Why is the Witchery in Edinburgh called the witchery?
At the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Witchery, now in our fifth decade, takes its name from the hundreds of women and men burned at the stake as witches on Castlehill during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
Does the Witchery in Edinburgh have a dress code?
No need to worry about dress code – most Edinburgh restaurants are used to fairly casual. Not many people nowadays go for jackets and ties eating out and even smart casual can be stretching it for some. Your jeans will be absolutely fine.
Who owns the Witchery in Edinburgh?
James Thomson OBE
James Thomson OBE The Witchery’s indulgent owner, James Thomson, is Scotland’s best-known restaurateur and hotelier, recently adding the national accolade of “Restaurateur of the Year” to his many other awards which include an OBE for services to hospitality and Scottish Tourism.
Does the Witchery have a Michelin star?
Michelin-starred restaurant Number One at The Balmoral on Princes Street, The Witchery by the Castle, The Tower, and Prestonfield House confirmed that foie gras – a food product made from the fattened liver of duck and geese – will be removed from their menus.
Where were witches burned in Edinburgh?
the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
The Witches’ Well It’s possible that hundreds of those convicted of witchcraft were strangled and burnt at the stake on the execution ground now covered by the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. This fountain, designed by John Duncan, R.S.A, is near the site on which many witches were burned at the stake.
Can children eat at the Witchery?
Alongside the Scottish lobster, langoustines, beef, lamb and game, you’ll also see the Witchery’s legendary Angus beef steak tartare and even some haggis. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 10 years of age in our dining rooms.
Whats the difference between the Witchery and The Secret Garden?
over a year ago. Yes its all the same restaurant but the Secret Garden dining room is a more gothic experience. over a year ago. The Secret Garden is part of The Witchery – an annex that would have been part of the courtyard to the original close.
Who is the chef at The Witchery Edinburgh?
Douglas Roberts
Jonathan Trew from 5pm went behind the scenes to find out how Head Chef, Douglas Roberts, and his team keep the magic strong at the Witcheryby the Castle and what makes it such a special place to dine. Read more about the Witchery, what inspires Douglas and his thoughts on the Edinburgh dining scene.
When did The Witchery Edinburgh Open?
1979
Named in memoriam of the innumerable accused, The Witchery was opened as a high-end eatery and inn by restaurateur/hotelier James Thomson OBE in 1979, thus breathing new life and theatrical flair into Boswell’s Court.
How many witches were executed in Scotland?
There were major series of trials in 1590–91, 1597, 1628–31, 1649–50 and 1661–62. Seventy-five per cent of the accused were women. Modern estimates indicate that more than 1,500 persons were executed; most were strangled and then burned.
Can children eat at Witchery Edinburgh?
An award-winning a la carte menu is served all day. Alongside the Scottish lobster, langoustines, beef, lamb and game, you’ll also see the Witchery’s legendary Angus beef steak tartare and even some haggis. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 10 years of age in our dining rooms.
Who owns Prestonfield House Hotel?
Prestonfield House is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic hotels and its owner James Thomson OBE is one of the country’s best known hoteliers. He also owns The Witchery at the top of the Royal Mile. Susan Young caught up to discuss the past year.
Does Scotland have any Michelin stars?
There are currently 10 restaurants in Scotland with a Michelin star rating, a rating system used by the Michelin Guide to grade restaurants on their quality. 9 restaurants in Scotland currently hold one Michelin star, and 1 holds 2 stars. The list of restaurants is updated once every year.
What is the witchery in Edinburgh?
At the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Witchery, now in our fifth decade, takes its name from the hundreds of women and men burned at the stake as witches on Castlehill during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
What is the history of the witchery?
The History of The Witchery. The Witchery occupies a substantial sixteenth Century building, Boswell’s Court, named after a former resident, James Boswell, the uncle of Dr Johnson’s biographer. It has been in continuous occupation for over four centuries, latterly as committee rooms for the Church of Scotland and as the Rectory of a nearby church.
What is Witchery by the castle?
The Witchery by the Castle was established by James Thomson in a historic building at the gates of Edinburgh Castle.
What are the opening hours of the witchery?
Lavishly decorated, our suites scream romance with a capital R! Whether you stay or dine The Witchery is an unforgettably magical experience. We are open all day from 12noon – 10.30pm (last reservation), 7 days a week.