog.  My favourite place to spend Christmas has to be Edinburgh when Princes Street Gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland and this year is no exception!






Whether it's the bustle of The German Market with all the accompanying Christmas smells of spicy Glühwein, sizzling sausages and delicious crepes that takes your fancy or the ever popular Ice Rink in East Princes Street  Gardens with the 3D Cinema featuring 'Rocket The Reindeer' where you can have a great days fun and frolics for the whole family, you know that Christmas in Edinburgh is the place to be.

Why not visit the Edinburgh's Christmas Website where you can plan how you're going to spend your time in 'Auld Reekie'.  

While you're in Edinburgh don't forget to have a wander down to The Grassmarket.  Even when the Festival and Fringe aren't on, Edinburgh at night is an absolute delight with a host of pubs clubs and restaurants to choose from and many of the best are within a short walk from Princes Street.  

The Witchery Dining Room

If it's dark, delicious gothic splendour you're after you have to visit The Witchery just a few yards away from the entrance to The Castle for a dining 

experience you'll never forget.

It has developed a world-wide reputation for its exceptional dining experience, showcasing the very best of Scotland's produce in the most magical of settings. Now in its fourth decade, the Witchery is a Scottish fine dining landmark, much loved by loyal locals, its celebrity fans and visitors to the city alike.

You wont get stung here.....

If it's a great pub you're after situated in the historic heart of Grassmarket, The Beehive sits in the shadow of The Castle and boasts a history going back around 400 years. With a drinks license thought to have existed since it was a 16th Century coaching inn, the present building replaced The Beehive Hotel in the 1860's. It incorporates a main bar, a satellite bar (The Honeypot), a 100 seat dining room, a meeting room and one of the best gardens in the city centre.

You wont have a
ghost of a chance

For an unforgettable, scary and spooky experience don't forget to book an award winning Cadies & Witchery guided ghost tour. Established in 1984, the Cadies have been scaring people from all over the world almost every single night since, and their walking tours have become one of Edinburgh's must-see attractions. 

For a truly inspiring shopping experience, look no further than Edinburgh’s Grassmarket.  From The Castle come down the Castle Wynd or Upper Bow steps to the Grassmarket for some retail therapy that gives you a true taste of modern Scotland.

The area is full to brimming with Scottish designers, artisans and independent merchants selling everything from gourmet food and drink and luxurious knitwear to cutting edge fashions, antique books and unique gifts. 

So have I convinced you yet.....not only is The Grassmarket area of Edinburgh a joy for the avid tourist, The Grassmarket Hotel is the jewel in it's crown.....and if you are heading to Edinburgh for The Christmas and New Year festivities, I can only offer you this piece of advice from past 

experience.....

BOOK EARLY!

For the best rates it's always better to contact them directly through their website and if you're really lucky you'll catch one of the monthly offers of 10 'Mates Rates' rooms at £1 (are they mental) which you can find out about when you subscribe to their mailing list.

Purslane Restaurant.....33a St Stephen Street, Stockbridge, Edinburgh

Ralph's not been as excited for some time as he was when he discovered Purslane Restaurant in Edinburgh's fashionable Stockbridge (ok to be fair I did get a new pull rope earlier this week) who are offering a 'casual' fine dining experience for nothing like fine dining prices.  

The restaurant has a casual feel with no dress code or formality as they want the customer to feel relaxed at all times. Front of house are friendly, approachable and are happy to deal with any questions or requests. The food takes on the fine dining element showcasing local produce with a mix of old and new techniques using worldwide influences.




They feel strongly about the seasonality of the ingredients that are used in order to to ensure the best quality. 

They've tried to source most of their suppliers in the local area and around 80% are based in the Stockbridge area in the hope that it'll bring a sense of community to the restaurant and also help fellow small businesses. 


