Historical Sites
Edinburgh’s rich history and many historical sites make for a great visit. These include Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the city, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Royal Mile, a series of cobblestone streets connecting the Old and New Town.
Let’s explore some of the historical sites to explore in Edinburgh, United Kingdom:
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most visited tourist attraction and one of the most iconic historic locations in the United Kingdom. Located on top of Castle Rock, a volcanic plug, it has dominated the city’s skyline for centuries. The castle, thought to have been established in the 12th century, was built during a time of great tumult and tumultuous political activity in Scotland and Britain.
The castle is steeped in history, with several famous battles being fought on its grounds or during its rebuilding phase – it was attacked several times by both English forces under Edward I and Robert I, who attempted to wrest control from the locals. Today Edinburgh Castle is also home to the Honours of Scotland – symbols such as the crown jewels representing Scottish sovereignty.
Inside these walls, prison cells were home to notorious figures such as William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots. Other exhibits also include street scenes from old Edinburgh and picture galleries depicting various periods throughout Scottish history from Prehistoric times onwards.
From April through October, daily events such as battle re-enactments occur at different locations around Edinburgh Castle – so be sure to plan your visit accordingly!
Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace is a royal residence located in Edinburgh, Scotland. Home to Scottish Kings and Queens for centuries, the palace is still used for official events, including the opening of the Scottish Parliament and visits from the armed forces. Built in 1128 and remodeled over centuries, visitors to Holyrood Palace can explore over 500 years of history.
The first royal connection showed up when King David I moved his various government offices into an abbey his mother had given him. The Abbey had fallen into disrepair when James IV authorized a new palace to be built on what is now known as Holyrood Park, one of Edinburgh’s largest public parks.
In 1633 Charles I hired architect John Mossman to rebuild much of Holyrood Palace in Renaissance-style architecture with Baroque ornamentation, which can still be seen today. He also added sixty apartments known as “the lodges”; however, these were later demolished in 1780 due to overcrowding within the palace. Sixteenth-century additions included a vaulted Porch Room adorned by several mural paintings depicting historical scenes and events, such as “The Gowrie Conspiracy” in 1600, and two wall paintings with murals known as ‘The Golden Room’ which James VI commissioned in 1608-1609. It was decorated with classical murals painted by artists from Flanders, Italy, France, and England before 1730, some still visible above The Great Gallery banqueting hall near Queen’s Park.
Today, guided tours take visitors through various areas within the palace, such as:
- The Great Gallery Mezzanine Level
- The Royals Chapel & Stable Courtyard, containing a replica stable block built during their royal visit in 1903-04
- Scotland’s Hallway & Great Staircase – housing Jacobite relics such as Bonnie Prince Charlie’s music box & secretary desk
- Private state apartments – including Mary Queen of Scots chambers – where visitors could get close to treasures from Mary Tudor’s reign or explore subsequent family life until George IV departed for London in 1822.
- An audio tour inside Palace Apartments giving an overview of reigns past such as Queen Victoria II era (1837-1901) or her father, King George III, who used Holyrood Palace for many summer festive occasions due to driving his carriages throughout Scotland between April & November each year.
For those wishing to stay at Royal luxury locations when visiting Edinburgh or further distances within Scotland, then exploring this amazing palace will give much insight into true kingship living while appreciating artworks created many generations ago and introduced through stunning portraits of famous figures who took part during their time at this residence making it more exciting experience than any museum trip could ever offer!
Giles’ Cathedral
St. Giles’ Cathedral is one of the oldest, most famous churches and historical sites in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. Located on the Royal Mile, it has been a place of worship for centuries. Notable for its Scottish Baronial architecture, St. Giles’ Cathedral has a rich history that dates back to an early church building constructed in its place in the 12th century that was later replaced by a larger gothic-styled important by King James IV in 1480.
The church boasts numerous fascinations, including:
- Artifacts from Edinburgh’s medieval past, such as the distinctive Thistle Chapel, which was constructed in 1911;
- The Sanctuary lamp;
- The colorful stained glass windows are some of the largest and most impressive of their kind;
- A small museum containing artifacts and ancient doctrinal papers;
- And an organ built between 1735 and 1747.
