If its iconic castle and atmospheric medieval lanes weren’t enough, there’s plenty Edinburgh has to offer, especially in autumn. From surrealist Scottish painting to ghostly theatre productions, join us for an exploration of the historic city’s cultural highlights this coming season.
1 Edwin G. Lucas: An Individual Eye
Unique and vivid, embrace the surrealist style of Scottish painter Edwin G. Lucas at the first ever major exhibition to showcase this mesmerizing yet mysterious Edinburgh artist. Lucas produced an impressive body of original work during the 1940s and 1950s and this exhibition, which includes over 60 works, proves that his paintings are just as captivating and thought provoking today as they were then.
Edwin G. Lucas: An Individual Eye, City Art Centre, until 10th February 2019
2 Turning autumnal colours at picturesque gardens
In autumn, Edinburgh’s parks turn russet and ochre with an explosion of colourful foliage. Now is the time to take a scenic walk through Princes Street Gardens, moments from The Balmoral. With perfect views of Edinburgh Castle and crisp leaves crunching underfoot, it’s a great way to spend an autumnal afternoon.
3 Bram Stoker’s Dracula
Autumn is officially spooky season and what better way to embrace a little Halloween fun than to enjoy a brand new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s iconic Dracula story. Prepare to be transfixed as this classic tale is adapted for a modern theatre audience with bone chilling illusions and uncanny special effects.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula, King’s Theatre, 30th October-3rd November,
4 Delicious local autumnal produce
Taste the bounty of the Scottish autumnal harvest by calling in at Edinburgh’s many food markets. You’ll find organic venison, parsnips and beetroot each Saturday at Edinburgh Farmer’s Market and artisanal bread and smoked salmon at Stockbridge Market on Sundays.
5 Scottish International Storytelling Festival
The whole family will love this lively literary affair which sees traditional Scottish culture and tales come to life on the stage. Keeping the heritage practice of storytelling alive via performances, workshops and events, the Scottish International Story Telling Festival is not to be missed.
Scottish International Story Telling Festival, various locations, 19th – 31st October 2018
With incredible views over Edinburgh Castle, the grand Balmoral hotel makes the perfect destination to begin your autumn escape in the Scottish capital. Call +44 131 556 2414 or email reservations.balmoral@roccofortehotels.com to book
Paris is always a good idea. Except, perhaps, when it’s hosting the Olympic Summer Games, and the usual tourist throng looks set to multiply almost prohibitively. Of course, the Games are exciting, but if wading through crowds feels like a marathon effort, try a cultural relay around one of these stunning European cities instead.
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
They say the lobby is the beating heart of any hotel; where first impressions linger, inspiring journeys begin and end, and friends and lovers reunite. Upon entering Hotel de Rome, an immediate sense of calm is restored, as light pours in from the glass atrium and plants and palms breathe new life into the space. Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, shares her inspiration behind the hotel lobby’s new look.