Chef Patron Paul Gunning has experience working in five star hotels, 2-3 rosette and Michelin starred restaurants, working under chefs like Marco Pierre White (Riverroom MPW), Jeff Bland (Balmoral, Number 1), Phil Thompson (Auberge Du Lac) and the classy Jean Michel Gauffre (La Garrigue). 



He's ably assisted by Craig Smith who also has experience working in 2-3 rosette restaurants most notably the outstanding Seafood Restaurant in St. Andrews working for Craig Campbell Millar, and Peter Griffiths back in the Midlands. 


In 2009, Craig took part in BBC`s Masterchef the Professionals where he made it through to cook for Ralph's mate Michel Roux Jr` (OK had you going for just the teeniest moment). 

This is his first Head Chef position and has the drive and enthusiasm about food to produce great dishes.

Purslane have just celebrated their first anniversary and look like going on from strength to 

strength as they're quickly establishing themselves as one of The top eating destinations (they're only a sniff away from being in the top 50 on Trip Advisor) in Edinburgh.  Friday's and Saturdays' they offer a seven course tasting menu at a fraction of the cost that some restaurants (not too far away) charge for six courses but still manage to deliver an above and beyond level of quality and service.

Purslane Restaurant

33a St. Stephen Street 
Stockbridge, Edinburgh 
EH3 5AH 

T: +44 (0)131 226 3500 
E: @purslanerestaurant.co.uk

Purslane Restaurant - Edinburgh's Casual Fine Dining - Click here for bookings

St Helens Feature Part 3.....Christmas Special

Christmas in St Helens Town Centre.....

Time to celebrate Christmas with a dazzling programme of entertainment!

St Helens Council is promising a Christmas to remember - as the countdown to the season of goodwill gathers pace.

The Council is again throwing its weight behind the Town Centre economy with a full, festive line-up that promises to deliver a range of seasonal goodies for young and old alike with music, fun and traditional fayre served up for everyone to enjoy.

The full festive line-up includes..... 




Christmas Craft Fayre
Tuesday 6th - Saturday 10th November
Over 30 stalls selling a fabulous range of craft items. Perfect for getting those early Christmas gifts with a difference.

Bradley Johnson

Christmas Lights Switch On (supported by Merseytravel)
Saturday 17th November

The Loveable Rogues

Come and celebrate the launch of the new, magical Christmas lights - some of the most spectacular in the region. St Helens promises a fabulous evening of free music and entertainment. The Loveable Rogues, The Mend and the Lancashire Hotpots will generate lots of excitement as they prepare to light up the Town Centre.   Hot of the press is that Rainford's own Bradley Johnson will be joining in the fun! Don't miss the fantastic light and fireworks special effects show. To complete this Christmas extravaganza there will be a host of other well-known performers, music, pantomime acts and family fun.

The Mend

Postman Pat's Children's Mini Shows

Saturday 24th November
Popular Cbeebies characters, Postman Pat, Jess and Ben bound into town - bringing their own brand of entertainment in four shows throughout the day - all with free admission and based in Parish Church. Tickets are available by calling 01744 675492.


Festive Street Day
Saturday 1st December
Festive entertainment with a hint of humour. Come and see our joy-riding reindeers and dancing Christmas puddings plus much, much more!




Christmas Train
Saturday 8th December
All aboard the Santa Express! Festive train ride around the town centre, with various pick-up and drop-off points.


Real Reindeer & Santa Visit
Saturday 15th December
Santa arrives in St.Helens, along with his real reindeer and accompanied by his Christmas elves. Make sure Santa gets your letter by giving it to him yourself.

Christmas Band
Saturday 22nd December
A festive treat of traditional music around the Christmas tree.

Late Night Shopping
Late night Christmas shopping in St.Helens Town Centre makes it easier to browse for longer, and perhaps pick up a few goodies for yourself along the way! There are a number of shopping offers available, so there's always the chance to picking up a bargain.

Late night shopping - every Thursday from the 22nd November and between Monday 17th - Friday 21st December. Sunday trading will start from Sunday 25th November (10.00am - 4.00pm).





