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St James Quarter Edinburgh: The unexpected is just around the quarter
St James Quarter has created a vibrant new lifestyle hub for locals and visitors to live, shop, eat, play, and stay
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Visitors to Scotland’s capital may well have noticed a distinct new landmark on the skyline. The round building with a flick of a ribbon on its roof, which can be seen for miles around, is the W Edinburgh hotel, the nucleus of the new St James Quarter Edinburgh.

Opening in 2021, St James Quarter has created yet more reasons for people to make a beeline for the New Town. Part shopping district, part arts centre, part cool new neighbourhood, St James Quarter hopes to continue Edinburgh’s tradition of creating new spaces in the city, which began in the 18th century with the building of the New Town – the most ambitious city plan the world had ever seen.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the affluent New Town became a haven for writers, publishers and printers, and this literary connection is celebrated in the distinct ribbon design of the W Edinburgh, which alludes to paper unspooling as it runs through the printing presses of times gone by. But while Edinburgh’s past is recognised, St James Quarter has its eyes firmly on the future and hopes to turn this corner of the city into a bustling, creative must-visit destination.
Guests looking for more of a home from home experience than a hotel, can book into the Roomzzz Aparthotel, while there are dozens of options for shopping and dining.
Alongside British favourites and world-renowned brands such as John Lewis and Tommy Hilfiger, St James Quarter has community at the heart, evidenced in the support they give to local brands.

We recommend you try Bonnie & Wild Food Hall, which brings together over 10 Scottish producers under one roof, including Scotland’s National Chef Gary Maclean, who is esteemed for his specialty seafood dishes.
There will be regular events, including their yearly ‘Edinburgh Style’ and ‘Seafood Festival’, along with vibrant partnerships with the likes of Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh Jazz & Blues and Edinburgh Cocktail Week.
While Edinburgh’s first boutique Everyman cinema, where you can enjoy food and drink straight to your sofa after a day’s sightseeing, is the perfect place to unwind.
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SCOTLAND MAGAZINE
Published six times a year, every issue of Scotland showcases its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, and delves deep into Scottish history. From mysterious clans and famous Scots (both past and present), to the hidden histories of the country’s greatest castles and houses, Scotland‘s pages brim with the soul and secrets of the country.
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