Experience the Magic of Festival Fringe at Surgeons Quarter

Every August, Edinburgh transforms into the world’s cultural capital as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes centre stage. With its rich history dating back to 1947, the Fringe has become a global celebration of creativity, showcasing groundbreaking performances from artists across the globe. From gripping theatre to laugh-out-loud comedy, mesmerizing dance to inspiring new writing, this festival offers something for everyone.

Why We’re Charging £2 for Cups at the Festival Fringe

At Surgeons Quarter, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do — especially during major events like the Festival Fringe.

In 2023, a staggering 42,000 single-use cups were used during the Fringe. Determined to reduce this environmental impact, we introduced reusable cups in 2024. While the response was positive, we faced a new challenge: over 1,500 cups were not returned in the first week alone, forcing us to purchase additional single-use cups — the very thing we were trying to avoid. That’s why, for the 2025 Festival Fringe, we’ve introduced a £2 charge per cup.

Here’s how it works:

• You pay £2 for your reusable cup — and it’s yours to keep. A Practical souvenir! 
• Bring it back when you come for your next drink, and you’ll receive a fresh, clean cup.
• Visiting more than once? Bring back your cup, no further charge, clean cup provided.
• Forgot your cup? You can purchase another for £2.

This system helps us cut down dramatically on single-use waste and supports our broader sustainability goals.

Where does the money go?

A portion of the proceeds from cup sales will support:

• Local charity Cyrenians, tackling the causes and consequences of homelessness.
• Sustainability initiatives via Ecologi, including reforestation and carbon offsetting projects.

It’s also worth noting that all profits from Surgeons Quarter go back to charity, helping improve patient outcomes worldwide through the work of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Reusable Cups – Your Questions Answered

Why is there a £2 charge for a cup? Can I get a refund?

The £2 is a one-time purchase, not a deposit. Your reusable cup is yours to keep – a practical and eco-friendly souvenir.

Surgeons Quarter has invested over £20,000 into this sustainable initiative to reduce environmental impact, support fair wages and continue funding our local charity partners.
We do not operate a return scheme, so refunds are not available.

What’s the environmental impact of using a reusable cup?

Using a reusable cup can reduce your carbon footprint by around 61.6g CO₂e per use (vs. single-use plastic).
Single-use cups also pose health and environmental risks, including:

• Potential exposure to 853 food contact chemicals found in recycled PET (2023 review).
• An estimated 1 million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals die annually due to plastic waste.
  (Source: Scottish Government & Hope Solutions)

Is the £2 charge a deposit or a purchase?

It’s a purchase – the cup is yours to keep and reuse.

What are the cups made of?

• Wine Glasses: Polypropylene Homopolymer (BPA-free)
• Pint & Half Pint Cups: Polypropylene (PP), printed with eco-friendly ink

Are the cups dishwasher safe?

Yes, they are dishwasher and glasswasher safe for easy reuse.

Can I bring my own reusable cup?

Yes – clean, personal reusable cups are welcome for wine, spirits, bottled beer and soft drinks, as long as they are visibly clean.
Please note that SQ staff cannot wash your personal cup and single-use plastic cups (e.g., supermarket-style) will not be accepted.

Can I reuse my cup at other venues?

This is a Surgeons Quarter initiative and we can’t guarantee other venues will accept our cups.

Are other venues doing something similar?

Some venues are exploring sustainable practices, but approaches vary across the Festival Fringe.

Do I still pay the £2 if I’m just getting a soft drink?

Most soft drinks are served in PET bottles, so using a cup is optional – but if you choose to use one, the £2 charge applies.

TheSpaceUK: Home of Award-Winning Performance

For nearly three decades, theSpaceUK has been at the heart of the Festival Fringe, producing and hosting one of the most diverse and exciting performance programmes. Whether you're a seasoned theatre enthusiast or a first-time festivalgoer, theSpaceUK's venues provide a platform for bold, innovative, and unforgettable performances. With 11 dynamic spaces at Surgeons Quarter, this vibrant hub is a must-visit during the festival.

Visit TheSpaceUk page to find out more.

Surgeons Quarter: Ultimate Destination

Each August, Surgeons Quarter (SQ) transforms into one of the largest and most exciting festival venues in Edinburgh. Nestled in the city’s historic Old Town, SQ offers a unique blend of culture, history, and hospitality, making it the ultimate Fringe destination.

With nine food and drink outlets, including the popular Café 1505, multiple outdoor bars, and stylish indoor spaces within Ten Hill Place Hotel, the festival energy at SQ is electric. 

Stay in the Heart of the Festival- You're in Good Hands

Make your Fringe experience unforgettable by staying at Ten Hill Place Hotel or Hill Square Suites, both located within Surgeons Quarter. Enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and  convenience, in a hotel or apartment that’s just moments away from the festival action. Owned by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Ten Hill Place Hotel offers a good nights sleep while supporting a meaningful cause with profits going towards improving patient outcomes worldwide.