Car Parking
All town centre car parks (except the Millennium Centre car park) will be free on the five Saturday's before Christmas - November 24th, 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd December. In addition, all car parks will be open late during the run-up to Christmas. Closure times may vary throughout the Christmas Shopping period. Please check signage on car parks for details of closing times.


The Christmas offers complement the council's popular 'free after three' scheme, which allows motorists who arrive after 3pm on Birchley Street, Chalon Way and St.Mary's car parks to use the car parks free of charge.


Public Transport
For public transport information visit www.merseytravel.gov.uk to plan your trip or call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33.

Burgh Bakes.....Marshmallow Magic.....

If you're like me and have a bit of a sweet tooth then Burgh Bakes in Edinburgh is the place for you.  It's where they make and sell a wide range of delicious and innovative home-made Marshmallows, and the great news is you can buy them online from their website too.....result!  In fact she even does a range that reflects the seasons.....

Nicole Roberts who founded Burgh Bakes after leaving Uni only to encounter the misery of the current dearth of work commented, "The conventional ‘pink and white’ marshmallows taste sickly-sweet, bland and boring when you compare them to home-made Marshmallows."

  

"I couldn't believe the difference when I first made mine.  So much so, it inspired me to share the experience and Burgh Bakes was born.  I have a range of different flavours, ranging from the innovative ‘Key Lime Pie’ (with a biscuit base!) to ‘Raspberry’ Marshmallows which have just been awarded 2-stars from the Great Taste Awards."

So why not visit The Marshmallow Lady shop & cafe at 14 Rodney Street, EH7 4EA. Open Wednesday - Sunday 12 - 7 

They use Fair Trade sugar, Scottish butter & cream and Scottish berries in my Marshmallows. They also use recycled and recyclable packaging. The majority of the Marshmallows are not only delicious but gluten-free, dairy free and low-fat!

“Nicole Roberts’ hand-made, feather-light delights are examples of the fresh thinking and dedication to quality that creates more than just a passing fad. With recipes created with good Scottish ingredients such as butter, milk, eggs and soft fruit, as well as fairtrade sugar, Roberts has taken the term ‘handmade’ at its most literal. Everything is made from scratch” – The List

Needless to say you can 'Like' her on Facebook or 'Follow' her on Twitter so why not drop in virtually if you can't make it to the cafe, which is dog friendly Ralph is very pleased to be able to tell you!  

Her wares are available to buy from The Marshmallow Lady website and it boasts a range of flavours including the funky Beer Marshmallows made with 'Innes & Gunn' Rum cask Beer!  I'm hoping someone gets me some for Crimbo!

Ryan's bar Edinburgh.....

According to Ryan's Bar in Edinburgh (Ralph's favourite Edinburgh breakfasting spot) it's the run up to Christmas.....I know, that's what I said!  The 4th of  October and they're making up their Xmas menu (not that I'm complaining as here's a couple of pictures they sent to show what's going to be on offer).....

So needless to say they're taking bookings now and their exclusive five course Christmas menu will be available from Thursday the 29th of November until Monday the 24th of December in The Cellar Restaurant, situated below Ryan’s Bar in Edinburgh’s West End.  





They offer a variety of space options to cater for large groups as well as providing unique, hand painted alcoves as the perfect venue for intimate gatherings this Christmas. Their Christmas diary always fills up quickly, so whether it’s a family get together, office party or simply a delightful meal for a group of friends, make sure you book as soon as possible!  To book please download their Christmas Booking Form, fill it out and return it to them by email, post (or preferably in person as you can have a pint whilst you're in).  Their Cellar Restaurant team are very flexible, so if you have any special requests or requirements just note them and they’ll do their best to accommodate.

If you know Ryan’s Bar, but haven’t yet discovered The Cellar Restaurant, why not pay them a visit?  Open from 5pm each day, the restaurant is one of Edinburgh’s best kept secrets.  

