Things to do in Edinburgh
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur's Seat is the main peak of the group of hills which form most of Holyrood Park, a remarkably wild piece of highland landscape in the centre of the city of Edinburgh, about a mile to the east of Edinburgh Castle. The hill rises above the city to a height of 251 m (820 ft), provides excellent panoramic views of the city, is quite easy to climb, and is a popular walk. Though it can be climbed from almost any direction, the easiest and simplest ascent is from the East, where a grassy slope rises above Dunsapie Loch.
Many claim that its name is a derivation of a myriad of legends pertaining to King Arthur, such as the reference in Y Gododdin. However it has also been claimed that the name is a corruption of the phrase "Archer's Seat".
City Art Centre
Scotland’s capital city has fascinated artists for centuries. The medieval Old Town with its formidable castle and claustrophobic closes huddled around the Royal Mile; the classically – inspired architecture and spacious streets of the New Town and the city’s unique natural setting have inspired generations of artists from far and near. This small selection of paintings of historic Edinburgh is taken from the City’s fine art collection, housed in the City Art Centre.
Click on the images to see higher resolution versions.
Cockburn Museum of Geology
The Cockburn Museum at King's Buildings holds a very extensive collection of geological specimens and historical objects which reflect Edinburgh's prominent position in geological sciences since the time of James Hutton (1726-1797) and its continuing activity today. The stored collections reflect the whole spectrum of Earth Science materials - minerals, rocks, fossils - as well as maps and photographs and archives of activity by famous Earth scientists dating back as far as the late eighteenth century.
Craigmillar Castle
The tower house – one of the oldest in Scotland, and with fascinating features, including a fine great hall and the so-called ‘Queen Mary’s Room’. The views from the tower – over the city of Edinburgh, including Holyrood Park and Edinburgh Castle. The nooks and crannies – a great castle to explore because of the many dark and mysterious chambers. The grounds – including the remains of an unusual fishpond laid out in the shape of a letter P, for Preston.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle dominates the city of Edinburgh like no other castle in Scotland, and Edinburgh Castle is unequalled in the whole of the British Isles. Over one thousand years of history sit on top of the famous Edinburgh rock, and when you see Edinburgh Castle you will understand why over a million visitors a year visit Edinburgh Castle.
When you come to Scotland and visit Edinburgh Castle you will see why the early inhabitants of the area we now call Edinburgh, made their first settlements here, in what is now the city of Edinburgh. People have always sought a safe refuge, and the volcanic rock that forms the base of Edinburgh Castle, has always afforded the ultimate safe and defensive position in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo, the largest and most exciting wildlife attraction in Scotland, committed to the highest standards of animal welfare, conservation and environmental education.
In just one day, you can meet over 1,000 wonderful animals in our beautiful parkland setting on the outskirts of Edinburgh. We have some wonderful attractions for you to experience, plus you can also enjoy a wide range of visitor facilities and masses of events and daily activities throughout the year.
Lauriston Castle & Grounds
Only three miles from the hustle and bustle of Princes Street, Lauriston Castle is set in 30 acres of parkland and formal gardens with spectacular views overlooking the Firth of Forth.
A 19th century mansion, built around a 16th century tower house, the Castle has been home to a number of notable Scots, including the King’s Solicitor to Charles I, a goldsmith and a financial genius!
Royal Botanic Garden
Refresh your senses and explore the riches of the green kingdom at one of the world's finest botanic gardens. Journey through warmer climes in the Glasshouses or discover contemporary art at Inverleith House... there's something for everyone! And why not book a venue for your special occasion or corporate event.
Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
Visit the new Scotch Whisky Experience for a sensational journey! Take a swirling, bubbling barrel ride through a replica distillery as you become part of the whisky making process.
Along the way you’ll hear the stories behind this magical craft, with expert tour guides and whisky advisors with you every sip of the way.
Witchery Tours
Witchery Tours, where my fellow ghouls and I put our stockinged, desert-booted feet up after a hard night's scaring.
It is hard to believe that we've now been haunting the wynds and closes of the Old Town for over two decades. You'd think at this stage the only 'WWW' around here would be 'world-weary whingers', but somehow we keep ever-fresh in spite of our advancing years. How is this possible?
