Is a trip to Scotland’s breathtaking capital in the pipeline? Whatever time of year your visit is slated for, you won’t struggle to find exciting things to do there.
If your time away involves time seeing multiple parts of Scotland, why not take the train into Edinburgh from Dunbar? Dunbar is a pretty coastal town that birdwatchers and hikers love and it’s only 20-30 minutes by public transport.
Without further ado, here’s your quick guide to Edinburgh’s attractions.
Edinburgh Castle
Atop Castle Rock (an extinct volcanic plug), Edinburgh Castle sits proudly. There’s nothing to worry about – Edinburgh’s two volcanoes are at least 350 million years old and will never erupt again.
The castle is an impressive fortress that commands attention regally on the city’s skyline. Here, you can see Mons Meg, a famous 15th-century canon and the One O’clock gun that ships in the nearby Firth of Forth used to set their clocks. There’s also the 12th Century St Margaret’s Chapel and the room where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to the future James VI of Scotland and James I of England.
The Royal Botanic Garden
Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden is more than 350 years old. Here, you can appreciate the Scottish Native Plants Collection, Woodland Garden and the Alpine Houses.
The Chinese Hillside is another beautiful feature. Windy paths, waterfalls and plants with a traditional Chinese feel adorn this space.
Arthur’s Seat
Anyone with a reasonable walking ability shouldn’t miss the opportunity to climb Arthur’s Seat. This is Edinburgh’s other extinct volcano and it sits 251 metres above sea level. It is so named because King Arthur is thought to have visited. Additionally, reaching the summit reveals the remains of an Iron Age summit.
You can combine this with a trip to the Royal Mile, which is only 1.2 miles away. Being so close to the city’s old town, the panoramic views you will get from the Seat are unrivaled.
You’ll find it in Holyrood Park. Allow at least 2-3 hours for your visit and take your pick from the colour-coded routes, depending on how much of a challenge you want.
Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park itself, the location of Arthur’s Seat, is not one to overlook. It’s a large expanse of beautiful green space that was commissioned by King James V in 1541. Not far away, you’ll also find the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the Palace of Holyrood House.
The park has 650 acres of scenery to explore. Walk among glens, lochs and hills and look out for the ruins of the medieval St. Anthony’s Chapel.
Edinburgh is a historic city with truly beautiful architecture and attractions. You’re sure to have the best time there!