The cathedral is also renowned for its many organs, including three of Kenneth Tickell’s instruments – one at St Margaret’s Chapel dating back to 1983–and classic organs from 1865 and 1900 installed at other parts of the church. It also hosts concerts throughout the year where traditional music can be heard from across Scotland in an acoustic atmosphere that enhances melodies as if sent from Heaven. In particular, during Lasses Fair days, you can join local Scots and visitors worldwide to enjoy vocal performances and traditional ceilidh dancing at Scotland’s iconic Upper Church complex(Cathedral Hall).
Museums
Edinburgh is home to some of the world’s best museums. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a history buff, there are plenty of museums to explore in this charming city. From the Edinburgh Museum of Childhood to the National Museum of Scotland, the variety of museums in Edinburgh will surely add to your experience.
Let’s take a look at some of the best museums you can visit in Edinburgh:
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is in the heart of Edinburgh, United Kingdom. It is home to various collections covering various topics, including world cultures, fashion and design, science, art, technology, and more. Aside from being a museum filled with interesting artifacts and curiosities, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions to keep visitors returning for more. The architecture that stands tall alongside such wonderful exhibits makes a visit to this museum genuinely unforgettable.
The Third Square at the National Museum of Scotland is where you’ll find everything from prints to watches, comics to musical instruments; a perfect place for interactive exploration. Meanwhile, those interested in Architecture may be interested in the Variety Spiral staircase (or “The Winding Stair” as it is nicknamed) spiraling up through 5 different levels or keeping an eye out for one of Edinburgh’s secret passages!
Discover exciting relics such as various ancient arms like swords and muskets or find yourself lost in thought while admiring artifacts such as mummies and Chinese porcelain; no matter what kind of history enthusiast you are, there will be something here for all ages! Visit the National Museum of Scotland today to curate your experience – explore!
National Library of Scotland
The National Library of Scotland (NLS) is an invaluable resource for the citizens and visitors of Edinburgh, United Kingdom. Established in 1925, the NLS is where millions have access to books, manuscripts, and other materials related to Scotland’s cultural heritage. Visitors can tour the library and its collections or use the library’s reading rooms.
The NLS is home to many unique collection items, including:
- manuscripts from Robert Burns’ original poetry drafts;
- rare medieval manuscripts;
- copies of important legal documents like the Act of Union;
- maps covering 500 years;
- 250,000 photographs, engravings, and drawings;
- millions of printed works, including books and pamphlets; and
- 17th-century newspapers.
There is also an extensive collection related to World War I and digitized copies of Scottish history books.
The building is attractive, with two exhibition galleries full of unique artifacts from Scotland’s past. The National Library also offers plenty for educational groups – school children and university students will adore this iconic Scottish landmark.
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht Britannia is a must for any visit to Edinburgh. Located by the historic port of Leith, this magnificent five-deck vessel was home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family for over 40 years, providing a unique insight into the opulent lifestyle of the Royal Family. Onboard you can explore her Royal Apartments and State Rooms, stroll on deck, and discover how The Queen and her guests enjoyed life at sea.
The luxurious staterooms, including the Wallis Simpson Suite, Duke of Edinburgh’s Day Cabin, and Princess Anne’s Sitting Room, are still decorated with personal mementos, furniture, and artifacts from the Royal family’s visits to the world. You can even see where they celebrated birthdays or hosted receptions in The Sun Deck, or you can learn about how meals were prepared with a visit to their 4-tonne galley stove.
Exhibitions featuring onboard memorabilia give visitors an exciting insight into Britannia’s illustrious past. You can peep through portholes to see how captivating she looks tethered at her moorings in Leith. At the same time, exhibitions specially tailored for younger visitors take children of all ages on an exciting voyage to explore all aspects of life on board Britannia from child’s play in royal nurseries, royal weddings on deck, or even sharing afternoon tea with The Queen!
Outdoor Activities
Edinburgh, United Kingdom, is a vibrant city with plenty of outdoor activities for visitors. Visitors can explore the city’s many green spaces, participate in watersport activities, visit the beautiful coastlines, or take leisurely walks around the city’s iconic sites.
In this section, we will take a look at the various outdoor activities available in Edinburgh, United Kingdom:
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the city’s highest point at 823 ft (251 m). The hill offers views of the city, coastline, and the surrounding countryside. It is located on the edge of Holyrood Park and is a popular spot for morning jogs, hillwalking, and running.
The peak can be reached after a relatively short ascent from Queen’s Drive. Most people consider it a reasonably easy climb taking around two hours round-trip from start to finish. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning views when they reach the summit!
