Edinburgh A Majestic City

Immerse yourself in the history, heritage and culture of Scotland’s capital.

If someone asked you to picture Edinburgh in your mind’s eye, I’d bet a pretty shortbread tin image would spring to mind. You wouldn’t be far wrong. Everything about this city shouts “Scottish!” A visit to this majestic city is an attack on the senses. Every sight, sound and smell will leave you in no doubt you’re in Scotland’s Capital. You can almost feel the pride of its people hanging in the air and the sense of history and heritage wraps around you like the warm winter coat you’ll probably need…it can get pretty chilly here, even in summer! That detail shouldn’t put you off though…often you can experience four seasons in one day.

For a bustling Capital, Edinburgh is surprisingly green with plenty of open spaces to chill and enjoy the vibe. Modern day commodities happily co-exist with historical landmarks. Explore Edinburgh on foot and enjoy wandering around the mysterious, cobbled streets and alleyways. Visitors really are spoilt for choice with the diverse range of attractions on offer as well as a thriving cultural scene. A good starting point might be the historic Royal Mile, which connects the Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House. You’ll find plenty to explore along this quaint, historic road. The world famous Castle dominates the Capital’s dramatic skyline and informative guided tours are available in several languages, explaining its history and architecture.

On the way down, drop into St. Giles Cathedral, a working Kirk that provides a haven of peace and tranquillity amidst this bustling pocket of the Old Town.

Out with the old and in with the new? If you’re in need of a spot of retail therapy, look no further than the decadence of George Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. Indulge yourself (and your credit card!) on luxury brands such as Austin Reed, Jaeger and Hobbs and Harvey Nichols for its usual designer offerings. George Street also offers a tempting array of elegant bars and restaurants, notably The Dome, Le Monde and Tigerlily that offer great food and drinks in the heart of the action.

Scotland’s Capital really comes to life in the summer months as the world descends upon its historic streets and parks. From late June to early September, Edinburgh’s Festivals turn the city into a vibrant stage for global entertainment, debate and the arts. From the opening notes of the Jazz and Blues Festival to the crescendo of the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert to end the Edinburgh International Festival, each summer is unique in the Festival City. Auld Reekie will be filled with a colourful, carnival atmosphere and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

The Fringe is currently in full swing with more shows to go and see than you can shake a stick at! Performances pop up all over the place…even in the street. Edinburgh in August, this is where it’s at and you’ll love it. For full listings of what’s on and to buy tickets go to www.edfringe.com

Probably the most famous August event that should be at the top of your to do list is the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. An Edinburgh institution which sells out year after year, this iconic happening is a display of music, dance and precision with pipes and drums of military bands and performers from over 48 countries worldwide have taken part. The spectacle takes place against the majestic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It’s easy to see why so many overseas visitors flock to Edinburgh every year. It really is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and the locals are proud to show it off. In good weather, there’s nowhere like it. Even in the rain, it’s pretty romantic.

If you can tear yourself away from the festival performances there’s still many great things to see and do in Edinburgh this summer.

Take a journey through Edinburgh’s fascinating and often bloody history in its abundance of monuments, museums and attractions. Of course, no visit to the Capital would be complete without a trip to the Castle! For all you ghost-hunters out there, there’s plenty of spooky action down on The Real Mary King’s Close too. Buried deep beneath the Royal Mile lies Edinburgh’s deepest secret; a time capsule of hidden streets under the City Chambers. In the company of an expert character tour guide, guests can navigate the fascinating twists and turns of the underground closes. Visitors will discover some of the most dramatic episodes from Edinburgh’s incredible past and the real stories of the people who lived, worked and died here between the 16th – 20th centuries.

In Edinburgh there’s simply great attractions for all the family.  A visit to Dynamic Earth is like nothing else on Earth. It’s a chance to experience the primeval forces of nature as they shaped our planet, to journey through space and time and even go on a 4DVENTURE around the world. You’ll be embarking on the interactive adventure of a lifetime- the lifetime of our planet.

Another great spot to visit in Edinburgh is the historic port of Leith on the south shore of the Firth of Forth. Leith is a bustling hub of lively eateries and bars and boasts a spectacular waterfront shopping centre in the shape of Ocean Terminal.

Arguably Leith’s most glorious landmark is The Royal Yacht Britannia. The five star visitor attraction is berthed alongside Ocean Terminal and offers a fascinating insight into this historic royal residence. On the 16th April 1953, Britannia was launched from the John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank and was home to her Majesty The Queen and The Royal Family for over 40 years.

If you manage to get round everything Edinburgh has to offer then why not venture to the outskirts of the city and visit the quaint, seaside towns of Musselburgh and North Berwick in East Lothian. East Lothian’s coast runs from the remote rocky area of Torness to the outskirts of the Capital. A popular area for walkers and day-trippers in tranquil North Berwick at the mouth of the Firth of Forth. Popular with horse-riders and windsurfers alike are the pretty beaches of Gullane and Portobello.

Wherever your heart leads you in the magical city of Edinburgh, prepare to fall under its spell!

What’s On:

• Edinburgh International Festival -7-31 August
• The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – 7-29 August
• Edinburgh Mela –  29-30 August
• Edinburgh International Book Festival – 15-31 August

Attractions:

• Edinburgh Castle
• The Real Mary King’s Close
• Edinburgh Dungeons
• Dynamic Earth
• Edinburgh Zoo
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusion
• The Royal Yacht Britannia
• The Royal Mile
• Princes Street Gardens
• Scottish Seabird Centre
• Musselburgh Racecourse
• Edinburgh Dungeons

Restaurants:

• The Dome
• Le Monde
• Tigerlily