I wanted an active break and Edinburgh seemed ideal. In fact, it was perfect for the city expedition I had planned. In a place full of hustle and bustle, I immersed myself in a breathtaking landscape of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens from my hotel room. The city of Edinburgh is all about enjoying its pristine views, but whether you want to explore the historic landmarks, museums, galleries, gardens or restaurants and shops, you’ll definitely find inspiration here!
Although Edinburgh is best explored by foot, walking up and down the steep cobbled streets, I took the hop-on hop-off city sightseeing bus as well.
Making the most of my time I set off early, discovering the New Town, along Princes Street, located right in the middle of the city. Overlooking the gardens stood the gothic Scott Monument, where members of the public are free to climb its 287 steps. Thrilled about this thought, I also learned that across the road and around the corner stood the house of the man who changed our lives forever, the inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell. Giving me an insight of the world’s first cloned animal, Dolly the Sheep, which is being preserved (she died 6 years after she was cloned), was worth a visit to the National Museum of Scotland. Another interesting exhibit was the Museum of Childhood, the first of its kind with a display of Victorian, Edwardian and more recent toys bearing in mind that the founder of this museum did not even like children!
I also visited the Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition where I witnessed the making of threads and learned how tartan is woven and kilts are made. This colourful showcase was a unique opportunity to see the making of authentic tartan. As part of Scotland’s heritage, you can dress up in ancient Scottish Costumes and have a professional photographer take your picture! You are also able to purchase many of the products that make such a fantastic Scottish present.
Other attractions I highly recommended are the Museum on the Mound (here, you will discover the story of money in all shapes and forms), Edinburgh Dungeon, St. John’s Church, Scottish Storytelling Centre, National Gallery, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, The Scottish Whisky Experience (tour includes a barrel ride and a sample of the product), St. Giles Cathedral (famous for its stained glass windows), National Monument, Writer’s Museum, Edinburgh University and of course, Edinburgh Castle!
One event to watch out for behind these castle walls is the One O’clock Gun, a time signal where a cannon is fired. It is said that this has been the practice since 1861.
A highlight behind Edinburgh’s glossy façade is the vibrant part of the medieval Old Town, the Grassmarket area where the oldest pub, The White Hart Inn, is located. This was also a main sight of executions, an area for trading domestic animals and a site for witch burnings!
There was more to explore away from the center. Edinburgh’s newest attraction, Dynamic Earth, which takes you on a journey from the beginning of time right through to the future! On the other side of the road, across from Dynamic Earth, a fancy looking building caught my eye, which turned out to be the Scottish Parliament. This building is such a beautiful piece of architecture, which many Scots are proud of! Plus, access to the building is free! Not to be missed off the list of attractions is the Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence of Her Majesty The Queen in Scotland.
Already soaking up the excitement and vibrancy of Edinburgh, I enjoyed a hearty lunch at the charming Elephant House along George IV Bridge, the same café where JK Rowling first wrote Harry Potter. In addition to a café adorned with hundreds of elephants on every surface, the Elephant House also has great food at reasonable prices! Another great place to unwind is Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a bar that got its name from the famous little dog who visited his master’s grave everyday for the rest of his doggy life.
Adding sparkle to the city of Edinburgh, the most convenient shopping location is the underground Princess Mall, complete with a tourist center. at its unique blend and layout, I decided to make a few purchases of Scottish souvenirs – tartan, postcards, haggis (a traditional Scottish dish with a combination of heart, liver and lungs, and it’s actually not as bad as it sounds), fudge, Edinburgh Rocks (a local sweet), preserves, Scottish shortbread and a magnet to add to my collection.
My visit to Edinburgh was such a quality experience that was both interesting and rewarding. It’s the sort of place where you plan your next return before you’ve actually left.
