The Cape Controversy

A four-hour immersive dining experience beneath the Royal Mile inspired by the real Enlightenment-era Cape Club, combining live performance, storytelling and a multi-course feast.

A one-night immersive dining experience inspired by the real Cape Club, an Enlightenment-era Edinburgh society that met in the Old Town's taverns, including at the Isle of Man Arms in Craig's Close on this very site. Over approximately four hours, guests move through candlelit underground spaces, are sworn into factions and follow a story featuring characters inspired by figures such as Robert Fergusson, Alison Cockburn and William Brodie. A bespoke multi-course feast created by Culinarians is woven into the performance, ending with a ceremonial finale. The event is adults-only, involves stairs and uneven surfaces, and phones are covered during the experience.