Edinburgh, home to a world famous castle and royal palace, is also a traditional seat of learning and innovations, particularly in the fields of medicine, science, law, banking, education and architecture. As well as being steeped in history, Edinburgh is also a modern city bustling with activity.
Edinburgh is the perfect location for an International Conference, offering all the facilities international delegates expect. There are many opportunities for sightseeing, both within the City and in the surrounding area. There are also a vast number of shops, restaurants and bars. Princes Street is home to many of the high street stores, including the famous Jenners which is a must for shopping, selling a wide variety of goods including Scottish souvenirs.
Getting To Edinburgh
By Air:
Edinburgh International Airport, approximately 12km from the city centre, is served by most major airlines. There are regular air services direct to Edinburgh from many UK and European destinations.
Taxis between Edinburgh Airport and the city cost approximately £17-£20 and the journey should take approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, there is an express bus service to Edinburgh city centre. This service operates frequently, at least every 10 minutes from early morning until after midnight. The ticket cost is £3 single, £5 return. Tickets can be bought from the information desk at International arrivals, from a desk at the bus stop or on the bus itself.
The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and terminates at Waverley Bridge, near to the main railway station and bus station and is just off the city's main street, Princes Street.
By Ferry:
Ferry transport is a stress-free alternative for those who wish to combine their conference attendance with a trip to Scotland. Regular ferry sailings are available across the Irish Sea, the North Sea or the English Channel. The most convenient route for Edinburgh is the Zeebrugge (Belgium) to Rosyth route. Rosyth is approximately 20 mins drive from Edinburgh City Centre.
By rail:
Waverley Station, Edinburgh’s main rail station, is at the east end of Princes Street, the city’s main street. Rail travel from Londons Kings Cross Station takes between 4 and 5 hours and there are comprehensive train connections from most other cities in the UK.
By road:
Edinburgh is easily accessible by the UK road network, whether travelling from the north or the south. Driving time from London, via the M1 and M6 motorways, is around 8 hours. In common with many cities, there is very little free parking in Edinburgh and using the pay-per-hour car parks can be expensive. The centre of Edinburgh is relatively compact and as an alternative to the car there are frequent and inexpensive public buses serving the city.
Edinburgh Shuttle
Edinburgh Shuttle is a door to door shared transport service between Edinburgh Airport and the City Centre. A fleet of 7 seat executive mini-coaches run a frequent daily service and pick up and drop off at any address within a zone - hotel, conference venue, business or home address. Generous luggage space and excellent value fares - only £8.00 for an individual with reduced rates for passengers travelling together to the same destination. Online bookings can be made at www.edinburghshuttle.com or call 0845 500 5000.
Weather
The weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable so you are advised to bring some warm clothes and a raincoat. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended. Average temperatures in September range from 7C (44F) to 14C (58F).
Banks and Currency Exchange
The United Kingdom’s Currency is the Pound Sterling (£). Currency Exchanges are available at:
- All UK Airports
- Edinburgh Waverley Rail Station
- Bureau de Change
- Many Hotel Reception Desks
Delegates will also be able to exchange currency in most Edinburgh city centre banks. There are a number of banks within close proximity to the conference venue.
