UK Cigar Scene Magazine January Issue 13

Cigar Smoking in Edinburgh By James R. Martin For several years I have been trying to find the best solution to a modern problem. Since the arrival of the smoking ban my favourite pastime of smoking fine cigars has not been easy when visiting family in Edinburgh, especially over the Christmas period when temperatures are normally less than conducive to sitting outside. When he discovered I was in Edinburgh, Nic Wing, Editor of UK Cigar Scene contacted me, he had recently been asked via social media about good places to smoke in edinburgh. Nic sked me if I could do some investigation to see where our friends of the leaf could both purchase and enjoy fantastic hand rolled cigars. But this wasn’t an easy mission. There are several smoking websites that have lists of C.O.S.A.’s (Comfortable Outside Smoking Areas. These should include shelter, heating and comfortable chairs) The websites concerned have massively disappointed me over the the past few years. When I travel some distance to a hotel or venue only to find that the COSA listed has little more than a hard bench with no cover or heating on a windswept patio or standing outside the front door. I have to report that that I have only managed to find two venues that fit the bill. This Hotel was the former lunatic Asylum in the city and is a lovely old building surrounding a courtyard. Here you will find the Cigar Shack. Located in the corner of the courtyard and furnished with a couple of sofa’s and a few leather armchairs. This year they have replaced the broken heater, but I have to report that it really does not do much of a job keeping you warm. After having a good chat with the new Manageress she assures me that she will have some more heaters added this year. Inside the hotel you will find a humidor which holds a small selection of Cuban cigars but could really do with a wider range. The staff could not be more helpful and provide drinks service whilst you enjoy you time smoking. Please note you are more than welcome to bring your own cigars Sheraton Hotel 1 Festival Square Edinburgh EH3 9SR www.sheratonedinburgh.co.uk Hotel du vin 11 Bristo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 1EZ www.hotelduvin.com/locations/edinburgh Located on the 1st floor of this large popular hotel you will find the main bar overlooking the Festival Square. If you venture out through the glass doors onto the terrace you will find a fabulous smoking area. 25

UK Cigar Scene Magazine January Issue 13 | Page 26