Tag Archives: Bramble

Things to do in Edinburgh

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A trip to Edinburgh from London is likely to begin at King’s Cross Station, which following its renovation is an absolute marvel. The epic new design is a far cry from the grubby overcrowded hub where passengers used to wait. East Coast Trains operate a speedy and enjoyable service to Edinburgh, a picturesque train journey through beautiful countryside and beside the sea. It seems amazing that in just over four hours you can be transported from London to the centre of Scotland’s capital.

I have visited Edinburgh several times now, the Fringe brings in thousands of culture-seekers during the summer, though this Scottish city has a great deal to offer in other areas too.

To Stay

The Glasshouse – a five star characterful boutique hotel conveniently close to the city centre

To Eat

STEAK – for a delicious meat feast, great brunch at the weekends, and a good vibe
Number One Balmoral – fine dining at its very best, Head Chef Jeff Bland has created a Michelin masterpiece

To Drink

Bramble – follow the unpromising steps down to a tiny bar serving up the best cocktails in town

To Watch

The Filmhouse – Edinburgh’s top independent cinema, celebrating world film and buzzing with atmosphere

To See

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art – housed in two beautiful old buildings, these galleries show arresting 20th century and contemporary work, definitely worth the walk
The National Portrait Gallery – newly renovated, it is a lovely place to wander and see some spectacular portrayals of Scotland’s finest
Fruitmarket Gallery – a quirky little space exhibiting intriguing artists, with a great cafe and bookshop

There is so much to discover and admire in Edinburgh… I’d love to hear about your favourite places in Edinburgh to add to my to do list for next time.

Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with East Coast Trains to Edinburgh. East Coast operates 46 services each weekday between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh. Customers travelling First Class can enjoy East Coast’s complimentary food and drinks offer plus unlimited Wi-Fi. Advanced return fares, booked online at www.eastcoast.co.uk: start from £33 Standard Class or £95 First Class. Times and fares can also be found via 08457 225225 or from any staffed stations.

Bramble, Cocktail Bar, Edinburgh

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Bramble bar is a revelation. Totally hidden down a tiny flight of stony steps, this boutique bar is known for its exciting and innovative cocktails. Dimmed lighting and concealed cushioned seating areas make this a cosy place to hang out. On a Saturday afternoon the venue was calm and chilled but apparently crowds and cramming is to be expected later on as darkness descends.

A charming bar manager came to welcome us and advise us on suitable drinks for our tastes. Named after the eponymous gin cocktail, Bramble offers a variety of gin based drinks amongst other unique concoctions. The gin theme will be continued at their new bar opening on 1st May in Stockbridge called ‘The Last Word’. Both bars celebrate the heritage and history of gin in Scotland and Britain, developing and creating special cocktails that show off this classic spirit.

My dad and brother knew exactly what they wanted immediately, I was more of a nightmare customer eventually asking for ‘anything… make me something I’ll like’. Turns out this is always the best thing to say in a good cocktail bar as the waiter will return with an absolutely magical mix; in my case the ‘Butter-Scotch Cocktail’ a genius mix of homemade Butter-washed Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Aperol, Oloroso Sherry, vanilla sugar, ginger jam and Peychaud’s Bitters. A tangy sweet dessert cocktail with wonderfully conflicting and contrasting flavours with a soft warm caramel hint from the butterscotch.

My brother tried the famous ‘Bramble’ cocktail made with Plymouth Gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar syrup & Merlet Crème de Mures: it was served long and very cold, light and refreshing, very easy to drink and garnished with delicious plump blackberry, and fruit syrup. The final cocktail we tried was ‘The Saint’ a twist on the classic bellini with St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Fee Brothers Peach Bitters & Prosecco dei Colli Trevigiani. This was a sophisticated and subtle sparkling drink with a hint of perfumy elderflower. The perfect cocktail to have before a meal out.

If you live in Edinburgh a visit to Bramble is a must.

Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with East Coast Trains to Edinburgh. East Coast operates 46 services each weekday between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh. Customers travelling First Class can enjoy East Coast’s complimentary food and drinks offer plus unlimited Wi-Fi. Advanced return fares, booked online at www.eastcoast.co.uk: start from £33 Standard Class or £95 First Class. Times and fares can also be found via 08457 225225 or from any staffed stations.