Travel Tips
Travelling to Edinburgh
- By Plane: From Edinburgh Airport, you can take the 100 Bus or the Tram into the centre. If you are renting a car for your stay these can be booked in advance and collected from the airport. Taxis are also available.
- By Train: If you’re arriving by train, Waverley Station is the central station in Edinburgh, while Haymarket is the station in the West End. Both have numerous bus connections and taxi stands to take you to your accommodation.
Travelling to the venue
- Car: Google Maps link. There is free parking at The Free Company.
- Bus: The number 44 bus travels from the city centre to Balerno, where The Free Company is located. You’ll want to get off at Crosswood Crescent, and from there it is about a 25 minute walk. The last 44 bus leaves Balerno at 10:57 pm so if you wish to stay until midnight you’ll need to take a taxi at the end of the night.
- Taxi: Our recommendation would be to take a taxi to and from the venue, and that is what we ourselves will be doing. Edinburgh City Centre is a 30-40 minute drive depending on where in the city you are going. City Cabs is the main taxi company in Edinburgh and the one we use most of the time, but Uber is also available. City Cabs can be booked in advance here.
Accommodation
We have chosen not to make a group booking at a single hotel as we’re not a large group and we want everyone to have the freedom to stay where they would like. Here are a few different areas we think people may be interested in.
Old Town is the historical city centre and the tourist hub of the city. Here you will find the Royal Mile with Edinburgh Castle at the top and Holyrood Palace at the bottom. Cobblestone streets, winding closes, museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants are in high supply.
A bustling thoroughfare flanked by elegant Georgian buildings and lush gardens. It serves as a premier shopping destination, boasting a range of high-street and designer stores, while its wide promenade is a popular spot for leisurely strolls and people-watching against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s historic skyline.
Leith, a vibrant port district of Edinburgh, exudes a rich maritime heritage with its bustling docks and historic warehouses. The area is renowned for its eclectic dining scene, featuring an array of trendy restaurants, gastropubs, and seafood eateries along the waterfront.
Bruntsfield, a quaint suburb of Edinburgh, is characterized by its leafy streets, charming boutiques, and cozy cafes, creating a picturesque and relaxed atmosphere. Adjacent neighbourhood to Morningside, south of the centre. Close to the Meadows/University of Edinburgh. About 30 minutes to the venue.
For those flying into Edinburgh for the weekend only or who prefer staying close to the airport, there are many hotel choices available. A short 20-minute drive from the airport to the venue ensures a quick and easy transition, allowing you to start your visit to the city without hassle.
If you’d prefer the countryside to the city and/or would like to be closer to the venue, Balerno and the surrounding area is the place for you. There are plenty of walks in the Pentland Hills and the Balerno Inn is a great place for a bite to eat. We particularly love their Sunday roast!
