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"Coorie In" the West End of Edinburgh
So what is this Scottish word Coorie (pronounced ku:ri) that has become so much more than just the translation from the Gaelic "to nestle or snuggle"? Coorie and particularly Coorie In, or my favourite Coorie Doon, has transitioned into a lifestyle trend and description of enjoying life the Scottish way. The businesses of the West End of Edinburgh have decided to come together and "coorie in" as Christmas approaches making special offers, running events and encouraging local and residents (and visitors wanting to be honorary Westenders) to meet up and enjoy their community. As part of this we wanted to share some stories of the personalities and businesses who are our lovely neighbours in Edinburgh.
There is even a book dedicated to "The Art of Coorie" by Gabriella Bennett sharing how to live happy the Scottish way, enjoying simple pleasures and embracing all things Scottish to find a deep sense of happiness, comfort and well-being. We have created our own corner of Coorie through in the measuring area of our shop, sink into the ancient green leather sofa, covered with a sumptuously soft and cosy lambswool rug, and piled high with cushions in every tartan you can dream of, so while your other half tries on their dream garment you can relax in comfort. You can even sip a dram while you do so!
But enough of us, after you exit tartan heaven what else can you discover in the West End? We caught up with some of our favourites to find out how they like to Coorie In.
Brenda from Birrell Rainford Opticians shared her thoughts: “ I love being involved in a business in the West End. William Street is so special with it’s colourful shopfronts and village atmosphere. Great community feel .. our own little Tobermory oasis in the city! “ They are running a special offer this week for those lucky enough to be contemplating an escape to the sun or snow this winter with a great offer on quality sunglasses😎.
Also on William Street Denzil and Amanda are offering a gratis check and clean of your jewels while you enjoy a glass of bubbles. What better excuse? Like us they specialise in creating something bespoke for you so be warned, you won't even need a glass of fizz to be tempted by their design expertise! Feeling a little light headed? Head on to Fox & Co for the most delicious festive scones which are complimentary this week with any purchase of a hot drink. I recommend their hot chocolate! A quick wander along Stafford Street to feast your eyes in Solo Menswear, Frontiers Man and Woman, always something a little different to add to your wardrobe, pop some quirky cards and gifts into your basket in Paper Tiger then back to The Green Room for a free mug of Hot Winter Punch with your meal. No crowds, no feeling harassed, beautiful surroundings, cobbled streets and character, this is how Christmas shopping should feel, decadent and pleasurable.
Back to our part part of town and Queensferry Street and a diverse range of undiscovered treats. First up the healthy option with 15% off Up & Running or a free personal training session at Gym on the Square, then build yourself back up with scrummy food at The Painter Rooster or Dulse (Singapore style mussels, smokie Arbroath tartan and trout pastrami are on the menu....my mouth is watering already) before indulging in some home improvements at the AGA shop or Bagno Design.
You can "meet the neighbours" at the Flatbread Turkish Bakery House on Haymarket Terrace, have those tired feet massaged at the Foot Massage Spa then on Tuesday head over to Fox & Co to listen to Mike Baillie from the Lonely Together as he plays a rare intimate gig just for the Westenders. On Wednesday you can enjoy mince pies and mulled wine at the RIAS Bookshop, wine tasting at The Green Room and a pub quiz at The Fox & Faun. More fun on Thursday (I can't list it all here, there is just too much going on but it is all here on the website), then Friday I am not missing French Friday croque monsieur at midday, followed by Feverup (Fleetwood Mac but not really Fleetwood Mac) perform a candlelight concert at St Mary's Cathedral. On Saturday as you hop off the tram at the West End, Portobello favourites the Shunpike Social Club streetband bring their brassy, saxy, drummy world music to the area. And so, so much more. This is just a tiny taste of everything going on, come and join us to experience these amazing wee independent businesses for yourself.
So what are you waiting for? Get your your sticker from Paper Tiger on Stafford Street, The Green Room on William Street or Pippin Gifts on Haymarket Terrace, and Coorie In with the Westenders. Join the Edinburgh West End Facebook group to find out more, look out for the window stickers in participating shops, restaurants, bars and other businesses, and meet your fellow Westenders as you go.
Coorie organiser (and West End Facebook group admin) Mark McKergow says “There are more and more residents moving into the West End every month. We want to help them maker lasting connections with the fantastic range of businesses here, and with each other, during the Coorie." The Coorie includes both the shopping areas around William Street and Stafford Street to the east and also West Maitland Street and Haymarket Terrace to the west. We hope to build the Coorie into an annual event.
