A passport that is valid for the whole of your stay is required to travel to the UK. Please check the UK government website to see whether you require a Visa or any other supporting documents for your visit: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa.
The currency in Scotland is the British pound sterling.
The average weather in June is relatively mild, with average maximum temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and average minimum temperatures around 9°C (48°F). June is considered part of the summer months in Scotland, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from the low 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit. Adverse weather conditions are not uncommon in Scotland, therefore layers, jackets and umbrellas are advised.
Edinburgh has a low crime rate and is considered safe however, as in all cities, you should never let your guard down and leave expensive items unattended. Pickpockets take advantage in airports, train stations and tourist sites.
If you are in a life-threatening, critical emergency or injury situation, please dial 999 and ask for an ambulance and/or the police. If you are in a critical emergency situation and you are able to, you can also go to your nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department.
If you are in an urgent, but noncritical emergency situation, please dial 111 to connect with NHS 24. They will provide you with immediate advice about your health. Contact them if you think you are in an emergency situation, but it is not life threatening; if you need advice and help on minor injuries (e.g., minor cuts, burns, sprains or insect bites); if you need urgent mental health support; or your GP or dentist are closed, and you cannot wait for them to open.
The nearest hospital, to the University of Edinburgh is at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, 51 Little France Cres, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, and is a 15 minute drive (3.4 miles). The nearest pharmacy is Right Medicine Pharmacy (MacKenzie), 45 Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QP, located a 2-minute walk (456ft) from the venue.
Volts: The UK operates on a 230V supply voltage and the standard frequency is 50Hz.
Electric plug/adaptors: In the UK, sockets are compatible with plug type G. Plug type G has three rectangular prongs forming an isosceles triangle. Please note: we are not able to sell/provide you with any adapters, so please ensure that you bring your own.
Tipping is not expected in Scotland; however, it is common to tip around 10% in restaurants or taxis after receiving a good service.
Cafe Andaluz Old Town | Elegant Andalucian decor & an intimate feel in a tapas joint with paellas & other Spanish fare. Open daily. 4 minute walk or 4 minutes by public transport.
Ondine Restaurant | A creative menu presents sustainable fish dishes in light, modern, elegant space, with oyster bar. Open Tuesday to Saturday. 6 minute walk or 2 minutes by public transport.
Luckenbooths | Offering mouth-watering dinners cooked to perfection. Family friendly restaurant and lounge with sun trap terrace overlooking the most famous landmarks in the city. Open daily. 8 minute walk or 8 minutes by public transport.
Amber Restaurant | Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar is the perfect place to discover Scotland’s larder. Seasonal dishes paired with the perfect dram. Open daily. 9 minute walk or 9 minutes by public transport.
Witchery by the Castle | Enjoy legendary fine dining, an award winning wine list and atmospheric dining rooms. Step inside and be transported to a bygone era. Open daily. 9 minute walk or 8 minutes by public transport.
Contini Cannonball | Historic 17th century three-storey building in the heart of the Old Town, with fabulous views of Edinburgh Castle, serving the very best of locally-sourced, seasonal produce. Open Tuesday to Saturday. 10 minute walk or 8 minutes by public transport.
Fishers in the City | Casual seafood bistro offering fish entrees & shellfish specialties in a polished environment. Open daily. 19 minute walk or 11 minutes by public transport.
KORA by Tom Kitchin | KORA showcases a range of light, fresh, inventive and inspiring dishes, honouring the best of Scottish seasonal cooking. Open daily. 19 minute walk or 11 minutes by public transport.
Kyloe | Enjoy the tender and complex flavours that Scottish beef has to offer at Kyloe Gourmet Steak Restaurant. A sensational gourmet journey awaits you. Open daily. 21 minute walk or 12 minutes by public transport.
Contini George Street | Modern Italian dining in a stunning 19th century banking hall. Open daily. 21 minute walk or 16 minutes by public transport.
Locanda de Gusti | Stylish, contemporary dining room with rustic accents, serving traditional Naples-inspired cuisine. Open Monday to Saturday. 31 minute walk or 26 minutes by public transport.
Royal Mile – 1.2km/18-minute walk/12-minute drive from McEwan Hall. Edinburgh Castle – 1.1km/18-minute walk/10-minute drive from from McEwan Hall.