The year has begun at pace for Heritage Portfolio, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting and ambitious year ahead. From major contract milestones to creative menu development and large-scale mobilisations, our teams have been busy laying the foundations for what’s to come.
Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve been working on.
One of our key focuses at the start of the year has been the mobilisation of Edinburgh Zoo. This major project has brought teams together from across the business, working closely to plan, prepare and deliver a seamless transition behind the scenes.
From detailed operational planning to shaping the visitor experience on the ground, it’s been a true collaboration powered by shared ambition, care and attention to detail. A huge team effort, and one we’re incredibly proud to be part of as this new partnership comes to life.
Claire McHardy - Heritage Portfolio, Head of Operations at Edinburgh Zoo said:
“The mobilisation of Edinburgh Zoo has been a fantastic project to be part of. The team has worked incredibly hard to bring each part of the operation together, and our RZSS colleagues have been brilliant partners throughout - supportive, collaborative and great to work with.
One of the highlights of being on site is that no two days are ever the same. During a supplier show round last week, I ended up face‑to‑face with the cheetah - not something you expect on an ordinary day, but definitely a standout moment.
It’s also been great to see how quickly guests have taken to the new touches, especially the Sir Olav penguin biscuits. There’s a lot of good momentum across the board, and I’m looking forward to what we’ll continue to achieve together.”
We were delighted to kick off the year with the announcement of a renewed partnership with the Royal Academy of Arts in London, securing our collaboration for a further six years after a competitive tender process.
Heritage Portfolio will continue to deliver bespoke hospitality and event catering within The Keeper’s House and across other areas of the Royal Academy - building on a relationship that began in 2016. Over the coming year, an exciting programme of enhancements will be rolled out, including investment in the RA Café and members’ spaces, further elevating visitor and member experiences.
We’re incredibly proud to support one of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions, creating thoughtful, seasonal dining and hospitality that complements this iconic venue.
Wedding season planning is well underway, with our teams hosting and preparing for a series of wedding showcases across our partner venues. These events are always a highlight, allowing couples to experience our partner venues, meet our teams, and envision how we bring their celebrations to life with care, creativity, and attention to detail.
January has also been a key month for menu development, with our culinary teams working behind the scenes on new and upcoming concepts. From seasonal inspiration to bold new ideas, we’ve been refining menus that will launch later this year - and we can’t wait to share more soon.
We’ve also recently refreshed elements of our offering, including updates to our Street Food and Late Food menus. Designed to be informal in style but refined in delivery, these menus showcase vibrant flavours, elevated classics, and comforting favourites - ensuring guests are well catered for.
With a wide-ranging food and drink portfolio, we continue to create menus that can be tailored to suit every style of event, from relaxed and social to polished and celebratory.
Our Private Events team has had a particularly busy start to the year, preparing for an exciting pipeline of projects ahead. January has been filled with creative proposal building, site visits, client meetings, and travel across the UK - all in support of delivering bespoke events for some truly inspiring clients. Big ideas are in motion, and this is just the beginning.
We’re also introducing new afternoon tea experiences across our retail venues, each celebrating local flavour and storytelling:
Each offering brings its own sense of place, seasonality, and creativity to the table.
At Heritage Portfolio, no two days are ever the same – but every one of them is extraordinary.
From leading our kitchens as a Head Chef, to bringing creative concepts to life as an Event Designer, and delivering seamless, memorable service as part of our Front of House event teams, every role plays a part in creating exceptional experiences.
If you’re passionate about hospitality, thrive working with people, and believe perfection lies in the details, we’d love to hear from you. Our passion for excellence keeps us moving – and we can’t wait to see where it takes us next.
The start of the year may be quiet for some, but for us it’s been all about preparation, creativity, and momentum. With so many exciting projects underway, we’re looking ahead to the year with energy and anticipation.
Right this way, to discover more about what Heritage Portfolio has to offer.
Learn MoreCelebrate the season with menus bursting with the fresh flavours of summer. From vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs to freshly caught seafood, seasonal berries and exceptional meats, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the very best ingredients at their peak.
Available across our venues, discover bright, seasonal flavours, creative cooking and memorable dining experiences throughout the summer months.
