Discover the Stories Behind Every Sip with Tales of the Old Town!
On October 2, 2024, the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood launched an enchanting new cocktail menu titled “Tales of the Old Town,” in partnership with Bacardi. This innovative menu draws inspiration from the vibrant history of Scotland’s capital, offering guests an engaging exploration of Edinburgh’s Old Town through its tales, legends, and iconic sites.
The “Tales of the Old Town” menu includes eight unique cocktails that celebrate the mysteries and folklore of Edinburgh’s historic area. Crafted by Bacardi and the hotel’s skilled mixologists, each drink embodies the spirit of its namesake, transforming every sip into an intriguing story—from the Mercat Cross to Greyfriars Bobby and the recent filming of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein nearby.
To enhance the cocktail experience, the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood collaborated with social enterprise Invisible Cities to create a self-guided walking tour. This route features famous landmarks and points of interest related to the signature cocktails, allowing customers and guests to immerse themselves in the city’s history.
Beginning at Canongate Kirk—a tranquil site that serves as the final resting place for poets and kings—guests will savor the Canongate Kir Royale. This elegant cocktail features a delightful mix of elderflower liqueur and British sparkling wine, topped with a sprig of fresh thyme, paying homage to the noble figures once associated with this historic grounds. Served in a flute, it comprises St Germain elderflower liqueur, British sparkling wine, and thyme.
The tour continues to the iconic Royal Mile, the heartbeat of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Here, the Royal Mile Remedy combines Scotch whisky, lemon, and ginger for a classic cocktail with a Scottish twist, presented in a rocks glass with ice. This blend features Craigellachie 13, peated Scotch, lemon juice, and hints of ginger and candied ginger.
Next, guests will delve into the Enchanted Vault, a dark and alluring cocktail inspired by Edinburgh’s mysterious underground vaults. This drink combines rum, port, and a splash of blood orange liqueur, garnished with burnt orange peel, reflecting the rich flavors and complex narratives hidden within the city. It is served in a martini glass and includes Bacardi Ocho, Port of Leith White Port, Lucky Liqueur Orange, and a dash of Angostura bitters.
At the historic Mercat Cross, symbolizing the bustling market of old, guests will enjoy the Mercat Mule—a lively blend of vodka, ginger beer, local peach liqueur, and fresh raspberries, served in a rocks glass. This invigorating drink captures the vibrant atmosphere of trade and festivity that once filled the square, with a refreshing option available as a mocktail.
Next, at St Giles’ Cathedral—also a filming site for the new Frankenstein movie—the Mary Shelley cocktail brings a touch of intrigue with a unique dark blend of vodka and classic Bloody Mary ingredients, served in a highball glass.
Paying tribute to the legendary Greyfriars Bobby, The Loyal Greyfriars cocktail combines Scotch whisky and heather honey, embodying themes of friendship and loyalty. This drink is presented in a rocks glass with ice, capturing the spirit of Scotland’s beloved canine.
Continuing to Dynamic Earth, the Dynamic Earthquake cocktail marries tequila with local rhubarb liqueur, creating an explosive flavor profile that mirrors the Earth’s dramatic history. Served in a flute, this vibrant concoction is a celebration of nature’s power.
Ending the journey atop Arthur’s Seat, Arthur’s Elevation cocktail provides a refreshing blend of gin, local bramble liqueur, lemon, and coconut, evoking the stunning views of Edinburgh from above. This invigorating drink is also available as a mocktail.
Yubaraj Tiwari, Lead Bartender at Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, shared:
“Each cocktail on the Tales of Old Town menu tells a story and connects the rich tapestry of Edinburgh’s past and present. Being situated in the heart of the Old Town inspires us to honor the historical landmarks around us, offering guests the chance to savor the experience and let the city’s enduring tales unfold with every sip.”
Zakia Moulaoui, Founder and CEO of Invisible Cities, added:
“We are thrilled to partner with the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood for this engaging walking tour. As local experts, we’re eager for hotel guests to uncover the fascinating locations throughout the Old Town.”
For more details about the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, visit www.marriott.com/edimh. Learn further about Invisible Cities at invisible-cities.org.
All images © Sandy Young Photography, Marriott, Holyrood Edinburgh cocktails
