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Lawrence, Reservations Manager

"Visiting the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is an experience rich in culture and history. Step back in time as you explore the historic Royal Mile where St Giles' Cathedral, Mary King’s Close, and the Palace of Holyrood reveal the city’s intriguing past or relax in the Princes Street Gardens after a day of high street shopping with views of Edinburgh Castle reigning over the city."

Edinburgh at a glance

Edinburgh is a city brimming with superb architecture, top museums, great restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. With a dramatic cityscape, dominated by Edinburgh Castle, there is a photo opportunity around every corner. The heart of the city, where you’ll find the most interesting sights, is very walkable but beware the hills!

The city is famous for its many festivals, the huge Edinburgh Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe that run throughout August being the most famous. You’ll find an almost endless choice of music, theatre, comedy and arts – pop up venues appear across the city and the Royal Mile becomes a hub for street performers. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes over the castle esplanade in August and welcomes military personnel and bands from across the world – pre-booking tickets is a must and we can help with this.

Outside of August the city still is still a cultural hub with a wealth of theatre and musical performances in the city’s theatres.

Things to do in Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh Castle: Enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle dating back to the 12th century.
  • Ghost Tour: Spooky tales of the city’s past are brought alive on a journey through the old closes and wynds of the Old Town.
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse: The King's official Scottish residence lies at the foot of the famous Royal Mile.
  • Edinburgh Zoo: Book a visit to see the giant pandas in this popular city attraction!
  • Arthur’s Seat: One of Edinburgh’s seven hills, Arthur’s Seat offers a variety of different walks and provides the best views of the city.
  • National Museum of Scotland: The museum today houses a fascinating array of treasures from around the world, taking in the natural world, world cultures, science and Scottish history. 
  • St James Quarter: A new city centre modern complex for shopping, dining, cinema and home to the new W Hotel.

Getting around

Edinburgh has a small central core and that means that walking is often the best option, however it has an excellent bus network too. It operates throughout the city centre and beyond. Hop on – hop off tourist buses are also a good option should weary feet need a rest.

Dining in Edinburgh

Eating out in Edinburgh will offer something for everyone, from gastro pubs to Michelin starred restaurants. It is easy to venture outside of the city hub to experience dining options in neighbourhoods such as Stockbridge, Leith and Brunstfield. Here you’ll find a thriving local scene where you can mix with the locals, booking ahead is essential as most restaurants will be busy every night.

Must-try local dishes

  • Haggis, neeps and tatties – Scotland’s world famous dish
  • Black pudding – often locally made and delicious
  • Cranachan – the best Scottish desert? We think so!

Shopping in Edinburgh

The St James Quarter offers some excellent shopping and leisure options and sits at the far eastern end of Princes Street. The mall links to Multrees Walk, where you’ll find high end designer shops, and this links seamlessly on to George Street where there is a fine mix of shopping, restaurants and bars. Across the Old Town of Edinburgh you’ll find independent retailers and souvenir shops aplenty.

Osprey Holidays top tip

Nestled in the W Hotel, Edinburgh is Joao’s Place – a secret speakeasy bar with some of the best views of the city. The service is top notch and the drinks menu extensive, this hidden gem requires a booking so don’t forget to book ahead.

 

 

Important information
Languages English
Currency Pounds Sterling
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

Are you brave enough to experience one of Edinburgh's ghosts tours? It's a great way to learn about the city's darker history.

Distance from airports
Edinburgh Airport 6 miles
Railway stations
Edinburgh Waverley
Haymarket

Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour

An impenetrable fortress set upon a long-extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline in the very heart of the city. Your guide will take you through the different parts of the castle including the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the National War Museum and the Chapel of Saint Margaret. You will also learn about the long, and often bloody history of the castle. At the end of your tour feel free to stay and explore at your leisure.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Described as ‘Scotland’s leading visitor-friendly attraction’, the Royal Yacht sailed over a million miles on nearly a thousand official visits and relaxing holidays for the British Royal Family. Now berthed in Leith, it offers a unique glimpse into the life of the Royal Family and their guests, with highlights including the State Drawing Room, the Queen’s bedroom, the Sun Lounge and Admiral’s cabin.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Explore the capital of Scotland with the flexibility to get on and off as you please at stops located around this historic city. Take in all the sights that give Edinburgh it’s character, including The Royal Mile, Grassmarket, Palace of Holyrood and the National Museum of Scotland.

Scotch Whisky Experience

For whisky novices, the Gold Whisky Tour offers the perfect introduction to the ‘water of life’. The tour includes a fun barrel ride through a replica distillery, an introduction to the whisky producing regions of Scotland and a guided viewing of one of the world’s largest collections of Whisky. It ends with a tasting tray of 4 regional single malts and gift of a crystal whisky tasting glass..

Old Town Walking Tour

This guided tour is an ideal introduction to ‘Auld Reekie’. Discover the history of the medieval Old Town as you explore the cobbled streets and narrow alleyways with your local guide who will entertain you with stories and folklore as you pass famous landmarks such as Greyfriars Bobby, St Giles Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is held every August as part of the Edinburgh Festival. Whilst traditionally a military affair, today the Tattoo features performers from all over the world, with light shows and fireworks against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Each year features a different theme and, amazingly given the Scottish weather, there has never been a cancelled performance!

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.