Hidden downstairs, away from the bustle of the Main Bar at Ryan’s, it’s an intimate venue bursting with character and charm.  The menu offers high quality Scottish seafood and steaks developed by their in-house French chef. Vive Le Auld Alliance!

For tours of The Cellar Restaurant and more information about Christmas at Ryan’s give them a call on 0131 226 6669 or send an email.  

With a friendly and bustling atmosphere, Ryan’s Main Bar is the most popular place to meet in the West End.  Boasting an impressive selection of wines, whiskies and spirits as well as a range of some of Scotland’s finest cask ales including a special ale of the week, there's a drink for everyone at Ryan’s Bar. For something a bit more special why not try one of their classic cocktail selection – the perfect way to wind down your day or kick start your weekend.

Their menu is served throughout the day until 10pm, from home made soups and freshly cut sandwiches, to traditional Scottish mains and a vegetarian menu to cater for a range of tastes. 

They also have a selection of Gluten Free dishes to choose from.  Join them for breakfast, lunch or dinner at the weekend,  relax and allow their attentive, friendly staff to provide full table service for food.  Given Ralph's love of tunes, when the lights go down he'd love to enjoy a bit of live music in their Main Bar every Thursday and Friday evening, where they feature some of Edinburgh’s hottest bands.

Open

Mon – Fri, 10am – 1am
Sat – Sun, 9am – 1am

EdinTrav Tweetup

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On a slightly cold and drizzly Edinburgh night in October, around 30 explorers sought shelter and sustenance in The Cellar Restaurant at Ryan’s Bar for the sixth#edintravtweetup.

Warmed by the candlelight, the flowing drinks and a shared passion for travel, they whiled away the hours listening to smooth jazz, making new and old friends, and learning and laughing together.

After a few hours of sparkling conversation and gorging on delights such as deep fried haggis balls and prawn canapés in The Cellar Restaurant, they surged upwards to Ryan’s Main Bar and, in true traveller style, were determined to try the new and exciting.

Here the group discovered innovative flavour combinations (homemade guacamole and sweet potato fries being the winner of the night) and savoured bites of the rich Chocolate & Orange Torte served with pineapple & ginger compote, all giving into the pleasure and making their ‘food-gasm’ faces. The chatter off- and online was buzzing and spirits were high.

As the clock struck eleven, and having filled up on food and merriment, they bid a fond farewell to the team at Ryan’s and The Cellar Restaurant and advanced out into the night in search of entertainment into the wee small hours. Some even lasted until morning (!)

Ryan’s Bar and The Cellar Restaurant were honoured to host this event and can’t wait to see all of their new friends again soon. They also want to thank Kash Bhattacharya (@BudgetTraveller) for all of his hard work in making it happen  It was a great night for all involved!

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5 COURSE MEAL
£25 PER HEAD

Welcome Glass of Champagne & Pomegranate

Carrot & Chestnut Soup
served with petit pain and butter

Cranberry And Pork Pâté
served with oatcakes and apricot chutney

Poached Asparagus Wrapped with Smoked Salmon
served with a hollandaise sauce

Trio of Seasonal Melon
laced with Midori and mint

Traditional Roast Turkey
served with chestnut and kumquat stuffing, chiploata sausages wrapped in bacon and natural turkey jus

Seasoned Sea Bass Fillet
served on a bed of puy lentil and spiced tomato chutney dressing

Grilled 8oz Sirloin Steak
served with rosti potatoes and a red wine gravy sauce

Warm Red Pepper, Camembert, Tomato, Red Onion & Thyme Tart
served with a crispy seasonal salad

Traditional Sherry Trifle

Christmas Pudding
served with a brandy sauce

Chocolate Roulade
served with fresh cream

Selection of Scottish Cheese
with Highland oatcakes and a tomato chutney

Tea & Coffee with Mince Pies

For booking information and more information on their Christmas Party Nights please click here.