Home » HOTEL NEWS » Surgeons Quarter Thrives at Edinburgh Fringe: Navigating Sector Pressures with Sustainability for a Seamless Travel Experience
Published on
October 8, 2025
Surgeons Quarter was one of the top hospitality venues in Edinburgh, had a great summer during the highly anticipated Edinburgh Fringe Festival. With navigating increasing operational challenges and a focus on sustainability, they were allowed to meet increasing demand of the visitors. Specialising in eco-friendly operations, Surgeons Quarter finds the right balance between short term and long term operational goals. The venue’s hotel, cafe, and event facilities attracted lots of guests, proving them to be a major player in the hospitality scene. Despite having the operational challenges of rising prices and regulatory Changes, Surgeons Quarter still had an enormous peak summer which proved their strategy was paying off towards the commitment to guest hospitality and satisfaction.
A Strong Summer Despite Sector Pressures
August proved to be a crucial month for Surgeons Quarter, the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, as it navigated through both high demand and growing operational hurdles. The organisation’s facilities, including Ten Hill Place Hotel, Café 1505, and its event spaces, welcomed thousands of guests. The hotel, in particular, saw near-maximum occupancy, while the café also experienced a significant rise in visitors throughout the month.
However, the strong demand was tempered by rising costs, which are becoming increasingly prevalent across the hospitality sector. Surgeons Quarter acknowledged that while August was a peak month for generating profit, it is now more critical than ever to ensure that these profitable periods are maximised to support future operations. The venue’s team is already focused on sustaining growth while managing rising costs and preparing for regulatory changes set to affect the industry in the near future.
Embracing Sustainability and Innovation
One of the standout initiatives this summer was the launch of a campus-wide trial of a reusable cup policy, introduced to address environmental concerns and reduce single-use plastic waste. With Scotland’s new disposable cup tax set to take effect in 2026, Surgeons Quarter aimed to get ahead of this change by encouraging more sustainable visitor habits.
The reusable cup trial, launched during the Fringe, replaced disposable cups with souvenir-style reusable ones. This initiative, which followed a successful pilot in 2024, received generally positive feedback, though the team recognised that there was mixed uptake. The lessons learned from this trial will be used to refine the approach ahead of the upcoming legislation, which aims to tackle single-use waste more effectively.
While the uptake of reusable cups showed promise, the team acknowledged the complexity of shifting public habits and the logistical challenges involved. Nonetheless, Surgeons Quarter remains committed to reducing its environmental footprint and is determined to make further strides in this area in the future.
Partnerships That Enhance the Fringe Experience
Surgeons Quarter’s collaboration with theSpaceUK, a long-established partner known for hosting diverse performances, also contributed to the venue’s successful summer. The partnership flourished during the Fringe, with a record number of shows presented, drawing in larger audiences and increasing engagement across various events. This collaboration not only enhanced the Fringe experience for festival-goers but also solidified Surgeons Quarter’s role as a key player in Edinburgh’s cultural and hospitality sectors.
Navigating a Challenging Hospitality Landscape
This summer was undoubtedly a challenging one for the hospitality industry as a whole, with rising operational demands, increasing costs, and evolving regulations putting pressure on venues across the UK. However, Surgeons Quarter’s ability to meet these challenges head-on, while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and guest satisfaction, highlights its resilience in a sector under strain.
Scott Mitchell, Managing Director at Surgeons Quarter, acknowledged that while August was a strong month for the venue, it was not without its difficulties. Like many hospitality providers, Surgeons Quarter faces ongoing pressures that require careful planning and innovation to overcome. However, the team’s commitment to adapting to these changes and its focus on long-term goals ensures that the venue remains a vital part of Edinburgh’s thriving hospitality scene.
A Vital Asset to Edinburgh’s Tourism Sector
Surgeons Quarter’s performance during the Fringe Festival not only showcases its capacity to meet high demand but also underlines its importance to Edinburgh’s tourism ecosystem. As one of the city’s most respected venues, it continues to play a significant role in shaping the visitor experience, whether through hotel stays, dining options, or hosting cultural events. The venue’s commitment to sustainability and its innovative approach to environmental challenges make it a key example of how hospitality businesses can thrive in a changing world.
For tourists visiting Edinburgh, Surgeons Quarter offers a unique blend of history, culture, and sustainability, making it a valuable part of any travel itinerary. Its proximity to Edinburgh’s cultural landmarks and the heart of the Fringe Festival means it remains a central hub for those looking to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene while enjoying world-class hospitality.
Surgeons Quarter – Leading the Way in Sustainable Hospitality
Surgeons Quarter’s successful adaptability in changing hospitality conditions during the summer of Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival is commendable. With their strategic partnerships focused on sustainability, Surgeons Quarter’s peak demand continues to set a high standard in the Edinburgh hospitality industry. Therefore, Surgeons Quarter is indeed the best choice for eco-sensitive travellers looking to experience Edinburgh’s culture through hospitality with blend of comfort, culture, and responsible tourism.
