Travel Information
Venue Address:
John McIntyre Conference Centre (JMCC)
University of Edinburgh
Pollock Halls
18 Holyrood Park Road
Edinburgh
UK
EH16 5AY
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city where rich history meets contemporary culture. Set on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, between the Rivers Almond and Esk, it offers a unique blend of medieval heritage, striking architecture, and vibrant modern life.
The conference will be held at the John McIntyre Conference Centre, located within the picturesque Pollock Estate on the campus of the University of Edinburgh. Surrounded by landscaped grounds and overlooking Holyrood Park, the venue offers a peaceful setting while remaining within easy reach of Edinburgh’s historic city centre and many of its major attractions.
We encourage delegates to make the most of their visit by extending their stay and exploring Edinburgh’s many attractions, from world-famous landmarks and museums to its vibrant cultural, dining, and shopping scene.
To help you plan your time in the city, you’ll find information on Edinburgh’s cultural highlights, restaurants, entertainment, and live music venues, along with recommendations for excursions beyond the city centre and into the surrounding Scottish countryside.
Getting to the JMCC
Edinburgh Airport
35 min taxi journey from the venue
1hr 10 min by bus / tram
Waverley Train Station
Bus & Tram service links
Extend your stay?
Staying on for the ICEM Conference
Bus & Tram apps
Download from the Apple or Google play store prior to travel.
Guidance for international delegates
Passport
Your passport will be checked when you arrive in the UK Please ensure it is within date and is valid for the whole of your stay.
VISA applications
If you require a visa you can request a formal invitation letter after registering by emailing the IWGT office. If you are presenting at the meeting, please include the title and date of your presentation. Check below to see if you need a VISA to visit the UK.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Most visitors need an ETA or a visa. What you need depends on:
• Your nationality
• Why you’re coming to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man
You usually need an ETA rather than a visa if you’re from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada or certain other countries. Please click the button below for information specific to your country.
Map
General information
Travel
You can fly direct to Edinburgh from over 150 destinations. Edinburgh International Airport is 6 miles out of the city centre and easily accessible by tram, bus or taxi. Edinburgh Waverley train station is in the heart of the city, less than 2 miles from John McIntyre Conference Centre. It has direct routes to and from many cities across the UK. Edinburgh Bus station is approximately 2 miles from John McIntyre Conference Centre, or a 35-minute walk. It has direct services to and from many towns and cities across the UK. The local buses are run by Lothian Buses, and there are a number of routes that will drop you a short distance from JMCC. Black cabs, private hire and Uber are all available in Edinburgh. A taxi from St. Andrew Square Bus Station or Princes Street to John McIntyre Conference Centre will cost approximately £8 and take 5-10 minutes. From the airport, it’s about £25 and takes 25 minutes. There is limited on-site parking on a first-come first-served basis at John McIntyre Conference Centre. There are 6 Park and Ride services in Edinburgh with frequent journeys into the city centre.
Weather
The UK has a temperate climate, and weather conditions can change quickly. Even during summer, temperatures can vary throughout the day, and rain is possible at any time of year. It is advisable to bring layers and an umbrella, or (due to winds) a waterproof jacket.
Drinking Water
Tap water throughout the UK is safe to drink and of a very high quality. Most hotels, restaurants, and public venues provide tap water free of charge upon request.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not generally expected. In some restaurants, a service charge of 10–12.5% may be added to the bill. If it is included, no additional tip is necessary.
Currency and Payments
The currency in the UK is Pounds Sterling (£, GBP). Credit and debit cards, including contactless payments and mobile wallets, are widely accepted. Some businesses no longer accept cash, so carrying a payment card is recommended.
Electrical Sockets
The UK uses Type G electrical sockets with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. Visitors from many countries will require a travel adaptor.
Public Transport
Public transport is extensive and reliable. In Edinburgh, buses and trams provide convenient access throughout the city. Contactless bank cards can be used directly on buses and trams, making travel simple for visitors. Bus and tram services operate a 'tap on tap off' service.
Smoking and Vaping
Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, hotels, and conference venues. Vaping policies vary by venue, so please check local guidance. Both smoking and vaping are prohibited on University grounds.
Emergency Services
For emergencies requiring police, fire, or ambulance services, dial 999 or 112 from any phone.
Healthcare
Visitors requiring urgent but non-emergency medical advice can call NHS 111. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide advice and treatment for many minor conditions.
Time Zone
The UK operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during winter and British Summer Time (BST, GMT+1) during the summer months.
Accessibility
Edinburgh is generally accessible, but parts of the historic city centre feature steep hills, cobbled streets, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
Language
English is the primary language spoken throughout the UK. Staff in hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and transport services are accustomed to assisting international guests.