The path up Arthur’s Seat starts gently but gradually becomes steeper as you get closer to the top. In some places, it’s filled with giant steps or rocks, so wear suitable footgear such as hiking boots for safety. To make the most out of your visit, you might want to take along snacks or lunch – there are a few lovely spots to sit down at Arthur’s Seat, amounting to ethereal Atlantic views.
In addition, you can enjoy over 500 hectares of wild parkland which takes in evidence listed buildings surrounded by gardens designed by famous names such as William Henry Playfair, designer of Edinburgh’s New Town. With its vibrant history and fantastic landscape, visitors will most certainly find something to do within Holyrood Park!
Calton Hill
Situated in the center of Edinburgh is Calton Hill, which overlooks the breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can go sightseeing and admire impressive structures such as the National Monument of Scotland, Nelson Monument, and Royal Observatory.
On top of the hill is an old ruin offering stunning sceneries of Edinburgh from its viewpoint. For a more leisurely activity, one can take a picnic to enjoy the hill before descending.
Calton Hill is also ideal for joggers and other fitness enthusiasts to exercise while enjoying the fresh air. In addition, multiple walking trails are available on Calton Hill with varying intensity levels so visitors can find something that suits their needs.
In addition, after dark, you may be lucky enough to glimpse some beautiful sunsets or even star gazing for a few moments – making Calton Hill an excellent day or evening out in Edinburgh!
Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is an oasis in a bustling city, with an idyllic setting that allows visitors to escape busy city life. Visitors can enjoy some of the garden’s 70 acres, including the Rock Garden and Sycamore Gap, which feature stunning displays of trees, plants, and flowers. The woodland paths are ideal for those who like to explore nature, with spectacular views over Edinburgh.
Various events take place throughout the year – from outdoor cinema nights to guided walks – adding to the charm and atmosphere of this great green space.
The Royal Botanic Garden is an excellent spot for keen photographers, given its picturesque backdrop and a plethora of flora and fauna; there are all sorts to be discovered here right in the center of Edinburgh. Last but certainly not least, it has plenty in store for kids; there’s an adventure playground, a play meadow, and art activities in its Creative Courtyard throughout the summer. The fact that it is free allows people from all walks of life to enjoy this tranquil retreat away from their usual surroundings – whether they want a quick stroll or an entire day out.
Shopping
Edinburgh is known for having an abundance of shops, with something for everyone. Edinburgh has everything from designer boutiques and classic department stores to tourist and souvenir shops. So whether you’re looking for a unique gift, the latest trends in fashion, or something special just for yourself, Edinburgh has many shopping opportunities to choose from.
Read on to discover the best places to go shopping in the city:
Princes Street
Princes Street is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic and popular shopping spots. Located in the city center, just off of the Royal Mile, Princes Street has a variety of stores, from trendy boutiques to world-famous department stores. So whether it’s window shopping or purchasing the perfect souvenir, visitors can find something to fit their style.
Those looking for designer labels should head to Jenners Department Store– the country’s oldest luxury department store – or Harvey Nichols – a fashion mecca – both found on Princes Street. In addition, you can pick up some traditional Scottish clothing at Kilts and Trews or find a unique piece at Cruise Fashion, which features high-end labels and streetwear. Finally, be sure to explore all the streets of Princes Street while there; they are home to some hidden gems worth discovering.
For bargain hunters, Princes Street is also home to dozens of charming independent shops offering clothing, homewares, accessories, books, and more at low prices. In addition, you can pick up original artwork at Finlayson Gallery or some top finds from charity shops like The Salvation Army and SCVO ReShop. There’s also an array of secondhand stores for vintage fashion, like Vivien & Alice Emporium and Love From Vintage Antiques & Collectables, where you can uncover one-of-a-kind treasures from days gone by.
George Street
When shopping in Edinburgh, check out George Street, one of the city’s most recognizable tourist attractions. This historic street is located in the heart of Edinburgh and offers a unique mix of high-end and independent retailers.
It also has various restaurants, cafes, bars, and pubs.
High-end retailers on George Street include Luxury clothing brand Hugo Boss, jewelry designer Thomas Sabo and the upmarket shoe boutique Kurt Geiger. Independent shops line the street have Sweatshop London Grooming barbershop, Aspire Boutique beauty store, and Closet Clothing boutique.
For somewhere to eat or drink while you shop, head to family-run eatery Café India or try your luck at Apothecary Bar’s cocktail creations.
