The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) is one of the most unusual venues I’ve visited and, with capacity to hold up to 1,200 theatre style as well as having a range of smaller rooms, it’s one of the most impressive.
Situated just off the M8 motorway and very close to Edinburgh Airport the venue was, of course, built with climbing in mind, and I have to confess to being slightly overcome by how spectacular a backdrop the 100 feet climbing walls create in the main arena.
The top floor of the building holds the Haston Suite, which is leant a warm atmosphere by its beamed ceilings whilst still retaining a contemporary feel. The space is highly adaptable to a number of uses and whilst the stunning views of the landscaped quarry and surrounding countryside give unique views during the daytime, blackout blinds are in built to allow for lighting and projection effects.
The Raeburn Suite, adjacent to the Haston Suite, is an elegant space where the use of carefully placed sofas and soft furnishings, together with an open fireplace and views over the climbing arena, creates a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for less formal occasions, whilst still maintaining a professional feel.
The Murray Lecture Theatre is a purpose built conference facility with retractable tiered seating set against an original rockface, making it idea for presentations, whilst still maintaining its own character.
On the same floor as the lecture theatre is the Patey Suite. The space has floor to ceiling windows overlooking the climbing arena to one side and the natural quarry rockface to the other, creating an ideal break out room for the lecture theatre or space for events for up to 220 people.
Of course no venue with as many meeting areas as the EICA would be complete without a boardroom and the Marshall Room fits the bill beautifully. The room is light and airy and suitable for a small dinner or lunch as well as a meeting space.
Overall the venue is highly adaptable to a multitude of functions, many of which, if needed, can run simultaneously and the experienced staff are enthusiastic about ensuring an event makes full use of the venue’s exceptional facilities.
Capacity
Arena: Theatre 1,200, Banquet 1,200, Reception 1,200, Cabaret 1,200
Haston Suite: Theatre 500, Classroom 400, Banquet 350, Reception 600, Boardroom 80, Cabaret 240
Raeburn Suite: Theatre 80, Classroom 40, Banquet 200, Reception 500, Boardroom 30
Murray Lecture Theatre: Theatre 220, Classroom 45, Banquet 140, Reception 200, Boardroom 30, Cabaret 80
Patey Theatre: Theatre 80, Classroom 40, Banquet 150, Reception 220, Boardroom 30
Marshall Room: Banquet 12, Boardroom 12
Contact
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
Newbridge
Edinburgh
EH28 8AA
Telephone: +44 (0)131 333 6333
Email: events.eica@edinburghleisure.co.uk