Experience Edinburgh

Tracie Cooke on 17 December 2019
A day trip to Edinburgh? Is that a good idea? I can tell you, with confidence, it is an absolutely brilliant idea!

Having received an invitation from Loganair and East Midlands Airport to spend a fun-filled, festive day in Edinburgh, I awaited my trip with eager anticipation. We were celebrating the launch of the new Loganair route from East Midlands Airport; it would not disappoint!

On arrival at the airport, we were met and taken to the new Proof 65 bar and restaurant; where we were served a delicious complimentary breakfast! This chic bar/restaurant is modern and contemporary and has a creative and sophisticated menu. This is not 'regular' airport food, the menu will delight and surprise you. It's a bright, comfortable space and if you're a gin lover like me, there are at least 15 to choose from! The bar is open from 3am most mornings, so if you'd like your breakfast to look more like art on a plate, this place is for you.

Once onboard the new Loganair service direct to Edinburgh, we were surprised at the amount of space on this relatively small aircraft. Taking 51 passengers, in a 2-1 configuration; plenty of legroom, sufficient storage and complimentary tea/coffee or soft drinks with a choice of biscuits. Cabin staff wearing tartan adds a slightly theatrical touch to things and is in keeping with the carriers Scottish heritage. The aircraft is surprisingly quiet and will win over most travellers used to flying on turbo-prop aircraft on this route. Flight time is around 50 minutes, making it perfect for those who wish to maximise their time on the ground. It will certainly attract the business community but should prove popular with other travellers too. I would have no hesitation in recommending you try it.

On arrival in Edinburgh, we tested out the tram service into the city. Its clean, quiet and takes you direct to the very centre of the city in 15-20 minutes. Absolutely brilliant! We walked up to the Old Town, where we were met by our very own Musical Minstrel, Tour Guide. This is a walking tour with a difference; not only are you entertained with history, tales and anecdotes, you’ll delight in some traditional folk music, odes to modern music and a brief interlude in a local, hidden, watering hole! The tour takes about 90 minutes and provides some unique and quirky insight to the city. Totally engaging and thoroughly enjoyable.

Following our tour of the Old Town, we headed to the Festive Market; culture of a different kind! Situated directly between the Old Town and Princes Street, it’s easy to locate. Heading directly to the food area, we feasted on Bratwurst and potatoes, washed down with warm Gluwein. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly with plenty of places to eat and drink; a huge Santaland for families to visit, a small funfair and hundreds of stalls selling all things Christmassy! Personally, I’m not a big fan of markets but you couldn’t fail to be impressed and the stalls looked spectacular with their fabulous displays of goods. This is a market that you would want to wander around.

Our final stop was at the famous Dome Bar. Not only is the exterior of the building impressive but the inside is spectacular! The drinks menu here is extensive but you’ll be more wowed by the architecture and decoration. From the mosaic floor to the chandeliers and all things in-between; it sparkles and shines! Simply, the most beautiful and dazzling bar you’ll ever go to and the perfect place to end an incredible day in this beautiful city.

Returning to the airport by tram, which stops just outside the terminal building, our final treat was to try out the new Aspire Lounge, (not to be confused with the ‘old’ Aspire Lounge – there are two!). This lounge is more like a Club Lounge in style and décor with a good selection of hot and cold food and a full bar service. Its situated upstairs, above the main concourse, so much quieter and for plane spotters, a good view of the runway too. Our time here was all too brief and before long, we were airborne once more and heading back to East Midlands.

If you ever thought it was too far to go for a day trip; it really isn’t! Loganair have several flights, so you can really maximise your time. Add on the lounges at each end and you don’t have to worry about spending too much time sitting in restaurants. It also passes the airport waiting time in the best way possible. If you prefer to linger a little longer, I would wholeheartedly recommend it. Get in touch if you’d like to go and explore Edinburgh for yourself.