As the second-largest city in Scotland, and the seventh-largest of the United Kingdom, there’s plenty to see and do in Edinburgh. It isn’t hard to see why it’s a top tourist spot, with its beautiful location and cultural attractions.
The History of Edinburgh
Edinburgh has been settled since at least the Bronze Age, with a number of signs of this history still remaining. Edinburgh had firmly established itself by the 12th century, and was made the capital in 1492. The boundaries were defined by a defensive wall, built in the 16th century to protect against the English.
Edinburgh was seen as the heart of the Scottish Enlightenment of the 18th century, with a number of notable figures and philosophers from the area. The city is also known for its impressive Georgian architecture in the New Town. During the 19th century industrialisation, Edinburgh failed to grow as fast as Glasgow, and was replaced as the largest city in Scotland.
Sightseeing in Edinburgh
There are a number of sightseeing tours in operation throughout the city, including a ghost tour of the Old Town. Other options include taking the open top bus, walking, travelling by taxi or cycling throughout the city. Bus tours leave from Waverley Bridge.
Some notable places to visit include the medieval sights of the Old Town and the Georgian architecture of the New Town. The city’s history is clear to see when you take a walk through the town, where you can also take a glimpse at the new Scottish Parliament building.
Galleries and Museums
A wide selection of museums and galleries throughout the city help to tell the story of Edinburgh. The Writers’ Museum, on Lady Stair’s Close, is home to manuscripts, portraits and other artefacts related to three of the greatest Scottish writers: Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery also includes portraits of some of Scotland’s most notable residents.
Other fantastic places to visit include Scotland’s National Museum, the Royal Scottish Academy, the birthplace of Robert Louis Stevenson, the City Art Centre and the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour.
Shopping
The shops of Edinburgh cater to all tastes. Princes Street is home to all the popular chain stores, and a number of boutiques can be found in the West End. The only Harvey Nichols store in Scotland can be found in Multrees Walk, and the New Town has much to offer in terms of designer clothing.
Nightlife
The cuisine in Edinburgh reflects its cosmopolitan history, suiting all tastes and budgets with a choice of restaurants unrivalled anywhere else in the UK! However, those who want to go for the traditional tastes might try the haggis or stuffed sheep’s stomach! There are many choices of nightlife around the city, notably the old fashioned style pubs of the Old Town, or the stylish bars of George Street.
Transport
There is an excellent public transport system within the city, including buses, trams, night buses, sightseeing buses, taxis and airport shuttles. The busy airport runs services to many major destinations, and the area is well served by national rail routes.