Grassmarket
Situated between The Royal Mile and Princess Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Grassmarket is widely recognized as one of the best places to shop in the city. This picturesque cobbled square, with its historical monuments, independent boutiques, and traditional Scottish pubs, is a popular tourist attraction and a fantastic place to explore during a city break.
The most prominent features of Grassmarket are its inviting mix of contemporary and vintage stores. Here you will find an array of individual clothing boutiques, craft and antique shops, home decor outlets, upmarket gift stores, art galleries, and bookstores. In addition, several charming designer jewelry stores in the area showcase beautiful handcrafted creations crafted from gold, silver, and unusual gemstones.
Suppose you’re feeling hungry after all that shopping. In that case, Grassmarket is home to numerous cozy cafes, traditional pubs, and lively bars serving an array of classic Scottish dishes and international cuisine staples. From Italian eateries to sushi restaurants, there’s something for everyone!
With its unique specialty shops combined with timeless charm and character, it’s no wonder why Grassmarket is one of Edinburgh’s must-visit attractions!
Food & Drink
Edinburgh is a city rich with culture and history, offering plenty of dining and drink options. This city has something for everyone, from traditional pubs to contemporary eateries and vintage cafes. So get ready to explore the abundance of flavors and cultures that Edinburgh has to offer in the world of Food & Drink.
The Elephant House
The Elephant House is a cafe in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. Established in 1995, it has become a popular tourist attraction and not just for its food and drinks. It is renowned as being the place of choice for author J.K Rowling, who wrote much of the first book in her Harry Potter series in this very spot.
The Cafe is decorated with antique bookshelves, instantly set up to invite customers to their cozy atmosphere. Upon entry, you will already be surrounded by the vibrant artwork from local artists promoting their craft along the walls throughout the Cafe and will find something new each time you visit.
Amongst other varieties of food and drinks, they have an extensive selection of specialty teas and coffees – ranging from Latte to Cappuccino to Hot Chocolate. They also serve various sandwiches, focaccias, homemade cakes, and desserts that can be enjoyed inside in front of one of their unique paintings or taken away for lunch or afternoon break, along with some reading material from one of the bookcases around The Elephant House Café.
When you get peckish and wish to sample some local Scottish cuisine – among other delicacies – you could try some freshly made haggis served with mashed potatoes or their famous “neopolitan” sausages, all cooked fresh daily onsite. So whether after a leisurely brunch or late-night snack – there is something for everyone at this fantastic Cafe!
The Devil’s Advocate
The Devil’s Advocate is a unique bar located in the heart of Edinburgh’s city center. It has a modern, urban design combined with traditional touches that bring a great atmosphere to the venue. With its own microbrewery onsite, the bar offers guests an excellent range of craft beers and lagers. In addition, this Edinburgh favorite can provide plenty of delicious wines, spirits, and classic cocktails.
Food lovers can feast on small plates like sliders, hand-cut chips, sharing boards, and larger main dishes like chicken and steaks. Every dish is prepared with locally sourced ingredients, so you’re getting a taste of Scotland when you visit. The bar is trendy around sunset, where the shining lights from its eastward-facing windows make it look even more inviting after dark.
Whether for coffee during the day or drinks at night, The Devil’s Advocate is one of the best places in Edinburgh to enjoy time with friends or family.
The Dogs
All food lovers visiting Edinburgh, United Kingdom, should try The Dogs! This local restaurant offers an exciting blend of traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, fish, and chips and unconventional twists such as beer-battered chicken and oatcakes. Situated in the very center of the city, this quaint shop is in front of a beautiful open-air market, surrounded by art galleries and historical sites.
For first-time visitors to Edinburgh, this is an ideal place to start. Not only do you get a generous serving of good food, but you also get a taste of culture! Before settling for your meal, you can chat with the locals about their favorite delicacies or admire some lovely old buildings. The Dogs’ delicious menu then entices you – With juicy haggis burgers or smoked salmon sandwiches available, you can’t go wrong! They also serve lighter snacks with freshly brewed teas or coffees – perfect for when you’re feeling peckish but don’t want to stuff yourself too full!
The Dogs is open throughout the day, so it’s an ideal spot to pick up breakfast, lunch, or even afternoon tea after sightseeing around town. So if you’re looking for a truly satisfying experience, make sure your next stop in Edinburgh is The Dogs!