EDINBURGH Stroll through this history haven, and explore its unique and o beat o erings
Explore classic and offbeat experiences in the Scotland capital
Ahistorical and cultural melting pot of Scotland is one way of defining Edinburgh. With its majestic castles, cobbled alleyways, high-spirited festivals and rustic charm, history buffs are quite gung-ho about its wealth of medieval fables and architecture — making it the second most visited city in the United Kingdom after London.
Edinburgh offers two distinct locales — the Old Town, atop which is the mighty Edinburgh Castle and several other fortresses; and the New Town, built in the 18th century in response to the overcrowding of the Old Town. Together, they feature a seamless blend of old and new, depicted through heritage sites, Michelin-starred restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and live entertainment.
TRAVERSING AROUND EXPLORE THE BYGONE ERA
Bookmark the Edinburgh Castle as it tells tales of its time as a military fortress. Highlights include the Great Hall displaying weapons and armour from the past; The Royal Palace; Prisons of War and St. Margaret's Chapel. Don’t miss the One O’Clock Gun here, fired every day except on Sundays, on Good Friday and on Christmas Day. You can also hire a venue in the Edinburgh Castle for your grand nuptials or civil ceremonies.
Another notable attraction is the Palace of
Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence when visiting Scotland. Get a glimpse into the time and lives of Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie who once made this palace their temporary home. Next to it is the Holyrood
Abbey, which was used to be one of the grandest medieval abbeys in Scotland. Amongst the many Insta-worthy spots here is Palace Gardens that is set against the backdrop of Arthur’s Seat hill.
Understand the history of Scottish paintings at the
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. On display are masterpieces by legendary artists like Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt and Vermeer.
DINE THE SCOTTISH WAY
Edinburgh houses more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other part of the UK outside London
Deem your trip to Edinburgh incomplete without the quintessential Scotch Whiskey Experience. Set up on the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, this place guides you through the production and heritage of Scotland's national drink. Indulge in whiskey tasting and blending sessions or enrol yourself in a one day Scotch whiskey training course.
Do you know Edinburgh houses more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other part of the UK outside London? One among these is the The Kitchin that specialises in British seasonal cuisine tweaked with French cooking techniques. Another fine-dining establishment is Castle Terrace, headed by Edinburgh-born Dominic Jack. Nestled underneath Edinburgh Castle, this restaurant serves the best of Scotland’s seasonal fare.
Pub crawl across George Street and Rose Street in New Town, bustling with cocktail bars. There is Voodoo Rooms, situated in the city centre which is known for classic cocktails, rums and tequilas. Indulge in a range of Scottish cask ales, the finest malt whiskey and beers at The Abbotsford in Rose Street. Pocket-friendly tipples can be enjoyed at Three Sisters, an Irish pub in the heart of the Old Town.
EDINBURH BY NIGHT
From theatres to comedy clubs and live music bars, Edinburgh’s zippy nightlife is one thing that you shouldn’t miss on your trip here. Groove nightlong to jazz, acoustic, blues and roots at a basement music venue called The Jazz
Bar. This is complemented by their tempting bar menu with beer, wine, cocktails and Polish jazz vodka.
Visit Cabaret Voltaire, a local arts and music institution in the heart of the Old Town, to shake a leg with your friends and family.
Catch old classics and global cinema at Filmhouse, Scotland's leading independent cinema spot and the home to Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Lastly, get ready to have your funny bone tickled at
The Stand or Monkey Barrel Comedy that hosts gigs and live performances. visitbritain.com ■