There is an endless list of things to do in Edinburgh, a city that is stunning and charming in equal measure. I could go on for days about the world-famous book fair in August (that accompanies the Edinburgh Festival), the tour guides that will show you around Edinburgh Castle, the bustling train station or the pubs that will serve you a good pie and chips. The Summer markets in the grounds of St John’s with the cafe below are busy and inspiring, staying at the grand Balmoral Hotel is a luxurious treat, and the many beautiful parks and galleries are there for the taking, with so much more besides!
But this very short list is written in the hope that you will be inspired during your time in Edinburgh, discovering its beauty and all it has to offer. And if your legs fancy a wander further afield, there is much more to be found!
1. Embrace the weather!
I ran into a gentleman a few days ago who informed me he was off on a holiday to Scotland. We began excitedly swapping stories and ideas of places to go, when he told me his concern of the weather. It appeared he hated the cold and the wet. After I had assured him he would need his waterproof jacket and good hiking boots, I told him to embrace the weather, in all it’s grey and rainy splendour. That way, when you do get a cracking sunshiny day, you will love it all the more! And in the meantime, there’s plenty of cosy places to stay warm and dry.
If you’re lucky to be in Edinburgh on one of these sunshine filled days, you will notice the parks flood with folk, picnicking and soaking up their Vitamin D. If you’re looking for something to eat, I’d suggest running into Marks and Spencer on Princes Street to buy yourself a delicious picnic which you can enjoy on a patch of grass in Princes Street park.
If you’re looking for a seat and a menu, wander down to Grassmarket Square where you’ll find plenty of pubs and restaurants. If you’d like to keep the view but be indoors, pop upstairs in Jenners (off Princes Street) to the Cafe where you’ll find seating that overlooks the high street, the park and the castle.
2. The Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens
If you love a good castle and woollen mill (who doesn’t!?) but are looking for something a wee bit different, a little way off the beaten track you’ll find the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens and their stunning glasshouses. You can find your way here easily on the bus or if you have a car (or bike) there is plenty of parking about. For a few pounds each you can wander inside these stunning buildings and enjoy some breathtaking plants and foliage. As an added bonus, it’s warm in the greenhouses and will grant you a touch of the tropics!
The gardens are beautiful in every season and well worth the visit, and you may also make friends with the local squirrels! Handy hint – don’t keep peanuts in your pockets, the squirrels will run up your legs!
3. Arthur’s Seat
If you fancy a bit of fresh air, there are plenty of stunning walks and beautiful monuments to discover in Edinburgh. Calton Hill and Nelson’s Monument offer incredible views, and you can wander from there over to the National Monument of Scotland for more beautiful scenery. Arthur’s Seat is likely the most well-known and frequented, but for good reason. An extinct volcano towering over the city below, you are guaranteed stunning views from every angle. And if you walk it during the summer months, the flowering yellow gorse will fill the air with the scent of coconut! There are many paths to the top and you’ll be joining those exercising and those out for a stroll, so take your time and explore the area.
4. Christmas and Hogmanay
If you find yourself in the city of Edinburgh over Christmas and Hogmanay, you are in for a treat! There are traditional Christmas German markets next to the Scottish National Gallery on Princes Street, traditional Scottish markets in St Andrew’s Square, plus skating rinks and mulled wine to warm your hands. You’ll find George Street dripping with fairy lights, and can do some luxury shopping here as well as popping into The Dome for a Champagne Afternoon Tea. Purchase a ticket for the street party for Hogmanay, and you’ll find yourself viewing a spectacular firework display from Edinburgh Castle. If you know more than the first five words you can even join in singing Auld Lang Syne after the bells.
If you’re looking for a spot of pampering, Edinburgh is full of lovely day spas to warm you up and ease sore feet. You’ll also find Edinburgh Playhouse at the top of Leith Walk which is a wonderful venue with excellent productions year round. Edinburgh is a city full of treasures, and is well worth the visit!
All images by Nicola Goring
Ms Chinoiserie Says: From fireworks and champagne to picnics and theatre, there are so many fabulous things to experience in Edinburgh!
About Nicola Goring – I’m Nicola, the florist and crafter behind rubyandjoy. I’m a gardening, fabric loving, mint tea drinking, brownie baking, book obsessed maker! I love a good adventure having just moved back from five years in Scotland (with my lovely Scottish husband).
Nicola – love reading your travel stories – my travel list keeps on growing!
Thank you! SO many beautiful places still to explore, my list is growing too!