Colonnades at the Signet Library opens its doors

Following a £250,000 restoration of the stunning Library interiors including unique lighting, intricate gold leaf and a bespoke handwoven carpet, the Lower Library will open under the name Colonnades, which is a reference to the classical pillars that grace the building. It will be one of the finest lunch and tea venues in Edinburgh. Talented interior designer, Amy Schellenberg has brought years of experience working with clients such as the Royal & Ancient, to oversee the superb restoration. 

Operating to the usual Heritage Portfolio standards of excellence, the venue will have its own Tea Sommelier, Champagne experts and mixologists and an on-site pastry chef, with all food cooked from scratch and served in style. Colonnades will work in partnership with some of Scotland’s best food producers such as the Wee Tea Company and Summerhouse Drinks, alongside the Signet Library’s favourite tipple: Pommery Champagne. The signature afternoon tea will change with the seasons and reflect the best of Scottish produce. A gluten free afternoon tea option will feature, alongside a range of seasonal specialities and the best in Champagne and cocktails. Book your table now.

Robert Pirrie, chief executive of the Society of Writers to HM Signet, owners of the Signet Library, comments: “This opening represents the crowning glory to ten years’ work by the WS Society and Heritage Portfolio. This is a new era in the extraordinary life of the Society which goes back over 500 years to when the Signet Library was built for the Writers to the Signet as a library and meeting place at the height of the Enlightenment period in Edinburgh. Over the years the building has adapted and evolved with changing times. We are now opening our doors so the public can share this unique architectural gem with us. The prestige and heritage of the Writers to the Signet lies in excellence and that is the standard both we and Heritage Portfolio have set for Colonnades".

Mark Miller, executive director of Heritage Portfolio, comments: “Our business is renowned for offering luxury hospitality and Colonnades will certainly be the best example of how fabulous we can really make an afternoon tea. With bespoke silver teapots and table furnishings from Heritage Silverware, plus fizz and finery, we have transformed the venue into something truly unique and special in Edinburgh.”

Book your table using the widget top right or call us on 0131 226 1064. 

Colonnades is open Sunday – Friday 9am to 5pm. Serving breakfast from 9am to 11am, Lunch and Afternoon tea from 11am to 5pm. 

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