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AROUND THE UK
EDINBURGH
Capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is an incredible city with an exceptional legacy. Between its Pubs, its medieval architecture, its large green areas, the different atmospheres of its districts... Edinburgh is a city worth visiting and in which I would recommend staying for more than two days in order to discover the wonders and charm of its culture and history.
EDINBURGH ESSENTIALS
EDINBURGH CASTLE
Impressive fortress looking over the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle dates back to the Iron Age. Over time, the castle has been used as a fortress, a royal residence and then a military garrison. Located at the end of the Royal Mile and atop an ancient volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is the most visited place in the capital.
For your visit, I strongly recommend to take a map so you don't miss a thing! Indeed, many parts of the castle are open to visits, such as: the Great Hall, the Prisons of War, the Honours of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny or St. Margaret's Chapel. Also take the time to admire the breathtaking view of Edinburgh's skyline as well as the bronze cannons that line the walls of the castle (more particularly, the Mons Meg!).
Admission Fees (Online): Adults £17.50, Concessions £14, Children £10.50
GREYFRIARS KIRKYARD
Filled with mysteries and legends, this cemetery is known to be the most haunted in the world... The ghost of George McKenzie, also known as "Bloody McKenzie" for causing the deaths of many Covenanters, seems to be the origin of many strange facts reported by visitors. Apart from this particular fact, Greyfriars Kirkyard is also a peaceful place in the middle of the capital where visitors like to come and laydown.
Many famous people are buried at Greyfriars Kirkyard. Among them, you'll be able to find the grave of John Gray. This name may not ring any bell to you but it became famous after this police officer died and his dog, a skye terrier named Bobby, guarded his grave for fourteen years. This explains why Bobby is also known as Bobby Greyfriars. Very quickly, the loyalty of the dog touched the hearts of the locals who fed him all these years. After the dog's death, a statue in his honor was erected as well as a headstone at the graveyard's entrance. Greyfriars Kirkyard has also inspired JK Rowling for the names of some Harry Potter characters such as McGonagall and Tom Riddle (aka Voldemort ).
THE ROYAL MILE
The Royal Mile is Edinburgh's most famous avenue. It starts at the top of Edinburgh Castle and runs down Holyrood Palace. Full of touristic shops, restaurants and pubs, this one mile long cobbled street (exactly 1.6 km) is extremely touristy but well worth a visit!
In fact, the Royal Mile is a succession of streets: Castlehill and Castle Esplanade, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canon Gate and Abbey Strand. If you wish to enjoy the medevial atmosphere of the city, it is worth sneaking through the hidden streets... On the High Street, St. Gilles Cathedral (also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh ) is THE cathedral to visit! Nearby, don't be surprised if l you see people spitting on a heart-shaped mosaic: that's the Heart of the Midlothian. Exactly located were the former entrance to Old Tolbooth was, this heart is the symbol of a place where many torturous executions took place. Traditionally, spitting on the Heart of the Midlothian guarantees good luck but also your return to Edinburgh!
VICTORIA STREET AND WEST BOW
Victoria Street is the prettiest and most picturesque street in Edinburgh. It connects the Royal Mile to the Grassmarket which was originally accessible only via the West Bow. However, the old West Bow was a narrow, ziggzagging road that made the access extremely difficult. Victoria Street was then built between 1829 and 1834 to allow better access around the Old Town.
Victoria Street has become a famous street where tourists love to wander through. Its charm lies in the colorful facades of the independent stores and book shops. JK Rowling was particularly inspired by the curve and architecture of Victoria Street to create Diagon Alley in Harry Potter... which explains why there are so many Harry Potter-themed stores along this street (including an equivalent of the Ollivander store!). Today, the West Bow is still accessible and reveals an extraordinary view of Victoria Street.
EDINBURGH'S GREEN SPACES
ARTHUR'S SEAT
Highest point of Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat is the remains of an extinct volcano which offers an incredible panoramic view of Edinburgh. This ancient volcano erupted around 350 million years ago!
CALTON HILL
Another high point to climb near the city is Calton Hill. The hike is very easy (and quick, about 5 mins) and guaranties a breathtaking view of the city and even of Arthur's Seat. Calton Hill is located at the end of Waterloo Palace and is accessible by stairs. Another way to go down is to take the path around the Greenside Paris Church which leads to the the crossroads of Blenheim Place and Royal Terrace .
WALK AWAY FROM THE TOURISTIC AREAS
DEAN VILLAGE AND STOCKBRIDGE
Close to the New Town, this picturesque village is a heaven of peace in the middle of the capital. On the verge of the Water of Leith, Dean Village was originally the house of many watermills.
This bucolic village surrounded by stone houses is a scenic spot allowing you to escape from the effervescence of the New Town. Joining Miller Row will give you easy access to the walking path that runs along the river. On the way you will pass by St. Bernard's Well and Dean Gardens, and quickly meet Stockbridge.
Once in Stockbridge, stop by Stockbridge Market, a lovely farmer's market open on Sundays from 10A.M. to 5P.M. Then head to Circus Lane, a pretty cobbled street where mews houses are covered with climbing plants.
LEITH
Port area in the north of Edinburgh, Leith looks like a small harbor village totally distinct from the capital. Which is not surprising when you consider that Leith only merged with Edinburgh in 1920. To get there, walk down Leith Walk until Baltic Street which will then lead you to the Shore .
Leith has become quite a popular area with locals and well-known for its trendy cafes, restaurants and bars. It is also a peaceful place, perfect for a quiet walk around the Docks. In Leith, also take the time to admire the impressive Royal Yatch Brittania at the Ocean Terminal .
PORTOBELLO BEACH
A little further behind the Palace of Holyrood we can find the essential asset of the capital: the seaside. Accessible by bus (or even by foot), Portobello was originally an independent seaside resort called Figgate and then became an official part of Edinburgh in 1896.
MORE INFO
How do I get to Edinburgh from London?
By plane: only one hour from London.
By train: allow approximately five hours from King's Cross station.
Even though the journey is a bit longer, I highly recommend taking the train! On your way up to Scotland, you will cross the English countryside and you will be able to admire magnificent landscapes. Very quickly, you will feel this feeling of escape...
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My recommendations:
THE DEVIL'S ADVOCATE - 9 Advocate's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1ND, United Kingdom
Cocktail and whiskey bar, two-floor restaurant with terrace, this bar is famous for its great collection of whiskey!
ARCADE BAR - 48 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1PB, United Kingdom
One of the best addresses to taste the local specialty: the Haggis .
OINK - 34 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW, United Kingdom
Delicious pulled-pork sandwiches on the go. They can be found all around Edinburgh.
TEUCHTERS LANDING - 1c Dock Pl, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6LU, United Kingdom
Traditional pub on the docks where you can experience the traditional Scottish Breakfast. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy their terrace overlooking the Docks.
FEED EDINBURGH - 2 Circus Lane, Edinburgh EH3 6SU, United Kingdom
Quiet pub to drink a nice local beer.
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