Events are held twice a year, providing Edinburgh Ambassadors with networking opportunities and a chance to experience some of the finest venues in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

September 2011 - Life After Dolly... 

When you think about The Roslin Institute the first thing that pops into mind is the world-famous cloning of Dolly the sheep in 1996, however over forty Ambassadors and guests had the chance to find out a great deal more when they visited this stunning new £60m state of the art building which opened in June 2011.

Professor David Hume, Director of the Institute, welcomed Ambassadors into the 250 seat auditorium and entertained with science anecdotes before describing the build project and the top-class research undertaken at the Institute which is aimed at tackling some of the most pressing issues in animal health and welfare.

On a slightly different vein, Michael Foreman, Director of Kenes UK, provided Ambassadors with a very useful insight into organising conferences, the help that is available and the benefit a conference can bring to their research.

Following a lively question and answer session, delicious bowl food was provided by Edinburgh First Outside Catering and Ambassadors had the opportunity to tour the building. The layout of the Institute was inspired by the shape of a human chromosome - one arm providing open plan office areas, the other laboratory accommodation. These arms are linked by an interaction zone with meeting rooms and break-out spaces.

One of our Ambassadors summed up the evening perfectly when asked for their highlight:

"Difficult to choose as whole event superb.....from invitation to arrival in that amazing building, to scrumptious hot dishes.....to very interesting presentations, to fascinating tour with a warm & charismatic insider "guide", to further networking with desserts and happy, contented bus trip home."  Pamela Warner, University of Edinburgh

March 2011 - Portrait of the Nation

Ambassadors gathered at the National Gallery of Scotland to get the inside track on the Scottish National Portrait Gallery which re-opens in November 2011, after a refurbishment project which has spanned more than two-and-a-half years.

James Holloway, Director of the Portrait Gallery, explained what the £17.6 million refurbishment will offer visitors and provided an introduction to the 17 exciting new exhibitions and displays, including a dedicated photography gallery. James also highlighted the exciting entertaining opportunities which the refurbished venue will provide.
Ambassadors enjoyed excellent hospitality, including traditional Scottish canapés and drinks, provided by award-winning caterers, Heritage Portfolio.

"The highlight of the evening for me was the combination of getting to meet people and obtaining information & inspiration for new venues in a wonderful setting." 
Thomas Brenn, M.D., Ph.D., FRCPath
NHS Lothian University Hospitals Trust and The University of Edinburgh

Image credit: Blue Sky Photography

January 2011 - Belated Christmas Cheer!

We helped chase away the winter blues for over fifty Ambassadors and guests with drinks and canapés at The Hub, Edinburgh's Festival Centre. 

Ambassadors had the opportunity to see round facilities which includes three rooms suitable for meetings and dinners, as well as a relaxed downstairs cafe.

Joanna Baker, Managing Director of the the Edinburgh International Festival provided a fascinating insight into the history of the festival together with a sneak preview of this summer's shows.

June 2010 - Summer in East Lothian

Edinburgh Ambassadors and guests visited East Lothian for the summer Ambassador event at Gosford House, the seat of the Earls of Wemyss and March.

As well as enjoying a BBQ, Ambassadors had the chance to try falconry with Raptor World or a golf clinic with the professional from Craigielaw Golf Club, part of the estate. There was also the opportunity to learn more about Gosford's fascination history and art collection.

April 2010 - Spring in the Botanics

Ambassadors and guests were treated to a dinner with a difference at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Ambassadors put their mind to the test by exploring the garden, finding clues and tasting the delights of a delicious dinner en route, provided by exclusive caterers Prestige Scotland.  

During the course of the evening, guests had the opportunity to visit the Terrace Cafe, the newly refurbished Caledonian Hall and new £15.7m John Hope Gateway visitor centre - all great venues for conferences and meetings.

November 2009 - Just Desserts...

Ambassadors' culinary skills were put to the test at The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa.  Ambassadors created their own Tiriamisu dessert under the expert guidance of Malcolm Webster, 2008 Hotel Chef of the  Year.

An opportunity to view one of the refurbished state-of-the art bedrooms added to the evening's enjoyment. 

October 2009 - Taste of Spain

Edinburgh Ambassadors were treated to an evening of Spanish wine tasting and fine dining at the newly refurbished and extended John McIntyre Conference Centre, a recent addition to the superb portfolio of distinctive venues offered by Edinburgh First at The University of Edinburgh.

Guests were welcomed by a piper before viewing the conference facilities. A string quartet entertained over dinner and a wine tasting of top-quality Spanish wines was led by Alliance Wine.

June 2009 - Summer at Hopetoun House

Edinburgh Ambassadors enjoyed a fantastic evening of archery and laser pigeon shooting at one of Scotland's finest stately homes. Hopetoun House is set in 6,500 acres of rolling parkland, ideal for taking part in these outdoor pursuits.

The Ambassadors also had an opportunity to explore the magnificient interior of this wonderful home thanks to a clever "Whodunnit" devised by Hopetoun staff.