| 1. Arthur’s Seat |
The tip of an ancient extinct volcano, Arthur’s seat is a majestic feature found in Holyrood Park, a mile from the city centre. There are magnificent views from the summit over the city and the landmark is picture perfect in the light of the setting sun. Long linked with King Arthur. It’s more likely a corruption of Archer’s Seat as it was an excellent tactical stronghold for archers.
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| 2. Edinburgh Castle |
Dominating the Edinburgh skyline, the castle in its present form has guarded the city for nearly five centuries having been rebuilt following the ‘Lang Siege’. It’s a fascinating building with commanding views of the city and now houses the War Museum of Scotland, detailing all the wars against the English over history. It houses the oldest building in Scotland, St Margaret’s Chapel which dates from the 11th century and which avoided damage over the years. The castle is said to be haunted by a headless drummer and a piper who plays on the battlements. In August, the castle stages the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
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| 3. The Palace of Holyroodhouse |
Official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, Holyrood House as it is less formally known is open to the public all year round unless the monarch is in residence. It’s at the end of the Royal Mile and opposite Edinburgh Castle. The palace has gained in significance in recent years with the opening of the Scottish parliament and a number of foreign royals have stayed there. During a Time Team excavation for the BBC to mark the Queen’s 80th birthdays, remains of parts of the original building built by King David I were uncovered.
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| 4. The Royal Mile |
This is Edinburgh’s busiest tourist street and travels from Holyrood Abbey to the Castle and Castle Rock. Formed of four streets, at one end castle Esplanade is the setting for the Military Tattoo. Along the High Street you’ll find detailed in the cobbles ‘The Heart of Midlothian’ which is the name given to the prison that used to stand on this site. Locals to this day still follow the tradition of spitting on the centre of the heart to show disrespect for authority. In Canongate you’ll see the Scottish parliament building.
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| 5. Princes Street Gardens |
These were made after the draining of a loch in the middle of the city which collected the sewage of the city and carried disease. Following the drainage, the Waverley Railway Station was built at one end and the railway itself travels through the gardens. The gardens are a favourite leisure venue of Edinburgh folk and it hosts several concerts, especially around Hogmanay. There are a number of statues and memorials in the gardens, the most famous of which is the one to Scotland’s greatest novelist, Sir Walter Scott.
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| 6. Ghost tour |
With Scotland’s bloody history centred around the political machinations of its capital, it’s no wonder that the city abounds with ghost tales. From the haunted battlements of the Castle to the ghosts that travel the Royal Mile or haunt Holyrood House there is plenty to be seen and discussed on one on the many Ghost Walks that are on offer around the city. The best ones take place at night and really add to the air of mystery about the city.
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| 7. Watch a Piped Band |
There can be no scene more reminiscent of Scotland than a band of pipers in dress uniform. Throughout the year you may be lucky enough to see them march around the city. You’ll certainly hear them first. August is the time you will most likely see them as they prepare for the annual Military Tattoo. Then hundreds of tourists can be seen marching in step behind the bands as they make their way along the Royal Mile and into Princes Street Gardens.
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| 8. Scotch Whisky Heritage Museum |
Scotland is most famous for its biggest export, Scotch whisky and whilst its more famous brands are to be found away from Edinburgh, the city celebrates the proud tradition at the Scotch Whisky Heritage Museum. Here you can find out all about the origin of the straw coloured liquor and trace its development to the present day. The gift shop offers samples of the whiskies it sells and a large range from across the nation can be purchased there.
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| 9. Edinburgh Rock |
Not the geological kind this time but a sweet favourite of Scottish children and others around the world. Unlike the hard seaside rock beloved of tourists, Edinburgh Rock is softer with a honeycomb texture and is less wearing on the teeth. It comes in mixed packs of flavours and colours and makes an excellent memento to take back home to young people. It was first made in the 19th century by a man who became known as ‘Sweetie Sandy’. The crumbly texture is gained from adding Cream of Tartar to the mix, causing it to froth as it sets.
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| 10. Edinburgh Festival |
First taking place in 1947 this is the largest cultural festival in the world and takes place in venues and the streets across Edinburgh in August each year. Many well known acts appear but it is also a showcase for new talent and many of the world’s great acting and comedic talents have been discovered there. Many events are free to attend and for the duration of the festival, the city is packed with hotel rooms selling out fast. For a euphoric end to a visit to Edinburgh you’ll not match the lively spirit of the festival.
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