Edinburgh

Perhaps you already know why you want to visit Edinburgh - if not, here are a few ideas to whet your appetite. Local tradition and history have left their marks on this vibrant, bustling capital, which has enough restaurants, theatres, bars and museums to keep everyone happy.

Activities

Edinburgh is a city of culture, with many museums, art galleries, theatres and concert halls offering a variety of exhibits to interest visitors. It is also a university town with a vibrant night-life in the form of hundreds of pubs and clubs open till late, as well as a huge variety of restaurants and eating-houses.

A spin down the main shopping street in the centre of town, Princes Street, will provide the avid tourist with many temptations, all under the magnificent backdrop of the Castle above the famous and picturesque Princes Street gardens.

Meanwhile, all around the city are wonderful country locations where nature lovers can indulge themselves. Keen hill walkers and climbers can tackle the Pentland Hills or climb the famous old extinct volcano 'Arthurs Seat'. From the top, a fantastic panorama of Edinburgh can be viewed.

Just to the north of the town, the village of South Queensferry is not only picturesque but is also the location of the stunning road and rail bridges which span the river Forth. From up close, the huge size of the structures is awe-inspiring.

Then why not finish off the day watching the sun set from the comfort of one of Edinburgh's many excellent restaurants.

Castles, Museums and History

Edinburgh castle is a must-see, especially the 11th century chapel of St. Margaret, which is tiny but full of atmosphere.

The charming 'old town', with its winding, cobblestone streets, narrow closes and towering tenements, provides its own kind of atmosphere for those of a historical bent, and a walk down the 'Royal Mile' (the High Street) from the Castle to Holyrood Palace at the bottom is a favourite tourist pastime.

In contrast, the 'new town' grandeur and rectangular layout from Georgian times shows a different Edinburgh, with large squares and generously-sized streets adorning in particular the areas north of Princes Street.

Edinburgh boasts a great new addition to the Museum scene. At last a Museum of Scotland showing its history. Unbelievable that it has taken over three hundred years since the plan was first suggested but it has certainly been worth the wait. As a bonus there is a superb view of the castle from the top floor.

A short drive down the coast are two beautiful ruined castles. Tantallon stands on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Bass Rock bird sanctuary (also worth a visit). Ano not far away is Dirleton, an inland castle which is certainly worth viewing from spring to autumn as you approach it through a wonderful border garden.

Apart from the castle, Edinburgh is a town steeped in traditions and legends. Perhaps you already know the story of Greyfriars Bobby, the faithful little dog? After his master died, he visited his grave every day for many years and became part of the local folklore, a byword for fidelity. Many such stories await the interested visitor.

The Edinburgh Festival

In August, Edinburgh hosts its world famous Fringe program and International Festival featuring the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Early booking is recommended if you are not to be disappointed as the city is full to the gills at this time of the year.

There is a real buzz in the air as you walk down the High Street sampling the free street theatre or take in the Craft Fair at St John's church in Princes Street.

Every day you can choose between literally hundreds of performances covering all of the performing arts from stand-up comedy to opera, ballet to childrens' theatre.

The difficult part is selecting what you want to see as performances start as early as 9am and the last shows are well after mid-night - time to visite the Vaults and other Ghoulish places, perhaps, to hear tales of Edinburgh's Ghostly past. Contact Auld Reekie Tours, for prices and information.

Their best kept secret is Holyrood Park right in the middle of the city. Once in it, however, you can imagine yourself in the middle of the Highlands. There are 2 lochs (lakes) and Arthur's Seat which is over 800 feet high - quite a climb but well worth it for the spectacular views it affords over the hills and the river to Fife.