Travel: Explore Edinburgh
Wander the cobbled streets of this beautiful hilltop city for Gothic architecture, contemporary culture and a fascinating past
Most famous for its festival, there’s so much more to the beautiful city of Edinburgh. Historic yet contemporary, geographically small but culturally rich, urban, yet rural, there’s something here for everyone. And, aside from the jumble of gothic buildings and eclectic eateries, its imposing castle sits on a rocky outcrop that’s actually a dormant volcano.
Cultural quarter
Steeped in history, the recently rejuvenated West End is a hidden gem. Its cobbled shopping lanes are at the heart of the city’s fashion and culinary scene, and are populated by quaint boutiques and a host of independent cafés. The best way to explore the broad Georgian streets and crescents is on foot, with a free guided walk. Three West End Sound Walks lead you to key places, narration and sounds. Discover the history of characters such as Dr Joseph Bell (the inspiration for Sherlock Holmes), and Elsie Inglis, a pioneer for women in medicine and a leading suffragette.
Concluding with an audio-inspired scavenger hunt inspired by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, these tours provide a deep dive into the West End area of the city. Listen for the cathedral bells competing with the chime of the trams, giving the city a surprisingly European sound.
Head for Haymarket – home to Edinburgh’s second train station, pretty Victorian terraces and communal gardens. At the heart of it all lies the Haymarket
Hub. Here you’re given a complimentary smartphone to help you navigate the city.
When you’re ready for refreshments, try Cairngorm Coffee in the heart of the
West End for possibly the best grilled cheese in Scotland.
nature in the city
Edinburgh’s architecture is set off by its many green spaces and its main river. Take a walk or cycle along the Water of Leith, whose dog-friendly walkway meanders pleasingly through the city.
No visit is complete without a stroll around the Royal Botanical Garden. Established in 1670, together with its sister gardens it represents one of the world’s largest collections of plants. There are 27 glasshouses here, of which The Temperate Palm House, built in 1858,
remains the tallest in
Britain.
Another houses ferns and fossils, which is well worth exploring.
One of the best places to view the juxtaposition of urban and rural is from the vantage point of Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the skyline. Dating from the 12th century, this iconic fortress is also home to Scotland’s crown jewels.
bars and books
Stroll back down to the city centre and discover Edinburgh’s gin heritage with a tour of the Edinburgh Gin Distillery (where, of course, tastings are part of the experience!). Or, if you’re more into wine, then Whighams Wine Cellars, housed in an 18th-century townhouse, should be on your list. Offering an extensive wine-and-spirits list and tapas menu, the venue also features an acclaimed jazz club.
Edinburgh has recently become a place of pilgrimage for Harry Potter fans, adult and child alike. Discover the history that inspired the famous wizarding world, including Hogwarts Castle, Diagon Alley (Victoria Street and Candlemaker Row), and Greyfriars Kirkyard, where JK Rowling is thought to have found inspiration for names
in the series. Can you find the headstone belonging to the 19th-century gentleman said to have inspired the character of Tom Riddle?
The winding side streets and narrow walkways are the veins of Edinburgh. No visit is complete without wandering around the Old Town and up the Royal Mile.
Away from the High Street, crossing the North Bridge feels like stepping back in time as you head up Castle Hill. Don’t forget to stop off for a quick whisky!